Gastroscopic removal of an adjustable gastric band after partial intragastric migration

Endoscopic Management of Gastric Band Erosion: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastric band erosion may be seen in up to 3% of patients. Endoscopic intervention has become increasingly utilized due to its minimally invasive nature. The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to examine the role of endoscopic removal for eroded gastric bands.

METHODS

Individualized search strategies were developed for PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases in accordance with PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. Outcomes included technical success, clinical success, procedure duration, adverse events, and surgical conversion. Pooled proportions were analyzed using random effects models. Heterogeneity and publication bias was assessed with I2 statistics and funnel plot asymmetry using Egger and Begg tests. Meta-regression was also performed comparing outcomes by endoscopic tools.

RESULTS

Ten studies (n=282 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. Mean age was 40.68±7.25 years with average duration of band placement of 38.49±19.88 months. Pre-operative BMI was 42.76±1.06 kg/m2 with BMI of 33.06±3.81 kg/m2 at time of band erosion treatment. Endoscopic removal was attempted in 240/282 (85.11%) of cases. Pooled technical and clinical success of the endoscopic therapy was 86.08% (95% CI: 79.42-90.83; I2=28.62%) and 85.34% (95% CI: 88.70-90.62; I2=38.56%), respectively. Mean procedure time for endoscopic removal was 46.47±11.52 min with an intra-operative adverse event rate of 4.15% (95% CI: 1.98-8.51; I2=0.00%). Post-procedure-associated adverse events occurred in 7.24% (CI: 4.46-11.55; I2=0.00%) of patients. Conversion to laparotomy/laparoscopy occurred in 10.54% (95% CI: 6.12-17.54) of cases.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic intervention is a highly effective and safe modality for the treatment of gastric band erosion.

Endoscopic removal of eroded laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands: a preferred approach

BACKGROUND

Complications related to laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) have led to an increased number of removals. An uncommon but potentially devastating complication is gastric band erosion into the gastric lumen, which can be managed by open surgical, laparoscopic, and endoscopic approaches.

OBJECTIVE

A wide array of management techniques has been reported for removal of LAGB that have eroded into the stomach. We describe the preferred method for successful endoscopic band removal at our institution.

SETTING

Community tertiary-care referral hospital accredited by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program.

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was used to identify patients who underwent LAGB removal from 2009 to 2019. We identified the subset of patients with band erosion. We analyzed patient characteristics, presenting symptoms, diagnostic modalities, and method of band extraction.

RESULTS

A total of 132 patients underwent LAGB removal, among whom 22 (16.7%) patients were diagnosed with erosion. Seven (32%) patients underwent laparoscopic removal, 14 (64%) patients underwent endoscopic removal, and 1 patient (4%) underwent combined laparoscopic and endoscopic approach. These latter patients had variable amounts of erosion and buckle visibility, but all underwent endoscopic retrieval. We found that using an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography guidewire with an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography mechanical lithotriptor for band transection and snare for retrieval have been effective.

CONCLUSIONS

A standardized, multidisciplinary, and minimally invasive endoscopic approach for LAGB erosion has been found to be successful without the need for further surgical intervention and may be offered to patients upon discovery of erosion.

Explantation of Adjustable Gastric Bands: An Observation Study of 10 Years of Experience at a Tertiary Center

PURPOSE

Although laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands are considered a standard treatment for severe obesity, their use remains controversial. We evaluated rates of band explantation and the incidences of complications leading to and following band explantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective review was performed on patients that underwent adjustable gastric band explantation. For each of the three groups of patients that underwent explantation, we compared demographic and anthropometric data, band duration in situ, operative approach, and morbidities.

