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Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap-Band)

LAP-BAND® Overview

lap-band photo group - LifeShape is central Florida's premier full service multidisciplinary weight loss clinic. We specialize in Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band surgery (Lap-Band). Dr. Mark Fusco is Brevard county's most experienced Lap-Band surgeon. Our office is conveniently located in Melbourne Florida.Approved by the FDA in June 2001, the 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, improves hunger control, and increases satiety. Since its clinical introduction in 1993, close to a million LAP-BAND® procedures have been performed around the world.

Minimally Invasive Approach

During the procedure, Dr. Fusco uses laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments), to implant an inflatable 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 eaten. The LAP-BAND® 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 also offers the advantages of reduced post-operative pain, shortened or no 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. Individual needs can change as you lose weight. 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 amount of saline in the band is controlled by entering the port with a fine needle through the skin. This is an procedure done in the office without the need for general anesthesia.

Effective Long-Term Weight Loss

There have been close to a million cases performed worldwide. Academic publications with up to 7 years of follow-up have been published showing the band to be an effective treatment for obesity. Results from the "APEX TRIAL", of which LifeShape continues to be one of the major enrolling sites, shows 53% excess weight loss at two years and the lowest complication rates of any weight loss surgery.

Your Motivation

While the LAP-BAND® System is an effective treatment for morbid obesity, the pounds do not come off by themselves. The LAP-BAND System is an aid to support you in achieving lasting results by limiting food intake, reducing appetite and slowing digestion. However, your motivation and commitment to adopt a new lifestyle are extremely important for long-term weight loss. New eating habits must be adhered to for the rest of your life. Exercise is an equally important component of a changed lifestyle. LifeShape Advanced Bariatrics center of Florida will help you learn the important behavioral changes you need to make in order to be a successful "LAP-BAND® patient".

Risks

A brief description of relevant contraindications, warnings and adverse events of the LAP-BAND® System. Indications: The LAP-BAND System is indicated for use in weight reduction for severely obese patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 or a BMI of at least 35 with one or more severe co-morbid conditions, or those who are 100 lbs. or more over their estimated ideal weight. Contraindications: The LAP-BAND System is not recommended for non-adult patients, patients with conditions that may make them poor surgical candidates or increase the risk of poor results, who are unwilling or unable to comply with the required dietary restrictions, or who currently are or may be pregnant. Warnings: The LAP-BAND System is a long-term implant. Explant and replacement surgery may be required at some time. Patients who become pregnant or severely ill, or who require more extensive nutrition may require deflation of their bands. Patients should not expect to lose weight as fast as gastric bypass patients, and band inflation should proceed in small increments. Anti-inflammatory agents, such as aspirin, should be used with caution and may contribute to an increased risk of band erosion. Adverse Events: Placement of the LAP-BAND System is major surgery and, like any surgery, death can occur. Possible complications include the risks associated with the medications and methods used during surgery, the risks associated with any surgical procedure, and the patient's ability to tolerate a foreign object implanted in the body. Band slippage, erosion and deflation, obstruction of the stomach, dilation of the esophagus, infection, or nausea and vomiting may occur. Reoperation may be required. Rapid weight loss may result in complications that can require additional surgery. Deflation of the band may alleviate excessively rapid weight loss or esophageal dilation. Not all contraindications, warnings or adverse events are included in this brief description. More detailed risk information is available at www.lap-band.com or 1-877-LAP-BAND.