A bi-directional communication system for use with a restrictive opening device implanted within a patient. The system includes a sensor for measuring an operational parameter within the restrictive opening device. The system further includes a means for communicating a measured parameter data from the sensor means to a local unit external to the patient. The system further includes a base unit at a remote location from the patient, the base unit including user interface means for evaluating the measured parameter data. And, a communication link between the local and base units for transmitting data between the units, the transmitted data including the measured parameter data.