Posts Tagged ‘Lapband’
Friday, August 24th, 2012
How should I Eat After Surgery?
You need to pay attention to what you eat and how you eat it during the first three weeks following your lapband surgery. Your diet should be limited mostly to liquids and soft food. The reason for this is that the body needs time to heal and develop tissue around the gastric band or lapband, to maintain the band in its correct position. If you eat solid food too soon after lap-band surgery , you may run the risk of dislocating the band, or developing an enlarged upper gastric pouch. Therefore, it is very important to chew your food well in order to decrease the risk of blockages or dislocation of the band.
How Much Can I Eat?
Right after LapBand surgery the stomach can not hold more than 4 to 6 ounces per meal (3/4 cup). Therefore, one should be particular about the nutritional value of the food with every bite. I have written about the lapband diet since we started doing lapband surgeries seventeen years ago. You can find detailed information on my website: http://www.thebariatric.com/lap-band/postoperative.html
What´s Happening?
People seem to think that nothing will happen if they “cheat” during the liquid phase and eat solid foods. However, The truth is that solid food may cause increased pressure and may result in lapband dislocation, and the increased pressure over the “New Stomach” or Pouch at this time could be an early cause of lapband slippages. Eating solid foods in the early stages after surgery has also been known to cause enlarged pouches which can occur after a period of time.
I try to tell people that their stomach is moving and churning (inside) while trying to digest solid food. Solid foods are also pushed down to the restricted area and we want to keep the stomach as still as possible for that first week “liquid phase” after lapband surgery. So even though they don’t “feel” like it’s hurting anything, they could be. Let’s reiterate that the purpose of the diet is not for starting weight loss but for healing after the Lapband surgery. This way you will avoid stretching the pouch and it will also help you by letting the sutures become firmly attached and to hold the lapband in the right place.
Which Diet Should I Follow?
I recommend that my patients strictly follow the liquid phase for one week post-operatively. During this time, they can eat clear liquids (water, Gatorade, broth, tea, apple, grape or cranberry juice, fruit popsicles) and full fluids (vegetables juices, cream soups, low-fat milk and yogurt, and pudding). There is no concern about malnutrition or low sugar intake during this time. The diet slowly allows the patient to “graduate” to soft foods in the second and the third week post-op.
There are some foods that should be avoided or limited in order to decrease the risk of irritation or band dislocation. Stomach irritants such as coffee, alcohol, carbonated beverages like coke, concentrated orange juice, vinegar, spicy food, etc, maybe cause discomfort or inflammation of the stomach lining, and vomiting might occur which may cause lapband dislocation. Fruits such as oranges or grapefruits should have both the skin and seeds removed before eating them, in order to avoid blockages in the stomach or esophagus. Vegetables such as cucumbers should also be peeled.
Other foods which need to be avoided are high fiber vegetables like celery, sweet potatoes, spicy foods, fried foods, spices (like cinnamon) pepper or soy sauce. If one is unable to tolerate milk, then calcium and protein rich foods such as cottage cheese and dry milk can be added to foods for proper protein intake.
LapBand patients should intake at least fifty to sixty grams of protein every day to avoid protein deficiency, but protein shakes or vitamins are not required. Include adequate sources of protein in your diet such as eggs, low-fat cheese, and fish such as salmon or tuna. Lack of protein causes hair loss, edema, fatigue, muscle weakness, and a delay in wound healing. It also causes depression, anxiety, irritability, apathy, as well as gallstones, colds, headaches, low blood pressure, anemia, irregular heart rates. The amount of protein can be monitored by your doctor with a serum albumin blood test.
For more information, visit: http://www.thebariatric.com/lap-band/postoperative.html
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: Lap Band, Lap band surgery, Lapband, lapband diet, lapband follow-up, Lapband surgery, lapband surgery diet, south beach diet, weight loss diet, weight loss surgery diet
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery | 2 Comments »
Friday, August 17th, 2012
Patients can have minor or large complications after a LapBand, Gastric sleeve or Gastric Bypass procedure. Many patients may need another surgery to correct the complications, which can cost them more money. However, medical complications are not always a result of a bariatric procedure failure. A Weight Loss Procedure is classified as a failure if the procedure is no longer working.
When a Bariatric Procedure Fails for a patient, there are several different consequences to be considered. They include the emotional, economical, and physical impacts of the failure.
What are the emotional consequences of weight Loss Procedure Failure?
Depending on the type of procedure (LapBand, Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass), the patient may regain all the weight back again. This can be emotionally devastating because it gives the patient the feeling that he or she has thrown away money for nothing. They feel anger towards the doctor and themselves, and during this whole process, their health and life could be at risk due to the complications. It is important for patients to know they are not alone. It is also important that they take positive action to address the situation, since this increases the probability of succeeding in the future.
What happens after a Weight Loss Procedure Failure?
We can say a Bariatric Procedure is no longer working when the patient has regained all the weight originally lost. This means that the patient needs a new procedure called Revision Surgery. The need for a revision surgery after a procedure has failed may jeopardize the health or life of the patient, as the complication rate increases from 2% to 25%. In addition, it will cost additional money for the revision surgery.
The chances for success for a second, different, Weight Loss Surgery are lower then the first time, and the morbidity increases up to 25% depending on the revision procedure to be done. This is in part because the doctor has to be able to finish a new Weight Loss Procedure over the scar tissue and be able to repair what went wrong in the first place. The decision as to which will be the chosen bariatric surgery for the second time will depend on the type of surgery first performed.
How can a patient succeed after Weight Loss Revision surgery?
The patient must be careful to avoid any mistakes made before that may have influenced the development of complications. It is very important that you ask your doctor and yourself questions like:
- Why didn’t the first procedure work for me?
- Which procedure works for me best after failing the first time?
- Am I going to be able to follow the rules for success with the procedure I am choosing?
- How much help will I get from the doctor and his staff after revision surgery?
- Am I looking only for the best price I can get, or for the procedure that can work best for me?
You have to analyze both the pros and cons for any procedure that you are considering, especially when considering a second procedure or revision surgery. You have more chances to succeed if you keep in mind what went wrong the first time, in order to develop a plan for success in the future.
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com/
http://www.bandstersforum.com/
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Tags: Failure of weight loss, Gastic Bypass Surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Health, Lap Band, Lapband, Realize Band, Revision Surgery, Simplified Gastric Bypass, weight loss procedure
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Revision Surgery, Roux-n-Y, RYGB, Stomach erosion, Weight loss surgery | 4 Comments »
Friday, August 17th, 2012
Learn More About your Bariatric Surgeon
Dr. Arturo Rodríguez is a highly skilled, compassionate surgeon with more than 13 years of surgical experience. He is a member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and Johnson & Johnson Proctor. He has performed more than 6,500 weight loss surgeries for patients from Mexico and the United States.
Dr. Arturo Rodríguez understands the life-changing effect that Bariatric Surgery can have on an individual, and he is committed to providing long-term support for his patients as they embark on their journey to healthier and happier lives. Dr. Rodríguez specializes in minimally invasive laparoscopic Gastric Banding Surgery-Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass which greatly reduces scarring and postoperative recovery time. He is highly skilled in placing and monitoring both the Lap Band and the Realize band, and he personally consults with each one of his patients to determine which procedure best suits their needs. His extensive experience and education also allows him to help patients who suffer from complications of morbid obesity.
Dr. Rodríguez and his professional medical team are dedicated to providing expert care and compassionate support from the first consultation through years of follow-up. Patients also receive long-term support through follow-up consultations, interaction with Dr. Rodríguez in the online forum and patient reunions held in Monterrey.
To schedule an in-person or online consultation with Dr. Rodríguez and learn more about your weight loss options, you can contact him at:
ArturoRodriguez, MD
md@thebariatric.com
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
Phone: 011-52-81-8378-3177.
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Tags: bariatric surgeon, Gastic Bypass Surgery, gastric bypass mexico, gastric bypass surgeon, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, gastric sleeve surgeon, Health, Lap Band Mexico, Lap Band procedure, lap band surgeon, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery | No Comments »
Friday, August 10th, 2012
The reasons for obesity are multiple and complex. Despite conventional wisdom, it is not simply a result of overeating. Research has shown that in many cases, the significant underlying cause of morbid obesity is genetic. Studies have demonstrated that once the problem is established, efforts such as dieting and exercise programs have a limited ability to provide effective long-term relief.
Science continues to search for answers but, until the disease is better understood, the control of excess weight is something patients must work at for their entire lives. That is why it is very important to understand that all current medical interventions, including the Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass procedures should not be considered medical cures. Rather, they are attempts to reduce the effects of excessive weight and alleviate the serious physical, emotional and social consequences of the disease.
Contributing Factors
The underlying causes of severe obesity are not known. There are many factors that contribute to the development of obesity including genetic, hereditary, metabolic, environmental, and eating disorders. There are also certain medical conditions that may result in some special type of obesity, such as the long term intake of steroids and some diseases such as hypothyroidism and hyper-adrenalism.
Genetic Factors
Numerous scientific studies have established that your genes play an important role in your tendency towards excess weight gain. The body weights of adopted children show no correlation with the body weights of their adoptive parents, who feed them and teach them how to eat. However, their weight does have an 80 percent correlation with their genetic parents, whom they have never met. As well, identical twins with identical genes, show a much higher similarity of body weights than do fraternal twins.
Certain groups of people, such as the Pima Indian tribe in Arizona and the growing Mexican-American population have shown a very high incidence of severe obesity. They also have significantly higher rates of diabetes and heart disease than other ethnic groups.
We probably have a number of genes directly related to weight. Just as some genes determine eye color or height, others can affect the appetite by increasing the amount of secretion of the Ghrelin Factor by the stomach, or the ability to feel full, satisfied, or have an early age-related change in metabolism. Our fat-storing ability, and our natural activity levels may even be affected by some predetermined gene.
Environmental Factors
Environmental and genetic factors are obviously closely intertwined. If you have a genetic predisposition toward obesity, then the modern American lifestyle and environment may make controlling weight more difficult. Fast food, long days sitting at a desk or in front of a TV screen or monitor, and suburban neighborhoods that require cars all magnify hereditary factors such as metabolism and efficient fat storage. For those suffering from morbid obesity, anything less than a total change in environment usually results in failure to reach and maintain a healthy body weight.
Metabolism
We used to think of weight gain or loss as only a function of calories ingested and then burned. Take in more calories than you burn, gain weight; burn more calories than you ingest, lose weight. But now we know the equation isn’t that simple. Obesity researchers now talk about a theory called the “set point,” a sort of Thermostat in the brain that makes people resistant to either weight gain or loss. If you try to override the set point by drastically cutting your calorie intake, your brain responds by lowering metabolism and slowing activity. You then gain back any weight you’ve lost.
Eating Disorders & Medical Conditions
Weight loss surgery is not a cure for eating disorders. And there are medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism, that can also cause weight gain. That’s why it’s important that you work along with your doctor to find out whether you have any conditions that should be treated with medication and counseling.
Arturo Rodriguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
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Tags: gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Health, Lapband, Obesity
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric sleeve, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery | 2 Comments »
Friday, August 3rd, 2012
When most people go away on vacation, it is to soak up the sun, see new things, meet new people, and to relax and “get away from it all.” However, more and more people are going away to experience a different kind of tourism: medical tourism. This involves a person traveling away from their native country to have a health care procedure done in a different country. People have all sorts of medical procedures done abroad: everything from joint replacement to cosmetic surgery is performed on such medical-based trips. Mexico is a country many people go to for such procedures In fact, having lapband surgery in Mexico is becoming more and more popular.
Lapband makes restriction to food intake
Many people are going to Mexico for lapband surgery. This surgery is something many believe will change their lives. Lapband surgery helps people who suffer from obesity to work towards returning to a more normal or healthy weight. Because of the price, many people are forced to have the surgery done in different countries, especially since some insurance companies will not cover the procedure.
