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In the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure, the stomach and small intestines are reconfigured to create a small stomach pouch. This induces weight loss by strictly limiting food intake and by allowing food to pass from the new pouch directly to the lower part of the small intestines and colon, bypassing most of the stomach and a portion of the intestine. Some malabsorption of vitamins and minerals results from this procedure, but appropriate supplements will provide compensation, allowing for good nutritional status. Weight loss tends to be very rapid with an average weight loss of 73% of excess weight lost within one year.
The Lap-Band® Adjustable Gastric Banding System (LAGB) is designed to aid with weight loss by limiting food consumption. The Lap-Band® is laparoscopically placed around the stomach allowing the formation of a “mini-stomach” just below the esophagus. No cutting or stapling of the stomach is required and no portion of the stomach or intestines is bypassed. The tightness of the band may be adjusted in an outpatient setting through an access port placed under the skin at the time of surgery. Weight loss is typically slower than with gastric bypass, averaging 36-50% of excess weight lost by three years post-surgery.
Surgeon(s) are specially trained in advanced laparoscopic procedures and are members of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. In the medical evaluation, the surgeon will review your medical history and various surgical options. The risks and benefits will be fully explained.
The Program Coordinator is available to guide you through the program; helping you meet your pre-surgery requirements and understand the insurance authorization process; planning your surgery date; and motivating you to remain involved with support groups after surgery.
A Registered Nurse will help educate you about the surgery and will actively support you in completing your pre-op requirements. The nurse is a valuable resource for procedure information, pre- and post-surgery instructions and after-care questions.
A Registered Dietitian oversees the dietary component of patient care. The dietitian will perform the dietary assessment in the initial evaluation, assist in developing a behavior modification plan, provide information and guidance on post-surgery dietary concerns, and help you plan for long-term weight management.
A Psychotherapist (or psychologist) assists in the evaluation process. The therapist is available to provide direction and support for the emotional component of behavior change, and help you prepare for the lifestyle changes you will be making.
At ValleyCare, we have been performing weight loss surgery since 2000. Most surgeries (97%) are performed laparoscopically, which means that surgical instruments are inserted into the abdomen through tiny incisions. This allows for minimal blood loss and more rapid recovery than traditional, open surgery. Most patients stay in the hospital only one or two nights and are back to work within a few weeks.
Weight loss varies depending upon which procedure is chosen. Most gastric bypass patients will lose approximately 75% of their excess body weight within one year. LapBand patients will likely lose weight more gradually and less weight overall, but both surgeries will improve your health and quality of life.
Many health problems are significantly improved or resolved after weight loss surgery. Most people who suffer from type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, reflux or heartburn (GERD), high cholesterol, and joint pain will find they need less or no treatment with their post-surgery weight loss.
With weight loss and improved health, better quality of life usually follows. Most people enjoy tremendous improvement in their personal and professional lives.
Patients Report Improved Quality of Life
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96% improvement in physical activities |
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87% improvement in self esteem |
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87% improvement in social life |
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87% improvement in ability to work |
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