Gastric banding is a major operation. There are risks common to any major operation which requires general anaesthesia. There is a 3%-4% chance of complications after obesity surgery, most are minor. Serious complications are rare and include wound infection, oesophageal stomach puncture, bleeding from the stomach, injury to the spleen, infection inside the abdomen, pneumonia, hernia in the wound. Other problems may occur.
In the long term the opening between the pouch and stomach may become too small, resulting in excessive vomiting and reflux, or the opening may enlarge resulting in weight gain. Adjusting of the inflatable section of the Lap Band may well correct these problems. These may include repositioning of the band and replacement of the reservoir, which would entail a further operation.
The band could move from where it is place, break or erode into the stomach. Nutritional deficiencies may occur due to restricted diet and should be corrected with supplements. Many of these problems can be improved by adjustment of the opening. Potential problems with the ASGB include band leakage, a break or kink in the tube connecting the reservoir to the band, or a leak from the reservoir. There is a chance that the reservoir could move from where it is sewn in. Re-operation may be necessary for some problems.
Adjustable silastic gastroplasty banding is a relatively new procedure having been used in clinical trial for about 10 years and the long-term results or late complications are unknown at the present time. Clinical trials are continuing to obtain more information on these long-term issues. In order to assist with these trials, patient follow up is crucial and patients must be prepared to return for regular visits. They should contact their surgeon if they are experiencing problems.
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