Is a routine liquid contrast swallow following laparoscopic gastric banding mandatory?

Background: The authors assess the value of liquid contrast medium swallow as a method to detect postoperative complications after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for the treatment of morbid obesity. Methods: From January 1996 to January 2001, 350 morbidly obese patients (295 women, 55 men) underwent a LAGB operation. All data were prospectively collected in a computerized databank. All patients underwent a jopomidol swallow (JS) study in the early postoperative phase to exclude perforation of the esophagus or stomach, which is one of the most serious complications occurring after the LAGB operation. Furthermore, the JS was performed to confirm band position and to exclude early pouch dilatation. Results: Out of the 350 LAGB operations, 6(1.8%) early pouch dilatations and 4(1.2%) stomach perforations occurred. All early pouch dilatations were recognized on postoperative JS and immediately repaired laparoscopically. Of the perforations, one was recognized intraoperatively, and the other three were diagnosed postoperatively, either by contrast media extravasation on the JS (two patients) or by computer tomography. Conclusion: Presently,all patients undergo routine postoperative JS, which exposes them to radiation, causes patient discomfort, and entails additional costs of approximately 100 US$ per patient. Of the last 250 patients in our series, there have not been any cases of early pouch dilatation and since 1998 only one case of perforation has occurred, which could be easily suspected clinically. Therefore, we believe that in experienced centers, it is not necessary to perform routine postoperative contrast media studies and recommend JS only in cases of complicated postoperative courses.     

30% Complications with Adjustable Gastric Banding: What did we do Wrong?

Background: The authors analyzed the complications in patients following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for morbid obesity. Methods: Retrospective analysis of the 36 LAGB patients was done. The operations were performed from December 1997 to the December 1999 using the Lap-Band?. Results: 11 complications occurred. Most common was port-site infection or port migration (5 patients).These complications were termed minor. In 3 patients, slippage of the gastric wall was observed, all corrected laparoscopically. In another 3 patients, removal of the band was necessary for poor patient compliance (1), for intussusception of the gastric wall through the band with occlusion of the stoma (1), and for infection of the band (1).These complications were termed major. The overall complication rate was 30.5%. Conclusion: Compared to the literature, our complication rate was rather high. Based on our analysis, the following measures are recommended: 1) antibiotic prophylaxis; 2) drainage of the port-site; 3) proper band and port placement and fixation; 4) closer psychological evaluation and follow-up. By these measures, hopefully we can obtain better results in the future.     

Outcome after Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding – 8 Years Experience

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has been our choice operation for morbid obesity since 1994. Despite a long list of publications about the LAGB during recent years, the evidence with regard to long-term weight loss after LAGB has been rather sparse. The outcome of the first 100 patients and the total number of 984 LAGB procedures were evaluated. Methods: 984 consecutive patients (82.5% female) underwent LAGB. Initial body weight was 132.2 ± 23.9 SD kg and body mass index (BMI) was 46.8 ± 7.2 kg/m². Mean age was 37.9 (18-65). Retrogastric placement was performed in 577 patients up to June 1998. Thereafter, the pars flaccida to perigastric (two-step technique) was used in the following 407 patients. Results: Mortality and conversion rates were 0. Follow-up of the first 100 patients has been 97% and ranges in the following years between 95% and 100% (mean 97.2%). Median follow-up of the first 100 patients who were available for follow-up was 98.9 months (8.24 years). Median follow-up of all patients was 55.5 months (range 99-1). Early complications were 1 gastric perforation after previous hiatal surgery and 1 gastric slippage (band was removed). All complications were seen during the first 100 procedures. Late complications of the first 100 cases included 17 slippages requiring reinterventions during the following years; total rate of slippage decreased later to 3.7%. Mean excess weight loss was 59.3% after 8 years, if patients with band loss are excluded. BMI dropped from 46.8 to 32.3 kg/m². 5 patients of the first 100 LAGB had the band removed, followed by weight gain; 3 of the 5 patients underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) with successful weight loss after the redo-surgery. 14 patients were switched to a "banded" LRYGBP and 2 patients to a LRYGBP during 2001-2002. The quality of life indices were still improved in 82% of the first 100 patients. The percentages of good and excellent results were at the highest level at 2 years after LAGB (92%). Conclusions: LAGB is safe, with a lower complication rate than other bariatric operations. Reoperations can be performed laparoscopically with low morbidity and short hospitalizations. The LAGB seems to be the basic bariatric procedure, which can be switched laparoscopically to combined bariatric procedures if treatment fails. After the learning curve of the surgeon, results are markedly improved. On the basis of 8 years long-term follow-up, it is an effective procedure.     

