Intermountain Press Release

Sandy—Morbid obesity is a serious disease affecting more than 6 million Americans. A person diagnosed with this condition is generally 100 pounds or more over his or her ideal body weight. Morbid obesity is associated with a number of life threatening conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, and high blood pressure - all of which can be improved with sufficient weight loss. Physicians at Alta View Hospital now offer hope to the morbidly obese patient through a surgical procedure called the LAP-BAND System.

How LAP-BANDING Works
The LAP-BAND System is a silicone ring placed around the upper part of the stomach and filled with saline (salt water) on the inner surface. This creates a new small stomach pouch so the food storage area is reduced. The band also controls the stoma (stomach outlet) between the two parts of the stomach. The size of the stoma regulates the flow of food from the upper to the lower part of the stomach. When the stoma is smaller, you feel full sooner so you eat less and are not hungry between meals. The LAP-BAND surgery is performed laparoscopically, so patients spend less than 24 hours in the hospital. Most patients return to work within one week and resume exercising within one month. In addition, the LAP-BAND System is the only adjustable and reversible obesity surgery available in the United States.

Weight Loss Results
Weight loss results vary from patient to patient, and the amount of weight you lose depends on a commitment to a new lifestyle and eating habits. Weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week in the first year after the operation is typical. Twelve to eighteen months after surgery weekly weight loss is usually less. Losing weight gradually is important since rapid weight loss is dangerous to your health. The main goal is to have weight loss that prevents, improves, or resolves health problems connected with severe obesity.

Learn More About The Procedure
The LAP-BAND System is a simple yet innovative tool to help you achieve a healthier, happier life. Take the first step in transforming your life and attend a free seminar to see if you or a loved one is eligible for this type of surgery. Surgeons O. Layton Alldredge, MD, and Darren F. Hansen, MD, from South Valley Surgical Associates offer free seminars on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. in classroom A at Alta View Hospital, 9660 South 1300 East, Sandy. The seminars cover details of the surgery, costs, and other issues related to surgical treatment for obesity. For more information call 571-9511 or visit their website at www.svsurgical.com.