Gastric Banding: Gastric banding (also referred to as Lap-Band) is one of the least invasive treatments for morbid obesity. It induces weight loss by reducing the capacity of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food that can be comfortably consumed. During the procedure, surgeons use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments) to implant an inflatable silicone band into the patient’s abdomen. Like a wristwatch, the band is fastened around the upper stomach to create a new, tiny stomach pouch that limits and controls the amount of food you eat. It also creates a small outlet that slows the emptying process into the residual stomach and intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness, making it easier for patients to lose weight by consuming less food. To attend a free upcoming seminar on gastric banding, click here.

 

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y: This minimally invasive surgical procedure is considered to be the most advanced and most successful procedure for weight-loss surgery. It is the most frequently performed U.S. weight-loss procedure. In this procedure, a small stomach pouch is created. The remainder of the stomach is not removed, but is completely divided from the smaller stomach pouch. The outlet from this newly formed stomach pouch is then connected directly to the jejunum, the first part of the small intestine where digestion takes place. To attend a free upcoming seminar on gastric bypass, click here.

 

StomaphyX Procedure: Alvarado was the first hospital in the San Diego area to offer the new procedure called StomaphyX, which is an incision-free alternative to conventional surgery for gastric bypass patients who have regained weight. During the 30-minute procedure, a simple scope is inserted through the patient’s mouth and used to re-shrink the stomach pouch due to stretch of the stomach and stoma. It is an outpatient procedure, so the patient goes home the same day. StomaphyX offers gastric bypass patients a second chance, but patients must also make behavioral changes in order to receive the full weight-loss benefit. To attend an upcoming seminar on revision procedures, click here.

 

 

Before you choose a surgical weight-loss program, be sure to consider the following:

 

When choosing a bariatric surgeon, be sure to ask the following questions:

Alvarado’s Physician Referral Service can help you find a bariatric surgeon who meets your needs. To find a physician, simply click on the Physician Finder, call 1-800-ALVARADO (1-800-258-2723) or contact us online.

 

Additional information regarding our surgical weight-loss services also is available by calling 1-800-258-2723.