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In the Gastric Bypass, the stomach is left in place with intact blood supply. In some cases it may shrink a bit and its lining (the mucosa) may atrophy, but for the most part it remains unchanged. The lower stomach still contributes to the function of the intestines even though it does not receive or process food - it makes intrinsic factor, necessary to absorb Vitamin B12 and contributes to hormone balance and motility of the intestines in ways that are not entirely known. The stomach is divided in two and no longer have communication.
With the Lap Band, the stomach is not surgically divided, but only seperated by the band itself. You will still have blood flow and nerve supply intact running between the two portions of the stomach. |
