Stomach band surgery, also known as the lap band surgery is the most common of all weight reduction medical procedures. Since obesity is a growing issue in the society, it is helpful to know some basic information about this effective remedy. Do you require a surgery if you are obese? What are the risks involved? Does it help?
These questions trouble many people. The internet is flooded with information and most people do not know where to begin reading. If you are also facing these issues, then read this further article to receive clear and concise material on stomach band surgery.
How Does Stomach Band Surgery Work?
Stomach band surgery is a bariatric (related to obesity) procedure which is performed laparoscopically. This means that only minor incisions are made to your skin and no part of your stomach is removed. After you are put on anesthesia, 5-6 incisions about 1-2 cm each will be made on specific areas of our abdomen. These will serve as the marking spots through which your surgeon will insert the laparoscopic instruments for the operation.
Air is filled in the abdomen to create ample area for the surgeon to perform the stomach band surgery. An instrument with a small camera on its tip will be inserted through one of the incisions so that the doctor can monitor all internal procedures throughout the surgery. After these crucial preparations, the stomach band will be inserted. It is a silicone band which will be placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. This will separate the upper and lower portions on the stomach, restricting the food intake of the patient.
Who Requires Stomach Band Surgery?
This surgery is carried on patients whose obesity is life-threatening. Obese patients with the BMI of <40 are eligible, but patients with a BMI of 35-40 can also qualify if they have other morbid illnesses like diabetes or hypertension.
It should be remembered that the patient has to alter his/her eating habits after the surgery, and he/she may not be able to eat properly for life. That is why, it is better to consult experienced surgeon before undergoing stomach band surgery.
Benefits
Since stomach band is laparoscopic, it is minimally invasive. Only minor cuts will be made in your body. Moreover, it is reversible as well, unlike other surgeries which surgically remove parts of your stomach to reduce its volume. After successful weight loss, you can return your stomach size to normal. Most importantly, the surgical band is adjustable and is inserted just under the skin for easy access.
Risks
Finally, it is also important to know about the potential risks associated with stomach band surgery. Any surgical treatment can damage your skin and organs and even cause death. Your stomach wall can also tear, which is known as gastric perforation (although this happens rarely). Most importantly, as mentioned before, you have to change your eating habits after your stomach is operated. If you fail to do so, you can severely damage your intestine and face problems like dumping or hiatal hernia.
