1) Allergan’s new AP Lap-Band

new : AP ( Advanced Platform ): APS ( small) APL ( large )

From LapBand support website – general post: So far I collected the following information with thanks from my doctor and other AP bandsters:

They are either APS (small, 10cc) or APL (large, 14cc). They are considered by some to be "the next generation in AGBs". They are considered less likely to cause blockage or obstruction than other

AGP types. They are considered less likely to slip than other AGP types. They are considered to be less likely to cause band erosion than other AGP

types. Like the VG band it is "Omniform" technology - i.e. the balloon has ribs or

baffles and the band itself is curved. The AP has more of a 360 inflation around the stomach as opposed to the

10cm or 9.75cm (4cc) bands, which have more like 260 or 280 degrees inflation (the rest being the buckle), and the VG which has more like 280 or 300. It is understood that this was simply an upgrade to the existing band to make it easier and less traumatic to remove.

The silicone material is much softer than other AGP types. They are more concentric (rounded) when inflated than other AGB types. The balloon is pleated to 'grip' the stomach better. The balloon goes all the way around the inner surface of the band, rather than

missing a piece at the locking mechanism. The balloon is wider. A sideview of the band shows the balloon protruding top

& bottom rather than sitting flush. They have an easier release mechanism to remove the band if need be. They have the locking mechanism isolated from the stomach. AP type bands have been FDA approved for the US, but will not be available

until the summer at the earliest. We understand that there are NO plans at this time to discontinue any of the

bands Allergan already makes. They still plan to manufacture and offer the 10cm and the 9.75cm (the 4cc) bands as well as the VG band.

Additional information from Dr. Curry (he’s performed over 600 lap band surgeries – this info was found on ObesityHelp.com – he is the Lap Band Forum Leader):

Allergan/Inamed has a new band in the US called the AP band. It has not yet been released to the general public but I have put a number of these excellent bands in. There are a couple of differences in this band and the previous ones:

1. Cuff - the cuff on the AP band is 360 degrees around, as opposed to about 300 degrees on the prior bands (there was no cuff around the buckle on the old ones)

2. Cuff length - the cuff on the AP band is 18mm longer/taller than on the previous bands, so the surface area in contact with the stomach is much greater, hopefully increasing the speed of weight loss and maybe reducing the risk of slips

3. Cuff volume - the AP small holds 10cc, the AP large holds 14cc

Note that we do not believe that AP patients will lose MORE weight, just possibly faster. So those of you with the older models, it would definitely not be to your benefit to think about having your band swapped out!

Just thought you guys would like to know this!_________________Dr. C

2) Re: Low Profile Port . Dr. Curry indicated that he uses the low profile ports in most all patients, with the exception of those who have a very high BMI. He describes the difference of between the regular and low profile port as follows (ObesityHelp.com LapBand Forum Q & A):

A low profile port is 2.5cm in diameter on the bottom, 1.5cm on the top, and 12mm tall.  A regular port is 3cm on the bottom, 2.2cm on the top, and 16mm tall.  Doesn't seem like a big difference but it is!