Implantation Procedure
Prior to receiving the abiliti™ system, patients will undergo a simple endoscopic screening test intended to confirm they are likely to benefit from this therapy. Most patients are expected to qualify. The system is implanted using a minimally invasive technique known as laparoscopic surgery in which the surgeon uses 3-4 small ports (openings) to access the stomach in the abdominal cavity. One end of the lead is attached to the stomach. The lead then exits the abdominal cavity and is attached to the gastric stimulator which is implanted under the skin. The ports are then removed and the skin closed. The procedure is typically completed in less than one hour during which time the patient is asleep.