Weight loss and improvement of comorbidities after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding for morbid obesity

Background : We introduced laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) to Japan. Methods : Between August 2005 and August 2007, 21 morbidly obese patients with 44 ± 10kg/m² (mean ± S.D. ) BMI underwent LAGB. LAGB using the pars flaccida technique with 3-5 gastric-to-gastric sutures did to prevent band slip-page. Results : No conversion to open surgery or post-LAGB complications were seen. Weight loss 12 months after surgery was 25 ± 11kg and the percentage of excess weight loss was 41 ± 7%. After 18 months, there were 29 ± 13kg and 49 ± 11%. Weight loss led to lower hypertension in 91% of patients, lower dyslipidemia in 94%, and improved type 2 diabetes in 100%. Conclusions : LAGB is safe and effective, and is expected to play an important role in the treatment of morbid obesity in Japan.