Comparing Lap-band Against The Realize Adjustable Band

LAP-BAND and REALIZE adjustable gastric bands are two FDA approved band systems being used by hospitals today. Physicians and medical experts agree that both systems are safe and effective aids to weight reduction. Deciding on which band system to use should be done after careful, serious thought. Physicians advise that patients take time to study their distinct features and understand how each will function as an aid to weight loss. If you are at this point indecisive on what system to use, read on and find out which system suits you best.

LAP-BAND: How it Works

Allergan manufactures the LAP-BAND system, and it holds the title of being the first gastric band to gain approval from the U.S. FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration). The first clinical trials on the LAP-BAND started in June of 1995, and it was first commercially available and officially approved by the FDA in June of 2001.

LAP-BAND is a silicone-made device that is attached around the top portion of a patient's stomach. The band is inflatable with a fill capacity of up to 360 degrees. It comes in a regular-sized or a larger-sized band. The regular-sized band can hold saline solution with a volume of up to 10ccs while the larger-sized band can accommodate saline volumes of up to 14ccs. The access ports where saline is introduced also come in two sizes. The standard port measures 14.7mm while the lower-profile port is designed to measure 11.9mm.

These would both be attached to the muscles on the wall of the abdomen. LAP-BAND adjustments occur in a bariatric center with special needles. Depending on whether the band needed to be loosened or tightened, saline would either be removed or added. Tightening of the band is done to restrict the intake of food, and this is crucial in starting your desired weight loss.

REALIZE Band: How is it Different?

Ethicon Endo-Surgery, a division of Johnson & Johnson, manufactures REALIZE Bands. Though it gained FDA approval only in September 2007, the product has been in use by patients outside of the U.S. as early as 1986. It has been marketed in non-U.S. countries under the brand name Swedish Adjustable Gastric Band.

The fill capacity is 360 degrees which is the same as the LAP-BAND. There is only one size that holds 11 ccs of saline. It also has only one port choice. The main difference is found in the way the band is attached to the stomach wall muscles. The REALIZE band has special clips that attach to the abdominal wall.

What To Choose

Both band systems have their own support portal to assist those who need to know everything about the products - including interesting success stories from patient users. Search the internet for "My LAP-BAND Journey" or "REALIZE My Success" and browse through their helpful guides and up-to-date product information. These support portals can help you in clarifying issues and concerns that you may have about the respective products. Both systems offer a safe and effective method of weight reduction.