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: A Prospective 4-Year Follow-up Study

Background: A body mass index of ≥40 kg/m² represents clinically severe obesity and warrants operative treatment if requested. The adjustable silicone gastric band and the Swedish adjustable gastric band are recently produced laparoscopic gastric restrictive devices. The aim of this study was to assess all complications linked to both the available gastric bands in a long-term follow-up. Methods: In a prospective study, the effects, complications, and outcomes of this procedure were analyzed. The complications found were divided into early and general complications, and complications correlated to the bands. The technique of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is described. Follow-up was performed by the operating team. Results: Between July 1994 and August 1998, the authors operated on 158 patients and performed 102 adjustable silicone gastric bandings and 54 Swedish adjustable gastric bandings. The mean age at surgery was 36 years (range 17-72). The mean preoperative weight was 136 kg (89-230). Of 158 patients who underwent laparoscopic procedures, 156(98%) could be followed up (mean 28 months; duration of follow-up, 6 weeks to 46 months). In early postoperative complications that required operation, one trocar wound hematoma (0.6%) and one wound infection of the port site (0.6%) were observed. The late complications that required reoperation were two pouch dilatations (1.3%), three band leakages (2%), one band migration (0.6%), and one late infection of the port (0.6%). A debanding operation was necessary in one patient because of esophageal dysmotility disorder. No early or late postoperative mortality was registered. The overall reoperation rate is currently about 7%. Conclusion: The operation is safe and effective. Moreover, adjustable gastric banding is fully reversible and is adjustable to the patient's needs. This study verifies the importance of correct operating technique. The authors' study and experience clearly indicate that laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is an attractive alternative in the surgical treatment of morbid obesity.     

Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Following Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in Asia

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity. Previous studies in Western countries disclosed a significant improvement in co-morbidities and health-related quality of life. Data from Asia and regarding the specific GI quality of life following LAGB are lacking. Methods: From May 2002 to May 2005, 107 consecutive patients – 48 men and 59 women, with mean age 31.4 years (range 17-57 years) with morbid obesity (mean weight 115.8 kg, range 81-174 kg; mean BMI 41.3 kg/m², range 32.0-59.8 kg/m²) underwent LAGB in a prospective trial. All bands were placed via the pars flaccida technique. Quality of life was measured by the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI), a 36item questionnaire before LAGB, and at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after surgery. Results: All procedures were performed laparoscopically with no conversions. There was neither intra-operative complications nor major postoperative complications. Minor complications occurred in 3 patients (2.8%); all were transient stoma obstruction. At follow-up, only one band (0.94%) was removed at 3 months postoperatively because of the patient's intolerance. No gastric slippage occurred. 4 patients (3.7%) had tubing problems and required revision surgery for port adjustment. Mean BMI decreased from 41.3 to 33.1 after 2 years. Percent excess BMI loss averaged 48.1% at 2 years (range 6.7-139.2). All co-morbidities were eliminated significantly. 80% of patients were satisfied with the results at 2 years. However, the GIQLI score remained similar before and after surgery. Preoperative score was 110.8+15 points. The score became 116.2+13, 114.7+13, 108.5+14 and 107.2+17 at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months. The patients had improvement in 3 domains of general health (social, physical and emotional functions), but decrease in the domain of symptoms. Conclusion: Although LAGB was successful in weight loss and resolution of co-morbidities in morbidly obese patients, the GIQLI did not improve. This feature will be the major disadvantage of LAGB.     

