Laparoscopic revisional bariatric surgery: myths and facts.
BACKGROUND
Bariatric surgery is growing worldwide. An increasing number of patients will require revisional procedures because of inadequate weight control, complications, or loss of quality of life.


METHODS
From August 1999 to September 2003, 62 patients were submitted to laparoscopic revisional surgery.


RESULTS
The primary operations consisted of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in 39 cases, banded and nonbanded Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in 17 cases, vertical banded gastroplasty in 4 cases, and biliopancreatic diversion in 2 cases. Although technically demanding, laparoscopic conversion to RYGB was possible in all cases. Mean operative time was 100 min. Mean hospital stay was 77 h. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. A good body mass index reduction after the revisional procedure was observed with a 24 month follow-up period.


CONCLUSIONS
Laparoscopic revisional bariatric surgery is safe and effective. However, it should be performed only by experienced bariatric and laparoscopic surgeons.
Cohen
R
R
Center for the Surgical Treatment of Morbid Obesity, Hospital São Camilo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil. rvcohen@attglobal.net
Pinheiro
J S
JS
Correa
J L
JL
Schiavon
C
C
D000328:Adult; D050110:Bariatric Surgery; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010535:Laparoscopy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012086:Reoperation; D012189:Retrospective Studies