As a person usually has to pay out of pocket for a surgery that they believe will save their life, they will head to countries where the procedure is less expensive. For many people, lap band surgery is their last shot at being healthy. Thus, for people who do not have insurance or a regular doctor, going to Mexico is a logical choice.After all, once the surgery is done, they can then relax in a new or exotic location where no one has to know about their surgery. Privacy is a major reason for why people choose to have surgery and other medical procedures done abroad. They may not want their friends, family members, coworkers, or doctors to know that they had a little work done. This could be because they do not want to worry the people in their life, or it could be because they want to appear refreshed at all times.
There are a number of things to take into account when considering LapBand surgery - make sure you are well informed before making the decision to have the procedure. Many Mexico based doctors have set up support forums and telephone consultations so that you can get the information you need to make a decision. Here’s a testimonial from a patient of Dr. Arturo Rodríguez, who practices in Monterrey, Mexico:
“My name is Linda Pearce I’m 58 years old. I found Dr. Rodriguez’s web site and after much research I knew he was the Doctor for me. I had my lapband surgery Oct. 2005. I have loss 85 lbs. My whole life has changed because of Dr. R and his team. The hospital and care in Monterrey Mexico was awesome, better than some of the hospitals in the States. Everything went just as they told me it would from being pickup at the airport to going to the hospital and back. Thank you Dr. Rodriguez and your team. You guys are the best. My life has changed forever.”
For more information on the lapband and Realize band procedure, visit The Bariatric Group
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: Health, Lap Band, Lap Band Mexico, Lapband, lapband in Mexico, Lapband surgery, lapband testimonial, medical tourism, Realize Band
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, J & J Band, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Weight loss surgery | No Comments »
Friday, July 6th, 2012
From when John Daly began playing golf at the age of 4 he showed a remarkable ability to play all aspects of the game. People around him knew that someday he would be one of the great golfers of history. In 1991, John was named by the PGA as the Rookie of the Year, and the following year became the youngest player to win the most difficult and competitive course, The British Open at St. Andrews.
Along with the fame and fortune for this young golfer was also the darker side. The alcohol, the women, the gambling and his personal behavior caused him problems with the PGA and as a result he was suspended on several different occasions.
John’s life changed dramatically from the ups and downs. With his health deteriorating and his weight increasing, John got to the point that he could hardly finish a round of the game that he was once the master of.
It took a call from his 17 year old daughter to start him on the path to reclaim his life. At now 370 lbs, John knew that his weight was an urgent need to get under control. Diets weren’t working for him, so he began to seek advice on what else could be done.
He had a picture of a Gastric Bypass patient and decided that he wanted more control over the speed and the quantity of weight loss. He also was resistant to the idea of taking medications for life to counteract the malnutrition aspect of bypass surgery.
He also looked at a relatively new procedure called a Gastric Sleeve, but decided that he couldn’t be assured of the results he was looking for. He also learned that while the Gastric sleeve procedure has been shown effective as a metabolic procedure, there aren’t long term results as a weight loss procedure.
The Lapband procedure is a very low risk, simple procedure with a very quick recovery time that would allow John to be back in the golf course and also been in control of the amount and speed of his weight loss.
John Daly took the right decision for himself, got the Lap Band AP, and now that he has returned to the game he has finished at the top 5 in 3 events in Europe and is ready for the PGA Tour again.
I am hoping he can make it to our next Get-Together the first weekend in December and play a round of golf at “La Herradura” with a bunch of fan-banded patients.
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: after lapband, Arturo Rodriguez, gastric band, J & J Band, John Daly, Lap Band, Lap Band Mexico, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband surgery, Realize Band
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, J & J Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Weight loss surgery | 2 Comments »
Friday, June 29th, 2012
The last 10 years I have been very busy participating in a lot of meetings around the world. I have found, unfortunately, that we have spent such a long time discussing what procedures are the best for treating obesity that we have forgotten the main point, the core of any of the procedures’ success: the patient.
We all look like fans of a football team, cheering for their favorite team. Some doctors cheer for the Gastric bypass as the best and only option to cure obesity. Then we have the doctors that prefer the lapband as the first option. In another corner, there are the doctors that promote the Gastric sleeve as the new treatment for obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.
There are several good medical reasons involved in the doctor’s preferences for one procedure over the other but also their preferences points toward which procedure the doctor feels more comfortable performing or is more skilful. In Mexico, we have to add to this discussion, the place were the doctor was trained, for instance, if he was trained in the Mexican Health Care System they will know very little about the Lap band and would prefer to perform the Gastric Sleeve or the Gastric Bypass. This is because the Lap band is not yet available for the government hospitals. This means that these doctors started with Bariatric procedures such as the Gastric Bypass 3-4 years ago, and the Gastric Sleeve 1-2 years ago.
I personally recommend the Lap band as the first option. There is less risk for operatory complications involved, it is less expensive and it’s adjustable. You don’t have to be overly obese to have the Lap Band. You can have Lap band revision in case the lapband fails the first time or jump to any of the other procedures available including the Duodenal Switch. The Lap-band also helps in the control of co-morbidities related to obesity such as high blood pressure or Diabetes in almost 6 out of 10 patients.
The arguments against having the Lap band as the first option are valid with patients that have difficult behavioral control such as alcohol abuse. Arguments are also valid for patients that don’t like the idea of having lapband fills done periodically or when there isn’t a doctor or center to do the fills close to where they live. The arguments against the Lapband that are not valid, are erosion rates (less than 2 %), slippage (less than 4 %), or obtaining insufficient weight loss as a strong argument for deciding on other surgical options such as the Gastric sleeve or Gastric Bypass.
There are no “complication free” bariatric procedures. With any bariatric procedure there are advantages and disadvantages. We also found that with all bariatric procedures, there is a chance for insufficient weight loss and a chance that patients may need revision surgery. Mean percent excess weight loss at five years ranged from 48 to 74 % after Gastric Bypass and from 50 to 60% after Vertical Banded Gastroplasty, the same results are for the Gastric Sleeve.
However, with all this in mind, we must remember that the best and most effective procedure will ultimately depend on the individual patient that is looking for a weight loss procedure. The patient and doctor must work together to discover all the facts and make the best informed decision in order to be successful. Don´t rush your decision – get informed!
