Introduction: The laparoscopic application of an adjustable silicone gastric band is an established procedure in the surgical treatment of pathologic adiposity.
Patients and methods: Twenty-five patients with morbid obesity underwent the laparoscopic application of a gastric band between November 1998 and June 2000. A modified band (GastroBelt II) was used.
Results: Early and late complications were rare in comparison with previous procedures. Complications, which often require surgical intervention, such as slipping of the stomach (8-12%) or pouch dilatation (2-4%), were not observed. The total morbidity rate and mortality rate were both 0%.
Conclusion: Critical selection of the patients before the operation and appropriate compliance produced an average loss of weight of 7% of the overweight at 6 weeks, 20% at 3 months and 28% at 6 months after the operation. Preconditions for this operation are a coordinated operation team and a clearly defined standardized postoperative care concept.