RESULTS

Between January 2009 and October 2018, a total of 267 patients underwent primary laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery. Of these 267 patients, 99 (37.1%) underwent band explantation. Numbers (%) of patients in the slippage (SL), band erosion (BE), and intolerance (IT) groups were 13 (13.1%), 39 (39.4), and 47 (47.5%), respectively. Mean %EBMIL values at explantation in these groups were 74.6±45.5, 79.7±40.3, and 36.1±46.0, respectively (p<0.001), and mean times for maintaining bands in situ were 45.1±28.0, 39.4±24.3, and 51.2±22.7 months, respectively. Isolated band removal was performed for slippage (SLi, n=12), band erosion (BEi, n=39), and intolerance (ITi, n=31). The numbers (%) of patients in the SLi, BEi, and ITi groups that experienced a surgical complication (Clavien-Dindo class ≥1) were 0 (0.0%), 24 (61.5%), and 3 (9.7%), respectively (p<0.001). In the BEi group, four patients (4/39, 10.3%) underwent reoperation after AGB removal.

CONCLUSION

During our 10 years of experience, 37.1% of adjustable gastric band had to be removed. Intra-abdominal abscess and intragastric bleeding were rare but serious complications after explantation. Potential candidates for adjustable gastric band should be informed of the high long-term risk of band explantation and its associated morbidities.

A nutrition problem solved by a two-step endoscopic removal of a non-adjustable gastric band

Bariatric surgery is an effective approach for weight loss and short-term improvement in metabolic disorders. Stenosis is a common complication of gastric banding. Balloon dilatation or gastrotomy has been employed in this setting. Few studies have indicated endoscopic removal of the band a feasible procedure. We present a 60-year-old female who underwent gastric banding in 1985 and suffered from late stenosis and malnutrition. Endoscopy revealed a severe stenosis. A two-step procedure was performed. Initially a coated stent was placed into the stenosis to achieve pressure necrosis. Two weeks later, the stent was removed and the band was removed endoscopically. The procedure was performed without any complications. The patient was discharged the next day. A follow-up after 2 months revealed no problems with stenosis or malnutrition. The procedure was a safe, efficient and convenient way of handling late stenosis after gastric banding.

Migration of eroded laparoscopic adjustable gastric band causing small bowel obstruction and perforation

We present an unusual and rare complication caused by gastric band erosion into the stomach after band placement 15 years ago. The complication was only picked up after the band had subsequently migrated from the stomach at the site of erosion, to the distal ileum causing acute small bowel obstruction and focal perforation requiring emergency laparotomy.Abdominal pain in patients with gastric band should always be treated as serious until proven otherwise.

Review article including treatment algorithm: endoscopic treatment of luminal complications after bariatric surgery

The worldwide number of performed bariatric surgeries is increasing continuously, whereas laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy are conducted most frequently. Alongside with the usual post-operative and metabolic complications, luminal complications such as anastomotic bleeding, ulceration, leakage, fistula formation, enlargement and stenosis of the anastomosis may occur. Evolution of interventional endoscopy frequently allows endoscopic management of complications, avoiding surgical interventions in most cases. Here, we review the various luminal complications after bariatric surgery with a focus on their endoscopic management.

Endoscopic Approach for Major Complications of Bariatric Surgery

As lifestyle and diet patterns have become westernized in East Asia, the prevalence of obesity has rapidly increased. Bariatric surgeries, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), are considered the first-line treatment option in patients with severe obesity. However, postoperative complications have increased and the proper management of these complications, including the use of endoscopic procedures, has become important. The most serious complications, such as leaks and fistulas, can be treated with endoscopic stent placement and injection of fibrin glue, and a novel full-thickness closure over-the-scope clip (OTSC) has been used for treatment of postoperative leaks. Stricture at the gastrojejunal (GJ) anastomosis site after RYGB or incisura angularis in SG can be managed using stents or endoscopic balloon dilation. Dilation of the GJ anastomosis or gastric pouch may lead to failure of weight loss, and the use of endoscopic sclerotherapy, novel endoscopic suturing devices, and OTSCs have been attempted. Intragastric migration of the gastric band can be successfully treated using various endoscopic tools. Endoscopy plays a pivotal role in the management of post-bariatric complications, and close cooperation between endoscopists and bariatric surgeons may further increase the success rate of endoscopic procedures.

