Lap Band Procedures May Offer a Solution for Obesity
By Kelly Brown | Published on September 30, 2009 | 0 Comments
The International Laproscopic Obesity Surgery Team states more than 12 million Americans suffer from obesity. For those who have tried diet and exercise, but have found it is not enough to reverse their condition, a lap band may enable them to have a healthy lifestyle and prevent a variety of conditions associated with obesity.
What is it?
A lap band is a laparoscopic adjustable band that serves as a restrictive device. It is implanted via bariatric surgery and is designed to reduce the size of the stomach, and therefore, the risk of obesity.
The band creates a small pouch in the upper part of the stomach via a controlled, adjustable stoma. This procedure is done without stapling. The band is introduced via a 1-cm incision in the abdomen. The operation is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Following surgery, the band is able to be inflated or deflated depending on the needs of the patient. This process takes about 15 minutes, is done by a medical professional, and is painless. It is done with the injection of a saline solution.
The presence of the band reduces the functional capacity of the stomach. This means less food enters the stomach, less nutrients are absorbed into the intestines, and a person feels fuller sooner, allowing them to eat less and consume less calories.
Who Needs It?
As quoted on The International Laparoscopic Obesity Surgery Team site, “According to medical literature, clinically severe obese people can never achieve long-term weight loss with dietary or behavioral modification alone. A 100% failure rate is reported and a series of failures will again lead to enormous psychological problems.”
People with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of at least 31 are at an increased risk of developing diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension. Those who are already suffering from these disorders are even more highly recommended for a lap band procedure. The lap band can help them reduce their obesity, leading to the possible reduction in their weight-related symptoms.
Even without weight-related disorders and medical complications, a person may find his weight is interfering with his life. Younger people who are obese may not have developed diseases yet. But if they act now and reduce their weight, they can avoid complications.
It is recommended that those who undergo lap band procedures show a history of dieting and exercise regimes which have failed. Lap band surgery, with all bariatric surgery options, is not a first line of defense to combat obesity.
Benefits
A variety of benefits are associated with a lap band procedure. Aside from reducing a person’s weight and the potential for their developing weight related disorders, lap band procedures offer specific benefits that make it stand out from other bariatric procedures.
No cutting or stapling of the stomach is involved with lap band procedures. This reduces risk of infection and is less invasive. The lap bad is a calibrated pouch and stomach size. It can be adjusted to the specific needs of the patient at the time of the operation. It can also be adjusted throughout the patient’s life, based on his needs, without an additional operation.
Risks
Many risks that are associated with lap band surgery are common to all surgeries. These include bleeding, scarring, difficulty healing, and a negative reaction to anesthesia. However, a variety of complications may result specifically from lap band surgery.
The death rate is low, usually less than 1%. There are also rare instances of gastric perforation. Half of all patients suffer from nausea and vomiting following the surgery. One-quarter experience slippage of the lap band. One in seven experience blockage of the narrow passage created by the band. Erosion or twisting of the band can also occur. The band may deflate, causing additional surgery.
A common complication associated with bariatric procedures is the adjustment in lifestyle a person will face. If someone is severely obese, and must immediately adjust to eating a greatly restricted diet, it may take him time to adjust. Your doctor will offer a variety of guidelines on how to manage your diet immediately following the surgery and in the months ahead. However, each person is different and may find he reacts different to different foods. Keep in mind the amount of food is not the only challenge you will face following gastric procedures. It is important account for how your body will digest the food and determine how the procedure will affect digestion.
While risks are associated with lap band surgery, the risk of obesity may far outweigh the complications associated with the procedure. Many feel it is worth the moderate risk to change their health forever. If you or a loved one is obese, speak with a physician concerning your options. A lap band may be a preventable treatment that increases your quality of living and saves your life.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
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*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.