Authors' objectives: This report aims to summarise the available evidence on the safety and effectiveness of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) surgery for treating morbidly obese patients.

Authors' recommendations: The clinical studies evaluated for this report took place within a hospital setting. Therefore, whether LAGB surgery can be offered to the morbidly obese population outside a hospital setting cannot be determined at this time. As with any new surgical techniqe there will be an obvious learning curve. This was depicted in the early attempts at LAGB surgery. They showed high complication and reoperation rates. Advance laparoscopic and bariatric surgical skills, along with patient compliance to follow-up instructions, are essential in order to achieve successful outcomes such as decrease in BMI, high percentage of excess weight loss and subsequent decreases in morbidity. Whether LAGB surgery will replace current standard of care or become part of mainstream treatment for morbid obesity will only be determined by well designed studies with greater than 5 year outcomes of patients who have had the procedure.

Authors' methods: Systematic review

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2000

URL for published report: https://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search?type=1020

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)