If you are seeking permanent solutions for weight loss, the Lap-Band procedure offers advantages over other surgical options. It is reversible and the band is adjustable. There are potential complications to the Lap-Band procedure that you should discuss with your doctor. Complications can happen during the procedure, as well as after it.
The Facts
A Lap-Band procedure is a form of surgery known as gastric banding performed to facilitate weight loss in a person. During the procedure, a surgeon places an inflatable band around the upper portion of the stomach. This creates a smaller stomach pouch and causes a person to feel full faster, reducing calories consumed and leading to weight loss. While a Lap-Band procedure is less risky than gastric bypass, it still carries potential complications.
Surgical
As with any form of surgery, there are potential complications for a person who undergoes the Lap-Band procedure. There is the risk that he will have an adverse reaction to anesthesia. There is also a risk of contracting an infection while in the hospital. Patients can experience a tear in the stomach wall either during or immediately after the procedure, which necessitates another surgery to repair it.
Digestive
After undergoing a Lap-Band procedure, many potential complications involve the digestive system. You can experience nausea ranging from moderate to severe. Reflux and vomiting are other potential problems after surgery. Certain foods can make these symptoms much worse. You might experience constipation.You are also at an increased risk for developing gallstones.
Band Issues
There are potential complications after a Lap-Band procedure that involve the band itself. Rarely, a person's body will reject the band, as with happens after an organ transplant. The band can slip out of place on your stomach, which can cut off the supply of blood to the stomach. It can also erode stomach tissue, wearing it away and working itself into the organ. There is a risk of ulceration where the band touches the stomach.
Other
If you undergo the Lap-Band procedure, you also face the complication of dehydration---the way the band stops you from eating as much can stop you from taking in enough fluids. Some kinds of food can become trapped within the circle formed by the band, blocking food from reaching the bottom part of the stomach and being digested. The small pouch formed by the Lap-Band can stretch over time, allowing you to eat more and undermining the original procedure.
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