Is There Still a Role for Video-Assisted Laparoscopic Gastric Banding in Severe Obesity?

Abstract

Introduction:

Gastric banding is the most commonly used surgical procedure to lose weight. The aim of this study is to report our experience with the use of the hand-assisted technique for gastric banding in severe obesity.

Materials and Methods:

The study included all cases treated for severe obesity between January 2005 and July 2012 at the authors' institutions. Inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study were created; early and late complications and outcomes were also considered.

Results:

A total of 313 patients were treated during the study period. Median preoperative weight was 120.6 kg (range 82–150 kg) with a median body–mass index of 44 kg/m² (range 36.6–47.8 kg/m²); median operating time was 47 min (range 29–103 min). No patient needed conversion to open surgery, while 4% of cases showed intolerance. None of the study patients underwent further bariatric procedures.

Conclusions:

The hand-assisted technique is safe and useful and it permits a shorter operating time than standard laparoscopy and guarantees better placement of the gastric band.