LAP-BandŽ adjustable gastric banding system

This operation affects weight by restricting the amount of food that can be eaten at one time.

A silicone band is placed around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small stomach pouch. The band slows passage of food from the stomach pouch into the lower stomach. For most people, this creates a full feeling with a small amount of food for a longer time after eating.

During surgery, a small port or reservoir is permanently positioned in the upper abdomen, under the skin. The port is attached to the LAP-BandŽ by tubing.

• The band can be inflated by injecting a saline solution into the port.
• The band can be deflated by removing some of this saline solution.

Allina locations

This surgical weight loss option is available at...

• Abbott Northwestern Hospital
• United Hospital
• Unity Hospital

The surgeon can adjust the band to aid weight loss.

• Inflating the band restricts the food passageway. This reduces the amount that can be eaten and slows the passage of food.
• Deflating the balloon by removing some of the solution increases the size of the food passageway.

Adjustments to the band are usually done six to eight times the first year and three to four times the second year. Maintenance adjustments may be needed for life.