LAC 48:I.2451. Gastric Lap Band for Obesity

NOTE: Itemization of the procedures and risks under a particular specialty does not preclude other qualified practitioners from using those risks identified for the particular procedure. A. Risks of Surgery 1. Damage to surrounding organs: a. bowel, pancreas, liver, requiring more surgery; b. blood vessels and/or spleen with bleeding requiring transfusion; c. with removal of spleen. B. Risks of Recovery Period 1. Abdominal wound problems: a. infection, failure to heal, severe scarring, hernia. 2. Blood clots in the legs and/or pulmonary embolism (clots moving to lungs). 3. Pneumonia or other breathing problems requiring prolonged need for ventilator (breathing machine). C. Need for additional surgery due to: 1. gallstones with possible inflammation of the liver and/or pancreas; 2. stomach or intestinal blockage from trapped food or scarring; 3. abdominal infection with abscess; 4. bleeding. D. Other long term risks: 1. extreme weight loss; 2. failure to lose weight; 3. large folds of loose skin; 4. depression as a result of weight loss, required diet change, or complications of surgery; 5. failure of the procedure; 6. vitamin and/or mineral deficiency, possibly requiring lifelong injections.