High secondary failure rate of rebanding after failed gastric banding

BACKGROUND: Over the last decade, more than 130,000 laparoscopic adjustable gastric bandings (LAGB) have been performed for the treatment of morbid obesity. Nowadays, longer follow-up data are available in the literature and increasing numbers of late complications and treatment failures of gastric banding have been reported. The aim of the present study was the long-term evaluation of two different rescue operations after failed LAGB: conversion to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y bypass (LRYGB) versus laparoscopic gastric rebanding. METHODS: Between January 1997 and November 2002, 74 consecutive patients underwent either laparoscopic gastric rebanding (n = 44) or LRYGB (n = 30) after failed LAGB. There were 14 men and 60 women, with a median age of 42 (23-60) years. The indication for reoperation was an increasing body mass index (BMI) and band-related complications such as pouch dilatation, band slippage, and penetration after LAGB. Rebandings were done by preference during the initial period of the study and LRYGB was the treatment of choice during the latter period. The success of the rescue operation was assessed by postoperative changes in the BMI, improvements of co-morbidities, and the need for further reoperations (secondary failure). The median follow-up was 36 months (range, 24-60 months). RESULTS: Patients who underwent LRYGB had a significantly better weight loss than patients with a rebanding operation (mean -6.1 versus +1.5 BMI points). In addition, the LRYGB patients showed a significantly better control of serum cholesterol during the long term follow-up (-0.6 versus +0.1 mmol/l). Almost half of the patients (45%) in the rebanding group needed a further operative revision, whereas only 20% underwent reoperation after rescue LRYGB. Thus, the secondary failure rate in the rebanding group was significantly higher compared to the bypass group (p = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS: The present long-term study confirms our previous finding that LRYGB is a better treatment than rebanding after failed laparoscopic gastric banding regarding weight loss and treatment of co-morbidities. During the long-term follow-up the reoperation rate due to secondary failure became significantly higher in the rebanding group. We therefore recommend that LRYGB should be preferred as rescue procedure after failed laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.     

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: Imaging of normal anatomic features and postoperative gastrointestinal complications

Morbid obesity is a public health problem in the United States and Europe and its prevalence is on the increase. Despite certain progress the efficacy of medical treatment remains limited. Bariatric surgery has consequently become an effective alternative for patients with morbid obesity. The bariatric operations most frequently performed are laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LGB), but laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is increasingly popular with both bariatric surgeons and patients due to its simplicity, rapidity and decreased morbidity. The purpose of this pictorial essay is to familiarize radiologists with the normal postoperative anatomic features and the imaging findings of postoperative gastrointestinal complications of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy because little literature exists on this subject.     

腹腔镜可调控性胃捆扎带减肥术治疗病态肥胖术后并发症的诊治

目的探讨腹腔镜可调控性胃捆扎带减肥术（LAGB）术后并发症的发生及其诊治。方法回顾分析2003年6月至2004年11月23例在我院行LAGB减肥术的病态肥胖患者的临床资料。结果术后出现恶心、呕吐3例,腹部穿刺口感染1例,进食不耐受5例,以上均经保守处理治愈。捆扎带移位1例,行腹腔镜胃捆扎带取出术。注水泵移位1例,行注水泵异位包埋治愈。未出现死亡和血栓栓塞病例。结论LAGB治疗病态肥胖症的术后并发症的诊断和治疗有其特殊性,只要方法得当,可获得良好效果。     

Pregnancy after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: perinatal outcome is favorable also for women with relatively high gestational weight gain

