What Gastric-banded Patients Must Know About Band Adjustments, or Band fills
To remain effective, your gastric band must be adjusted periodically. Only trained medical professional should do adjustments, commonly called “fills”. Never let a non-medical person do it. Never try to adjust your own band. You could cause adverse reactions and/or damage your band. Your provider will be responsible in changing the size of your stomach outlet by adding or removing saline from your band. The need for band adjustments varies from person to person, but most individuals need their first band adjustment 4-6 weeks after surgery. You, and your Aftercare Provider, will decide when the time is right for you.
To determine when an adjustment is necessary, your Aftercare Provider should discuss the following with you:
- Has your weight loss hit a plateau?
- Are you able to consume larger amounts of food?
- Are you exercising? (After week 6) *How much fluid is already in your band?
One of the greatest things about the band is that it can be adjusted to meet your specific needs. This feature allows you and your Aftercare Provider to find the right level of restriction for YOU.
When first placing it, your surgeon usually leaves the band empty. This lets you become acquainted with your band during the first few weeks after surgery. It also allows important time for healing to occur around the band site.
The first few weeks are a critical time. Adhere closely to the diet progression plan that your provider will suggest to you. It will allow the stomach time to heal and the band to sit in the right position. Your band offers you a way to obtain steady and safe weight loss. Avoid being in a hurry to have an adjustment before you are ready.
Being able to adjust your band offers you control. If the band is too tight, your Aftercare Provider can loosen it by extracting some of the fluid. If the band is too loose, your Provider can tighten it, by adding fluid.
To adjust your band, the Provider injects saline into the self-sealing access port with a fine needle. You will feel a pricking sensation.
Adjustments should be performed either in a hospital or in a clinical office. Your Aftercare Provider may suggest fluoroscopy to assist in locating the access port, to look for complications and/or to view the position of the band. It is sometimes used after the band has been adjusted to evaluate your pouch size and stoma size.
What is the Optimal Fill Level?
When You Are:
- Losing weekly
- Able to tolerate most foods
- Eating small meals comfortably
- Having no problems with liquids
- Having no adverse symptoms
Preparing for Your Fill Visit: Have only clear liquids prior to the band adjustment. Consult with your Provider for specific instructions.
After Your Fill Visit: Have only warm liquids for 48 hours after the band adjustment. Avoid solid foods unless indicated differently by your Aftercare Provider or surgeon.
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