Karey, please don't be concerned about the stuff that Dr. Rutledge says about lap-band®. Here's one thread where he was discussed:

http://www.lapbandtalk.com/anti-lapb...t=Dr.+Rutledge

The mini-gb *may* be a viable alternative to lap-band® or other wls, but if it's so much better, then why aren't more doctors doing it?

Tami

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9/5/06 Got the band, 273 lbs., size 26W
6/5/07 Reached initial goal of 165 (-108 lbs.) in 9 months
Currently 152 lbs. (-120 lbs), size 8
5'7", happy, healthy, fit & fabulous at 48!