If you or someone you know is struggling with severe obesity and suffering from related health conditions, Vista Surgical Hospital Baton Rougecan help! We specialize in the LAP-BAND® System surgery and long-term patient management to help our patients take control of their obesity and regain their health.

With a highly trained team of surgeons, nurses, nutritionists, exercise therapists and psychologists, Vista Surgical Hospital Baton Rouge is able to provide our patients with a safe and effective weight-loss surgery, comprehensive pre- and post-operative education and ongoing aftercare. We are here to guide you to a happier, healthier life.

A decision to have obesity surgery is not to be taken lightly. The goal of this website is to provide you with information that can help you decide whether obesity surgery is right for you and if you are a candidate for the LAP-BAND System surgery.

What is the LAP-BAND System?
Approved by the FDA in June 2001, the BioEnterics® LAP-BAND® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is the newest and the only adjustable surgical treatment for morbid obesity in the United States. It induces weight loss by reducing the capacity of the stomach, which restricts the amount of food that can be consumed.

Minimally Invasive Approach
During the procedure, surgeons usually use laparoscopic techniques (using small incisions and long-shafted instruments rather than a large incision), 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 stomach and the intestines. As a result, patients experience an earlier sensation of fullness and are satisfied with smaller amounts of food. In turn, this results in weight loss.

Least Traumatic Procedure
Since there is no cutting, stapling or stomach rerouting involved in the LAP-BAND System procedure, it is considered the least traumatic of all weight loss surgeries. The laparoscopic approach to the surgery also offers the advantages of reduced post-operative pain, shortened hospital stay and quicker recovery. If for any reason the LAP-BAND System needs to be removed, the stomach generally returns to its original form.

Adjustable Treatment
The LAP-BAND System is also the only adjustable weight loss surgery available in the United States. The diameter of the band is adjustable to meet your individual needs, which can change as you lose weight. For example, pregnant patients can expand their band to accommodate a growing fetus, while patients who aren't experiencing significant weight loss can have their bands tightened.

To modify the size of the band, its inner surface can be inflated or deflated with saline solution. The band is connected by tubing to a reservoir, which is placed well under the skin during surgery. After the operation, the surgeon can control the amount of saline in the band by entering the reservoir with a fine needle through the skin.

Caution: This device is restricted to use by or on the order of a physician.

The BioEnterics LAP-BAND System and accessories contain no latex or natural rubber materials.

" I was in the hospital for a day and back at work in 10 days. And I haven't been hungry since."

Frank Q.
Business Owner, LAP-BAND System Patient
Weight Lost: 135 pounds

Disclaimer:
As with any surgery, there are specific risks and possible complications associated with the LAP-BAND System surgery. Talk to your doctor to determine if you are a candidate for the LAP-BAND System.