Endoscopy after bariatric surgery

Obesity is a global epidemic with significant morbidity and mortality. Weight loss results in reduction of health risks and improvement in quality of life, thus representing a goal of paramount importance. Bariatric surgery is the most efficacious choice compared to conservative alternatives including diet, exercise, drugs and behavioral modification to treat obese patients. Following bariatric operations, patients may present with upper gastrointestinal tract complaints that warrant endoscopic evaluation and the various bariatric surgery types are often linked to complications. A subset of these complications necessitates endoscopic interventions for accurate diagnosis and effective, minimal invasive treatment. This review aims to highlight the role of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery to evaluate and potentially treat surgery-related complications and upper gastrointestinal symptoms.

Asymptomatic Gastric Band Erosion Detected during Routine Gastroduodenoscopy

The incidence of gastric band erosion has decreased to 1%. Gastric band erosion can manifest with various clinical symptoms, although some patients remain asymptomatic. We present a case of a mostly asymptomatic patient who was diagnosed with gastric band erosion during a routine health check-up. A 32-year-old man without any underlying diseases except for non-alcoholic fatty liver underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric band surgery in 2010. He had no significant complications postoperatively. He underwent routine health check-ups with near-normal gastroduodenoscopic findings through 2014. However, in 2015, routine gastroduodenoscopy showed that the gastric band had eroded into the stomach. His gastric band was removed laparoscopically, and the remaining gastric ulcer perforation was repaired using an omental patch. Due to the early diagnosis, the infection was not serious. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 with oral antibiotics. This patient was fortunately diagnosed early by virtue of a routine health check-up; thus, eliminating the possibility of serious complications.

Major complications of bariatric surgery: endoscopy as first-line treatment

Leaks are the most frequent early postoperative complication in the two most popular bariatric procedures, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Multimodal therapy based on self-expandable stent insertion 'to cover' the defect is the most widely documented technique to date with a reported success rate >80%. Additional experimental techniques 'to close' the defect or 'to drain' the paradigestive cavity have been reported with encouraging results. The role of endoscopy in early postoperative bleeding is limited to management of bleeds arising from fresh sutures and the diagnosis of chronic sources of bleeding such as marginal ulcer after RYGB. Post-RYGB stricture is a more delayed complication than leaks and the role of endoscopic dilation as a first-line treatment in this indication is well documented. Ring and band placement are outdated procedures for obesity treatment, but might still be an indication for endoscopic removal, a technique which does not compromise further surgery, if needed.

Endoscopic removal of partially migrated intragastric bands following surgical gastroplasty: a prospective case series

BACKGROUND

The intragastric migration of a surgically placed adjustable gastric band is believed to occur slowly, over months to years. Band removal procedures necessitate surgical laparotomy, thus increasing the risk of complications.

METHODS

The endoscopic technique for band removal described in this case-series provides a minimally invasive approach.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients referred for endoscopic removal of a partially migrated intragastric band. The partially migrated intragastric bands were all successfully removed in a mean of 1.1 endoscopic sessions. No patient required subsequent surgical intervention, and there were no immediate or delayed adverse events including no infections, bleeding, or perforations.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic removal of partially migrated intragastric bands appears feasible, effective, safe, and is a minimally invasive alternative to repeat surgery.

The cooperation between endoscopists and surgeons in treating complications of bariatric surgery

The results of lifestyle interventions and pharmacotherapy are disappointing in severe obesity which is characterised by premature death and many obesity-associated co-morbidities. Only surgery may achieve significant and durable weight losses associated with increased life expectancy and improvement of co-morbidities. Bariatric surgery involves the gastrointestinal tract and may therefore increase gastrointestinal complaints. Bariatric surgery may also result in complications which in many cases can be solved by endoscopic interventions. This requires a close cooperation between surgeons and endoscopists. This chapter will concentrate on the most commonly performed operations such as the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the adjustable gastric banding and the sleeve gastrectomy, in the majority of cases performed by laparoscopy. Operations such as the vertical banded gastroplasty and the biliopancreatic diversion with or without duodenal switch will not be discussed at length as patients with these operations will not be encountered frequently and their management can be found under the headings of the other operations.

