Approved
by the FDA in June 2001, the BioEnterics® LAP-BAND®
Adjustable Gastric Banding System is the newest and the only
adjustable surgical treatment for morbid obesity in the
United States. It induces weight loss by reducing the
capacity of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food
that can be consumed.
Minimally
Invasive Approach
During the
procedure, surgeons usually use laparoscopic techniques
(using small incisions and long-shafted instruments rather
than a large incision), to implant an inflatable silicone
band into the patient's abdomen. Like a wristwatch, the band
is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny
stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food
you eat. It also creates a small outlet that slows the
emptying process into the stomach and the intestines. As a
result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness
and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food. In turn,
this results in weight loss.
Least
Traumatic Procedure
Since there
is no cutting, stapling or stomach rerouting involved in the
LAP-BAND System procedure, it is considered the least
traumatic of all weight loss surgeries. The laparoscopic
approach to the surgery also offers the advantages of
reduced post-operative pain, shortened hospital stay and
quicker recovery. If for any reason the LAP-BAND System
needs to be removed, the stomach generally returns to its
original form.
Adjustable
Treatment
The LAP-BAND
System is also the only adjustable weight loss surgery
available in the United States. The diameter of the band is
adjustable to meet your individual needs, which can change
as you lose weight. For example, pregnant patients can
expand their band to accommodate a growing fetus, while
patients who aren't experiencing significant weight loss can
have their bands tightened.
To modify
the size of the band, its inner surface can be inflated or
deflated with saline solution. The band is connected by
tubing to a reservoir, which is placed well under the skin
during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control
the amount of saline in the band by entering the reservoir
with a fine needle through the skin.
Caution:
This device is restricted to use by or on the order of a
physician.
The
BioEnterics LAP-BAND System and accessories contain no latex
or natural rubber materials.
|
