The AP (Advanced Performance) Lap Band was designed to address known problems with the original Lap Band and attempt to mitigate them. It's new design is hoped to reduce slippage, erosion, and increase the speed of weight loss by blocking food more efficiently. They also say that they believe the new design will reduce blockages. It's new so they don't know how much these improvements help or if they even do. However, it's believed they will, hence the changes.
New features:
1. Cuff - the cuff on the AP band is 360 degrees around, as opposed to about 300 degrees on the prior bands (there was no cuff around the buckle on the old ones)
2. Cuff length - the cuff on the AP band is 18mm longer/taller than on the previous bands, so the surface area in contact with the stomach is much greater, hopefully increasing the speed of weight loss and maybe reducing the risk of slips
3. Cuff volume - the AP small holds 10cc, the AP large holds 14cc
4. "Omniform" Technology. The inflatable silicon portion of the band in contact with the stomach is 'pleated' to reduce chances of slippage and grip the stomach better.
5. A
n easier release mechanism to remove the band. This increases the ability to use laproscopy should the Lap Band need removal.
6. Softer silicon is used in the new AP band.
New band:
Older bands: Normal on left; VG on right:
Linear Mode
