Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: Predictive Factors for Weight Loss and Band Removal After More than 10 Years' Follow-Up in a Single University Unit

Background Weight loss and overall outcomes following laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) are more variable than with other bariatric procedures. Our aim was to investigate the predictive value of certain parameters in a cohort of 794 patients with 10 years' minimum follow-up after LAGB. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the records of 794 patients undergoing LAGB performed by the authors between April 1996 and December 2004. We collected patients' data on weight loss and band-related complications and performed logistic regression modelling and calculated Kaplan-Meier curves for band preservation. Results The follow-up rate at 10 years was 90.4%. The mean follow-up duration was 15.1 years (range, 120-228 months). Overall band removal with or without conversion or replacement was required in 304 (38.2%) patients. The mean survival time of the band was 148.4 months (95% confidence interval: 138.3-167.4), and there was no difference in the rate of removal by operative technique (p = 0.7). The highest rate of band removal occurred in female patients (p = 0.05), those with BMI > 50 kg/m(2) (p = 0.005) and in those <40 years of age (p = 0.04). For patients with the band in situ, the success rate was significantly lower in patients with initial BMI > 50 kg/m(2). Conversely, differences in success rate were not statistically significant for age (using 50 years as the cut-off), technique or sex. Conclusions Higher rates of removal occurred in women, younger patients and those with BMI > 50 kg/m(2). Regardless of these criteria, the rate of band removal for complications rose over time. Patients should be informed of the high risk of the need for band removal long-term.