Lap-band impact on the function of the esophagus.

Background: The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) has been widely used to treat morbid obesity. There is conflicting data on its long-term effect on esophageal function. Our aim was to assess the long-term impact of the LAGB on esophageal motility and pH-metry in patients who had LAGB who had normal and abnormal esophageal function at baseline.

The effect of laparoscopic gastric banding surgery on plasma levels of appetite-control, insulinotropic, and digestive hormones.

Background: We hypothesized that laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) reduces weight and modulates ghrelin production, but largely spares gastrointestinal endocrine function. To examine this hypothesis, we determined plasma concentrations of appetite-control, insulinotropic, and digestive hormones in relation to LAGB.

Methods: Twenty-four patients undergoing LAGB were prospectively enrolled.