An approach to the assessment and management of the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band patient in the emergency department.

Objective: As the number of obese people in Australia continues to increase, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) surgery will become increasingly common. It is important for practitioners involved in the care of such patients to be able to accurately diagnose, and initially manage, pathology relating to the LAGB.

Methods: A retrospective review of 56 presentations in 41 patients with LAGB, who presented to the ED of a major tertiary hospital, was performed.

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.

Background: The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band is a useful tool in the treatment of severe obesity. It is a safe and durably effective procedure, however, optimal results depend upon the patient participating in a process of lifelong care.

Objective: This article discusses the procedure, follow up, and late complications for laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.

Outcomes, satiety, and adverse upper gastrointestinal symptoms following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.

Background: Follow-up is critical to the success of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Few data guide this and expected norms of satiety, adverse symptoms, and outcomes have not been defined.

Methods: Consecutive patients, who underwent LAGB, were evaluated using a newly developed instrument that assessed satiety, adverse upper gastrointestinal (dysphagia, reflux, and epigastric pain), and outcomes (overall satisfaction, weight loss, and quality of life (SF-36)).

Pathophysiology of laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands: analysis and classification using high-resolution video manometry and a stress barium protocol.

Background: Symmetrical pouch dilatation has become the most common problem following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Although, in a significant number of symptomatic patients, no explanation for the underlying problem is identified with a contrast swallow. There is a need for a better understanding of the pathophysiology of LAGBs and more sensitive diagnostic tests.

The effect of laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands on esophageal motility and the gastroesophageal junction: analysis using high-resolution video manometry.

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands (LAGB) are a safe and effective treatment for obesity. Conflicting data exist concerning their effect on the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction, and mechanism of action. These patients will increasingly require accurate assessment of their esophageal function.

Symmetrical pouch dilatation after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: incidence and management.

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has commonly been complicated by the problem of band slippage or prolapse. Since popularization of the pars flaccida approach and improved anterior fixation, it is our impression that the problem of symmetrical dilatation of the proximal gastric pouch has become more important.

Methods: We have reviewed the results of a series of 425 LAGB all performed by the pars flaccida approach from June 2003 to October 2007 to analyze the incidence and implications of this new pattern.

The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (Lap-Band): a prospective study of medium-term effects on weight, health and quality of life.

Background: Obesity is now one of our major public health problems. Effective and acceptable treatment options are needed. The Lap-Band system is placed laparoscopically and allows adjustment of the level of gastric restriction.