Gastric Band Implantation - Process

The procedure is performed using general anaesthesia. The surgeon first makes 4-5 small incisions in the upper abdomen through which the minimally invasive (laparoscopic) procedure is made possible. Through these access points, the stomach cavity is filled with CO2 in order to make the procedure easier. At the end of the operation, the carbon dioxide is removed from the stomach area. Any existing adnations in the upper section of the stomach are carefully removed in order to make room for the implantation of the gastric band. The band is led around the upper section of the stomach and closed in the front like a belt. In order to prevent slipping, the band is secured using a fastening band between the two sections of the stomach. The area between the pouch and the remainder of the stomach is called the stoma. The gastric band is made of silicon and contains a balloon which can be filled via external injection or emptied in order to regulate the passage width. The implanted band is connected to a small metal capsule made of titanium (port) via a connective tube. The port is then placed under the skin in the left upper abdomen. Through simple injection or release of a special fluid, the port allows the non-operative adjustment of the stoma diameter at a later point in time. If necessary, a subsequent drainage for the outflow of wound secretions may be installed and the skin incisions sewn shut. Altogether, the operation lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours. ^3,5,6

Your doctor will clarify the details of the various treatment procedures.