Laparoscopic adjustable pyloric band with fundoplication in bariatric surgery: technique and preliminary results

Laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion according to Scopinaro is an extremely effective operation for weight loss, but carries significant morbidity in terms of metabolic deficiencies.

A study was conducted as to the feasibility, safety and efficiency of a novel procedure, accomplishing a 'reversible Scopinaro BPD', performed in two stages: first the placement of an adjustable band in a juxtapyloric position, aiming at maintaining postprandial satiety, and second, the construction of a transmesocolic Roux-en-Y gastro-enterostomy with a 2.5-m long distal jejunal limb, reanastomosed 50 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve.

15 patients, mean BMI 38.9, 8 males and 7 females, underwent the first stage of pyloric adjustable banding. All benefited at the same time from a Nissen fundoplication, to avoid gastroesophageal reflux. 1 patient was withdrawn from the study at this stage because of peritonitis of unknown cause and removal of the band. 3 patients benefited from the second stage of the operation because of insufficient weight loss, and/or symptoms of gastric stasis. 1 patient developed diarrhea and was treated by peroral cholestyramine. Weight loss was similar to the regular BPD figures.

The placement of an adjustable gastric band in a juxtapyloric position, combined with a Nissen fundoplication, appears to be a safe and efficient satiety-inducing operation. In case of insufficient weight loss, and/or exaggerated gastric stasis, a Scopinaro BPD construction can be added to the otherwise unharmed stomach, hereby constituting an instantly reversible malabsorptive component.