Endoscopic management of gastric band erosions: a 7-year series of 14 patients

BACKGROUND

Intragastric band migration is an unusual but major complication of gastric banding. We review our experience with endoscopic removal of eroded gastric bands.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the cases of 110 morbidly obese patients who underwent adjustable gastric banding between 2005 and 2012 to identify those who experienced band erosion. To remove the migrated band, we used an endoscopic approach with a Gastric Band Cutter.

RESULTS

Band or tube erosion occurred in 14 patients (12.7%). The median time interval from the initial gastric band placement to the diagnosis of band erosion was 32 (range 18-52) months. Upper abdominal pain, port site infection, loss of restriction and weight regain were the most common symptoms. We used the Gastric Band Cutter to remove the band endoscopically. It was able to cut the band successfully in all but 1 patient, in whom twisting of the cutting wire required conversion from endoscopy to laparotomy. In 2 patients, the band, after being cut, was locked in the gastric wall and required laparotomic removal. In 1 patient, we performed surgery for intragastric penetration of the connecting tube broken close to the band.

CONCLUSION

The Gastric Band Cutter was successful in dividing the band in all but 1 patient, although we could not always complete the procedure endoscopically. Endoscopic removal seems to be effective and safe for band erosion.

Minimally invasive endogastric removal of migrated gastric band after endoscopic failure: how I do it

Intragastric band migration is a rare and late complication of laparoscopic -adjustable gastric banding and should be recognized by all digestive surgeons. Endoscopic removal is most commonly performed, but surgery is an alternative in cases of endoscopic failure. Many different procedures have been reported. We show here (see Video) a fully laparoscopic endogastric procedure through two 5-mm antral gastrotomies. This technique can also be used to remove benign endogastric tumors. The procedure is safe and provides a large endogastric operative area, with no particular morbidity. Endogastric removal through a fully laparoscopic approach should be considered as the first alternative to endoscopic approach.

Endoscopic management of complications after gastrointestinal weight loss surgery

As more patients undergo bariatric surgery, gastroenterologists will increasingly encounter variant postsurgical anatomies and postoperative complications. We discuss the diagnosis and management of bleeding, ulcers, foreign bodies, stenoses, leaks, fistulas, pancreaticobiliary diseases, weight regain, and dilated outlets.

Gastric band erosion in 63 cases: endoscopic removal and rebanding evaluated

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) remains the most popular bariatric procedure performed in Australia and Europe. Gastric band erosion is a significant complication that results in band removal. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of band erosion and its subsequent management with a particular focus on rebanding results.

METHODS

Patients who underwent LAGB in a prospective cohort study from August 1996 to October 2010 were evaluated. Patients that developed band erosion were identified and clinical presentations, band characteristics and subsequent management were evaluated.

RESULTS

One thousand eight hundred seventy-four morbidly obese patients underwent LAGB. Band erosion developed in 63 patients (3.4%). Median preoperative BMI was 41.5 kg/m(2) (range 30-61 kg/m(2)). Median time from operation to diagnosis was 39 months (range 6-132 months). Twenty nine patients (46%) were asymptomatic (sudden loss of restriction, weight gain, turbid fluid, or absence of fluid). Symptoms included abdominal pain in 24 (38%), obstruction in 7 (11%), recurrent port infection in 5 (8%), reflux symptoms in 2 (3%) and sepsis in 2 (3%). Fourteen patients (22%) had discolouration of the fluid in their band. Endoscopic removal was attempted in 50 patients with successful removal in 46 (92%). Median number of endoscopies prior to removal was 1.0 (range 1-5). The median duration of the procedure was 46 min (range 17-118 min). Rebanding was performed in 29 patients and 5 (17%) experienced a second erosion. Mean percentage excess weight loss was 54% in the remaining 22 patients with at least 3 months follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Band erosion prevalence was 3.4%. Endoscopic removal of eroded gastric bands was proven safe and effective. Band erosion is now preferably managed endoscopically in our institution. Rebanding following erosion results in acceptable weight loss but an unacceptable reerosion rate.

