Who is Eligible

Surgeon Eligibility Requirements

Allergan, Inc. believes a key to successful use of the LAP-BAND^® System is comprehensive screening and training of bariatric surgeons and their staff. Making the device available only to qualified, trained surgeons may help to reduce reoperation rates often associated with older, more invasive and irreversible bariatric surgery procedures, which may not require similar qualification criteria.

To participate in the Allergan, Inc. LAP-BAND^® System Training Program, surgeons must:

• Confirm advanced laparoscopic skills and the ability to suture laparoscopically by confirming they have performed at least 25 Nissen fundoplication procedures
• Confirm that they have performed at least 25 bariatric procedures or have completed a comprehensive bariatric surgery course detailing issues surrounding patient selection, procedural options, perioperative care, and long-term management
• Confirm they have established a bariatric patient support program that includes:
  • Appropriate surgical facilities
  • Exercise and nutrition counseling
  • Psychological, general medicine, and radiology support personnel
• Participate in a comprehensive educational workshop or one-on-one training on patient selection, patient support, complication management, and procedural information specific to the LAP-BAND^® System
• Confirm their willingness and ability to perform and support at least 25 LAP-BAND^® System procedures per year
• Be observed during their first band placements by surgeons experienced in LAP-BAND^® System placement and use
• Be willing and able to have in-service training for operating room staff by Allergan-trained specialists

Surgeon Selection and Training Guidelines

The LAP-BAND^® System requires a multidisciplinary approach to patient selection, perioperative management, and long-term follow-up.

To promote successful outcomes with the LAP-BAND^® System, Allergan, Inc. follows established surgeon selection and training guidelines. Only surgeons who have met these guidelines are permitted to use the LAP-BAND^® System.

LAP-BAND^® System surgeon selection and training guidelines are based on:

• Guidelines for Surgical Treatment of Morbid Obesity - Issued by the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES)
• Guidelines for Framework for Post-Residency Surgical Education and Training issued by SAGES.

For more information on the training needed to become a LAP-BAND^® System certified surgeon contact your local Allergan, Inc. sales representative.