The LAP-BAND System and REALIZE Adjustable Band are the only two laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) procedures currently approved for use in the United States. The bands are implanted using minimally invasive methods of weight loss surgery and do not involve cutting, stapling, or intestinal re-routing as do gastric bypass surgery, gastric sleeve resection, and duodenal switch. Both the LAP-BAND and REALIZE Band are considered safe and effective types of weight loss surgery.
The results of a recently completed systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the LAP-BAND and REALIZE Band showed basically equivalent excess weight loss, body mass index reduction, resolution of diabetes and hypertension, and rate of complications. Although there are differences in the construction of the gastric bands, many bariatric surgeons consider them very equal and both great choices. Bariatric surgeons often decide which band is best for the patient based on the patient’s anatomy. Overall, bariatric patients in the United States will benefit from having two options for laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.