Adjustable Gastric Banding Surgery

Risks common to all surgeries for weight loss include an infection in the incision, bleeding, and a blood clot in the legs (Reference deep vein thrombosis Opens New Window, or DVT) or lung (Reference pulmonary embolism Opens New Window). Some people develop Reference gallstones Opens New Window or a nutritional deficiency condition such as Reference anemia Opens New Window or Reference osteoporosis Opens New Window.

Although adjustable gastric banding is considered the least invasive of the weight-loss surgeries, problems can occur. They include:

• Obstruction. The band can cause something (usually food) to block the opening from the upper part of the stomach to the lower part of the stomach. This can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Band slippage. The band can slip out of place. Symptoms might include belly pain or heartburn (acid reflux). This may be treated by removing the fluid from the band. Or you may need a second operation.
• Access port problems. You could get an infection around the access port, or the access port could disconnect or leak. The tube that leads from the band to the access port could also become blocked.
• GERD. You could develop Reference esophagitis or Reference gastroesophageal reflux disease Opens New Window (GERD).
• Esophageal dilation. If the band is too tight, or if you eat too much, your esophagus could expand. This can make it hard for you to swallow, which could cause food to get stuck in your throat. If it is not fixed, you could get pneumonia.
• Poor nutrition. Eating less may mean that you are not getting enough nutrients, which can cause health problems. You will probably have to take vitamin supplements for the rest of your life.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.