What it is?
- Gastric Banding is also known as the LAP-BAND procedure.
- In this procedure, a hollow band made of silicone rubber is placed around the stomach near its upper end, creating a small pouch and a narrow passage into the rest of the stomach.
- The band is then inflated with a salt solution through a tube that connects the band to an access port placed under the skin. It can be tightened or loosened over time to change the size of the passage by increasing or decreasing the amount of salt solution.
Benefits of Gastric Banding
- Simple and safe procedure
- Recovery period is short
- Rate of major complications that have been reported is low
- Does not require removal of any part of the stomach or intestines
- The natural anatomy of the abdominal region remains unchanged
- The width of the band can be adjusted from time to time
- The band can be removed any time if the patient desires
Risks associated with Gastric Banding
- Minimal risks include about 5% chances of failure due to the following:
- Band erosion/migration
- Deep infection
- Patient’s inability to maintain proper dietary restriction and regular follow up