Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is one of the many bariatric surgeries available to assist obese and morbidly obese individuals lose weight, improve health and reduce risks of certain diseases associated with being overweight. The US National Institute of Health outlines acceptable candidates for bariatric surgery (including gastric banding) as follows:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more (about 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 pounds for women) or a BMI between 35 and 39.9 and a serious obesity-related health problem such as type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or severe sleep apnea.
- Acceptable operative risks.
- An ability to participate in treatment and long-term follow-up.
- An understanding of the operation and the lifestyle changes needed to maintain a healthy weight.
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is performed using a silicone band that is placed via laparoscopic surgery around the upper portion of the patient’s stomach to reduce the amount of food the stomach can hold thus resulting is significant weight loss. The minimally invasive laparoscopic gastric banding surgery provides the patient a quicker recovery, less time in the hospital and less scarring versus open gastric banding surgery.
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery is less invasive than some other types of bariatric surgery (or weight-loss surgeries). There is no stapling of the stomach or cutting of the gastrointestinal tract with gastric banding surgery. The recovery time is quicker than gastric bypass surgery and there are no mal-absorption issues which come from bypassing some of the intestines.
Not everyone is a candidate for laparoscopic gastric banding surgery. Individuals who have had a previous stomach surgery or who have serious medical conditions may not be eligible for this type of procedure. There are serious risks which must be considered before undergoing gastric banding surgery. Potential candidates for this procedure will need to meet with a medical professional to determine which weight loss option is best suited for them.
Cited References:
Wikipedia.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/gastric_band
Lapband.com
http://www.lapband.com/get_informed/about_lapband/how_it_works/
Weight Control Information Network
http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/gastric.htm
FacetoFace Health Weight Control Support Groups
http://www.facetofacehealth.com/Weight-Control-Support-Group/