Bariatric Surgery Cost and Bariatric Surgery Procedures Information

Lap Band Surgery Cost and Procedure Introduction

Lap band surgery (LAGB) is a laparoscopic procedure performed through several small incisions, using a tube-like instrument with a camera and surgical tools attached (laparoscope). This surgery is performed to help obese patients (body mass index > 40 kg/m2) with weight loss when lifestyle changes have not been sufficient. Many bariatric surgeons will want the patient to commit to certain lifestyle changes before the surgery. Lap band surgeries are performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical facility by a general surgeon who has expertise in bariatric surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon will place an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, restricting the size of the stomach and the amount of food it can hold. Typically, lap band patients are able to go home the same day, but if complications occur during the procedure, the patient may be admitted to the hospital. Laparoscopic surgery is often associated with a lower rate of complications, a shorter hospital stay and better cosmetic results than the open procedure.

Patient Preparation for Lap Band Surgery

A physical examination will be performed along with blood or other diagnostic tests. It is particularly important to inform the physician of all medications or vitamins taken regularly or if you are pregnant (or think you might be pregnant). Also let your doctor know if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention, and, finally, if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin or other medications that affect blood clotting. Your doctor may suggest weight loss of five to 10 percent prior to surgery for best results. You will be given instructions in advance that will outline what you should and should not do in preparation for the surgery; be sure to read and follow those instructions. You will be asked to fast for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight. You will need to make arrangements for transportation after the surgery is complete. If you are given a prescription for pain medication, have it filled prior to surgery.

What to Expect During and After Lap Band Surgery

The surgery itself takes one to two hours, but the preparation and recovery time may add several hours. Most patients go home the same day as the surgery if there are no major problems. An intravenous line is inserted into the arm to administer a sedative and a painkiller. Also, your heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure. Lab band surgeries are done while you are under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). The surgeon makes three to five inch-long incisions in the abdomen and places the lap band around the upper area of the stomach, attaching it with sutures. A port — through which saline is inserted or removed — is then attached to the wall of the abdomen.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you will most often be discharged to your home. Before being discharged, you will be given instructions about care for your incisions, limits on activities and what you should do to aid your recovery. If you notice any of the following, call the number the hospital gave you: Fever, excessive sweating, difficulty urinating, redness, bleeding or worsening pain.