Posted On : October 06, 2024 The Lap Band was approved in the US in 2001 (BMI> 40). The following studies used only small samples and examined short-term efficacy and safety. They were then performed to consider the utility of the Laob band for patients with lower BMI (BMI 30-40). Noe the frequent complications of nausea, difficulty swallowing, pain, and reflux-which may sound familiar to a lot of patients who have had and still have the Lap Band. Numerous US and international studies have been published over the years, including short-term and long-term studies. The summary outcome has been the same, with only a few exceptions.

1. The Lap Band does not result in long-term sustained weight loss.
2. Lap band has significant complications, some of which may not be reversible.
3. The lap band can be removed, but eroding the banc to the stomach is not easy.

Let’s ask the question: why would the slogan of a product be that “it’s easily reversible”? Under what circumstances would anyone want the life-saving device to be removed for the original condition (obesity) return? The answer is when the complications are worse than the condition itself.

Removing the band is not easy, and extensive dissection is often needed to remove the capture (scar tissue) that forms around the band.   My recommendation is: With much better and safer alternative surgical procedures available (Sleeve Gastrectomy) (Duodenal Switch), no one should get the LAp Band placed. For those of you who have it, take it out as soon as possible before it becomes an emergency while causing irreversible dilation of the esophagus