Lap band surgery

Lap Band Surgery or Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding is a type of weight loss surgery that involves placing a band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch that holds food. This limits the amount of food that can be consumed and promotes a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food.

Procedure

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical instruments. The band is then placed around the upper part of the stomach and locked securely in place. The band is connected to a port that is placed under the skin of the abdomen. This port is used to adjust the band's tightness by adding or removing saline solution.

Benefits

Lap band surgery can result in significant weight loss, which can improve or eliminate obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. It is less invasive than other types of weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, and is reversible if necessary.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with lap band surgery. These can include infection, bleeding, and complications from anesthesia. Specific to lap band surgery, risks can include band slippage or erosion, blockage of the stomach, and poor nutrition due to limited food intake.

Aftercare

After surgery, patients must follow a strict diet that starts with liquids and gradually adds in pureed and soft foods. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to adjust the band and monitor weight loss and nutritional status. Long-term success with lap band surgery requires commitment to a healthy lifestyle and regular physical activity.

See Also

• Bariatric Surgery
• Obesity
• Weight Loss

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