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Why has my gastric band suddenly stopped working?

tralisonNov 25, 2013
I had a band fitted in 2006, I have lost 80kg and maintained a weight of 60kg for the last four years. Two weeks ago my band stopped working! I have no resistance at all am am putting weight on rather quickly. I have tried contacting my surgeon but so far without as ny luck. Advice needed and also need to know what could be the problem!! HELP!

Answers (1)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Dr. Shawn Garber, MD, FACS, FASMBS
Bariatric Surgeon, Board Certified in General Surgery
Answered on Nov 29, 2013
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Shawn Garber, MD, FACS, FASMBS

The band is supposed to be placed around the top portion of the stomach. If the band is placed too high like yours on the lower esophagus you have no pouch. This causes a problem because you have no reservoir for food. When the band is tightened you are probably having difficulty eating. The...

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Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS

Hello, Congratulations on your surgery! I’m sorry to hear your pain has worsened. In general, “new pain” (after previous pain has resolved) is concerning. The drainage and pain you describe could be a normal part of the healing process, or they may also be a symptom on an under...

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Christopher S. Cobourn, MD

No this is not the normal mechanism.  Usually the band slips due to improper fixation at the time of surgery, or if the patient is eating too quickly or not chewing well enough.  This pattern of eating can lead to regular vomiting which can stretch up the pouch, leading to a condition...

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