Brazosport Regional Performs 1st Lap Band Surgery to
Combat Local Residents Obesity
Lake Jackson resident Cole Grimes has suffered from obesity for years, and as a result of his weight problem, he hasn’t had the energy to play with his kids. However, after undergoing LAP-BANDŽ Adjustable Gastric Banding System surgery, a safer and less invasive surgery than gastric bypass, he will be able to join his kids in Karate class.
As a result of his obesity, Grimes was diagnosed with diabetes and hypertension last summer. With a wife of 16 years and 2 young children, Grimes wanted to turn over a new leaf and start losing weight. He tried multiple different times to diet and exercise but nothing seemed to work.
After researching the lap band procedure for several years, Grimes told his family practitioner that he decided to drive to Dallas to get the procedure done. His physician informed him that the same procedure can be done right here in Lake Jackson. Grimes was ecstatic and made arrangements with Robert Thompson, MD, General Surgeon for Brazosport Regional, to be the first lap band patient in Brazoria County.
“Obesity continues to affect a growing number of people in the United States, and many don’t know that for the severely obese, there are safer alternatives to gastric bypass surgery, such as LAP-BANDŽ System,” said Dr. Thompson. “Having this service available for the community is a great advancement for Brazoria County.”
Dr. Thompson is board-certified in surgery and has been in practice for 19 years. He is the Chief of Surgery at Brazosport Regional and is a certified in weight-loss surgery, particularly the LAP-BANDŽ System.
Unlike gastric bypass, the LAP-BANDŽ System does not involve stomach cutting, stapling or intestinal re-routing. Using laparoscopic surgical techniques, the device can be placed around to the top portion of the patient’s stomach, reducing stomach capacity. The procedure can help patients achieve long-term weight loss by creating an earlier feeling of satiety while maintaining a healthy diet. The procedure also offers the advantages of reduced pain and a shorter recovery period.
At age 38, Grimes goal is to lose 100 pounds and to live a long fulfilling life with his wife and kids. “I am fortunate to be able to stay in Lake Jackson for this procedure,” stated Grimes. “I hope to see more people take advantage of the lap band procedure so that they can get back to enjoying life.”
|