I found this info on the main lap band board- I've emailed Dr. Hansen's nurse to see if he is using it or plans to use it. I'll let ya know what she says... I put some pics on my profile but haven't been able to get the main picture to upload. Allergan/Inamed has a new band in the US called the AP band. It has not yet been released to the general public but I have put a number of these excellent bands in. There are a couple of differences in this band and the previous ones: 1. Cuff - the cuff on the AP band is 360 degrees around, as opposed to about 300 degrees on the prior bands (there was no cuff around the buckle on the old ones) 2. Cuff length - the cuff on the AP band is 18mm longer/taller than on the previous bands, so the surface area in contact with the stomach is much greater, hopefully increasing the speed of weight loss and maybe reducing the risk of slips 3. Cuff volume - the AP small holds 10cc, the AP large holds 14cc Note that we do not believe that AP patients will lose MORE weight, just possibly faster. So those of you with the older models, it would definitely not be to your benefit to think about having your band swapped out!

• They are either APS (small, 10cc) or APL (large, 14cc).
• They are considered by some to be "the next generation in AGBs".
• They are considered less likely to cause blockage or obstruction than other AGP types.
• They are considered less likely to slip than other AGP types.
• They are considered to be less likely to cause band erosion than other AGP types.
• Like the VG band it is "Omniform" technology - i.e. the balloon has ribs or baffles and the band itself is curved.
• The AP has more of a 360 inflation around the stomach as opposed to the 10cm or 9.75cm (4cc) bands, which have more like 260 or 280 degrees inflation (the rest being the buckle), and the VG which has more like 280 or 300. It is understood that this was simply an upgrade to the existing band to make it easier and less traumatic to remove.
• The silicone material is much softer than other AGP types.
• They are more concentric (rounded) when inflated than other AGB types.
• The balloon is pleated to 'grip' the stomach better.
• The balloon goes all the way around the inner surface of the band, rather than missing a piece at the locking mechanism.
• The balloon is wider. A sideview of the band shows the balloon protruding top & bottom rather than sitting flush.
• They have an easier release mechanism to remove the band if need be.
• They have the locking mechanism isolated from the stomach.
• AP type bands have been FDA approved for the US, but will not be available until the summer at the earliest.
• We understand that there are NO plans at this time to discontinue any of the bands Allergan already makes. They still plan to manufacture and offer the 10cm and the 9.75cm (the 4cc) bands as well as the VG band.
• new : AP ( Advanced Platform ):
• APS ( small)
• APL ( large )

OH Magazine Issue 3 2007 is on its way to your mailboxes! The latest issue of OH Magazine features OH spokesperson Jackie Guerra, who updates our readers on her story since we last heard from her in Issue 2 2006. Her husband, Bill Torres, also is featured in an article titled Together where he talks about his relationship with Jackie. Readers will also be treated to the story of OH member Ramon Lopez, who was recently seen on the hit tv show Big Medicine. Other articles include Heart Health by cardiologist Shalizeh Shokooh; Completing Your Journey by Dr. Edward Domanskis; and Safe Exercise for Arthritic Joints by Mark Allen, MPT. We also provide delicious recipes; fitness q&a; and support group news. If you are already a subscriber, your issue is on its way. If you want to subscribe to this bi-monthly publication for the low cost of $25 for six issues, click on the purple word "magazine" on the top of the screen and follow the directions to subscribe.

I'll be happy to email you, FREE, the reprint of my article in OH Magazine, "HOW TO OVERCOME SELF-SABOTAGE!" Drop me a line at:  [email protected] I've got lots of useful stories and inspiring photos on my blog:  http://embodysuccess.spaces.live.com  And I'd LOVE for you to participate in my free workshops and enjoy a free, personal coaching consult with me at the  Rocky Mt. Summit on Obesity August 11-12 just outside Denver, in Greeley, CO. www.obesityandme.com for details. All the best, Lauralyn

That's great that you will have insurance that will cover- I'm not so lucky! I'm refinancing my house to pay. My re-fi has been difficult  so I've had to reschedule due to lack of funds! I was supposed to close today but it's 3:30 and I haven't heard from my mortgage lender. So I hope I won't have to reschedule again because yes it's like a week away!!!   I am a little nervous but very anxious to get it over with and to start my "new life". If I can't get it done on the 16th, I may have to post-pone until late August and I will be really bummed. I think I'm most nervous about eating right after, like all the right things to drink on the liquid phase and getting enough protein (I've never had a protein shake in my life) chewable vitaminss vs. liquid and stupid stuff like that.  I read on the main board about a new band called the advanced platform (AP Band) have you heard of it and do you know if Dr. Hansen is using it?

Well hello Christine from Utah! That is awesome to hear about your family having the band with Dr. Hansen and very exciting to hear that you'll be joining the "band" wagon.  I am scheduled to have surgery with Dr. Hansen on July 16th. I was orginally scheduled with Dr. alldredge but needed to reschedule and opted for Dr. Hansen.  I normally just come here and read posts- It's nice to see someone else here from Utah!  I'd love to chat with you more- Do you have a date scheduled yet?