Bands

There are around ten gastric bands available with six generally used within the EU. The devices are different but principles the same - to facilitate a reduction in food consumption and enable weightloss. Specific information can be obtained from the sites of the leading band manufacturers but it is generally recommended to chose a band in consultation with an experienced banding surgeon..

Whilst the experiences of other banded patients is important, it is essential that your choice of band should be made in consultation with your surgeon and following your own research of the available literature. The bands all have advantages and disadvantages. It is important that you find the best one for you.

Prior to leaving your home country for surgery, it is essential that you make provision for safe and effective follow up care upon your return. This will reduce the risk of potential complications such as port damage, tube puncture and infection. A trained and experienced adjuster will be able to advise regarding the correct volume for you. Do not delegate this task to a nurse or doctor with no experience of band adjustment-it could be a very costly mistake and could increase the risk of serious complications such as erosion and slippage. Ask about their level of training and experience and, if they are not bariatric surgeons/specialists, expect them to be able to provide evidence of extra indemnity insurance-specifically to cover band adjustments-upon request. Ask to see evidence of SPECIFIC malpractice insurance for gastric band aftercare. Please note routine insurance with the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) does not include gastric band private practice. Medical Defence Union(MDU)/Medical Protection Society (MPS) do not cover doctors working in banding if they are insured for another speciality unless this is specified on the insurance certificate. Expect to be seen in premises registered by The Heathcare Commission.

	The SWEDISH BAND (Swedish Adjustable Gastric Band/SAGB) was the first band to be fitted and dates back to 1985. In the early days it was fitted by open surgery but, as with the other bands, is now fitted laparoscopically. The device is now produced by Ethicon Endosurgery-part of the Johnson & Johnson group. It takes a maximum fill volume of 9ml-12ml depending on model.
	The LAPBAND AP/VANGUARD, made by Allergan, is the second oldest band and the only one to have FDA approval. It is the most commonly used band within France, the USA and Mexico. American patients often chose this band as they tend to find it easier to obtain follow up within the US if their provider is familiar with the band and the band has FDA approval. It comes in different sizes from 4.0ml to 14ml.
	The MIDBAND is produced by MID of Lyon. It is rapidly gaining popularity with a number of UK, French and Mexican surgeons. Several thousands have been placed and the results appear to be promising-especially within the area of complications. The maximum fill capacity is 9ml.
	The following bands are used extensively in Belgium but are not routinely supported for adjustments by the Euroband Associates private band management service.
	The A.M.I Soft Gastric Band (produced by the Austrian Agency for Medical Innovations Ltd.) is predominantly used within mainland Europe & Mexico although some UK surgeons now place it. Maximum fill volume 9-11.5ml depending on size.
	The BIORING is made by Cousin of France. It is similar in style to the AMIBand and is generally softer and low pressure. It is generally used by Belgian surgeons. It frequently requires 4+ adjustments before maintenance restriction is achieved. Maximum fill volume 9ml. Some surgeons will consider over-inflating this band but please note that this invalidates the manufacturer's warranty.
	The HELIOGAST is made by Helioscopie or Vienne near Lyon. It is similar in style to the LAPBAND but is smaller and, as with the other bands, does not have FDA approval. It is used by a number of French and Belgian surgeons. It comes in two sizes, both taking 7ml in total. It generally requires small increments as it is not low pressure