Name of the Procedure:

Gastric Restrictive Procedure, Open; Revision of Subcutaneous Port Component Only

Summary

This surgical procedure involves revising or replacing the subcutaneous port component of an existing gastric restrictive device. The port is a key part of systems like adjustable gastric bands used in bariatric surgery to help control obesity.

Purpose

The procedure addresses issues with the subcutaneous port, such as malfunction or displacement, which can compromise the effectiveness of the gastric restrictive device. The goal is to restore proper function, allowing for appropriate adjustments to the gastric band for continued weight loss and management.

Indications

• Malfunction of the subcutaneous port (e.g., leakage, blockage).
• Dislodgment or migration of the port.
• Pain or discomfort associated with the port.
• Difficulty accessing the port for adjustments.

Preparation

• Patients might need to fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments, particularly blood thinners, as directed by the surgeon.
• Pre-operative assessments, including blood tests and possibly imaging studies, to evaluate the position and condition of the port.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: The patient is typically placed under general anesthesia.
2. Incision: An incision is made in the abdomen at the location of the subcutaneous port.
3. Port Revision: The existing port is examined. If necessary, it is repositioned or replaced.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
5. Adjustment: The revised or new port is checked for proper function.

Tools & Equipment:

• Surgical scalpel
• Retractors
• Adjustable gastric band components
• Sutures and dressing material

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital operating room or an outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon (usually a bariatric surgeon)
• Surgical nurse
• Anesthesiologist
• Possibly a surgical assistant

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the incision site
• Bleeding
• Anesthesia-related risks
• Port malfunction (rare)
• Discomfort or pain at the incision site
• Injury to surrounding structures (e.g., stomach, abdominal wall)

Benefits

• Restoration of the port’s functionality, enabling proper adjustments to the gastric band
• Improvement in weight loss management
• Relief from discomfort or pain associated with a malfunctioning port Benefits are generally realized shortly after recovery from the surgery.

Recovery

• Patients usually go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.
• Incision care instructions, including keeping the area clean and dry.
• Activity restrictions, such as avoiding heavy lifting, for a few weeks.
• Follow-up appointments for band adjustments and monitoring.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical management (though limited if the port is not functioning).
• Complete removal of the gastric band.
• Conversion to a different type of bariatric surgery (e.g., gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy). Each alternative has its own set of risks and benefits.

Patient Experience

• Patients will be under general anesthesia, so they should be asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
• Post-procedure, patients may experience some pain and discomfort at the incision site, manageable with medication.
• They might feel some tightness or soreness around the surgical area for a few days.
• Minor swelling or bruising at the incision site. Pain and discomfort should decrease gradually as they recover.