Surgical Indications for Gastric Banding

One of the safest bariatric surgery procedures available today is laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding or lap band surgery.  In this blog series hosted by Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, we explore many facets of this procedure.  The previous article examined some of the advantages of lap band surgery compared to gastric bypass and other common bariatric surgery procedures.  In this article, we cover some of the critical issues Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and colleagues at the NYU Langone Weight Management Program consider before recommending lap band surgery.

Gastric Banding is Indicated for Patients with the Following:

• A body mass index (BMI) greater than 40, or between 35 and 40 with additional health issues that could improve or resolve with weight loss, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea.
• No success losing weight after at least six months of dietary modification.
• A history of obesity.  
• Age between 18 and 55 (though individual cases are considered for younger patients).
• A commitment to following post-surgery dietary modifications.

Lap Band Surgery is Not Indicated for Anyone With:

• Conditions contributing to high surgical risk in general, such as severe cardiovascular disease.
• Possible reactions to the lap band device, such as allergy to the materials in the band.
• Untreated endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism.
• Gastrointestinal Inflammatory issues, such as Crohn’s disease.
• Drug or alcohol dependency.
• Severe learning or cognitive disabilities.

Additional Considerations Before Surgery Day

Pre-admission testing is also done before surgeries arranged with the NYU Langone Weight Management Program.  To make sure patients are healthy enough for lap band surgery, they are given blood tests, a chest X-ray, and an EKG (electrocardiogram).  A member of the medical team also assesses the patient and ensures that the pre-surgery diet has been followed and that the patient understands the plan for their anesthesia and surgery.

To Schedule a Consultation for Bariatric Surgery at the NYU Langone Weight Management Program

If you would like a complete evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for lap band surgery or another bariatric surgery procedure, please contact Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and colleagues at the NYU Langone Weight Management Program.