HOUSTON – (Sept. 2009) – Park Plaza Hospital & Medical Center recently performed the first trans-umbilical laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding procedure in Houston.

Dr. Sherman Yu, medical director for the hospital's bariatric program was the lead surgeon on the team.

A single-incision LAGB procedure is performed through one entry point -- through the umbillicus or belly button. The surgery is designed for those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) equal to or greater than 40 or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co-morbidities.

"This is another significant advancement for patients seeking surgical options for weight loss. It's almost a 'scarless procedure' since the incision is hidden inside a patient's belly button," said Yu. "Additionally, patients heal faster, recover more quickly, experience less pain, have shorter hospital stays and are back to their normal routines much sooner."

The patient, a 42-year-old-woman from Houston, was 80 pounds overweight, had high-cholesterol, hypertension and suffered from joint pain. Within two days of her surgery, she was back on her feet, going about her regular activities.

According to Yu, the key to any LAGB procedure -- whether it's single-incision or not -- is a patient's follow-up routine.

Patients who undergo any type of bariatric surgery at Park Plaza Hospital are immediately enrolled in the hospital's extensive follow up program where patients are closely monitored and counseled on their progress.

"Our program is designed for patients to receive monthly follow-up appointments for at the least the first few months after surgery so that the band can be rapidly adjusted to optimal tightness," said Yu. "Post-op care is essential to any type of bariatric surgery and leads to greater success with weight loss and subsequently, improvement in the patient's health."

The ideal candidate for a single-incision LAGB is one who is morbidly obese and suffers from co-morbidities including diabetes, sleep apnea and high blood-pressure.

"As with any weight-loss surgery, a patient must be dedicated to changing his or her lifestyle," said Yu. "This includes a commitment to a strict follow-up care program, making healthy dietary choices and getting regular physical activity. The surgery is a tool to assist with weight loss and is used to help our patients develop healthier lifestyles."

For more information on Park Plaza Hospital's bariatric surgery program, visit www.parkplazahospital.com.

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Park Plaza Hospital and Medical Center, part of Tenet Texas, is a 446-bed acute care facility located at 1313 Hermann Drive in Houston, Texas. The hospital has been serving the medical and health care needs of the Houston area for 30 years. Park Plaza Hospital provides a broad spectrum of medical and surgical services, including treatment of diabetes, cancer and other diseases, as well as orthopedics, cardiology and maternity care. The hospital’s rehabilitation programs, outpatient services and outreach programs promote a continuum of care for patients and their families. Park Plaza Hospital is accredited by the Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, the nation’s oldest and largest hospital accreditation agency. To learn more about Park Plaza Hospital, visit www.parkplazahospital.com.

Park Plaza Hospital and Medical Center
1313 Herman Dr.
Houston, TX 77004
Call 1-888-248-8086

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