Gastric Band (Lap Band) Surgery

The adjustable gastric band, also known as the Lap Band, is a weight loss surgery performed specifically for the obesity treatment. In this safe, laparoscopic, minimally invasive surgery, a silicone band is placed around the stomach and wraps it like a belt. The Lap Band System, which is placed between the esophagus and stomach, limits the amount of food that passes to the lower part of the stomach. This causes rapid fullness, so patients feel full with less food.

The adjustable gastric band method uses a port placed under the patient’s skin to limit the amount of food that passes through the stomach. The gastric band can be tightened or loosened by injecting saline into the port. The harder the band is tightened with liquid pressure, the harder it is for food to pass through the upper stomach leading to reduced food intake. However, success with adjustable gastric band surgery mostly depends on the patient’s commitment to lifestyle and dietary changes.

Risks and Complications of Gastric Band Surgery – Is Gastric Band Safe?

Although the adjustable gastric band method is generally safe, long-term side effects may occur if the lap band remains in place for a long period of time.

Gastric/Stomach Ulcers: Constant pressure from the gastric band may cause ulcers and wounds on the stomach wall.
Gastric Perforation: The gastric band may penetrate the stomach and fall into it, requiring urgent surgical intervention.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): As the lap band restricts the passage between the esophagus and stomach, it may worsen the reflux complaints.