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The bariatric surgery industry (and let’s be honest, it is an industry) wants more people to qualify for Lap Band surgery procedures. An “advisory committee” led by bariatric surgeons wants the FDA to broaden its guidelines for this procedure. In short, they want permission to conduct Lap Band surgery for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or a BMI as low as 30 for patients with obesity-related health problems.
Current FDA guidelines only allow the procedure for patients with a BMI of 40 or higher — unless they have health problems related to obesity, in which case they may have a BMI of 35 or higher. If the FDA accepts the recommendations of the advisory group, the number of Lap Band surgeries in the U.S. could increase significantly.
Many would-be patients fall into the 35 – 40 BMI range. Under current FDA guidelines, this would exclude them from having Lap Band surgery, unless their health is seriously being affected by their weight. If the guidelines are relaxed, however, these people would be “eligible” for the procedure.
The LAP-BAND System® is the most popular gastric-banding procedure in the United States. It works by placing an adjustable band around the upper portion of the patient’s stomach. This reduces the amount of food intake, which can lead to weight loss. The device was originally approved by the FDA in 2001. Currently, the Realize Band is the only other banding system approved for use within the U.S.
Obesity is the second preventable cause of death in the US. That is a fact. We have evolved into beings who dont move much and still consume calories like generations ago. Then next hundred years we will see obesity control the health of society. Until we evolve into beings who burn off or consume less..we need a tool to help some of the population. Simple…a tool . I have a BMI of 36,no hypertension,Diabetes,sleep apnea. I do have a high cholesterol. I am a Emergency Room RN and I see obesity related illness destroy people,families and it is consuming our health care resources. I am looking into banding because I will prevent further illness. My insurance company will save money on me in the long run. Hopefully all will go well with the surgery and I will not become diabetic,HTN,and live a healthy lifestyle because of the preventive care the band is providing me.
Obesity will not go away quickly..I predict at least two more generations will struggle before it gets better. Insurance companies will help win the battle as well as keep dollars in thier pocket …isnt that the botom line.