Gastric Band Procedure

Procedure Details

Prior to Procedure

Once it has been decided that the Gastric Band procedure is the best option for your patient, the following steps are part of the pre-operative process:

1. Consultation with a surgeon. We will discuss each patient’s medical and weight history, and the procedure in detail, including general and specific risks in order to complete the process of informed consent. All patients must complete and forward the Patient Questionnaire prior to the consultation so we can review their medical history.

2. Pre-op physical and testing. A pre-op physical by the family physician and blood tests must be completed in the two weeks prior to surgery. We also require an ECG if the patient is over the age of 45. This testing can be done at laboratories close to where the patient lives if this is more convenient.

3. Pre-operative VLCD. Our surgeons will be prescribed a nutritionally complete VLCD meal replacement product for at least two weeks prior to surgery. Studies have shown (Obesity Surgery, 2004) that pre-operative VLCDs will reduce the fat stored in the liver and shrink the liver by up to 25%, which makes the surgical procedure safer and easier.

4. Pre-operative assessment by other specialists (if indicated). During the consultation with the surgeon, it may be determined that, based on the patient’s health, an assessment with other specialists is required. These could include:

• Anesthetist, Internist or Cardiologist
• Sleep studies
• Psychologist