A new study finds gastric bypass results in faster and longer lasting weight loss than does gastric banding.
Gastric bypass involves reducing stomach size with staples and connecting the smaller pouch directly to the small intestine. It is irreversible.
Gastric banding involves placing a band around part of the stomach to reduce its size. This procedure is reversible.
Experts say bypass is a bit more dangerous immediately than banding.
But, banding often leads to long-term complications, requiring some sort of major reoperation.
Also, banding will not stay in place for more than 10 years.
