Lap Band Surgery Techniques And Why They Are Among The SafestThe lap band system is an adjustable gastric band used for losing excess body weight. It also helps in improving weight related conditions and increases the quality of life. The lap band surgery technique reduces the capacity of the stomach and limits the quantity of food that can be taken at one time. The name lap band arises from the laparoscopic surgical process used and from the name of the implanted medical device, gastric band. Let us now discuss the workings of lap band surgery. During the lap band surgery the surgeon makes a few small incisions in the abdominal wall. By employing the laparoscopic techniques the surgeon secures a silicone, adjustable band around the top of the stomach. This creates a small stomach pouch. The band is linked to the tubing which is attached to an access port fixed under the skin of the abdomen. The port can only be felt and not seen when pushing on the abdomen. The tubing and ports allows adjustments. The adjustable band creates the stomach pouch which monitors the amount of food taken in. It permits a little quantity of food to pass through, delaying the emptying of the stomach into the intestines. This process helps in making individuals feel full sooner and also decreases hunger. The surgeon may adjust the lap band by addition or subtraction of saline inside the inner balloon through the access port. This helps in increasing the weight loss rate. In case the band is loose and weight loss insufficient then addition of more saline will reduce stomach size to further limit the quantity of food that can be moved through it. If the band is tight, the surgeon may eliminate some saline for loosening the band and reducing the restriction. The whole procedure may take about 40 minutes and may be performed on an outpatient basis with no need to stay in the hospital. The recovery time in this type of surgery may vary but generally patients return to work and normal activities within 4 to 7 days of the surgery. The whole procedure basically limits the size of the stomach, making it small in size. This makes the individuals eat less as their hunger level gets decreased. Weight loss with the lap band then takes place at a safe and steady rate. The average weight loss with lap band surgery is about 1-1/2 to 2 pounds per week. Lap band surgery is minimally invasive surgery and the patient is at ease during the surgery. Lap band surgery technique is becoming popular day by day as it is the most efficient and effective weight loss surgical option available. |