Two new studies have been published in Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases (SOARD), which reinforce the safety and efficacy of the LAP-BAND® System. A statement by Allergan explains “The first study followed one surgeon’s practice for five years (March 30, 2004 to December 2, 2009) in which 442 laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) procedures were performed. The study found that on average patients achieved 48 percent excess weight loss at two years and 60 percent excess weight loss at five years, with no evidence of weight re-gain over the duration of the study.” In addition to the positive weight loss results, this study showed a very high follow up rate (follow up information on 94 percent of patients was available). As emphasized often by top bariatric surgeons, the right focus was placed on ongoing visits and care that are so important to LAP-BAND® success. “Patients were seen two weeks postoperatively and then every six weeks for the first year, every three months for the second year and twice yearly thereafter. Adjustments were made according to weight loss, level of satiety and hunger.” In terms of safety, this study showed a perioperative mortality rate of zero percent and a low explantation rate (i.e., band removal) – of less than two percent. The author’s conclusion was that “Gastric banding is safe and effective, produces sustained weight loss, and has a low long-term failure rate”.
The second study evaluated 43 patients who had underwent LAGB after failing to achieve satisfactory weight loss following gastric bypass surgery. Researchers included leading bariatric surgeons Dr. George Fielding, Dr. Christine Ren Fielding, and Dr. Marina Kurian. We talked to Dr. Kurian about her experience and thoughts on the study. She said “Use of the LAP-BAND® in bypass patients who have regained weight has been a source of strength and hope for these patients. The adjustability of the band is critical for long term weight loss and maintenance in many patients who choose banding as a primary option as well as those patients who need the safest option in revisional surgery. In patients with weight regain, placing a band around the gastric pouch helps restore the restriction these patients felt initially after the bypass, and gives the patient back the control needed to perpetuate their weight loss.”
Both studies are in the current edition of SOARD.
Weight Loss Studies & Clinical