The Lap Band, or Adjustable Gastric Banding system, is a procedure in which a silicon band placed around the upper part of the stomach aids in weight loss by reducing the amount of food the stomach can hold. The lap band procedure is often chosen over gastric bypass surgery because it is less invasive.
History
The first lap band procedure was performed in Belgium on September 1, 1993. In 2001, the Food and Drug Administration approved lap band procedures in the United States.
Identification
The criteria for having a lap band procedure is being 100 pounds overweight, or having a BMI (Body Mass Index) of more than 40, and being at least 18 years old.
Considerations
A person who is 35 or older with one or more medical conditions that are severely affecting her health, such as type 2 diabetes, may be considered for the procedure.
Features
There are certain medical conditions, such as Crohn's disease, portal hypertension, cirrhosis and autoimmune diseases, along with other factors, that preclude having the lap band procedure. A thorough evaluation by a surgeon or physician will reveal any reasons the procedure is not right for an individual (see Resources below).
Warning
The lap band procedure has risks like any other surgery. Death, during or after the surgery from complications, infection from the body rejecting the band, nausea and vomiting, tears in the stomach wall requiring additional surgery to correct, slipping of the band, reflux, stomach obstruction and difficulty breathing are some of the more serious complications associated with the lap band procedure.
