Initial experience with laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in Hungary.
BACKGROUND
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) was started in Hungary in 1998. We used Lap-Band and SAGB devices. In this study we present our experience through the learning curve.


METHODS
From Jan 1999 to Dec 2002, 54 patients underwent laparoscopic surgery for morbid obesity in our department, using the Lap-Band and SAGB. There were 33 men and 21 women, with median age 42 (range 20-64), and preoperative BMI 50 kg/m(2) (range 41-66). All underwent LAGB, except one patient who had laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty. The procedures used the 4-trocar technique.


RESULTS
The first patient required reoperation because of gastric rupture from drinking sparkling mineral water despite of our advice. Excluding this, we had no intraoperative or short-term postoperative complications. Mean operating time was 82 minutes (range 55-192), and hospital stay was 3 days. Followup ranges from 1 to 36 months. Mean weight loss was 47 kg at 12 months and 67 kg at 36 months. Mean BMI fell to 29 kg/m(2).


CONCLUSIONS
With its safety and effectiveness, LAGB has been a good choice for handling morbidly obese patients in our early experience.
Bende
Janos
J
Péterfy Hospital, Department of Surgery, Budapest, Hungary. dagsebbj@elender.hu
Ursu
Miklos
M
Csiszar
Miklos
M
D000328:Adult; D015992:Body Mass Index; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D015391:Gastroplasty / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D006814:Hungary; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009767:Obesity, Morbid / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss