Approved by the FDA in 2001, LAP BANDING is a less invasive alternative to gastric bypass surgery. The procedure is reversible and requires no stomach stapling or cutting. LAP BANDING requires a hospital stay of about 24 hours and has the lowest possible operative complication rate. Another benefit to this innovative type of bariatric surgery is that the band can be adjusted to fit your individual weight loss needs.LAP BANDING helps patients to lose weight by regulating the flow of food through the digestive tract with an inflatable band. If necessary, the band can be tightened by injecting a saline solution into the patient's access port or loosened by removing some of the fluid. Adjustments are typically performed in a hospital or a doctor's office with the x-ray equipment necessary to assist in locating the access port.
People who are considering the LAP BANDING procedure are generally at least 100 pounds over their ideal body weight and have a BMI of 40 or more. Most patients have been morbidly obese for at least five years. Many doctors require that patients provide documentation of previous unsuccessful weight loss treatments. LAP BANDING is most often used as a weight loss treatment for people suffering from obesity-related medical conditions.
LAP BANDING is not the right weight loss method for everyone. Patients must be at least 18 years of age and be willing to follow the required diet and exercise program. Patients must not drink alcohol in excess or suffer from a gastrointestinal medical condition that would complicate the surgery. Having your medical history and weight loss goals evaluated by a qualified bariatric surgeon is the best way to determine if LAP BANDING is an appropriate treatment option.
