Gastric Band Surgery Perth
Gastric Band surgery was once the ‘go-to’ choice for weight loss surgery. Today, based on long-term evidence, it is generally regarded as historic. Insertion of a gastric band is now uncommon as there are more effective options.
This procedure, although safe to perform, presents ongoing challenges for patients who report poor quality of eating, frequent nausea, and even the need for constant surgical adjustments. Most patients vomit undigested food occasionally and find themselves favouring foods that are less nourishing and more sliding. For many, the band is removed within 7 to 10 years due to either complications or insufficient weight loss.
Studies have shown up to 80% of gastric bands need to be removed or repositioned within 10 years following the procedure and that while initial weight loss may be successful, long-term maintenance is not as reliable.
Further to this, patients with a gastric band find themselves backed into a corner. Most gain 10 kg after having the band removed and at a situation where they remain eligible for weight loss surgery. They often tolerate terrible symptoms due to this fear. Unfortunately further operations are less reliable and of higher risk when you have an operation on the stomach before. We are committed to recommending the right operation for your situation the first time.
As such, gastric banding has fallen short compared to other techniques like sleeve gastrectomy or bypass surgery.
If you’re considering weight loss surgery, there are now more successful options to suit your individual needs.
Please reach out to us with any questions you may have.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gastric band surgery, also known as lap band surgery, involves the insertion of an adjustable band around the upper stomach via laparoscopy (a type of keyhole surgery performed in the abdominal or pelvic area). This band is an inflatable ring of silicon rubber that reduces the capacity of the stomach, thus restricting the amount of food that can be consumed.
The band slows the emptying process into the stomach and the intestines, creating an early sensation of fullness which can reduce appetite.
Gastric band surgery was initially undertaken with a permanent, fixed device but nowadays, removal of the silicon band can be performed with minimal risk.
The band is also adjustable as its inner surface can be inflated or deflated with a saline solution.
A high risk of gastric band surgery is slippage of the band, which can cause severe discomfort and can occur even years after surgery. This is estimated to occur in one in six patients.
Other risks include erosion and deflation, obstruction of the stomach, dilation of the oesophagus, nausea or vomiting.
There is also the risk of perforation during the gastric band surgery. This is more prevalent if there is scarring behind the stomach as it can be difficult to place the band. This may result in a hole in the stomach which can leak stomach contents and result in a serious infection.
As with all surgical procedures, other risks can include blood clots, bleeding or infection at the wound, and risks relating to the use of anaesthesia or the patient’s ability to tolerate a foreign object implanted in the body.
It is important to note that while the procedure works to help with weight loss, a patient must be very strict with their diet to avoid complications.
Side effects of the gastric band if this strict diet is not adhered to include vomiting and pain associated with food getting stuck.
All foods must be chewed thoroughly and carefully, and certain foods are off limits including chicken breast, steak and bread.
Gastric band surgery offers the advantages of being reversible and adjustable. It is also considered a minimally invasive approach to weight loss surgery and the least traumatic procedure in terms of post-operative pain and recovery time since it does not involve any cutting, stapling or re-routing of the stomach.
A disadvantage of gastric band surgery is that weight loss does not occur as rapidly or as with other procedures.
It also involves an ongoing restricted lifestyle as certain food including vegetables and salads can be difficult to eat while foods such as chicken breast, steak and bread cannot be consumed. Any indiscretions could result in vomiting and pain from food getting stuck.
Click to find out about Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass surgery.
Book a consultation at Perth Obesity Surgery for a personalised assessment of the best weight loss options for you.
