The gastric pacemaker is a bariatric procedure that aims to curb weight gain by controlling how full and satiated you feel. A bariatric procedure is one that assists in weight loss. People who find it difficult to lose weight, or those who face the risk of obesity and high blood pressure, can opt to have this device inserted to control how they respond to the stimuli of food.
A gastric pacemaker is a device that is inserted into the body through a minimally invasive procedure. The functioning of the device is ensured through the use of an external controller.
Through a process known as gastric internal stimulation, the gastric pacemaker acts as a liaison between the stomach and the brain by controlling nerve signals that operate between them. Patients who find it difficult to lose weight using traditional means find their gastric pacemakers to be a great help.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Gastric Pacemaker?
In order to be considered as a patient for this procedure, your Body Mass Index (BMI) must fall between 35 and 45. In addition to this, you must have at least one major disease, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, that is associated with obesity.
The best way to learn about your weight loss options is to talk to Dr. Davtyan during a consultation. He can explain which options may suit you.
What to Expect If You Opt for a Gastric Pacemaker
One of the many ways a doctor may deal with problems relating to the gastrointestinal tract is through gastric bypass surgery. The gastric pacemaker was developed as an alternative.
There are three primary components within a gastric pacemaker:
• Lead System: Wires that are responsible for directing electrical impulses within the body to the vagus nerve
• Neuroregulator: The component responsible for sending messages to the vagus nerve, which deals with digestion and its processes
• Controller: The controller, like the name suggests, is not inserted into the body; rather, it is used by your medical practitioner alongside other caregivers to take care of and ensure the smooth functionality of the gastric pacemaker within the body
What Occurs During the Procedure
Before undergoing surgery to have a gastric pacemaker inserted, a general anesthetic will be administered to ensure that you are in a comfortable and pain-free unconscious state for the duration of surgery.
After this, the surgeon makes incisions into the skin. The device is then placed using a laparoscope, a tool with a camera that transmits images to a monitor. This tool allows the doctor to more accurately implant the pacemaker.
Once the device is in place, the surgeon adjusts and programs it. The patient is also shown how to charge it.
Take Control of Your Weight-Loss Journey
Dr. David Davtyan, a skilled medical professional who is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, has years of experience helping people lose weight effectively. To meet with Dr. Davtyan and discuss your options, contact our office and set up your consultation.
Visit Dr. Davtyan in Los Angeles
Visit Dr. Davtyan in Los Angeles to discuss whether bariatric surgery, Ozempic, or another weight-loss approach may be appropriate for your health goals. Consultations focus on medical history, weight-loss challenges, treatment expectations, and long-term sustainability rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation.
Dr. Davtyan and his team provide evaluations for patients considering gastric sleeve surgery, Lap-Band surgery, and medical weight-loss options. The goal is to help patients better understand the risks, benefits, costs, and long-term considerations of each treatment path before making a decision.
