Each year, millions of Americans will exercise and diet in an attempt to lose weight. But for patients who are more than 100 pounds overweight, bariatric (or weight loss) surgery can be a life-saving procedure.
Outstanding Options
Martin Memorial began performing bariatric surgery in 2004 using the Roux-en Y gastric bypass procedure, considered the gold standard by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery.
In July, Martin Memorial also began utilizing a new procedure called the LAP-BAND system. The procedure, performed by George Rittersbach, M.D., gives patients two outstanding options for weight loss.
"It's really a wonderful procedure," Dr. Rittersbach says. "I try to make sure patients understand the pros and cons of each and they make their own decisions on which procedure they would prefer."
Different Procedures
The Roux-en Y procedure divides a small upper portion of the stomach from a larger lower portion, creating a 1-ounce pouch. Then a length of the small intestine is rerouted to connect to the newly created stomach pouch, bypassing a portion of the digestive system. The procedure promotes weight loss not only by limiting food intake, but also by decreasing the absorption ability of the digestive system.
The LAP-BAND is an adjustable gastric band that is placed around the upper portion of the stomach, restricting the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. The silicone band has a ring that can be adjusted by filling it with saline, causing the band to allow less or more food in it. A port is placed in the patient's abdomen, which allows the physician to add or subtract saline and therefore control the size of the ring.
That means patients can modify the size of the band to fit their lifestyles as necessary. And because they aren't bypassing the stomach, nutrients are still absorbed, unlike Roux-en Y surgery. However, more physician office visits are required to adjust the LAP-BAND than are necessary with gastric bypass.
Similar Results
While both procedures are done laparoscopically--through a small incision, using a camera connected to a television monitor--and have been proven to be very safe and effective, Dr. Rittersbach says patients usually don't lose weight as quickly with the LAP-BAND. However, over the period of three or four years, the total weight loss is about the same for both procedures.
"As a surgeon, it's always exciting to be able to offer something new to your patients," Dr. Rittersbach says. "This is something that will be very beneficial and it is another alternative that we can offer people."
Join Us for an Education Session
If you think bariatric surgery may be for you, Martin Memorial has monthly education sessions to provide you with information. Check the calendar for the next bariatrics education session, or call (772) 223-4972.