Long-term results after revisions of failed primary vertical banded gastroplasty

AIM: To compare the results after revision of primary vertical banded gastroplasty (Re-VBG) and conversion to sleeve gastrectomy (cSG) or gastric bypass (cRYGB).METHODS: In this retrospective single-center study, all patients with a failed VBG who underwent revisional surgery were included. Medical charts were reviewed and additional postal questionnaires were sent to update follow-up. Weight loss, postoperative complications and long-term outcome were assessed.RESULTS: A total 152 patients were included in this study, of which 21 underwent Re-VBG, 16 underwent cSG and 115 patients underwent cRYGB. Sixteen patients necessitated a second revisional procedure. No patients were lost-to-follow-up. Two patients deceased during the follow-up period, 23 patients did not return the questionnaire. Main reasons for revision were dysphagia/vomiting, weight regain and insufficient weight loss. Excess weight loss (%EWL) after Re-VBG,cSG and cRYGB was, respectively, 45%, 57% and 72%.Eighteen patients (11.8%) reported postoperative complications and 27% reported long-term complaints. CONCLUSION: In terms of additional weight loss,postoperative complaints and reintervention rate, Rouxen-Y gastric bypass seems feasible as a revision for a failed VBG.