Information On Lap-band And Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

By Timothy Brown


Bariatric operations are the procedures that are performed with the sole purpose of helping an individual lose weight. The need for these procedures has been increasing steadily in New York City in recent times. Gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass are the three main types of bariatric operations. Of the three, lap-band and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy are the most effective and safest. Gastric bypass is often done as a last resort for some diseases affecting the stomach.

Weight loss surgical options are usually considered as a last resort. There is a need to try out the non-invasive methods first for a period of not less than 6 months. Cut down on your consumption of highly refined carbohydrates and fats as much as possible. These two food groups contribute to the greatest proportion of weight gain. Regular physical activity helps burn excess calories and prevent unwanted storage in adipose tissues.

You need to have a discussion with your doctor before choosing between the banding procedure and gastrectomy. Benefits and risks need to be considered for one to make an informed decision. In general, the main similarity between these two techniques is the fact that both can be done by accessing the abdomen through the laparoscopic technique or through the open technique. The main difference is that banding is reversible while gastrectomy is not.

During the open procedure, a large incision running from the epigastric area to the pubic region is made. The surgeon can visualize the stomach through this incision and place the band directly. When the laparoscopic option is used, on the other hand, very small incisions are created in the anterior abdominal region. These incisions (also known as ports) are used for the entry of instruments.

Gastrectomy involves reduction of stomach size by removing between 75 and 80% of the organ. The operation leaves behind a small tubular structure whose shape is like a sleeve thus the name of the procedure. Laparoscopic access to the abdominal cavity is the most preferred technique. Once the unwanted portion has been removed, the remaining part is stitched using staples or surgical sutures. With a significant reduction in capacity, the stomach can only hold a limited amount of food.

There are a number of complications that potential candidates need to be aware of. These include, among others, excessive loss of blood, accidental injury to internal organs and postoperative infections. The loss of stitches or staples used in closure may be seen in very rare circumstances. When it occurs, it leads to leakage of digested foods and acids which may in turn lead to chemical injury of various organs.

Reduced stomach capacity translates into reduced intake of food. This is not only due to the smaller quantity of food that can be held at one time but also due to the associated early satiety. A reduction in the surface area of the stomach also reduces the amount of food absorbed. Weight loss begins to become evident within weeks or months depending on the magnitude of the problem.

Bariatric operations can be performed in a wide range of patients. However, there are conditions that may make the procedures risky in some of them. Systemic conditions such as hyperthyroidism and uncontrolled diabetes may require that some form of intervention takes place first before the procedure takes place. The same case applies to conditions that are restricted to the gastrointestinal system such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and peptic ulcer disease.




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