Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB)

This is a restrictive procedure in which a band is placed around the upper most part of the stomach, dividing it into one smaller and one larger portion. The operation works by restricting the amount of food that can be consumed at a meal. Food then passes through the digestive system as usual, allowing full absorption. The band can be adjusted to increase or decrease restriction. Band adjustments are vital for successful weight loss after surgery.

Patients must be followed closely after surgery for adjustments as needed within the first year. Lifelong adjustments may be required to maintain success. Gastric band weight loss can range from 28 to 87 percent of excess body weight.