Background The prevalence of morbid obesity is increasing steadily among women of reproductive age. In addition to the well-known comorbidities of the disease, it has been shown that the pregnancy outcome for obese women is worse than for women with a normal body mass index. This study aimed to evaluate the pregnancy and perinatal outcomes for women who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) because of morbid obesity. Methods This prospective, population-based study was conducted in a general surgery clinic of a tertiary hospital serving as a referral center for bariatric operations. All the patients underwent LAGB by the pars flaccida technique. A database containing information regarding age, pre- and postoperative weight and body mass index, weight gain, and LAGB-related or -unrelated complications during pregnancy was constructed for all women of childbearing age who underwent LAGB. A questionnaire was designed to provide perinatal data concerning both mother and neonate. Results The 74 women enrolled in this study had 81 single tone pregnancies. Their body mass index decreased significantly after LAGB, from 43.3 ± 5.8 to 30.3 ± 3 kg/m² at conception (p < 0.0001). The average time to the first live birth after surgery was 27 ± 3 months. Band slippage was diagnosed and treated laparoscopically in two patients (2.4%). Weight gain during pregnancy was 10.6 ± 2.1 kg. The rates of pregnancy-induced hypertension and gestational diabetes were 7.4% and 16% of all pregnancies, respectively. In 17 cases (20%), cesarean section was performed. Delivery occurred after 39.1 weeks of gestation. The mean birth weight was 3.09 ± 0.5 kg. Major congenital anomalies, postnatal hypoglycemia, symptomatic polycythemia or neonatal death were not recorded. Conclusions The findings show that LAGB is safe for both mother and newborn during gestation and delivery.     

U.S. experience with 749 laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands: intermediate outcomes

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) has consistently been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity, especially in Europe and Australia. Data from the U.S. regarding the LAGB has been insufficient. This study reveals our experience with 749 primary LAGB over a 3-year period in a U.S. university teaching hospital. Methods: All data was prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Characteristics evaluated for this study include preoperative age, BMI, gender, race, conversion rate, operative time, hospital stay, percent excess weight loss (%EWL) and postoperative complications. Annual esophagrams were performed Results: From July 2001 through September 2004, 749 patients (531 females, 218 males) underwent LAGB for the treatment of morbid obesity. There were 630 Caucasians, 61 African-Americans, and 49 Latin Americans, with a mean age of 42.3 (range 18, 72 years) and mean BMI of 46.0 ± 7.0 (range 35, 91.5 kg/m²). There was one conversion to open (0.1%). Median operative time and hospital stay were 60 minutes and 23 hours, respectively. The mean %EWL at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years was 44.4 (±17.8), 51.8 (±20.9), and 52.0 (±19.6), respectively. There were no mortalities. Postoperative complications occurred in 12.8% of patients: 1.5% acute postoperative band obstruction, 0.9% wound infection, 2.9% gastric prolapse (“slip”), 2.0% concentric pouch dilatation (without slip), 0.8% aspiration pneumonia, 2.4% port/tubing problems, 0.3% severe esophageal dilatation/dysmotility (reversible), and 1.5% overall band removal. Conclusion: These American results substantiate the data from abroad that LAGB is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity. Presented at the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) meeting, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA, 14 April 2005     

Laparoscopic gastroplasty for morbid obesity: prospective study of 300 cases

STUDY AIM: Laparoscopic gastric banding for morbid obesity is noninvasive and reversible. The aim of this prospective study was to report the preliminary results of this procedure in the first 300 patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: From April 1997 to January 2000, 300 patients were laparoscopically operated for severe obesity: 266 women, 34 men, with a mean age of 40.1 years (range: 16-66). The mean preoperative weight was 118 kg (range: 85-195) and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 43.6 kg/m2 (range: 35.1-65.8). This is a recent and complete series with a mean follow-up of 10 months (range: 3-31). The primary endpoint was excessive weight loss (EWL) and the secondary endpoints were tolerance and morbidity. RESULTS: There were no postoperative deaths. The mean operating time was 129 minutes (range: 50-380). A conversion to laparotomy was necessary in 11 patients. The mean hospital stay was 4.76 days (range: 3-42). There were 29 complications (9.6%), 16 among the first 50 procedures: 14 patients underwent an abdominal reoperation (2 perforations, 3 early slippages, 7 late slippages, 2 incisional hernias); 6 had respiratory complications with 2 ARDS and 9 developed a complication related to the port. At one year, BMI decreased from 43.6 to 33.7 kg/m2 and EWL reached 44.2%; 80% of the patients lost 60% of their excess weight. CONCLUSION: Our experience is encouraging with an acceptable complication rate (5%) after 50 procedures. Slippage remains the main reason for close surveillance. Half of the excess weight can be comfortably lost in one year when the whole medical and surgical staff provide close support for each patient.     