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: bariatric procedure, duodenal switch, Gastic Bypass Surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeeve, Health, Lap Band, Lap Band Mexico, Lapband, lapband erosion, lapband slippage, Revision Surgery, Simplified Gastric Bypass, vertical banded gastroplasty, weigh loss
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Revision Surgery, Roux-n-Y, RYGB, Stomach erosion, Weight loss surgery | No Comments »
Thursday, February 23rd, 2012
I was overweight most of my life. I had tried every diet out there only to gain all the weight back. I was depressed and frustrated. I had heard so many Weight Loss Surgery success stories and realized that Lapband surgery was my only option for permanent Weight Loss. While researching my options I ran across Dr. Arturo Rodriguez’s website and decided to call. I was skeptical about traveling outside the U.S. but after a lot of research I was certain that Dr. Arturo Rodriguez was the right doctor for me.
An important thing I learned in my research was that the experience of your Lap-band Surgeon plays a huge role in your success with Lap-band. Dr. Arturo Rodriguez has performed thousands more Lap-band Surgeries than any doctor I could find in the U.S. I decided that if I was going to have this surgery I wanted the best Surgeon to do it!
My experience in Monterrey was amazing! I was greeted at the airport and taken directly to the hospital. When we arrived, Dr. Rodriguez and his assistant met my husband and I. They discussed everything that would take place. After surgery I was taken to my hospital room. There was always a nurse to help if I needed. I have never received such good care in any hospital in the U.S. as I did in Monterrey.
The next day I was picked up and taken to my hotel room and later that evening, one of Dr. Arturo Rodriguez’s staff came to check on me and take my husband and I around Monterrey. The next day someone picked us up and drove us to the airport. We never had to worry about a single thing the entire time we were there.
My life since Lap-band Surgery has changed dramatically. I can play with my boys and not get tired, I’m more outgoing, I wake up and my back doesn’t hurt, and I have endless amounts of energy. It’s also taught me what true portion control is and given me the skills to lifelong Weight Loss! I’ve learned what it takes to keep the weight off forever! Most importantly I have eliminated my chances of acquiring obesity related illnesses.
I have Dr. Arturo Rodriguez and the Lap-band Surgery to thank for all of this. It changed my life so much that my Mom even decided to have Gastric Bypass Surgery (by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez of course) and she too has had amazing success losing over 100 lbs and going off many of the medications she was on prior to surgery. In fact, I was so impressed by Dr. Rodriguez and his staff that when the opportunity came to work with them and to help others see the many benefits of this surgery, I jumped at the chance.
I would love to talk to you about how much this amazing Surgery can change your life and why Dr. Arturo Rodriguez is the right Surgeon for you.
Shelby, Lapband patient, http://www.thebariatric.com
Shelby Hashagen
Patient Coordinator / Dr. Arturo Rodriguez
(360) 304-0610
shelby@thebariatric.com
http://www.thebariatric.com
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Tags: Arturo Rodriguez, Arturo Rodriguez MD, Dr. Arturo Rodriguez, gastric band, gastric bypass, Lap Band, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband surgery, Realize Band, realize band procedure, realize band surgery, weight loss success
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric bypass, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Roux-n-Y, RYGB, Weight loss surgery | 4 Comments »
Thursday, February 9th, 2012
You find yourself searching through Doctors or Promoters websites and you don’t find information about the existence of different Lap Bands. How come? Why is this information so hard to find? How long have there been different Lap band Models?
When you visit message boards and forums and find little information about different models of the Lap Band, the information you do find usually comes from someone with misinformation (even when they think they are informed and write with some kind of authority because they have had the Lap Band surgery done) and their contribution to this subject is manipulated by comments by others.
Why is this not discussed PROPERLY on the message boards and forums? It is difficult to believe that nobody cares about this. Why is there little interest in this? Is it important to know that there are several different kinds of Lap Bands? Or does it matter at all?
Why is the market distracted by the Lap Band price and not the quality of the Lapband, the patient’s satisfaction with the Lap Band procedure or the doctor’s service? Why hasn’t anyone questioned Allergan’s practices of flooding the border town’s market with Lap bands that have been stolen from the factory? Why is Allergan letting this happen? What does Allergan gain from this practice?
Other important questions to ponder:
- Can weight loss be affected by the design or size of the Lap Band?
- Does the design of the lapband have anything to do with complications?
- Why is this information about the lapband not on the Doctor’s websites?
- Why is this information about the Lap band not on the Promoter’s websites?
Is anyone going to be responsible for hiding this important information about the lapband to the patients? Are there any legal aspects, corners or sides involved with these behavioral practices or with these different lapband models? Why do Lap Band doctors in the U.S. say nothing about the existence of many different Inamed-Allergan models and say nothing about their results with each of them?
Why do Lap Band doctors outside the States say nothing about this on their websites and the other kind of bands they commonly use to make the Lap Band procedure cheaper? How can you be alerted about a poor quality lapband before having Lap Band Surgery? What should you ask about the Lap band before having surgery?
To find the Answers to these questions, read on in Part II – “Talking About Several Lap Bands…”
TO BE CONTINUED…
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.thebariatric.com
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Tags: before Lapband, Health, Lap Band, Lap band message board, Lap Band Mexico, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband forum, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery | 3 Comments »
Thursday, February 2nd, 2012
I know many individuals that are attracted by the idea of starting over. It’s important for an individual to discover what they did wrong, and how we can change. There is a need to lose weight or to keep the weight off successfully, to change your diet, to do some kind of exercise, to get fit and to stay fit by increasing your activity, to look younger, to have a totally new body so you can improve your body image. We are often dissatisfied or discontent with what we have, especially relating to our appearance – we want more or we want to look better!
Plastic Surgery has almost become a necessity for patients that have had a Bariatric procedure such as the lap band, gastric sleeve or gastric bypass. Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and are looking for Plastic Surgery should know that they will need more Reconstructive Surgery than just the normal Aesthetic Procedures such as Liposuction. This means that Liposuction (the most frequent plastic surgery among all the population) or a tummy tuck would not be enough, and in most cases they will need a Plastic Surgeon who has experience working with patients that have undergone a Bariatric procedure.
