LAP-BAND? Advanced Platform in USA - any news on announcement?

[judybellyband 6]

I understood that there was a pending announcement for the LAP-BAND® Advanced Platform design which was already approved by the FDA last year. From Obesity & Diabetes RXNews dated October 2nd, 2006; "Unique to the Lap-Band AP System, Omniform is a 360-degree inflation area that wraps uniformly around the stomach. The medical device is available in two size options to accommodate varying patient and surgical technique requirements."

Does anyone have any insight on when it's going to be available? Are any of the Doctors or RN here being told about this?

Thank-you sincerely,

Judy

[chocolate_snaps 3]

Ive been wondering the same thing,

[judybellyband 6]

Wondering if I could bump this so others might comment?

Thanks,

Judy

[chocolate_snaps 3]

i too shall bump.

[susannah 2]

Hi Judy, Unfortunately I do not know when the AP band will be available in the United States, But I am in Australia and have just had an AP band inserted last friday. My surgeon said the AP band is softer than previous models, it may help prevent slippage. Also it may facilitate more weight loss, but who knows really until long term studies have been done on it.

Hope that helps.

All the best.

Susannah

[IMFine 0]

JBB: I know it's been awhile since you originally posted, but I thought I take a chance and reply anyway. I had the LAP-BAND AP™ System placed on July 19. I had my post-op today and I'm doing great. It's only been 2 1/2 weeks since surgery and I've been released to regular foods! I have my first fill in 2 weeks. I'll keep you posted, if you like.

[Chris61 0]

The AP Band is in use in the US. My doctor Dr. Minkin is using it. The first of July he had placed the first two into a couple who was doing banding in St. Louis. My wife and I are going to see him next week for final approval and have him send in the insurance paper work. I am going to double confirm with him that we get the new AP Band. He also said that it costs about $ 4,000.00. I have also been reading reports that they feel the all lot of problems witht he concurrent bands being used will be greatley reduced or gone away with this band. I hope that this answers your questions.

Chris

Pre Band

St. Louis

vcw61@excite.com

[IMFine 0]

Hey, Chris. Good luck to you and your wife. My APS (standard size) is great. I had no post-op trouble and I'm only a handfull of people who have this wonderful new gizmo her in Austin, Texas.

It's only been 2.5 weeks since surgery and I'm already eating solid foods--per Dr. orders. I get my first fill on August 20!

Let us hear back from you soon!