Lap-Band®

The Lap-Band® was the first adjustable gastric band approved by the FDA in the United States.  The band is made by Allergan and has been produced in several different sizes over the years (9.75cm, 10.0cm, Vanguard, APS, and APL).

A recent decision by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has now made it possible for LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding surgery to be performed in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more and at least one comorbidity condition related to obesity, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, Type-2 diabetes, or other conditions. As a result of the FDA’s new guidelines, millions of patients who may not have previously qualified for bariatric surgery procedures may now be candidates.

Please contact Dr. Stephen Boyce for more information, or to schedule a consultation for LAP-BAND® System surgery at our Knoxville and East Tennessee-area practice.

Advantages of the Lap-Band System:

• There is no stomach stapling, cutting or intestinal re-routing involved
• There is no dumping syndrome
• No division.
• It is minimally invasive.
• Laparoscopic placement.
• The Lap-Band gastric banding system is removable.
• The Lap-Band gastric banding system is adjustable.
• The Lap-Ban gastric banding system is reversible.
• The patient will experience slower and steadier weight loss.
• This procedure allows for ongoing absorption of nutrients such as Iron, Calcium, and B12.
• It is low risk

Allergan’s trial for FDA approval showed that patients had and were able to maintain significant weight loss.  Weight loss in Allergan’s studies showed that their patients lost:

Risks of the Lap-Band System:

• The Band may erode through the wall of the stomach causing loss of restriction to eating or Band infection.
• The Band may shift or slip likely causing obstruction of the stomach, in which urgent re-operation is necessary.
• This procedure may cause problems swallowing due to fatigue or damage of the esophagus.
• The tubing and the port of the Band may become kinked, twisted, or broken, which would require re-operation.
• There is a possibility that the surgery, since dealing with sensitive locations within the body, may cause damage to the stomach or other nearby organs or tissues. This may be addressed during surgery or may result in aborting the operation.

At the New Life Center our results are superior to this due to our comprehensive aftercare program.  Our Adjustable Gastric Band Patients loose 28% more excess weight than that reported in the literature!  If you are interested in the Lap-Band System, call the New Life Center today for more information or to attend a free informaitonal seminar.