The Lap-Band is an effective tool for weight loss even in the United States

Background Despite impressive results with the Lap-Band in Europe and Australia, the early Food and Drug Administration A trial in the United States showed fairly poor results. This prospective study attempts to determine if the Lap-Band can produce effective weight loss in morbidly obese Americans. Methods Five hundred four consecutive patients have undergone placement of the Lap-Band (Inamed). Four hundred fourteen patients were women (82%) and 90 were men (18%). The median preoperative weight was 138 kg, and the preoperative median body mass was 49 kg/m2. Results Five hundred two bands were placed laparoscopically. One was converted to an open procedure because of lack of exposure, and one was placed open because of multiple previous abdominal surgeries. Median operating time was 50 minutes, and median length of stay was 1.8 days. Percent excess weight loss at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months for all patients was 36%, 50%, 61%, and 65%, respectively. Complications occurred in 96 patients (19%) primarily consisting of port tubing separations, slips, postoperative dysphagia, and port infections. There was one (.2%) mortality. Conclusions The Lap-Band system is an effective tool for weight loss surgery in morbidly obese patients in the United States.