The gastric band is used in conjunction with laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments rather than a large incision), to implant an inflatable silicone band into the patient's abdomen. Like a wristwatch, the band is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food you eat. It also creates a small outlet that slows the emptying process into the stomach and the intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food. In turn, this results in weight loss.
Compared to other surgical procedures for obesity this is considered the least traumatic of all weight loss surgeries, since there is no cutting, stapling or stomach rerouting involved.
The laparoscopic approach offers the advantages of reduced post-operative pain, shortened hospital stay and quicker recovery. If for any reason the band needs to be removed, it can be done, and the stomach generally returns to its original form.
With this combination, operative risk is reduced as well as mortality and patient discomfort. Total reversibility and adjustability of the band are clearly positive points.
It is an adjustable treatment. The diameter of the band is adjustable to meet your individual needs, which can change as you lose weight. For example, pregnant patients can expand their band to accommodate a growing fetus and give a good nutrition, while patients who aren't experiencing significant weight loss can have their bands tightened.
To modify the size of the lap band, its inner surface can be inflated or deflated with saline solution or contrast solution. The band is connected by tubing to a reservoir, which is placed well under the skin during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control the amount of saline in the band by entering the reservoir with a fine needle through the skin.
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