Lap Band Obesity Surgery
Lap band is a restrictive weight loss procedure. Today this surgery is also known as LAP BAND for short. Why? Well, because of the specific type of adjustable gastric band used in the surgery. The Lap band was introduced in 1993 and is now a widely used weight loss method in the western world. Lap band involves securing the band around the upper portion of the stomach. By doing this the surgeons separate the stomach in to two sections, one large and the other small. Thus separating the upper part of the stomach and creating a small pouch. The idea and purpose behind the lap band is that this separation limits the intake of food. Why, because one tends to feel full after the intake of a small quantity of food. The lap band takes around 30 minutes to an hour. The band that is used for the surgery can be loosened or tightened to change the rate of weight loss. Most of those suffering from obesity prefer the lap band because it does not involve opening up of the stomach or the intestines. And also one who goes through this surgery does not need to spend a long time in the hospital and the recovery time is short. The lap band is less painful than other weigh loss surgeries. In comparison with other weight loss surgeries, the lap band is less dangerous.

The mortality rate is very low. Though we have spoke of all of these plus points, there is a dark side to this surgery as well. During the placement of the lap band there is room for potential injury to the stomach. Thought the mortality rate is very low there is around 3% - 10% danger of major complications resulting from the lap band obesity surgery. If the band slips, that may mean the need for more procedures. There is also the danger of the band getting infected. There is also the danger of human error, as in all surgeries. The lap band is one of many weight loss surgeries. As man has grown in knowledge and technology has advanced way beyond its year, we are able to push the world of medicine in to new territories. But with this new advancement, also comes danger, danger of human error and danger of complacency. There are things that can be controlled by human will. Then there are things that are beyond our control. Obesity for some is a medical condition that they are unable to control. But for some the story is different. Obesity can be controlled through exercise and dieting. Surgery must be a last resort. Lap band has brought release to hundreds of men and women, bringing back social and self acceptance. It has put a smile on many a face. Yet we must always remember that their still is that risk, there still is that danger.