Gastric Band or Stomach Balloon?

You have decided to take the simple NOSC test. Answer the following questions honestly, and you will well on your way to making the right decision for you.

Question 1

Are you 18 years or older?

If yes, then proceed to Question 2.

Question 2

Do you suffer, or have you suffered, from any of the following?

These are what are known as “obesity-related co-morbidities”, and might have implications as to which procedure you opt for.

If you have none, then (depending on your BMI) you might favour the stomach balloon.

If you have any of them you might be best suited to having a more long term definitive solution to your weight problem – ie the adjustable gastric band.

So to your BMI..

Question 3

What is your BMI? 

If you do not know what your BMI is, simply fill in the following boxes, and your BMI will be calculated automatically. Simply input your height and weight, and our calculator will generate an easy-to-read report on your general health status, based on the BMI (Body Mass Index) formula.

QUESTION 4

Do you suffer from any of the following:-

• Previous gastric surgery;
• Previous abdominal surgery with known post-operative intra-abdominal adhesions;
• Strictures of the (oesophagus) gullet or throat;
• Any inflammatory disease of the upper gastrointestinal tract;
• Any tumours of the upper gastrointestinal tract;
• Conditions or drugs that predispose you to bleeding;
• Certain drugs, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Long term steroid therapy;
• Severe renal, hepatic, pulmonary or cardiac disease;
• Psychiatric disorders;
• Alcoholism or drug addiction;
• Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you do, you may not be a suitable candidate for an adjustable gastric band.
Please contact The National Obesity Surgery Centre for further information and advice.

QUESTION 5

Do you think that you are able to follow a detailed prescribed programme to get the very best from whichever procedure you opt for?

This is an extremely important point, and one that you are going to have to be very honest with yourself about.

Consider the following – and be totally honest !!

• In the past have you struggled to adopt any changes relating to your relationship with food?

• Have you struggled to maintain any weight loss even for short periods?

• Do you find it almost impossible to curb your eating habits?

If so, you are probably going to get a better long term result by opting for the adjustable gastric band.

• Alternatively, do you find it relatively easy to follow programmes so long as you have all the support and aftercare you need?

• Are you well motivated and disciplined?

• Do you have plenty of positive support around you?

If so, then you might well consider opting for the stomach balloon.