Gastric banding surgeries are on the rise, despite the shaky economy.  Research shows that doctors performed 350,000 bariatric procedures in 2009, and a 20 percent increase is expected in 2010. Read the full story

As weight loss surgery continues to prove effective as a treatment option for obese patients, some market analysts say to keep an eye on bariatric surgical devices as a growth industry. Read the full story

Doctors share diverse views on whether gastric sleeve surgery is a viable option for the treatment of obesity during the annual meeting of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Read the full story

New Gastric Band Debuts

Lap-band fans, move over — there’s a new kid on the block: the REALIZE™ Adjustable Gastric Band-C, the newest addition to the REALIZE portfolio.

The latest offering from Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., the REALIZE-C features an aerodynamic design – hmm, not sure why that’s important – but in any case a design that helps it go in easier and work better for the larger patient.

The REALIZE Band-C carries over the classic high-volume, low-pressure system as the original REALIZE Band, but in addition to its new styling, it boasts a stoma adjustment range a full 14% greater than before to accommodate larger patients. And that’s not all — the REALIZE Band-C dominates all other gastric bands with its “Wide-Trak” size – a burly 23 mm — making it the biggest band available. Who says size doesn’t matter?

Other standard features on the REALIZE-C include an unlockable/relockable closing mechanism for intra-operative repositioning, a removable band extender with a pre-lock position, making placement a snap; multiple locking techniques and greater grasping area; radiopaque parts that show up under X-ray; plus optional pinstriping, 2-tone paint, and heated cupholders front and back.

Okay, I might have made some of those up.

But, in an interesting marketing move that is very pro-patient support, patients who pick the REALIZE band for their laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery gain full access to the REALIZE mySUCCESS™ program, a Web-based support tool that helps identify the root causes of problems you may encounter as you start your new life, then sets you up with tools to fix ‘em.

Intrigued? Ask your doctor whether REALIZE-C or some other band is best for you

The Lap-Band® is a powerful tool to promote rapid weight loss and improved health for people who struggle with being seriously overweight. But, the Lap-Band is just that — a tool — and for adjustable gastric banding surgery to be most effective, patients need to significantly change their eating and exercise habits, as well.

In this brief, informative video husband-and-wife bariatric surgeons Dr. Ron Hekier and Dr. Rachael Keilin map out the steps to long-term Lap-Band success. Their simple, clear guidance will help you make an informed decision if you are considering Lap-Band surgery, and will help you stay on track to heath and happiness if you are a Lap-Band patient. Click the player below to watch! Read the full story

In this two-minute video, Dr. David Provost gives a hands on demonstration of how the Lap-Band works to restrict food intake and help patients feel full, so they eat less and lose weight. Using an actual Lap-Band device together with pictures and animated illustrations, Dr. Provost explains the gastric banding procedure in plain English. Click the video screen to watch now! Read the full story