The influence of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding on gastroesophageal reflux

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) influences gastroesophageal reflux. Methods: 26 patients undergoing gastric banding were assessed by a questionnaire for symptom analysis, 24-hour pH monitoring, endoscopy and barium swallows, preoperatively, at 6 weeks and at 6 months after operation. Results: Gastric banding had minimal effect on heartburn scores, but regurgitation and belching scores increased significantly during follow-up. Use of acid-reducing drugs decreased significantly at weeks and increased significantly at 6 months. Pathological reflux was present in 13 of the 26 patients preoperatively. At 6 months pathological reflux was found in only 6 of these 13 patients, but 4 of the 13 patients with preoperative normal reflux patterns had developed pathological reflux. 6 months after the operation esophagitis had disappeared in 6 patients and was increased in 9 patients. In 9 patients, a pouch was found at 6 months. Pouch formation was significantly correlated with the presence of pathological reflux, esophagitis and the use of acid-reducing medication. Preoperative presence of a hiatal hernia did not influence pouch formation or pathological reflux. Conclusion: LAGB decreases gastroesophageal reflux if there is no pouch formation during follow-up.