Patients that have lost a lot of weight after a Bariatric procedure have different personal image concerns and plastic surgery needs. Before performing any procedure, the doctor must consider your age, your muscle tonicity, the amount of weight loss, the skin laxity or elasticity, the skin excess and the hygiene difficulty.
Frequent Questions among Lap Band Patients
Q: When is the best time to have a Plastic surgery after my Bariatric procedure?
A: The best time for Plastic Procedures for Lap Band patients is after reaching 60% of excess weight loss.
Q: Where can I start?
A: You should discuss your needs first, the surgical options and the cost of each procedure with your Plastic Surgeon and at that point, start planning a Plastic Procedure on what you can afford, what you want to improve or what bothers you most.
Q: Should I have all plastic surgery done at once?
A: As a Surgeon I recommend to my patients to schedule plastic surgery in phases and not to have Plastic surgery done all in one procedure. You have to consider that most of the Plastic surgery completed on a Bariatric patient takes a lot longer than in non-obese patients and this means that the surgery will be 6-8 hrs in the OR under general anesthesia. There is also more blood loss and many times the patient may need to have a blood transfusion if there is a lot of work needed.
Q: How long does it take?
A: The Tummy Tuck takes 2.5 to 6 hrs depending on the patient needs. The breast Lift takes 3.5 hrs. A lower body lift takes 3 to 6 Hrs.
Q: What is the cost?
A: The cost varies from doctor to doctor but each procedure can cost from 6 up to 10 thousand USD
What to expect after Plastic Surgery in Lap band patient
Most of the procedures require a one or two night hospital stay. You will need to be out of work for about 10 days after surgery and you will also have drains for 5 to 7 days. The patient must also wear a compression garment for several months. While the scar is healing, the patient will also need oral antibiotics.
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Gastric Sleeve Mexico, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Plastic surgery after weight loss, Roux-n-Y, RYGB, Weight loss surgery | 6 Comments »
Thursday, November 17th, 2011
Here are some helpful tips to help you succeed with the
Lap-Band on a long-term basis.
Before you have the Gastric LapBand:
1. Search for the Right Doctor for You
Many companies or groups claim to be the Best Experts in LapBand surgery. However, it is important to check the qualifications and experience of your surgeon before making your decision. Find out whether the doctor is a member of any medical organizations and whether they have any experience in bariatric surgery. Make sure to research the company and the Doctor´s credentials, and look into the facilities and medical team. You can also check with the companies that manufacture the lapband products, like Allergan or Johnson & Johnson, to find more recommendations. It is very important to be in the right hands when you have surgery. The experience of your surgeon can make a big difference in your weight loss outcome. Surgery can be life-changing – Don´t play with your health. Look for the right doctor, and not just the cheapest deal.
2. Double-check the Doctor´s Coordinators
Some coordinators will say anything to convince you that their team and services are the best. The personality of the coordinators or the medical team can tell you a lot about the kind of work they do. When talking on the phone, check for signs of aggressiveness, or whether they speak poorly of other bariatric teams or surgeons. If they tell you that they know “everything” about LapBands or bariatric surgery, this is probably not true. Take your time to analyze their ethics and professionalism, and keep your ears and eyes open. Be cautious of coordinators that seem too pushy or don´t respect your requests. These coordinators are not looking out for your best interests – they are just looking for your money. Instead, look for coordinators that demonstrate clear communication and professionalism, honesty, friendliness and a helpful and caring attitude.
3. Avoid companies that are just “moving patients through the border”
Some “coordinators” may contact you to promote weight loss surgery without an actual connection to a qualified bariatric surgeon. They may not even work for the Doctor that they are promoting, and are just looking to make money. They do not have your best interests in mind – you are a merchandize for them. They might make promises that they can´t follow through with, and may get any Doctor for your surgery as long as they get paid for arranging things for you. When researching into the company, find out as much as you can about all the details, including any hidden costs or fees. Be sure that you feel confidant and comfortable with the people that you are working with before you make your final decision.
4. Communicate with other Banded Patients
Often, the best source of information is someone that has already gone through the experience before. You can find out answers by asking other people that have had the lapband procedure. Search for online forums, chat rooms, or message boards. Some questions you might ask could be:
- What kind of surgical weight loss procedure did they receive?
- Was the surgery what they expected?
- How did the Doctor and his medical team treat them?
- Did they have any complications after surgery?
- How long did the surgery process take?
- How have they adjusted to life with the lap band?
- Did they see the results that they were expecting or hoping for?
- How soon did they see results?
- Would they recommend their doctor to someone else looking for the same surgery?
After you have the Gastric LapBand Procedure:
5. Begin the Journey: Develop Good Habits
After LapBand surgery, you will need to make some changes to your diet and activity. Small actions can results in big changes and lead to successful weight loss with your new lapband. Make sure that you learn about what foods to eat and what foods to avoid after your surgery, and determine if you can make these changes. You will also see better results if you include physical activity in your daily routine. If you are always used to driving in the car or riding the bus, try going for a short walk or getting off the bus earlier. If you do walk, try walking faster. Park your car farther away from where you are going so you can get some extra steps into your day. Use any excuse to move your body, like taking the dogs out or doing some gardening. Do anything that will help you to develop new, healthy habits.
6. Your LapBand Expectations
Imagine yourself at the end of the “LapBand Road” and keep Focused on that image. The vast majority of banded patients expect the band to work alone by itself, without changing any of their old habits. But the truth is that you do need to put a lot of energy into yourself and encourage yourself to improve your eating habits and activities in order to each your weight loss goals. The LapBand is a tool to help you, but it won’t do the job alone. For the best results, you need to be committed to positive change.
7. Find the optimum LapBand Fill
My advice is to reach a “fill point” where you can keep enjoying the foods you like, while still being able to lose or maintain your weight. Too much tightness or restriction will have you at the border line for being de-banded, and stomach erosion can happen frequently in patients with large fills. Do not compete with the LapBand by trying to force food to pass through the band. If you feel excessive restriction, visit your doctor to have your band adjusted.
8. Maintain Good Communication with your Doctor
This is the most important of the 10 “keys for success.” Make sure you can reach your Doctor whenever you need him or her. The Bariatric Surgeons and Doctors are different than General Surgeons in the follow-up care.