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding for the treatment of morbid obesity

BACKGROUND: This prospective study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for morbid obesity. METHODS: Ninety-five consecutive patients (89 female; median age 38 years, range 19 to 69) underwent LAGB for morbid obesity. Median weight and body mass index were 123.2 (88.9 to 228.6) kg and 45 (32.7-76.4) kg/m(2) respectively. Significant coexistent disease was present in 52 (55%) patients. RESULTS: Median excess weight loss was 53% (range 96.9% to 12.1%) and 62% (range 107.5% to 32.3%) at 1 and 2 years respectively (P <0.001). Median operative time was 90 (range 35 to 285) minutes and inpatient stay 2 (range 1 to 10) days. Early complications were seen in 17 (18%) patients most commonly nausea/vomiting or dysphagia. Late complications were seen in 25 (26.3%) patients, most frequently vomiting or reflux due to band slippage or pouch dilatation. There was 1 (1%) operative death. CONCLUSIONS: LAGB is an effective operation for morbid obesity that results in equivalent weight loss to open surgical procedures.     

Laparoscopic gastric banding: a minimally invasive surgical treatment for morbid obesity: prospective study of 500 consecutive patients

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate early and late morbidity of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding for morbid obesity and to assess the efficacy of this procedure by analyzing its results. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is considered the least invasive surgical option for morbid obesity. It is effective, with an average loss of 50% of excessive weight after 2 years of follow-up. It is potentially reversible and safe; major morbidity is low and there is no mortality. METHODS: Between April 1997 and June 2001, 500 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for morbid obesity with application of an adjustable gastric band. There were 438 women and 62 men (sex ratio = 0.14) with a mean age of 40.4 years. Preoperative mean body weight was 120.7 kg and mean body mass index (BMI) was 44.3 kg. m. RESULTS: Mean operative time was 105 minutes, 84 minutes during the last 300 operations. Mean hospital stay was 4.5 days. There were no deaths. There were 12 conversions (2.4%), 2 during the last 300 operations. Fifty-two patients (10.4%) had complications requiring an abdominal reoperation. Forty-nine underwent a reoperation for minor complications: slippage (n = 43, incisional hernias (n = 3), and reconnection of the catheter (n = 3). Three patients underwent a reoperation for major complications: gastroesophageal perforation (n = 2) and gastric necrosis (n = 1). Seven patients had pulmonary complications and 36 patients experienced minor problems related to the access port. At 1-, 2-, and 3-year follow-up, mean BMI decreased from 44.3 kg. m to 34.2, 32.8, and 31.9, respectively, and mean excess weight loss reached 42.8%, 52%, and 54.8%. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a beneficial operation in terms of excessive weight loss, with an acceptably low complication rate. It can noticeably improve the quality of life in obese patients. Half of the excess body weight can be effortlessly lost within 2 years.     

Has Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery been Accepted in Japan? The Experience of a Single Surgeon

Background  Obesity is steadily increasing in Asia due to factors such as a lack of exercise, adoption of a more Western diet, changing lifestyles, environments, or stresses. Even in Japan, this tendency is notable, and metabolic syndrome has become widely recognized. However, bariatric surgery is still uncommon in Japan. There are no adequate data regarding the experience and outcome of bariatric surgery in Asia. Here, we report on the current status of morbid obesity and the outcomes of bariatric surgery by a single surgeon in Japan. Methods  Between February 2002 and January 2008, we have performed laparoscopic bariatric surgery for morbid obesity in 178 cases. They consisted of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) in 105 cases, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in 26 cases, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with duodenal jejunal bypass (LSG/DJB) in 14 cases, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in 13 cases, and laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch in one case under the same protocol of follow up. The first author of this paper performed all procedures. Results  One hundred and thirty-eight patients with a follow-up of over 3 months after surgery were enrolled. LRYGBP accounted for 72% of all bariatric procedures. The reduction of weight and body mass index (BMI) in LRYGBP and LSG showed similar results. These outcomes were superior to those of LAGB. Percentage of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) of LRYGBP showed greater reductions at follow-ups 6, 9, 12, and 18 months after surgery compared to that of LRYGBP and LAGB. All procedures resulted in over 50% of %EBMIL after 18 months of follow-up. There was no postoperative mortality within 30 days after surgery. Preoperative comorbidity including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were resolved or improved after surgery in most patients. Conclusion  In bariatric surgery, LRYGBP is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity, while LAGB has a low risk of postoperative complications. LSG is also a safe procedure for supermorbidly obese patients. We expect that bariatric surgery will be a common procedure for patients with morbid obesity in Japan.     

