Laparoscopic adjustable banding in pregnancy: safety, patient tolerance and effect on obesity-related pregnancy outcomes

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is increasingly recommended to women of reproductive age. For continued use, LAGB needs to be proven to be safe and well-tolerated during pregnancy. Maternal obesity is a well-recognized risk factor for gestational diabetes, maternal hypertension and is more likely to result in instrumental delivery or caesarean section. Weight control with the LAGB may reduce the incidence of these complications. An observational study was conducted of the LAGB in pregnancy, including a study comparing outcomes of LAGB pregnancies with previous non-LAGB pregnancies. Women who had had successful LAGB pregnancies were identified from a computerized database. A telephone questionnaire was used to collect the additional outcome data needed and was administered by an independent medical practitioner. 49 LAGB and 31 previous non-LAGB pregnancies were included. 2 LAGBs (4%) required removal during pregnancy. Mean maternal weight gain was significantly reduced in the LAGB group, 3.7 kg vs 15.6 kg (P