GABP Ring Implantation

GaBP ring implantation is a procedure of placing a band or ring (GaBP ring) around the stomach pouch to control increased gastric reservoir capacity following gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

Sometimes, even the most prominent weight loss surgeries (bariatric procedures) such as gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy do not provide a satisfactory outcome resulting in inadequate weight loss, and weight regain. This can be caused from dilation of the stomach pouch, stoma (opening in the gastrointestinal tract), and proximal small intestine following weight loss surgery. Therefore, placing a ring around the stomach tube prevents dilation and restricts the size of the gastric reservoir.

The GaBP Ring is a prefabricated, calibrated and sterilized silicone coated implantable device intended to control the gastric reservoir capacity following gastric bypass, and sleeve gastrectomy. GaBP ring has two ends: a male end (introducer) and a female end. GaBP ring is available in four sizes (6, 6.5,7 and 7.5 cm).

Procedure for implantation of GaBP ring Preparation of GaBP ring

The GaBP ring of appropriate size (usually 6.5cm) is opened from the package and the latches are removed. The male end of the device is inserted partially into the female end to prime the device. Then, the GaBP ring is placed in a sterile antibiotic solution.

Insertion of GaBP ring

After transecting the stomach as a part of weight loss surgery, a grasper is inserted towards the side of the lesser omentum through a mesenteric defect. Then the GaBP ring is introduced into the peritoneal cavity. The introducer part of the GaBP ring is pulled and wrapped around the pouch using a grasper. Then the male end of the device is inserted into the female end of the device using graspers. The locking of the device is confirmed with a clicking sound. The device is aligned in proper place and rechecked for locking by trying to pull it apart. Then the device is sutured using absorbable sutures.

Benefits of GaBP ring implantation

GaBP ring implantation reduces gastric pouch size and provides several benefits including:

Improves success rate of weight loss surgery

Improves weight loss

Decreases gastric outlet stenosis

Reduces dumping and hypoglycemia

GaBP ring implantation involves placing a ring around the gastric pouch following gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy surgery to prevent inadequate weight loss and weight regain from pouch dilation.