Long term results of laparoscopic gastric band

Laparoscopic gastric band (LAGB) has gained popularity among the surgical community since its first description in the early 90'. Actually, it is the third most practiced bariatric procedure in the world. The mean advantage of LAGB is a low rate of early postoperative morbidity. These satisfactory early results are in complete opposition with relatively high long term morbidity and a high rate of weight loss failure.

Long term morbidity, weight loss and life quality index after LAGB were analyzed.

Data of patients eligible for LAGB between January 2005 and November 2016 in the surgical department of La Rabta teaching hospital were retrospectively analyzed. Weight loss curves, long term complications and quality of life were evaluated.

Between 2004 and 2008, 28 patients had LAGB. Mean preoperative BMI was 44.6 Kg/m². No immediate complications occurred. Mean EWL were 39% and 37% respectively after 24 and 60 months. EWL was above 50% in only 4 patients. Coming to long term morbidity, 10 (35%) patients had complications. Reintervention rate was 39%. The gastric band was removed in 9 (32%) patients. Mean quality of life BAROS score was 4.21.

Judging for its long term morbidity with a high reintervention rate, the LAGB raises the question of its valuable position as a surgical procedure against morbid obesity.