Discuss the differences between gastric bypass surgery and lap-band surgery

Answer 1

Gastric bypass surgery is the most effective method for weight loss and weight maintenance available. On average, individuals undergoing this surgery lose 60% of their excess body weight (the amount of weight they would need to lose to achieve normal weight), and they often maintain much of the loss over the long term. Gastric bypass surgery is approved for use by the FDA for adults with BMIs over 40 kg/m2 and for others with BMIs over 35 who have diabetes or other serious health problems related to obesity. Although a higher-risk procedure, gastric bypass surgery is associated with greater levels of weight loss than the less-risky lap-band procedure. Health status generally improves dramatically as a result of the weight loss. Resolution of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep disorders, and elevated LDL cholesterol blood levels often follow gastric bypass surgery. The surgery comes at a high cost ($17,000 to $35,000) and may be accompanied by complications. There is a relatively low (0.05 to 0.26%) chance of death from the operation. People who undergo the surgery must be committed to long-term dietary and other lifestyle changes and follow-up care.
Adults with BMIs over 35, or with BMIs of 30–35 and an obesity-related health problem, can qualify for lap-band surgery. Lap-band surgery is performed laparoscopically by inserting a tube through small incisions made in the abdomen. The surgery produces a small stomach pouch by constricting the upper part of the stomach with a band. The band can be adjusted, or inflated by the injection of saline water to control the amount of food allowed to enter the stomach. Individuals receiving this surgery tend to lose less weight (48% of excess body weight on average) than people having gastric bypass surgery.