Signs of Lapband Slippage

Because obesity has become a problem of epidemic proportions in the United States, dramatic weight loss methods have developed as long-term solutions. The lapband is an alternative to more invasive gastric bypass surgery. A lapband is a silicone band placed around the upper portion of the stomach, sectioning it off from the rest of the stomach, and limiting the amount of food that can pass into the stomach. Though considered much more safe than gastric bypass surgery, occasionally the lapband has complications, such as slipping out of place.

Reflux

• According to Thinner Times, one of the primary signs of lapband slippage can be the development of chronic acid reflux. This occurs because the lapband has slipped out of place, is pressing upward, and forces food and stomach acids back up into the esophagus. Regurgitation of stomach contents can be very damaging to the esophagus. Gastric reflux can become a chronic and progressive condition that leads to lesions in the esophagus and, potentially, esophageal cancer.

Nausea

• According to Mark A. Pleatman, M.D., another symptom of lapband slippage is nausea. Although occasional nausea is not usually a cause for concern, chronic nausea can be a sign that the band has slipped out of place and the stomach pouch has become compromised. Nausea is usually a sign that food contents are not settling easily. Nausea can be intermittent or it can become constant if the problem progresses. Nausea is often followed by vomiting. Another result of nausea is the accumulation of saliva in the mouth.

Vomiting

• Another sign of lapband slippage is vomiting. Often this occurs within a short period of time after eating, and is extremely painful. Vomiting can occur when the lapband has slipped and the stomach pouch has become smaller than intended. In some cases, the esophagus may have prolapsed into the stomach pouch, resulting in even more dramatic vomiting problems. Although the lapband may be sutured into place, if the stomach has prolapsed, it will be necessary to surgically correct the problem and readjust the lapband back into the correct position. In severe cases, the band will need to be removed and an alternative method of gastric bypass used.

Problems Eating

• According to Thinner Times, another sign of lapband slippage is difficulty eating normal amounts of food. Not only will the patient experience bloating or feelings of discomfort after eating, but he or she may also have nausea, heartburn, and vomiting.