Please note, The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP is no longer accepting Lap Band claims. If you feel that you may have a potential case, we urge you to locate another law firm adequately suited to handle your claim.
Lap band surgical procedures were developed with the intentions of assisting in the treatment of obesity. In theory, the surgically implanted device restricts the amount of food that the stomach can hold. Subsequently, those with the device feel fuller sooner, eliminating the desire to continue eating. While lap bands have proven capable of helping people lose weight, they are not entirely without concern. Such devices have become more synonymous with lap band complications.
If you or a loved one has become the victim of a severe lap band complication, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Lap Band Complication Lawsuit Overview
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has currently approved the use of two individual gastric bands: Lap-Band, by Allergan Inc., and Realize Adjustable Gastric Band, by Ethicon Endo-Surgery Inc. Each of which are approved for use in adults who have proven unsuccessful in losing weight through non-surgical methods, such as diet, exercise or behavior modification. Subsequently, these devices are only approved to be used on those who have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40 or a BMI of at least 35 and at least one health condition associated with obesity, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
Lap band surgical procedures witness a trained medical professional place a circular silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach, resulting in a separate chamber. The narrowed passageway between the newly created chamber and the rest of the stomach regulates the speed and volume in which food passes to the lower part of the stomach. The band limits the amount of food that can be eaten at one time, therefore simulating a sense of fullness while simultaneously reducing the amount of food consumed. A doctor can adjust the device, without the need for additional surgery, by inserting a needle through the skin into a port connected to the band. Doing so allows patients to adjust their eating habits accordingly and maintain a healthy weight.
Though the lap band has demonstrated a propensity for weight loss, it is not without concern. Recent studies suggest that these devices, and their corresponding invasive procedures, may result in several complications that vary in severity. Lap band complications may range from minor inconveniences to complete failure and removal of the band itself. Fortunately, many of the complications are minute disturbances that can be easily repaired. However, minor problems may give way to more serious, life-threatening lap band complications. Due to these severe complications, patients may contact a lawyer at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP for a free case evaluation regarding their potential lap band lawsuit.
Lap Band Complications
The following is a comprehensive list of potential lap band complications:
- Band erosion: This lap band complication witnesses the stomach grow around the device, absorbing it into the tissue. If this occurs, the stomach may be susceptible to severe infections and other problems.
- Band intolerance: As this device is considered to be a foreign object, some bodies may reject the lap band. Subsequently, permanent removal of the device is required to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Band slippage: Rare occurrences may witness the lower part of the stomach slip through the band, creating a larger pouch to store food. If this should occur, the lap band will not work correctly.
- Esophageal dilation: This condition is characterized by the enlarging of the esophagus and is usually the result of the band being too tight or being placed incorrectly. This lap band complication may lead to GERD.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): A highly variable and chronic condition that is characterized by periodic episodes of gastroesophageal reflux usually accompanied by heartburn and that may result in histopathologic changes of the esophagus.
- Hiatal hernia: A hernia in which the stomach protrudes through the esophageal opening of the diaphragm. Hiatal hernias may occur after restrictive procedures when food causes the smaller stomach to bulge and push through the diaphragm.
- Indigestion: Otherwise known as dyspepsia, indigestion is characterized by the inability to digest food. This causes severe discomfort and a distinct burning sensation in the upper abdomen.
- Port and band leaks: If the device has a leak in the port or band, its ability to restrict the stomach is eliminated. Therefore, the device is incapable of preventing over-consumption and neglects to treat obesity.
- Ulcers: The introduction of the lap band may result in the development of gastric and esophageal ulcers. Ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your esophagus, stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is abdominal pain.
- Seroma: Surgical procedures may result in a seroma, a pocket of clear serous fluid that may develop in the body. This occurs when blood vessels are ruptured, causing plasma to seep out and cause severe inflammation. Such a lap band complication may prohibit a healthy recovery or promote infection.
Do I Have a Lap Band Complication Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in lap band complication lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been the victim of a severe lap band complication, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-(949) 557-5800. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.