Gastric Band
There are two main principles of bariatric surgery. These exist in combination or alone: restriction and malabsorption. Purely restrictive operations limit the amount of solid food that can be consumed.
Gastric band is a purely restrictive operation
Technique
An adjustable band is placed laparoscopically below the OG junction to create a small pouch.
No stapling is done as in vertical banded gastroplasty
Advantages
50% excess weight loss at 1 year
Minimal nutritional complications
Disadvantages
Poorly sustained weight loss at 10 or more years because over time dilation of the pouch occurs and patients can adapt.
