Adjustable gastric banding

In this procedure, a hollow band made of special material is placed around the stomach near its upper end, creating a small pouch and narrow passage into the larger remainder of the stomach. The band is then inflated with saline. It can be tightened or loosened over time to change the size of the passage by increasing or decreasing the amount of saline.

Surgical benefits

• This procedure carries less risk for complications because they do not interfere with the normal digestive process.
• They can be done using a less invasive laparoscopic approach.
• The bands used in the surgery can be adjusted to your needs.
• The surgery is easily reversible.
• Dumping syndrome is less likely to occur after surgery.
• Less risk of nutritional deficiencies.

Surgical risks

• Although this operation leads to weight loss in almost all people, weight loss is achieved at a slower rate than Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
• Vomiting is more dangerous in the first six weeks after surgery because it can cause the band to require repositioning. This is called a slip.

For more information about adjustable gastric banding, attend our free information session, or call 952-993-3180.