Bariatric Surgery | Gastric Bypass Surgery | Gastric Banding | Obesity | After Surgery

The selling point of an adjustable gastric banding procedure, besides its effectiveness against weight gain and obesity, is its reversibility. The silicone band that makes for a smaller stomach pouch can be taken out to restore an individual’s normal stomach function and digestive process. The procedure has a very small mortality rate, only 1% in 2000. Several modifications and improvements have been made since then. However, understanding its risks is imperative prior to even considering it as a weight loss option. It allows the candidate and his or her medical team to prepare for possible complications related to his or her current physical conditions. Furthermore, knowledge of risks also helps a candidate understand how the body copes after the procedure, therefore allowing him or her to commit better to a renewed and healthier lifestyle. Here are some of the most common risks involved in gastric banding:

1. Bleeding and/or infection – The procedure is invasive, so there is always a small window for cross contamination, punctures or similar instances. This is why it is crucial to get to know one’s medical team and their qualifications as well as success rates before anything else.
   
2. Dumping Syndrome – This is a common side effect of any gastric surgery. The small stomach pouch can only hold very little food – when one overeats or consumes food and drinks very quickly, he or she may experience severe pain, vomiting and light-headedness brought about by the “dumping”. This can be avoided by eating slowly, avoiding fluid while eating, and chewing food adequately prior to swallowing.
   
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux – When one eats after a gastric banding, only a small amount of food can be consumed by the stomach pouch. If one overeats, acids and food bolus could shoot back up the esophagus, a condition known as reflux.
   
4. Slipping or deflating band – The band is tightened around the stomach by injecting saline through a port. Because the stomach functions non-stop, the band is prone to slipping, therefore altering the size of the supposedly little pouch. The band may also deflate when it leaks or is punctured, rendering it ineffective.
   
5. Erosion – Although silicone is flesh-friendly, its constant slipping may cause erosion of the gastric mucosa. To prevent this, regular visits to one’s surgeon to check for placement must be part of one’s lifestyle alternations.