Abstract: A merely exemplary external pressure sensing system comprises a connecting member and a pressure sensor. The connecting member is operable to connect to a syringe barrel and a needle. The connecting member comprises a conduit permitting communication of fluid from the syringe barrel to the needle when the connecting member is connected to the syringe barrel and the needle. The pressure sensor is in communication with the conduit. The pressure sensor is configured to sense pressure of fluid within the connecting member. The connecting member is configured to permit the pressure sensor to sense the pressure of the fluid while the fluid is communicated from the barrel to the needle. The pressure sensor is configured to provide a visual indication of sensed pressure. The visual indication may be provided by a variety of components, including but not limited to a diaphragm, a disc, a needle, or a slider.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises an implantable mechanically adjustable band configured to form a restriction in a patient. The band defines an inner diameter. The mechanical adjustability of the band is configured to permit the inner diameter defined by the band to be selectively varied. The apparatus further comprises an adjustment mechanism in communication with the band. The adjustment mechanism is operable to provide the mechanical adjustability of the band. The apparatus further comprises a sensor in communication with one or both of the mechanically adjustable band or the adjustment mechanism. The sensor is configured to sense a physical parameter associated with operation of the band. The physical parameter sensed by the sensor varies with the inner diameter defined by the band. The band may be used as a gastric band, among other potential uses.