Long-term results after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in adolescent patients: follow-up of the Austrian experience.

Background: During the last 30 years a threefold increase in the number of overweight children has been reported in Western countries. More than 15% of adolescents have a body mass index (BMI) higher than the 95th percentile. The use of surgical strategies in adolescent patients is still controversial due to the impact on the continuing maturing process.

Mechanical versus suture fixation of the port in adjustable gastric banding procedures: a prospective randomized blinded study.

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band port placement can require 9-25% of total implantation time. Prolonged port fixation combined with extended wound manipulation results in an elevated incidence of port-related complications (infection, port tension, pain, rotation). This study compared port fixation using a novel applier to traditional fixation using nonresorbable sutures.

Use of bioabsorbable staple reinforcement material in gastric bypass: a prospective randomized clinical trial.

Background: Staple line failure, although uncommon, can result in significant morbidity and, even, mortality. Staple line buttressing has been developed to improve staple line strength, decrease bleeding, and minimize the risk of leak. Many different products are currently available.

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in adolescents: the Austrian experience.

Background: Morbid obesity is a rising problem in adolescents in the industrial nations. Up to 25% of children have a body mass index (BMI) higher than the 85th age- and sex-adjusted percentile. Obesity in youth is associated with increased risk for morbidity and mortality in adulthood.