What is a band adjustment?

This is a procedure that is required to adjust a gastric band.  Saline is added or removed through the port, via a needle.  It is a quick process, not needing an anaesthetic and should not cause too much discomfort.  This can be done lying or standing.

The amount of fluid added/removed is dependent on the outcome of your nurse assessment – please respect your practitioners judgement – more fluid does not mean more weight loss!   A band can easily be overfilled and if you are struggling to keep fluids down after your visit and unable to access clinic for a de-fill you will need to attend A&E for assistance.  Please be honest with your assessment to minimize the above risk

Following your adjustment it is important to comply to the dietary guidelines that you have been advised.  This will allow time for any inflammation post adjustment to settle before moving onto textured food.  Always being mindful of the 20+ rule (chew 20 times, wait 20 seconds between mouthfuls, eat within the 20 mins and 20p size piece of food) 

The risks of this procedure?

This is classed as a blind procedure, the port is located via touch assessment, no Xray or scans used.  Our nurse is highly skilled, you are in good hands. 

Risks of the procedure include:

·      Possible tenderness, during or after the procedure 

·      Bruising/haematoma

·      Needle trauma/puncture to the port/tubing

·      Risk of over restriction  (see below)

·      Not able to access the port – in this instance there will be no charge for you appointment today 

Red Zone symptoms (these are likely to occur between 1-3 days post fill)

·      Not able to tolerate fluids 

·      Pain/discomfort on eating or drinking

·      Regurgitation/Acid Reflux/night cough

·      Not able to progress onto texture  (Revert back to fluids and revisit the 20+ rule)

IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS REGARDING THE ABOVE PLEASE SPEAK WITH YOUR NURSE BEFORE YOUR ADJUSTMENT