iLap Surgery (Imbricated Lap Band)
The imbricated Lap Band procedure is a newer concept that per the ASMBS is investigational. Although this is a new concept it has had good initial results. Many other centers around the country are incorporating the plication procedure with the Lap Band. There is very little published data about this procedure to date. The rationale for the iLap is to decrease gastric volume and to work with the band to be restrictive. The potential lack of irreversibility of this additional procedure makes it more invasive than a Lap Band alone. In addition, because this is a more invasive procedure there is a potential increased risk of complications.
This surgery is performed through a laparoscope in conjunction with your Lap Band procedure.
Sutures (stitches) will be placed about the greater curvature (the area of the stomach that forms a long usually convex curve on the left from the opening for the esophagus to the opening into the small intestine) of the stomach to create at least 1 infold along your stomach. This infold should make your stomach capacity smaller. This procedure will require a longer operative time (20 minutes estimated) than a Lap Band alone.
The plicated Lap Band (iLap) surgery is a new operation. It is not possible to estimate the exact percentage of complications, but surgeons have evaluated the risks and ongoing studies are being performed. Some risks include but are not limited to the need to change from a laparoscopic surgery to an open procedure (procedure that involves a larger incision), injury to the stomach, increased chance of bleeding, the potential for additional operative procedures, and a prolonged hospital stay.
The iLap procedure will take approximately one hour to complete. Routine post-operative care will be provided from surgery through the time of hospital discharge, usually later the same day.
After surgery it is important for you to recognize early signs of any possible problems. If you begin to run a fever, begin to have trouble swallowing, or have increasing throat, chest, or abdominal pain, let your doctor know about it promptly.
There may be risks or side effects related to this procedure that are unknown at this time.