Initial assessment
We undertake a comprehensive assessment of all patients referred for gastric banding. This is conducted by a group of very well qualified and experienced autonomous practitioners who work as a cohesive team. Communication is paramount among the group. This unique team approach offered by the Avon Obesity Service team based at Spire Bristol Hospital deliver a high quality service that is patient lead and supportive.
Patients come fasting to the assessment and have a full set of fasting blood tests (full blood count, U&Es, LFTS, fasting glucose, lipids and thyroid function tests) performed and an ECG. Each assessment takes approximately 2.5 - 3 hours, at the end of which the entire AOS Team makes a decision as to the individual's suitability for weight loss surgery. Occasionally patients need the input of a clinical psychologist and if this were indicated, referral is made at the time.
Approximately 10% of patients have undiagnosed problems including anaemia, diabetes, sleep apnoea etc identified. These conditions are investigated further and managed prior to any individual having weight loss surgery.
Endoscopy
Our surgeons undertake upper GI endoscopies on all patients. We have identified a number of patients with peptic ulceration or significant reflux. This is also managed prior to the patients having weight loss surgery and is a day case procedure.
Weight-loss surgery
Our preferred treatment is gastric banding. Our surgeons believe that this is the most straightforward procedure and it is also the least risk to patients and has the fewest potential complications. Patients are admitted on the day of their surgery and have an overnight stay post surgery.
Post surgery patients have a gastrograffin swallow to assess the placement of the band. Once this has been performed and the surgeons are happy, the patient is discharged home.
Discharge from Spire Bristol Hospital after surgery
Our nurse counsellor Sharon Bates visits every patient prior to discharge. Sharon talks the patient through the coming days and weeks and provides them with a patient information pack for support. The pack includes information on what the patient should eat immediately following the procedure. Other leaflets give guidance on diet and suggested menus / meals for living with the gastric band. Information is also provided on tightening of the band in terms of timing and dietary needs. Most importantly, the patient is given an information leaflet for their GP. This explains the procedure and how it affects the patient to the GP. It includes information about medications that should not be taken with a gastric band and includes the AOS contact details should the GP with to discuss the patient directly with the team.
Fills
The package with Spire Bristol Hospital currently includes three post-operative fills (tightening of the band). Patients come into the outpatient department and the band is inflated by injection of liquid into the reservoir, which fits underneath the abdominal skin. Three fills are included in the package.
Continued patient support
We provide a 7-day telephone service for all patients. If there are any problems or concerns, they can contact us between 9.00-18.00, 7 days a week.
Support group
We run a support group locally and encourage all patients considering weight loss surgery and all those who have had weight loss surgery to join the support group and attend the monthly meetings.