WHAT IS GASTRIC BAND REMOVAL?

The majority of patients do not have good results from lap band surgery because of its many disadvantages and complications.

If a patient cannot lose enough weight or have significant weight regain, lap band removal and conversion to another, more effective bariatric procedure (e.g. sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass) may be indicated.

The Lap band was the most popular bariatric procedure 2010's. Due to the inadequate weight loss, weight regain, and long-term complications, the use of the Lap band has decreased worldwide. Nowadays, the Lap band constitutes less than 5% of all bariatric procedures.

Indications of gastric band removal:

• Inadequate Weight Loss or Weight Regain
• If a patient cannot lose about 25-30% of their excesive weight or have significant weight regain, lap band removal and conversion to another more effective bariatric procedure may be indicated.
• Symptoms of band intolerance can include excessive nausea and vomiting, difficulty swallowing and pain after eating.
• Band or port infection indicates that the band may have eroded into the stomach.
• Slippage can occur when the Lap band moves down the stomach and creates a bigger pouch above the band.
• If the heartburn symptoms are severe, this may lead to esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus).
• With long-term use of lap band, some patients may develop esophageal expansion, lack of movement or esophagitis.