Radiological features of complications of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.
OBJECTIVE
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is used to treat morbid obesity. We reviewed the associated complications with emphasis on radiological features and the role of radiology in suspected complications.


METHODS
Between 30 January 2001 and 3 October 2006, 313 consecutive LAGB patients' data was entered into a prospective database. A contrast swallow was routinely performed on the first postoperative day, and port adjustments were done at variable intervals. Additional radiological studies were performed in patients with suspected complications.


RESULTS
Of 313 patients who underwent LAGB, 46 had 51 complications (16.3%). The commonest complications were LAGB system leakage (5.1%), anterior band slippage (3.5%) and infected port (1.6%). Two mortalities (0.6%), one early and one late, occurred.


CONCLUSIONS
LAGB is a relatively low-risk procedure widely performed for treating morbid obesity. Imaging plays a pivotal role in the early evaluation and detection of LAGB complications.
Moey
T
T
Departments of Diagnostic Radiology and Surgery, Alexandra Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.
Peh
W C G
WC
Peh
W
W
Clarke
M J
MJ
Clarke
M
M
Dubey
N
N
Niraj
D
D
Cheng
A
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D003287:Contrast Media; D005260:Female; D015391:Gastroplasty; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009767:Obesity, Morbid / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography
D003287:Contrast Media