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Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band surgery)

The Lap-Band System was designed to help you achieve sustained weight loss. Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding is the least invasive surgical method to achieve weight loss and works by reducing the amount of food your stomach can hold. The name "Lap-Band" comes from the surgical technique used (laparoscopic) and the name of the product used (gastric band).

The Lap-Band is an adjustable ring that is placed around the upper stomach. It creates a small proximal stomach pouch, with the larger part of the stomach below the band. The band controls the opening between the two parts of the stomach. The upper part distends or stretches when solid food is eaten and this causes you to feel full quickly. There are stretch receptors in the wall of the upper stomach which send a signal to the brain that you are full or satiated. The ingested food empties into the lower stomach at a controlled rate. This maintains a feeling of satiety and avoids the constant sensation of hunger that can be associated with dieting.

The goal of Lap-Band surgery is to lose 60% to 80% of excess body weight at the rate of 1 – 2 pounds per week, and that the weight loss be sustained.

Useful links:

www.swlc.ca
Website of The Surgical Weight Loss Centre, a leading Canadian centre of excellence providing surgical weight loss options

www.lapbandcanada.ca
Website of Allergan Canada, manufacturers of the Lap-Band System