The LapBand System®

The adjustable gastric band restricts the amount of food your stomach can hold by placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. This restricts or limits the amount of food you can eat at one time.

Advantages:

•No stapling, cutting or intestinal rerouting
•Adjustable
•Reversible if necessary
•Lower complication and mortality rate than gastric bypass
•Lower risk of nutritional deficiencies

Disadvantages:

•Slower initial weight loss
•Regular follow-up critical for success
•Requires an implantable device
•Band can slip or erode
•Access port can leak and require surgery or replacement of the band