Related Experiment Videos
Laparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding (Lap-Band): how to avoid complications
F Favretti1, G B Cadiere, G Segato
1Department of Surgery, University of Padova, Italy.
Background:
The laparoscopic application of LAP-BAND is gaining widespread acceptance as a gastric restrictive procedure. At the same time the reported morbidities (i.e., gastric perforation, stomach and/or band slippage) are cause for some concern.
Methods:
From September 1993 until May 1997, 260 patients underwent LAP-BAND at the Department of Surgery at the University of Padova, Italy.
Results:
The mortality rate was zero and the morbidity rate requiring reoperation was 3.4% (stomach slippage, gastric perforation, erosion). In order to avoid complications the key points of the technique are reviewed: (1) reference points for dissection (equator of the balloon, left crus); (2) retrogastric tunnel within the layers of the phrenogastric ligament; (3) embedment of the band; (4) proper outlet calibration; and (5) retention sutures.
Conclusions:
Attention to technical details is of paramount importance for a safe, standardized and effective operation.