Bands & balloons to fight obesity
Less invasive weight-loss techniques like the lap-band surgery and balloon surgery are becoming increasingly popular in Europe but are yet to catch on in US.
In the lap-band technique, an adjustable band is slipped around the stomach through a scope inserted through the abdominal wall. It is intended to remain there for life.
The balloon surgery involves the insertion of a fluid-filled balloon in the stomach. The balloon is inserted through a tube in the mouth and inflated in 15 minutes. It is kept in place for just six months and is then removed because of concerns that the material might wear out. By taking up space, the patient feels full after just a few bites of food.
These techniques have helped patients lose more than 60 pounds in short time.
