May 20, 2009

Turlock, Emanuel Medical Center is now offering patients the minimally invasive surgical weight loss option of laparoscopic gastric banding. The LAP-BAND^® Adjustable Gastric Banding System is a surgical procedure that helps patients gradually lose and control their weight long-term.

 

“The system works by helping patients control their food intake to achieve a steady, healthy rate of sustainable weight loss,” says Connie Fairchilds, RN, VP of Patient Care Services at the hospital. 

 

Emanuel is offering a free education program on the procedure from 7 to 8:30 pm Thursday, June 11, in Conference Room “C” at Emanuel Medical Center, 825 Delbon Avenue in Turlock.

 

Turlock surgeon Huy Dao, DO, is performing the technique at Emanuel Medical Center. Dr. Dao trained in bariatric surgery and has assisted in over 250 cases.  At the June 11 session, he and staff will discuss the procedure, who can benefit from it, what steps must be completed prior to scheduling the procedure and the criteria that must be met to be eligible for the procedure. 

In the Lap-Band system, a silicone gastric band is placed around the top entry of the stomach to create a small pouch. When a person eats, the pouch is quickly filled and produces a sensation of fullness.

 

 “Bariatric surgery has been proven to greatly reduce or eliminate conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity-related death,” Dr. Dao says. “Many patients say they want a ‘healthier, more active lifestyle’ as a reason for their surgery. The procedure is a relatively safe operation involving no alteration of the digestive anatomy. The band is easily adjustable and the procedure is reversible. Patients typically return to work and normal activities within a week.” 

The presentation is a free informational session presented by Dr. Dao and Leslie Salazar RN, Bariatric Coordinator at Emanuel Medical Center.  For more information, call 209.667.4200.