Effect of Banded Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on Weight Loss Maintenance: Comparative Study Between Banded and Non-Banded Sleeve on Weight Loss

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is presently one of the most popular surgical procedures for obesity. One of the possible long-term problems is weight regain, usually after a period of successful weight loss. Weight regain after LSG can be due to new eating habits, such as sweet eating or eating snacks, or volume eating because of impaired restriction. This study was done to determine the potential benefit of placing a band of double layer mesh (Gortex mesh) around the upper portion of a sleeved stomach to prevent late dilatation and weight gain. Methods: From June 2011 to July 2012, 24 patients underwent a LSG followed by placement of a band of double layer mesh (Gortex mesh) 6 cm from the gastro-esophageal junction. The results were compared with 24 patients undergoing non-banded sleeve gastrectomy (NBSG) during the same period. Outcome measures included postoperative morbidity and mortality, and weight loss in terms of initial body mass index, percentage weight loss through the following 12–18 months (from July 2012 to January 2014), weight loss maintenance, and weight regain. Results: All 48 patients showed weight loss, with improvement or resolution of their diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and sleep apnea after banded sleeve gastrectomy (BSG) similar to the NBSG group. However, the curve of weight loss was steeper in the group of BSG, and weight loss maintenance was remarkable in this group compared with the NBSG group. There were no deaths in either group. Conclusion: BSG provides better results in the curve of losing weight and weight loss maintenance. While this study documents the feasibility and possible benefits of this modification, other prospective studies with long-term follow-up are needed to establish its role in surgical weight loss procedures.