Lap-Band® with Plication/ Plication with
Existing Lap-Band®

This surgery can be done as a Revision for a patient who has already had a Lap-Band® or it can be done with the initial Lap-Band® procedure.

Originally referred to as the Gastric Imbrication, this procedure was first pioneered by a group of bariatric surgeons in South America.  The surgery was designed as a way to have a reversible Sleeve Gastrectomy.  Due to significant issues with post-operative nausea, Dr. Merriman does not see this option as a good stand alone procedure.

Most recently, a paritial form of this procedure, now called a Plication, has been done in conjunction with laparoscopic gastric banding.  Duke University did a six month study on this procedure and it has shown to be safe and very effective.  However, it should still be seen as an investigational procedure until long term data and results are measured.

The benefits of this surgery have shown a larger percentage of weight loss in the first year by up to 53% in some patients.

Dr. Merriman has been trained in this procedure and is confident in its safety and efficacy.  He can offer this to certain patients on a case by case basis.