Don’t hesitate to call your Doctor if you have any of the following symptoms: Heartburn, pain at the port area or in the abdomen, frequent vomiting, difficulty swallowing or reflux.
9. Have a Barium Swallow or an Endoscopy atleast once a year
This can help to indicate the condition of your stomach, esophagus, and the lapband system, including the positioning of the band and port. This may also help to detect any problems earlier, which can allow for more time to solve the problem.
10. Have your LapBand Fills done under Fluoroscopy as often as possible
Office fills do not detect early, easily-correctable problems until it may be too late. Slippage and erosion are more frequently seen in patients that have never had follow-ups under fluoroscopy. Check with your Doctor to find out their process for lapband fills – if they only do office fills, ask your Doctor to recommend someone that can provide fills under fluoroscopy for you.
Arturo Rodriguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Health, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lapband, Lapband surgery, Realize Band
Posted in Bariatric diet, Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, J & J Band, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Stomach erosion, Weight loss surgery | 9 Comments »
Thursday, November 3rd, 2011
A Lapband leak is suspected when a patient that previously had adequate restriction feels a change in the amount of restriction. This can happen suddenly or over a period of time, depending on the size of the leak. If there is a leak of the lap band, the band will not be able to be adequately filled and will not provide restriction, or function properly. There are four types of lapband leaks that can occur to the lapband once it is placed, based on the location: (1) Leaks at the lapband balloon, (2) Leaks at the lapband tube connections, (3) Leaks at the body of the tube, and (4) Port membrane leaks.
(1) Leaks at the Lapband Balloon
Leaks in the lap band balloon can be unintentionally caused by needle punctures during surgery, or may occur over time in certain factory weak points of the balloon.
Leak at Lapband balloon http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 1.0 In the figure above, you can see the lap band (white rectangular shape), which has been filled with contrast fluid. The arrow points to a small amount of fluid that has moved outside the band from a small leak in the balloon of the lap band (VG).
Lap-Band Leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 1.1 This is another image of a lap band balloon leak. A thin line of contrast fluid can be seen outside of the lap band, surrounding both the band and the tube.
Lapband Leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 1.2 The lap band balloon can be seen in the centre of this image (rectangular shape, slanted to the left). In this case, there is a larger leak of contrast fluid which is more easily visible around the lap band balloon (arrow).
Lapband leak seen during surgery http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 1.3 In this case, there was a leak in the lap band balloon, and surgery was required to remove the band. During surgery, the leak was very clearly seen when fluid was pushed through the lap band, to reveal the location of the leak. (The arrow points to the line of fluid leaking from the AMI band).
(2) Leaks at the Lapband Tube Connection
Leaks can occur within the Lapband tube connection if there is a break or fracture of the tube next to the metal connector. Breaks or fractures may be due to physical movement over time, when considering the materials of the connections (metal and silicone). If the “fracture” is complete, it can be easily diagnosed with an x-ray film (plain film), without needing to inject contrast fluid.
Lapband plain x-ray film http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.0 Above, we can see the lapband port in the lower, right corner, with the tube extending to the left in the x-ray image. There is a complete fracture (break) in the tube. The distal end of the tube is near the port, which means the tube may still be in the abdominal wall.
Lapband Leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.1 Above, we can see the lapband port near the bottom of the x-ray image, with a complete fracture (break) in the tube, which is curled up at the top of the image. This shows that the tube is likely still inside the abdominal cavity.
Port of a Lapband leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.2 Above is a photo of the lapband port that was removed during surgery from Figure 2.1.
If the “fracture” is incomplete, it is necessary to inject contrast inside the system in order to diagnosis the problem.
Figure 2.3 This shows an incomplete fracture, with the tube in place.
Port of a Lapband leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.4 This is the port removed from the above case (Figure 2.3).
Port of a Lapband leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.5 In this plain x-ray film, the port can be seen in the bottom right corner. There is a slight bend in the tube at the connection point (upper right corner of the film).
Figure 2.6 As a leak was suspected, contrast fluid was passed through this lapband port. A large amount of contrast fluid is seen at the bend, in the top right (the connection point).
In some cases, it is not possible to indentify a leak with x-rays. Therefore, the diagnosis of a leak may need to be done at the time of surgery.
Lap-Band Leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.7 In this x-ray with contrast fluid, there is no evidence of a leak.
Tube leak near the port http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 2.8 This leak was not demonstrated with x-rays. As the leak was suspected, surgery was required to find the location of the leak.
(3) Leaks at the Body of the Tube
These lap band leaks are usually iatrogenic. This means that the leak was caused by an unintentional needle puncture, during a fill that was done without using fluoroscopy to guide the needle. These kinds of leaks are very common in office fills. Even in the best hands, there is always a risk of puncturing the tube during a lap band adjustment. This is one of the reasons that we always recommend fills to be done under fluoroscopy.
Lapband tube puncture http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 3.0 A leak can be seen in the body of the tube, close to the connection. This leak was made with a needle at the time of an adjustment (office fill).
Lap-band Tube puncture http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 3.1 The leaking portion of the tube was removed during surgery.
(4) Port Membrane Leaks
This type of leak usually occurs when the patient has received many fills, or when the adjustment was done using a standard needle. Only Huber (non-coring) needles (Figure 4.2) should be used to perform fills or adjustments. The silicone membrane of the port may be damaged if any other type of needle is used.
Lap-band Port Leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 4.0 The lapband leak is just in front of the port, where contrast can be seen.
Lap-band Port Membrane Leak http://www.thebariatric.com
Huber Needle http://www.thebariatric.com
Figure 4.1 During surgery, we can see a leak at the port membrane as seen by the bubbles that are produced when the port is placed in water.
Figure 4.2 Huber (non-coring) needle.
Final Thoughts
Every day, the lap band manufacturers are improving the design and functionality of the gastric bands in order to prevent complications such as leaks. However, there is always a small risk of leaks over time. Many types of lap band leaks can be avoided by careful handelling the gastric band at the time of the surgery and by doing the lap band fill or adjustment under the fluoroscopy guide, and finally by using the right non-core needle.
