The REALIZE Band

The REALIZE Gastric Band is actually two medical devices that are implanted at the same time during surgery. The first implant, the REALIZE Band, wraps completely around the upper part of the stomach. The second implant, the REALIZE Injection Port, is attached to the abdominal wall underneath the skin. The injection port is used to add saline to the band after surgery. The two implants are connected by way of soft, thin, hollow tubing. The REALIZE Band and the REALIZE Injection Port, including the tubing, are made entirely from biocompatible materials.

Band

The band is a strong, flexible silicone structure that fits securely around the upper stomach. The inside of the band has a soft balloon that comes in direct contact with the stomach. The balloon can hold up to 9cc (1.8 teaspoons) of saline. The amount of saline in the balloon controls tightness (restriction) around the stomach. In turn, the amount of restriction affects how much food can be eaten during a meal and the length of time it takes food to progress through the digestive system. This means you will feel full sooner and stay full longer with a REALIZE Band.

Glossary Terms

• Abdominal wall: The muscles and connective tissue that extend from the ribs to the pelvis.
• Saline: A safe fluid frequently used in intravenous drips (IVs).
• Biocompatible: A material that is not harmful or toxic to living tissue.
• Septum: A sturdy silicone layer located at the top of the injection port.
• Silicone: A solid, soft, and flexible material that does not contain gels or fluids.