Which type of bariatric surgery is considered restrictive?

Restrictive bariatric surgery focuses on limiting the amount of food the stomach can hold, thereby reducing caloric intake. The adjustable gastric band is a prime example of this approach. It involves placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a smaller stomach pouch. This limits the quantity of food that can be consumed at one time and promotes early satiety, which helps individuals lose weight.

The adjustable nature of the band allows for modifications post-surgery, which can adjust the diameter of the band to control the amount of food intake more finely. This characteristic is a significant aspect of its restrictive mechanism, as it provides flexibility in managing weight loss outcomes.

In contrast, surgeries like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass involve both restrictive and malabsorptive components, as they not only reduce stomach size but also reroute the intestines, leading to decreased nutrient absorption. Similarly, biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch combines both restrictions and malabsorption techniques, making them different from purely restrictive options. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy also reduces stomach size significantly, but it is considered more irreversible compared to adjustable gastric banding, which maintains its adjustable nature. Therefore, the adjustable gastric band is clearly classified as a restrictive bariatric surgery type due to