A device, adapted to receive one or more gastric bands and adapted to be coupled to a surgical instrument such as an endoscope, comprises a tubular main body and a cap comprising an opening through which a guidewire may be threaded. A triggering wire may be detachably coupled to one or more bands to permit remote removal of said bands. The bands may be improved bands comprising gripping points, an inner reinforcement ring, or an expanded surface area portion.A method for performing band ligation comprises the steps of: providing a device comprising a main body portion, a removably coupled cap, one or more gastric bands, and a band triggering wire introducing the device through the mouth into the stomach dislodging the cap targeting and drying specific locations of the gastric wall withdrawing a portion of the gastric wall into the device and displacing one or more of the bands such that the band circumscribes said wall portion and the administration of medication to prevent gastric contractions.
