weight loss information
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Gastric Banding Stomach Gastroplasty to Treat Severe Clinical ObesityWeight Loss Surgery - Lap-Band SystemWhat is a Lap-Band?The Lap-Band® System is a surgically implanted device used to help a person lose weight. The System consists of a hollow silicone band, tubing, and an access port. How Does a Lap-Band Work?The band is implanted by laparoscopic "keyhole" surgery and is then adjusted over time - either tightened or loosened - to meet individual patient needs. Once the band is in place, it is inflated with saline. Subsequent adjustments are made through a portal under the skin.
The system helps the patient eat less by limiting the amount of food that can be eaten at one time and increasing the time it takes for food to be digested. Depending on the patient’s needs, after the device is implanted the narrowed opening between the pouch and the lower part of the stomach can be adjusted in size by inflating or deflating the hollow band. Inflating the band makes the opening smaller, causing food to pass more slowly. Deflating the band makes it wider, causes food to pass more quickly. This adjustment is made by adding or removing fluid inside the hollow band. The doctor does this by injecting or removing the fluid through a small button-like part called the access port. This access port is placed under the skin in a muscle in the chest wall. The port is connected to the band by the tubing. When is a Lap-Band Used?The lap-band® system is used for weight loss in severely obese adults who have been obese for at least five years and for whom non-surgical weight loss methods have not been successful. They must be willing to make major changes in their eating habits and lifestyle. Patients must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40, a BMI of at least 35 with one or more severe morbid (unhealthy) conditions, or be at least 100 pounds over their estimated ideal weight. What Are the Benefits of a Lap-Band?It may help the patient lose weight. In the U.S. study, the average weight loss was 36 percent of a patient’s excess weight three years after the device was implanted. More than half of the patients lost at least 25 percent of their excess weight; some patients lost over 75 percent, but some lost no weight. What Are the Risks of a Lap-Band?Most weight loss surgery patients experienced at least one side effect. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting, heartburn, abdominal pain, and slippage of the band. The most serious side effects required either another operation or hospitalization. When Should a Lap-Band Not be Used?It should not be used for people who are poor candidates for weight loss surgery, have certain stomach or intestinal disorders, have an infection, have to take aspirin frequently, or are addicted to alcohol or drugs. It should not be used on patients who are not able or willing to follow the rules for diet and exercise that are recommended by the doctor after weight loss surgery. For a general review of obesity surgery, see Guide to Weight Loss Surgery |
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