The LM Proring Band® and left approach in laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty:: Preliminary results in 44 cases

Background: Morbid obesity is one of the most important social and medical issues in Western countries. Many authors have adopted a minimally invasive approach to reproduce current bariatric operations. The aim of this study is to present a personal technique for laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty (LVBG) and the preliminary results of 44 patients. Methods: Patients fulfilled the indications for bariatric surgery and were followed prospectively. LVBG was performed in patients who refused laparoscopic banding because of port placement and adjustment, or in patients with hiatus hernia, with or without gastroesophageal reflux disease. The technique performed consisted of a laparoscopic Mason modified-MacLean gastroplasty using only 4 ports. The circular stapler was introduced in the left anterior axillary line subcostally. using the same working port as the Endo-GIA stapler. A new device, a non-adjustable silicone ring, was placed as the collar around the lower end of the gastric pouch. Results: The 44 patients underwent a satisfactory LVBG with no conversions to open surgery. Mean operative time was 80 minutes (range 45-180), hospital. stay was 4 days, and all 44 operations had an uneventful postoperative course. There were 40 women and 4 men, with mean age 42.5 years (24-59). Preoperative mean weight was 118.7 kg (84.5-184), with mean BMI 44.5 (35.6-60.1). 27 of the 44 patients were selected for analysis of weight loss, selection criteria being a sufficient amount of data (>2 weight losses separated by at least 2 months). For these 27 patients, mean age 41.9 (26-59), preoperative weight 119.3 kg (95-145) and mean BMI 44.6 (38.3-53.6), weight loss data were fitted with an exponential growth function, using a quasi-Newton fit algorithm. The fitted coefficient was used to calculate %excess weight loss and BMI. Mean weight loss at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months was 9.2 kg (4.4-17.2), 24.5 kg (11.0-35.9), 29 kg (12.6-53.6), and 36.5 kg (12.8-66.5) respectively. Conclusion: LVBG has given good results thus far and may be selected as a restrictive procedure. Weight loss and resolution of comorbidities occurred, and a considerable increase in self-confidence and quality of life were reported.