Technical alternatives in laparoscopic placement of an adjustable gastric band: experience of two German university hospitals

The technique of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), although relatively well standardized, has some "weak points". We analysed the experience of 2 German university clinics in order to suggest technical alternatives that can be helpful in difficult situations. Between April 1997 and May 2002 115 patients in Cologne (87 females, 28 males) with median BMI 49.5 kg/m(2) and mean age 39 years (19-54), and 112 patients in Mainz (91 females, 21 males) with median BMI 48 kg/m(2) and mean age 35 years (18-57) underwent LAGB, using the Lap-Band. LAGB was performed through 5 ports (3 10-mm, 1 18-mm, and 1 5-mm in Cologne and 4 10-mm and 1 18-mm port in Mainz). The pars flaccida technique by means of a fan-shaped Endo-Retractor was used in both clinics. Mean duration of follow-up was 3.2 years (SD 1.0) in the Cologne group with complete investigation in all except 4 patients. In the Mainz group, mean duration of follow-up was 2.7 years (SD 1.0) with complete investigation in all except 9 patients. Some technical aspects such as induction of pneumoperitoneum, band position, band fixation, band malposition and port-related complications are discussed.