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Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Revision Surgery, Weight loss surgery | 152 Comments »
Wednesday, September 14th, 2011
The first and most important step to minimize the chances of failure from a Bariatric procedure and to increase your success rate is to be well informed about each one of the surgeries before you choose any of them.
What should you know about Weight Loss Surgery?
- How does each procedure work? How will they assist in weight loss?
- What should you expect from the Lap Band, Gastric Sleeve, or Gastric Bypass procedures, in terms of weight loss and/or Type 2 Diabetes
- The difference in short and long-term benefits for each procedure
- The operative risks and complication rates for each procedure
- How much follow-up and support will you need for each procedure
- How much of the Total Patient Care (TPC) program services will you need
- What kind of adjustments will you need following surgery?
- What kind of commitment is expected from you, for each procedure
- What should you expect from the Doctor or Bariatric Group that you choose
- The surgical options you have for each of the procedures in case of a failure
- Finally, the cost of each procedure
What should you know about the Doctor or Bariatric Group?
You have to be well informed about the Doctors and medical team performing the Lap Band, the Gastric Sleeve or the Gastric Bypass. Choose your surgeon and medical team wisely in order to ensure the best results for your weight loss success.
- Ask about their education and training credentials if you are planning to go to a Latin Country. Look for Medical Degrees in Private Colleges like Monterrey Tech, University of Monterrey, or LaSalle School of Medicine, or other reputable medical universities.
- Ask about where they received their Surgical Training. There can be a big difference in the treatment you will receive between doctors trained in well-known Private Hospitals, rather than in the Social Governmental Health Care System.
- Ask about their Diplomas. Did they have to write a Medical Tests to join the Medical Society or Surgeon group, or did they just pay a subscription fee to become a member?
- Check the number of Revision Surgeries they have been involved with. This may give you an indication of the quality of their work.
- Check their Surgical Staff for credentials and experience. Consider the Anesthesiologist and any other assistant surgeons. It is important that they have experience in Bariatric surgery.
- Double-check the Ethics and Professionalism of their Promoters or Coordinators.
- Finally, check the Follow Up and Support they would provide you after your surgery.
Diet Rules to Follow (Regardless of the Weight Loss Procedure you Choose)
For any weight loss method to be successful and effective, you have to make some healthy lifestyle choices regarding the foods that you eat. Bariatric surgery is an effective way to increase the rate of weight loss, but the best results can only happen when you make healthy choices. After Bariatric surgery, you will feel full with a smaller amount of food – make sure to choose foods with the most nutritional value to help you on the journey to a new, healthier you!
- Follow the Diet Steps recommended by your Doctor or the Nutritionist after surgery.
- Chewing very well will help to maintain the pouch size, preventing stomach stretching and decreasing the risk of blockages and reflux in the esophagus or stomach.
- Eat 6 small meals a day.
- Eat slowly; take your time at the table.
- Preferably, hydrate or drink beverages between meals.
- Avoid Gastric Irritants like Alcohol, Coffee, Hot or Spicy, Vinegar, Soy Sauce or other Acid Beverages.
- Limit high calorie foods like chocolate, cream and full-fat dairy products.
Failure Features Characteristically observed with Bariatric Procedures
These “failures” can be a result of a number of different circumstances or actions, or may develop slowly over time. Therefore, it is important to have regular follow-ups to monitor your weight loss and the status of your lap band, sleeve or gastric pouch. Remember: If you have any concerns, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor.
- Big Gastric Pouches
- Mega- esophagus
- Wide Gastric Sleeve
- Excessive tightness of the Gastric Band
- Wide outlet of the Bypass Gastro-Yeyuno
- Very Short common limb of the Gastric Bypass
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
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Tags: Bariatric Group, Gastic Bypass Surgery, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Health, Lap Band, Lap Band Mexico, Lapband, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity surgery, Realize Band, Simplified Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, weight loss procedure
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Revision Surgery, Roux-n-Y, RYGB, Weight loss surgery | 2 Comments »
Wednesday, August 31st, 2011
Our History
The knowledge that we have today about laparoscopy has developed through the patience, hard-work and determination of dedicated doctors and individuals. When we started doing laparoscopic surgery, many doctors without laparoscopic training argued that open surgery had a better view through the large incision, than from the tiny camera’s panoramic view. They also thought that the sense of touch was lost by using instruments instead of fingers tips. They stated we were introducing unnecessary risks to any procedure by doing so. However, over time we have discovered that laparoscopic surgery is a very safe method. The view is much better with the cameras moving in all possible directions, and the tip of the instruments act as well as finger tips do after you have been trained to use the instruments.
We also were discouraged from performing laparoscopic surgery in the elderly, in the young and in the morbidly obese patients. The patients under this category were unable to have laparoscopic procedures of any kind in all major hospitals. However, time and experience have also demonstrated the safety of this technique for higher-risk patients. Now, everyone recognizes the laparoscopic method as the best option for many surgical procedures, and many people are now are surprised when procedures are not done using laparoscopy.
Advancement in the quality of lap band products has continued over the past 30 years. The first lap band model in the United States was the Inamed Lap Band, approved by the FDA in 2001. Doctors in the States began using this band as it was the only approved model in the US. We initially promoted another type of Lap Band that was developed in Europe, with a softer ring, and a bigger, low-pressure balloon to adjust to any stomach size. This type of Lap Band was approved by the FDA in 2006, and has now become the most widely used type of lap band in the world. A few years ago, this band was purchased by Johnson and Johnson and is now known in the US market as the Realize Band. Inamed (Now Allergan) has five different models of the Lap Band, which have been designed to emulate many of the characteristics of the Realize band.
What´s Next?
Initially, there was much resistance against treating patients with a BMI less than 35, with bariatric procedures such as the Lap Band. The medical community now supports preventative medicine, by encouraging patients to be pro-active rather than waiting five or tens year and developing co-morbidities before they treat the medical problem. Today, there are various procedures acceptable for patients with a BMI of less than 35, including the Gastric Band, as well as more drastic procedures such as the Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Bypass, Gastric Sleeve and Duodenal Exclusion. These procedures are also helpful if you are looking for your patient to obtain the Metabolic Effect from these procedures, and to improve blood sugar control for patients with Type2 Diabetes, High blood pressure and High Cholesterol (Metabolic Syndrome).