腹腔镜可调节胃绑带治疗单纯肥胖症的临床应用

目的评价腹腔镜可调节捆扎带胃减容术（laparoscopic adjustablegastric banding,LAGB）治疗单纯肥胖症的效果。方法回顾性分析我院2006年3月-2007年5月行LAGB的单纯肥胖症9例的临床资料。结果手术时间130-210min,平均170min;出血量30～100ml,平均60ml。本组无一例中转开腹,无手术死亡病例,术中、术后均未发生并发症。本组均获24-34周（平均29周）的随访,减重9～41kg,平均20．5k,无营养不良症状出现。结论LAGB手术简单、安全,围手术期并发症发生率低,术后可根据需要调节减重速度。对单纯肥胖症病人,LAGB可减轻体重、缓解肥胖并发症和提高生活质量。     

Initial Experience with Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in Hungary

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) was started in Hungary in 1998. We used Lap-Band and SAGB devices. In this study we present our experience through the learning curve. Methods: From Jan 1999 to Dec 2002, 54 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for morbid obesity in our department, using the Lap-Band? and SAGB. There were 33 men and 21 women, with median age 42 (range 20-64), and preoperative BMI 50 kg/m² (range 41-66). All underwent LAGB, except one patient who had laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty.The procedures used the 4-trocar technique. Results: The first patient required reoperation because of gastric rupture from drinking sparkling mineral water despite of our advice. Excluding this, we had no intraoperative or short-term postoperative complications. Mean operating time was 82 minutes (range 55-192), and hospital stay was 3 days. Followup ranges from 1 to 36 months. Mean weight loss was 47 kg at 12 months and 67 kg at 36 months. Mean BMI fell to 29 kg/m². Conclusion:With its safety and effectiveness, LAGB has been a good choice for handling morbidly obese patients in our early experience.     

Some Complications After Laparoscopic Nonadjustable Gastric Banding

Background: Bariatric surgery is the only currently available, effective, long-term method for controlling morbid obesity. Gastric banding as one of the possible surgical treatments was repeatedly described during the last 10 years. It is a reversible surgical procedure which is primarily performed laparoscopically. Methods: From 1993 to 1998 at the 1^st Surgical Department Faculty General Hospital Charles University in Prague we performed nonadjustable gastric banding laparoscopically in 487 patients with morbid obesity (body mass index [BMI] 34 to 49 kg/m²). There were 429 females and 58 males in this group. Results: In 487 patients who underwent laparoscopic nonadjustable gastric banding (LNGB): early postoperative complications occurred in 29 cases (5.9%)--swelling of the gastric mucosa at the site of the nonadjustable band. In three cases (0.6%)--gastric perforations, and in two patients (0.4%)-- bleeding from gastric ulceration at the site of the band. Swelling was treated conservatively with a nasogastric tube and antisecretory and antiedematic drugs. Bleeding was treated by gastrofibroscopy and gastric perforation by open suture of the lesion. Late complications after LNGB occurred in eight patients (1.7%)--gastritis or esophagitis (but at the site of the band in only two patients [0.4%]), and in 13 patients (2.7%)--small upper pouch dilatation. In 24 cases (4.9%), we discovered slippage of the anterior stomach wall above the band. In three patients (0.6%), the band migrated through the gastric wall in 6-12 months following surgery. In the majority of cases, treatment of these complications was conservative. In eight patients we removed the band by laparoscopy, and in three patients we removed the migrating band from the stomach by open gastrotomy. Other complications have been treated conservatively by correcting the diet, prokinetic drugs, and antisecretory treatment. Conclusions: According to our long-term results, LNGB by experienced bariatric and laparoscopic surgeons is a viable method with low morbidity. In our 487 patients, there were major complications (necessitating reoperation) in 3.2% and minor complications (treated conservatively) in 10.4%.     

