Recently, I have been doing a lot of research about adjustable gastric band surgery. It is a viable option to enable me to loose excess weight and gain a healthier overall picture. I am understanding my options and taking the time to find the right answer for my individual needs.

Adjustable gastric band surgery involves laproscopically applying an inflatable band around the stomach connected by a tube to a port accessible through a patient’s skin. This band restricts the intake of food while leaving the patient feeling full and satisfied. The band is filled and un-filled according to the needs of the patient. There are two brands of adjustable gastric bands in the United States market, the Lap-Band © and the Realize © band.

Understanding Risks vs. Benefits

Laparoscopic gastric banding procedures are surgeries with a low long term complication rate, but there are still risks. Slippage, erosion and tubing or port problems are the most common complications that may occur over time. It is important to be aware of not just the risks of the surgical procedure, but the risks of the device in the long term. Make sure to thoroughly discuss all risks with a medical professional before committing to any surgery. Instead of surgery for the reduction in the excessive weight, a look at the nutrisystem reviews can be made. It will deliver potential benefits to the person for reducing the risks and get the best results. The results are available for long-term to meet with the requirements of the weight reduction from the body.

Adjustable Gastric Band weight loss surgery can help reduce or eliminate weight-related health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea and NASH. The weight loss it facilitates also can lead to an increase in the quality of life of a patient. Unlike other surgical weight loss techniques, adjustable gastric banding does not interfere with nutrient absorption or overall functionality of the digestive system. This difference between other weight loss surgeries appealed the most to me in my research.

Slippage

Slippage is the most common long term complication for weight loss surgery. Slippage is when the band moves out of place. This complication can often be managed by un-filling the saline in the adjustable gastric band using the port implanted during the initial surgery. Surgical intervention is required to re-attach the band to the correct place in some circumstances. Changes in surgical technique in the last few years has reduced the incidence of slippage overall.

Erosion

A less common long term complication is known as erosion. It occurs when the band moves into the stomach wall. Surgical removal of the band will be required for this rare, but possible complication.

Tubing or Port Problems

Issues with the tube or port have been recorded. The port can get flipped, causing difficulty to access comfortably. The tubing going from the port to the gastric band can develop a leak of saline. The tubing can also become kinked and not allow proper flow into or out of the band. Port problems may require surgical intervention, but they are often minor procedures.