Gasteric banding surgery – An introduction

Gasteric banding surgery is a restrictive surgery for weight loss. It involves reduction of the stomach size by placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach. The placing of band squeezes the stomach into the shape of a pouch with about an inch wide outlet. This way, the silicone band limits the intake of food making the patient feel full after taking small amounts of food.

The gastric band used in this surgery is a tube-like ballon which is placed around the upper part of the stomach. The tube can be adjusted by the surgeon by injecting liquid into a tube which is placed just under the skin. The band lowers down the movement of food in the lower part of the stomach, from where the food travels normally through the rest of the digestive system.

Reports show that about 40% to 50% of excess weight is lost with the help of gastric banding. Though at the same time, one needs to keep in mind that results may vary from patient to patient. Being the least invasive and the safest surgerical procedure, gastric banding surgery is usually recommended to those suffering from morbid obesity. Also if required the band can to taken off, though it has been designed in such a way that it can stay inside the patient's body for a long period. There are cases where the patient has gained weight once the band has been removed.

Before undergoing this surgery, the patient has to take couple of tests so that the surgeon can determine if he is fit for the procedure. Also the patient needs to visit some healthcare providers in order to get a proper counselling about the entire process. Thus the patient needs to:

1. Take an ultrasound of the gallbladder and some blood tests to ensure that he is healthy enough for the surgery.

2. Go for a complete physical examination as well as classes where he gets to know about the surgery, what are the risks involved as well as what results to expect from gastric banding. In case the patient has a history of diabetes, heart or/ and lung problem, diabetes – then it is important that before the surgery, these conditions are under control.

3. Visit a counsellor to confirm that he is emotionally ready for such a major surgery and the life after it.

4. Also for those patients who smoke, it is essential that they quit smoking weeks before the surgery.

Over all, gastric banding surgery is not a quick-fix for those looking for weight loss. Rather it is a serious medical procedure which needs to be undertaken after proper advice from the doctor and under expert supervision.

For more information on gastric banding and other restrictive weight loss surgeries, visit www.manipalinternationalpatientcare.com or email at mipc@manipalhospitals.com.