A woman measuring herself.
Individuals who are obese have a growing number of surgical options designed for weight reduction. Unfortunately, these surgeries can be risky and most procedures have side effects. One such procedure is the Lap Band System. The idea behind the lap band is to create a small pouch in the upper stomach with a gastric band device. This creates a new stomach and gives people a prolonged feeling of fullness.
Side Effects
Nearly 88% of people that have the Lap Band experience adverse side effects. Some of the most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, regurgitation, band slippage and stomach-band blockage. If the side effects are considered severe, patients may consider having their Lap Band system removed entirely. Some less common side effects include constipation, diarrhea and difficulty swallowing.
Rapid Weight Loss
The band itself can cause rapid weight loss. Rapid weight loss has its own set of problems and complications. Some of the most common complications of rapid loss include anemia and malnutrition.
Death
One possible risk with Lap Band is death. With any surgery, the possibility of death is present. Fortunately, death is a rare occurrence.
Reoperation
There are some cases where reoperation is required. If there is band slippage, obstruction of the stomach, or erosion or deflation, the person may have to undergo a second surgical procedure to correct the problem. According to Lap Band, 1 percent of patients suffer from a tear in the stomach wall (gastric perforation) and must undergo the surgery again.
Considerations
There are certain people that should not be treated with Lap Band. The procedure is not recommended for children or teenagers, patients who are pregnant, and individuals who are not willing to accept the dietary restrictions that come with the procedure. The most common dietary restrictions involve giving up sweet foods, high calorie liquids and alcohol.
Tags: side effects, most common, band slippage, common side, common side effects