What is Gastric Binding?

Gastric banding is a surgical treatment done to help patients with obesity, and bariatric surgery is the term for this type of procedure. The banding constricts the stomach in this surgery, so a person feels full after consuming less food than usual.   

The surgeon places an adjustable silicone band around the top part of the stomach using laparoscopy (a procedure that includes small cuts in the stomach). The silicone band tightens around the stomach, creating a pouch with an inch-wide outlet. The stomach will only be able to hold a few ounces of food after bands. 

The silicone band is connected to a device immediately beneath the skin by a plastic tube. Through the skin, saline (sterile salt-water) can be injected into or withdrawn from the silicone band. The band is filled and tightened by injecting saline into it. The band can be tightened or loosened as needed to prevent side effects and aid weight loss.