Lap Band Financing

It may take several adjustments to the band via a small access port under the skin before the patient’s hunger is controlled, yet still allowing food to be consumed.  Unlike surgeries where part of the stomach or intestines are removed, the band can be removed or adjusted at a later date.  Generally, the hospital stay is shorter and recovery time is quicker.  And because no intestines have been bypassed, there are no nutritional problems with mal-absorption as with some other bariatric surgeries.

Who is a candidate for a Laparoscopic gastric banding?  In general, the procedure works best for people who are over 100 pounds of their ideal weight. The patient should be between 18 and 55 years old and have a history of obesity and dietary failures.  They must be able to comprehend the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Laparoscopic gastric banding is not recommended for those who are mentally unstable, or prone to drug or alcohol abuse.  Also, patients with glandular diseases, AIDS, and inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract such as Crohn’s disease and ulcers to name a few are not good candidates for this procedure.

Complications from laparoscopic gastric banding are varied.  Regurgitation is common and is easily corrected by eating more slowly and eating less.  A more serious complication could arise if the band migrates through the stomach wall. If there is any internal leak of gastric contents or bleeding, seek treatment immediately.