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding

The introduction of laparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding (LASGB) has recently revolutionized gastric restrictive procedures in the treatment of morbid obesity. We analysed the short and long term results of this minimally invasive bariatric procedure. A total of 652 patients with a body mass of (median) 45 kg/m(2) were treated. There were only minor preoperative incidents. One patient died more than one month after the procedure. Early postoperative complications included 2 gastric perforations caused by a nasogastric tube and one early slipping of the band. Late complications occurred in 7% of the patients: 25 patients suffered a pouch dilation, 2 patients had gastric erosion by the band; 18 patients had port complications requiring reoperation. Loss of excess weight was 62% at 2 years. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity. The most frequent complication is pouch dilation. Further study is warranted for the evaluation of long term results.     

Laparoscopic gastric bypass is superior to adjustable gastric band in super morbidly obese patients: A prospective, comparative analysis

HYPOTHESIS: Outcome following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in super morbidly obese patients is significantly worse compared with the standard laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). DESIGN: Prospective case series. SETTING: Community teaching hospital (490 beds). PATIENTS: A prospectively maintained database identified patients who underwent operative treatment for morbid obesity between February 2001 and June 2004. The study group included super morbidly obese patients (body mass index >50 [calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters]) following LAGB and LRYGB. INTERVENTIONS: Among 106 patients with super morbid obesity, 60 (57%) and 46 (43%) underwent LAGB and LRYGB, respectively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Patient demographics, weight loss, percentage of excess weight loss, change in body mass index, early (<30 days) and late (> or =30 days) complications, reoperations, medical comorbidity, and patient satisfaction were studied. Analysis was performed using the t test and Pearson chi 2 analysis. RESULTS: Overall median follow-up was 16.2 months (range, 1-40 months). Preoperative factors of patient age, sex, weight, body mass index, and medical comorbidity were similar between the 2 groups. Compared with LRYGB, patients who underwent LAGB experienced a greater incidence of late complications (P < .05), reoperations (P < .04), less weight loss (P<.001), and decreased overall satisfaction (P < .006). Likewise, patients who underwent LRYGB had a greater resolution of concomitant diabetes mellitus (P < .05) and sleep apnea (P<.01) compared with the LAGB group. Furthermore, postoperative adjustments to achieve consistent weight loss for LAGB recipients ranged from 1 to 15 manipulations. Our single mortality was in the LAGB group. CONCLUSIONS: In super morbidly obese patients, LAGB is significantly associated with more late complications, reoperations, less weight loss, less reduction of medical comorbidity, and patient dissatisfaction compared with LRYGB. Further evaluation of LAGB in this patient population appears warranted.     

Laparoscopic reoperation for early complications of laparoscopic gastric bypass

Background: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) is a popular operation for morbid obesity.Early complications can be treated successfully with a laparoscopic approach.We reviewed our experience with laparoscopic re-exploration in the early postoperative period. Methods: The initial 85 patients who underwent LRYGBP by two surgeons at a training hospital were reviewed. All patients who required re-exploration within the first 60 days postoperatively were considered. Results: Nine patients underwent ten laparoscopic explorations. Mean BMI was 50 kg/m². One patient underwent revision for proximal anastomotic obstruction at 58 days postoperatively. Three patients developed obstruction at the level of the transverse mesocolon secondary to cicatrix and required laparoscopic release of the scar tissue.Two patients required revision of the jejuno-jejunostomy. Internal hernia through the mesenteric defect at the level of the transverse mesocolon was the cause of bowel obstruction in two patients. One patient underwent lysis of adhesions between the left colon and the transverse mesocolon at 6 days postoperatively. One out of the ten laparoscopic re-explorations was negative for any findings. Eight patients recovered without further complications and one patient required endoscopic dilatations of the proximal anastomosis. Conclusion: In the course of treating morbid obesity with laparoscopic intervention, complications will arise. Laparoscopic exploration for early complications is a safe and feasible option.