What is LAP-BAND®?

LAP-BAND® adjustable gastric banding system differs from standard gastric bypass surgery in that it is minimally invasive.  It is comprised of silicone band that can be positioned around the top portion of the stomach and then inflated.  By doing this, the surgeon creates a new, smaller pouch that is separated from the rest of the stomach by a narrow passageway.  This opening can be made smaller or larger by adjusting the amount of saline in the lap-band.  As a result, the speed with which food moves from the top part of the stomach to the lower can be controlled.

Because this procedure doesn’t bypass the stomach or the intestines, patients aren’t at risk for deficiencies of vitamins or minerals.  In addition, since the stomach isn’t cut or stapled, the procedure is quite reversible and the lap-band can be removed at any time.

Drs. Melinda Hass, James Schrier, all of General Surgery Associates, and Bill Olson of Trinity Surgical Partners perform the surgery.

Patients who seek out the surgery are well-informed.

Nancy Bleuer, nurse administrator for the Trinity Bariatric Institute, says Trinity will continue to offer patients the open Roux-en-Y procedure, as both options have proven to be safe, effective procedures with their own set of benefits and risks.

 “Which type of surgery to have is a decision between patients and their surgeon based on what is best for them,” Bleuer said. “They look at which type is better for their personality and lifestyle because there is a definite commitment needed to making lifestyle changes and improving their own health.”

Dr. Hass agreed, noting that “without that commitment to change, you can eat around any surgery. It takes dedication and determ i n ation to make bariatric surgery work. It’s hard work, and patients need a true understanding of what it takes.”

Trinity offers bariatric surgery education seminars, including information about lap band, on a monthly basis. To register, call Trinity’s My Nurse at (309) 779-2000.