Banding over Bypass


The most performed bariatric surgical procedure in North America is the gastric bypass. But does that mean it’s the best?

Here’s a side-by-side look at the facts for the LaparoscopicBAND and gastric bypass. Take a look…and see where the numbers really count.


  LaparoscopicBAND Procedure Gastric Bypass Surgery
Type of surgery restrictive - decreases food intake malabsorptive - alters the digestive system, causing food to be poorly digested and incompletely absorbed
Number of deaths zero in Canada men/women ages 35-54: 5% / 3% men/women ages 65-74: 13% / 6% men/women ages 75+: 40%
Complications
  • band slippage
  • port site infection
  • acid reflux
  • vomiting
  • reservoir deflation/leak
  • incision infection/tear
  • pouch stretching/leakage
  • stitch tears return stomach to normal size
  • vomiting
  • intolerance to carbohydrates and sugar
  • nutrient deficiencies
  • stomach obstruction
  • marginal ulcers
  • anemia
  • hernia
  • blood clots in the legs
Typical results Steady, sustained weight loss, 70% or more of excess weight loss over longer period of time rapid results, over 3 - 6 months. 60 - 80 % excess weight loss during initial period only
Length of surgery 30 - 45 minutes 2 - 4 hours
Type of surgery laparoscopic surgery, reducing the size of scars and healing time open surgery, resulting in significant scarring and longer healing time
Surgery Availability
  • available to patients looking to lose a minimum of 20 lbs
  • lifestyle option, as well as lifesaving measure for obese persons
  • restricted to persons classified as obese
  • lifesaving measure