Adjustable Gastric Band
The gastric band, also known as gastric banding or adjustable gastric banding, is one of the best-known surgical procedures for obesity that helps patients lose weight gradually. The idea is simple: a silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to reduce food intake and create an earlier feeling of fullness, supporting steady and safe weight loss over time.
What Is Gastric Band Surgery?
Gastric band surgery is a relatively straightforward laparoscopic procedure. During the operation, the surgeon places a special adjustable silicone band around the upper stomach, dividing it into two parts:
- A small upper pouch that fills quickly and helps the patient feel full sooner.
- A larger lower section where normal digestion continues.
The band’s tightness can be adjusted by adding or removing saline solution through a small port placed under the skin. This flexibility means the band can be loosened or tightened based on weight loss goals or comfort.
Advantages and Limitations of Gastric Banding
As with any medical procedure, gastric banding comes with both benefits and some possible limitations:
Advantages:
- Gradual and steady weight loss.
- The band can be adjusted easily to match the patient’s progress or needs.
- Does not directly interfere with nutrient absorption.
- The gastric band can be removed or replaced later if needed.
Limitations:
- Weight loss can be slower compared to procedures like sleeve gastrectomy.
- Risk of band slippage or erosion over time.
- Requires long-term lifestyle changes and regular follow-up appointments to adjust the band properly.
Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Band Surgery?
The gastric band is often recommended for patients who:
- Have a BMI above 40, or between 35 and 40 with obesity-related health conditions such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes.
- Have already tried dieting and exercising without much success.
- Are generally healthy and do not have severe chronic illnesses like heart disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Are willing to commit to regular follow-up care and long-term lifestyle changes.
How It Works?
FAQs
Candidates typically need a high BMI, previous unsuccessful attempts at non-surgical weight loss, and good physical and psychological readiness to commit to follow-up and a healthier lifestyle.
- Gastric banding: The stomach isn’t cut; instead, an adjustable band is placed and can later be removed.
- Sleeve gastrectomy: A large part of the stomach is permanently removed, often leading to faster weight loss.
Yes. If complications like slippage occur or the patient cannot tolerate the band, the band can be removed or replaced.
- Gradual and sustained weight loss.
- Improvement in conditions linked to obesity.
- Regular check-ups to adjust the band.
- Possible need to remove or replace the band in the future if required.
- Complete medical tests and blood work to confirm readiness.
- Stop smoking at least 6 weeks before the operation.
- Follow a low-carb, low-fat diet before surgery.
- Follow the doctor's instructions about fasting before the procedure.
With good follow-up and care, an adjustable gastric band can remain effective for many years, though some patients may eventually need removal or replacement.