Vertical banded gastroplasty in the Aegean region of Turkey

Background: Obesity is increasing in Turkey. The first experience with vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) with regular intermediate-term follow-up in the Aegean Region of Turkey is presented. Methods: From November 1993 to August 1999, 40 morbidly obese patients underwent VBG. The patients were evaluated on the basis of excess weight loss (EWL) and satisfaction with the operation. Results: Regular follow-up was obtained in 38 patients (95%), with mean follow-up 27.2 months (14-85). Average preoperative body weight (BW) was 141.4 kg (93-238) and body mass index (BMI) was 52.3 kg/m(2) (41-77.8). Average EWL was 64.1% (21.2-92.3). Average postoperative BW and BMI were 93.3 kg (70-145) and 34.4 kg/m(2) (25.1-53) respectively. 35 of 38 patients (92%) lost more than 25% of EW and 28 of 38 (73.6%) lost more than 50% of EW. After weight loss, hypertension disappeared or improved in 86% of patients and diabetes resolved in 75%. Sleep apnea disappeared in 100% of patients. The early and late complication rates were 7.9% and 15.8% respectively. 33 of 38 patients (87%) were satisfied with the operation. Conclusion: VBG was safe and effective, resulted in acceptable weight loss, and the vast majority of patients were satisfied.