Outcome after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, using the Lap-Band and the Heliogast band: a prospective randomized study.
BACKGROUND
A study was performed to assess the usefulness and efficacy of a new type of band (Heliogast) for laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for the treatment of morbid obesity, compared with the Lap-Band.


METHODS
From January to May 2001, a prospective randomized study of 60 LAGB procedures was conducted: group I (n=30), the Lap-Band system (INAMED); group II (n=30), the Heliogast band (Hélioscopie). We implanted the devices using the 2-step technique (pars flaccida to peri-gastric) by laparoscopy. Port systems were placed on the rectus sheath and were fixed by non-absorbable sutures. Follow-up of all patients was a minimum of 12 months.


RESULTS
There were no differences in operating-time, intra-operative complications, or weight loss during the first 4 weeks after surgery. However, with increasing time, more complications with the Heliogast band and differences in weight loss favoring the Lap-Band became significant.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on the results of this study, we recommend that new bands have independent clinical evaluation before commercialization.
Blanco-Engert
R
R
Division of Surgery, Rotes Kreuz Krankenhaus, Frankfurt am Main, Germany. blancomd@hotmail.com
Weiner
S
S
Pomhoff
I
I
Matkowitz
R
R
Weiner
R A
RA
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D015391:Gastroplasty / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss