Development of a Measure of Barriers to Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) Aftercare Attendance

Background Regular aftercare attendance following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is associated with greater weight loss and fewer post-surgical complications. Despite high reported rates of attrition from LAGB aftercare, the reasons for non-attendance have not been thoroughly explored. The aim of the current study was to describe the scale development, explore the factor structure and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Gastric Banding Aftercare Attendance Questionnaire (GBAAQ)-a tool that measures barriers to aftercare attendance in LAGB patients. Methods One hundred and eighty-three participants completed the GBAAQ; 107 regular attendees and 76 non-attendees. Results A factor analysis identified four factors (Treatment Approach, Time Constraints, Stress and Pressures, Uncomfortable Participating) that demonstrated good known-groups validity and internal consistency. Conclusions Although further validation is needed, the results of the present study provide preliminary support for the validity of the GBAAQ. Knowledge about the barriers to LAGB aftercare attendance can be used to identify those most at risk of non-attendance and can inform strategies aimed at reducing non-attendance.