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Bariatric Surgery/Gastric Sleeve after Lap Band

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Expert: - 11/6/2009


Question
I have had my Lap Band for 2 years now and went in to my surgeon to get a fill because I have plateau for a while. During which he thinks my band slipped or eroded. He is recomending a gastric sleeve. Is band slippage common? Also if I decide to just get another band- will that one slip as well? I'm very sad about having to make this decision. Thank you

Answer
Jennifer,
You are right that this is a distressing situation.  Most people who have a Band are very happy with it, because of how it helps them get their weight under better control.

Nevertheless, a Band slip does occur in 3-5% of patients.  In most cases, a Band slip can be "repaired" laparoscopically but the chance of a recurrent slip is significant, in the range of 10% repeat slip.  Erosion is much less common but it is also a serious problem.

These are the reasons that your surgeon may offer conversion to a sleeve, though it sounds like he/she is open to Band revision as well.  It sounds to me as if either of these is a reasonable option.

Best wishes,
Dr JP

Bariatric Surgery

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Volunteer

John Pilcher, MD

Expertise

I can answer medically oriented questions about bariatric surgery including: patient selection, preparation for surgery, differences between types of bariatric surgery, aftercare following bariatric surgery. I can answer detailed questions about gastric bypass, Lap-Band, gastric sleeve, and revision bariatric surgery. I am only somewhat familiar with Biliopancreatic diversion. I am not prepared to answer insurance or other financial questions related to bariatric surgery.

Experience

I have been a practicing bariatric surgeon since 1995. About 85% of my current practice consists of bariatric surgery, including all of the above procedures except biliopancreatic diversion. I am the senior surgeon of a 5-surgeon group. I am recognized among surgeons and other medical professionals as the most experienced bariatric surgeon in my region.

Organizations
Fellow of American College of Surgeons Member, American Society for Bariatric Surgery

Education/Credentials
BA in Biochemistry - University of Virginia Medical Degree - University of Virginia Surgical Residency - University of Virginia

Awards and Honors
Alpha Omega Alpha

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