A Lap Band System is one where a Lap Band is placed over the upper part of the stomach. The aim of the system is to reduce the consumption of food of a patient by restricting the size of your stomach. However, there are cases in which the Lap Band system may fail.
Quite possibly the biggest reason why the Lap Band System may fail, for many people, is that you can ‘cheat’ the system. The adjustment option, although great, allows people to reduce the amount of restriction the device provides. This can be done easily on any occasion. This enables you to eat more on special occasions.
Another reason why the Lap Band System may fail is due to the complications that can arise. According to four research studies, conducted between 2004 and 2007, the complications of the Lap Band System range from roughly 3% to an unbelievable 26%. These complications include band failure, erosion, leak, intolerance and slippage.
Why Gastric Plication is Better Option than Lap Band Surgery
Although both are reversible, gastric plication cannot be reversed as easily as the Lap Band System can. To undo the effects of gastric plication, surgery is required whereas a small adjustment is made with lap bands. This means that there really is no way to cheat the system. Because your stomach has been made smaller, you are forced to eat less.
Furthermore, because there is no device placed on the stomach, there are fewer complications with gastric plication. The permanent non-absorbable surgical sutures can only be undone by surgical removal. These sutures do not move, slip or erode.
If something goes wrong with the Lap Band System, minor surgery has to be scheduled every time they occur. However, with gastric plication, surgery only takes place either when the sutures are to be inserted or removed.
Choosing Gastric Plication
In cases where the Lap Band surgery has failed and the patient still wishes to lose weight, gastric plication becomes a great option. Surgery is done one-time with effects that last, on average, ten years. In case the decision is to be revised, one simple minor surgery is all that is required.
Gastric plication is a great option for patients who have experience a failed Lap Band System. Not only is it a simple procedure, there are fewer complications and virtually no way to ‘cheat’ your way to eating more.
