Obesity Surgery

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding

Adjustable gastric banding. In this procedure, a hollow band made of special material silicon is placed around the stomach near its upper end, creating a small pouch and a narrow passage into the larger remainder of the stomach. The band is then inflated with a salt solution saline. It can be tightened or loosened over time to change the size of the passage by increasing or decreasing the amount of salt solution.

Advantages

Keyhole approach : Less scarring or wound problems Earlier return to work (1-2 weeks)
Adjustable : By filling port the outlet size can be reduced
Reversible: By removing fluid or the band
No malabsorbtion
Lower risk

Disadvantages

Easy to cheat if chocolates or sweets taken
Mechanical problems
- Prolapse
- Pouch dilatation
- Food bolus obstruction
- Slippage of the stomach through the band erosion
- Infection of the band or port leak
- Revision rate ? 5 -10% may be required
An entree portion forever

Optimal pouch capacity 30 mlss

Usual weight loss With Lap Band 50-60% of excess weight lost in 2 yrs

To find out more about Laparoscopic Gastric Banding visit www.lapband.com.au

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy is a weight loss surgery performed to reduce the stomach size and restrict the amount of food intake. The procedure involves creating a sleeve-shaped stomach that is about the size of a banana. It is now one of the commonest weight loss procedures performed

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is another alternative for bariatric or weight loss surgery. This is a minimally invasive procedure where approximately two thirds of the stomach is removed to turn the stomach into a tube shape. Unlike a Lap band it is not a reversible procedure however it does not require as much follow up as a Lap band. This procedure results in a decrease in intake and hunger drive. The procedure is done laparoscopically and usually involves a 2-3 day stay in hospital.

One of the advantages of a sleeve gastrectomy is that unlike a Lap band it does not require adjustments and follow up visits are less frequent. Patients can expect to lose up to 70% of their excess weight in the first 12months after surgery.