Why is my empty lap band causing food/beverages to get stuck?

Question

I've had my lapband since 2002. It has been "empty" since 2010. I've noticed when I become stressed or anxious, it seems like the lapband prevents anything I eat or drink from "going down". (Not only rice, bread and/or soda, which I typically avoid anyway, but EVERYTHING..even soup or non-carbonated beverages). The last 5 days I've been vomitting nearly EVERYTHING I try to eat or drink besides super hot coffee. Why is this happening with an empty band? Thank you in advance.

Wiljon W. Beltre, MD · Answer

Your band may have slipped.  You need to have an upper gi series, and have the x rays read by a bariatric surgeon.  There is a very good chance the band has moved.  Also, have a bariatric surgeon completely empty the band.  This may make your symptoms improved.  I know you said your band is empty, but I have been told the same by some patients and I end up removing one or two cc from the supposedly emptied band.

H. Joseph Naim, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a very common symptom for people who have their band slipped!
So you need to get an Upper GI X-Ray to evaluate the band. In that case, the best option is to remove your band and get a Gastric Sleeve. The Sleeve and removal of the band can be done at same time, depending on how bad your slippage is.
In regard to worsening the symptoms during stress, again that could be a sign that there is something wrong with your band. An Upper GI X-Ray and possibly Endoscopy is all you need to evaluate your stomach and plan a definitive treatment.
So try to get the Band out and get a Sleeve!!!

Elizabeth Alexandra Zubowicz, MD, FACS, FASMBS · Answer

Having the lap band long term is associated with several complications- these symptoms could be from band erosion into the stomach wall, severe reflux, or band slippage- a band erosion or slip could be potentially life threatening.  I recommend going to see someone ASAP and get imaging done.

Michael F. Sedrak, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

rapid onset of persistent vomiting with a lap band is concerning for obstruction or near obstruction from a band slippage, especially if the band is empty. in 2002, bands were smaller and narrower than current models, and more prone to complications of slippage and erosion, even if empty. the rapid onset of your symptoms suggests this. you definitely need an evaluation by a bariatric surgeon to determine the true cause of this problem, and to manage the problem and get you back to normal!
and as others have mentioned, options include just removing the band, replacing the band (probably with a new one, but not necessarily; but you could continue with lap band to maintain weight loss); or can convert to another procedure, such as gastric bypass or gastric sleeve

Why is my empty lap band causing food/beverages to get stuck?

Answers (4)