Arturo Rodríguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric sleeve, Health, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity surgery
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, gastric sleeve, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery | 3 Comments »
Wednesday, August 24th, 2011
Holidays are a time to enjoy family and friends, and get-togethers almost always center around good food and conversation. Everyone brings delicious foods and desserts to numerous parties and gatherings, and life can get very busy and hectic, leaving little time for your regular exercise routine. For someone who is trying to lose weight, the temptations can be overwhelming.
Diet and exercise are the most important methods of losing weight. However, this may not always be possible or practical during holiday times. Either someone is staying at a hotel, where exercise options are limited, or they might be staying with friends or family where it is hard to get away. As well, it almost seems rude to refuse any food offered at these special occasions. However, the holidays is a time to focus on positive thinking. Focus on ways to eat healthy and maintain your weight. For example, if you stay in a hotel, why not take the stairs to your room instead of the elevator, or check out the swimming pool? If you are staying with friends or relatives, start a game of soccer with the family or take a walk around town. When the food is on the table, choose your favorite vegetables and fruits first – and enjoy sharing a colorful, healthy meal. If the cake is calling your name, chose a smaller piece.
For people that have had a hard time losing weight, and have had little success with fad diets or “easy” solutions, you may have considered different options such as lap band surgery. A lap band is a silicone device that is surgically placed around the stomach, and manually shrinks the size of the stomach so that the person is able to feel full with smaller amounts of food. Lap bands produce the best results when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and proper, moderate exercise. This is mostly because too much unhealthy foods can slow the results that the lapband is designed to give. Combining the surgery with healthy diet and active living will soon results in a healthier person. If that isn’t a great holiday gift then nothing is!
For anyone who has been struggling with the idea of getting lap band surgery, or for anyone who really wants to lose weight, don’t think it is too late for you. Lapband surgery may be just the thing to put your life back on track.
The Bariatric Team
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: before Lapband, diet, Lap Band, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, lapbands
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery, Weight loss surgery | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011
Today I want to share some concepts that frequently are misunderstood by Doctors starting a bariatric program, and by Banded Patients. There are several reasons for De-Banding a Lap-Band patient. Today I would like to focus on EROSION. The incidence of Stomach Erosion ranges from 2 to 15% of the patients who underwent a Lap Band Procedure . The occurence of erosion depends on the Surgeons learning curve, and various patient actions such as the consumption of alcohol, spicy or hot food, frequent vomiting or the use of some medications like Aspirin.
The concept I want to strongly point out is that De-banding due to stomach erosion could be much more challenging and difficult than the initial LAP BAND procedure itself, and requires a lot more experience and skills to do it safely and properly without having complications like leaking, intra-abdominal abscesses or infection at different levels.
Doing the De-Banding properly also means that the Surgeon has to keep in mind that the patient may require a Revision Surgery after six months, for a Re-banding, a Gastric sleeve or a Gastric Bypass Procedure.
In cases of infection or leaking during the De-Banding, the revision surgery will be very difficult, and prone to more frequent complication rates (5 to 30%), or may almost be impossible to be done because of heavy adhesions at the operatory site. As a matter of fact, the so called “learning curve” among Doctors when doing a De-Banding procedure requires a larger number of “supervised surgeries” than with the initial lap band, and the supervisions are usually done by an experienced Surgeon teaching the new bariatric surgeons or the General Surgeons under these conditions, to provide an opportunity for those patients to receive a new bariatric procedure.
If you require De-banding, be sure to inform yourself and look into finding the most experienced and qualified surgeon. Your health is important.
Dr. Arturo Rodriguez
Bariatric Surgeon
http://www.thebariatric.com
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Tags: gastric sleeve, Lap Band, Lap Band procedure, Lapband, Lapband surgery, Revision Surgery, Stomach erosion
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Wednesday, July 27th, 2011
Exercise plays an important role in weight management after Lapband surgery, as well as overall fitness. It is important to put the emphasis on physical activity for both weight control and health.
“Weight Maintenance” rather than weight loss should be your primary focus. We encourage people personally and at our FORUM to increase their exercise activity and reduce their sedentary activity, to lose or maintain a certain weight after Lapband surgery. It is recommended that a minimum of 30 minutes of daily moderate to intense exercise is needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The day after Lapband Surgery, you should start walking as usual. Two weeks after Lapband surgery you can do any kind of exercise. You can start full exercise 2 weeks after Lapband surgery.
It has been determined that there are direct links between weight gain, health risks, and obesity. With the Lapband Procedure there is a direct link between exercise and successful weight loss. One of the only factors that reduces the risks associated with obesity is exercise. After Lapband surgery, exercise is the most important factor in losing weight or at least in maintaining weight loss.
Planning an exercise program after the Lapband should be based on personal goals as well as on individual capabilities. The most important element to be considered is to think long-term and make exercise a permanent part of your life. There are several types of alternative exercise programs that are available today. It doesn’t mean that you have to join a gym or a fitness center after Lap-band surgery. But if you join a gym or fitness center, the key is to be consistent. You can make sensible fitness choices that are more desirable or fit your lifestyle.
Here are some examples:
Moderately Intense Activities:
- Brisk walking (3-4 mph)
- Cycling (10 mph)
- Swimming or calisthenics
- Racket sports or table tennis
- Golf (without a cart)
- Housecleaning, general*
- Raking leaves*
- Dancing*
- Playing actively with children*
*Considered moderate only if they are performed at intensity comparable to brisk walking. (Source: Journal of the American Medical Association 273:402:1995.
Arturo Rodriguez, MD
http://www.thebariatric.com
http://www.bandstersforum.com
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Tags: after lap band, after lapband, Health, Lap Band, Lap Band Mexico, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery
Posted in Gastric band Procedure, Gastric Band surgery, Gastric Banding, Lap Band procedure, Lap band surgery, Lapband, Lapband mexico, Lapband procedure, Lapband surgery, Obesity, Obesity surgery | 16 Comments »
