|
Overview
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. Since its clinical introduction in 1993, more than 100,000 LAP-BAND procedures have been performed around the world. Minimally Invasive Approach
During the procedure, surgeons usually use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments), 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 re-routing 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. The diameter of the band is adjustable for a customized weight-loss rate. Your individual needs 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 a saline solution. The band is connected by tubing to an access port, which is placed well below the skin during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control the amount of saline in the band by entering the port with a fine needle through the skin.
Lap-Band Candidates
To find out what your BMI is click here. This will open a new window where you can find out what your BMI is to see if you would be eligible for the LAP BAND.
A BMI of 30 or greater means that you fall in the "obese" category. The chance of losing weight and keeping that weight off with diet and exercise is very low. In fact, some state that it is easier to kick the heroine habit than to lose weight and keep it off.
Tired of the roller coaster ride of diets? They are not only discouraging, but there is some evidence that these are very hard on your body. NOt only that, but some of them may give you a false sense of what is a good diet and what is not.
Do you really think cheese, that is 80% fat, is a healthy snack? Do you really think that the one piece of bread you ate is why you failed the "low carb" diet? Do you really think eating a lot of eggs in the morning is more healthy than cereal?
Sure, you can lose weigh on low-carb diets, but that is because you eat less food on them.
Instead of a yo-yo dieting, consider the LAP-BAND. A simple solution to weight loss. It allows you to eat healthy foods without
|