A novel use of endoscopic cutter: Endoscopic retrieval of a retained nasogastric tube following a robotically assisted laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch

Context:

A nasogastric tube is utilized routinely by many bariatric surgeons to assist creation of gastrojejunal anastomosis during roux-en-y gastric bypass or duodenojejunal anastomosis during biliopancreatic diversion. However, inadvertent stapling or suturing of the nasogastric tube has been known as a potential complication of this technique.

Case Report:

We describe a successful endoscopic removal of an inadvertently sutured nasogastric tube at the level of the duodenojejunal anastomosis in a 30-year-old woman undergoing a robotically assisted laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch for super morbid obesity.

Conclusions:

Endoscopic technique is a feasible and safe minimally invasive technique to release a retained nasogastric tube with preservation of the newly created anastomosis. This option gives major advantages of avoiding a re-operation, as well as the potential general anesthetic complications.

Early experience with diagnosis and management of eroded gastric bands

PURPOSE

Band erosion is a well-known complication of laparoscopic adjustable gastric band placement. We gained experience with laparoscopic removal of an eroded gastric band.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the operative log of our obesity surgery unit to identify all operations performed for band erosion from March 2009 to May 2011.

RESULTS

During the study period, a total of six of 96 patients (6.3%), five females and one male, were diagnosed with band erosion and underwent surgical removal of the band system. The median time interval from the initial gastric band placement to the diagnosis of band erosion was 8.5 months (range, 7 to 22 months), with most band erosion occurring within the first year (5/6, 83%). The median body mass index at band removal was 28.4 kg/m(2). Upper abdominal pain was the most common symptom (5/6, 83%), and other signs and symptoms were port site infection (3/6, 50%) and loss of restriction and weight regain (1/6, 17%). All eroded bands were removed using laparoscopy. Further complications after laparoscopic removal of the band system were observed in three cases. One patient showed multiple intra-abdominal abscesses requiring insertion of a pigtail catheter for drainage. The other two patients experienced sepsis with localized peritonitis, eventually requiring laparoscopic washout and drainage.

CONCLUSION

Gastric band erosion requires the removal of the gastric band. Laparoscopic removal is technically achievable in the majority of patients with eroded gastric band. The method can be challenging, has potential postoperative complications (fistula, abscess), and should be attempted only by experienced surgeons.

Treatment of band erosion: feasibility and safety of endoscopic band removal

BACKGROUND

Band erosion is reported with a highly variable incidence (0.3-14%) after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Removal of the band is mandatory because the patient regains weight and may become symptomatic, but no consensus exists about the best method, surgical or endoscopic, for this purpose. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of endoscopic management of band erosion.

METHODS

In this study, 23 patients were treated for band erosion after gastric banding: 8 from the authors' series of 951 patients (incidence, 0.84%) and 15 referred to the authors' surgical department from other hospitals. The endoscopic method of band removal was used in 20 cases. Because of complications associated with erosion, three patients were submitted instead to laparoscopic removal.

RESULTS

Endoscopic removal of the band was successful for 16 of 20 patients. Four cases required conversion of the procedure to surgery: in one case due to complications with the endoscopic cutting wire and in the three remaining cases due to dense perigastric adhesions blocking the band. The follow-up evaluation of the patients who had the endoscopic removal was uneventful, with quick discharge at resumption of oral feeding. The patients who underwent laparoscopic removal had a longer hospital stay, and one patient had a leak from the anterior gastrotomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a few complications, endoscopic removal seems to be the procedure of choice for the treatment of band erosion. It allows quick resumption of oral feeding and rapid discharge of patients and appears to be safer and more effective than laparoscopic removal. Conversion to surgery is unlikely but possible. Therefore, the authors always recommend that the procedure be performed in the operating room.

Small erosion of adjustable gastric band: endoscopic removal through incision in gastric wall

The erosion of a laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) can cause pain that is not controlled by analgesics. In such cases, early endoscopic removal may be indicated, but only when gastric penetration is greater than 50%. We report the case of a patient with severe shoulder pain due to a small area of LAGB erosion, which was treated with early endoscopic removal through an incision in the gastric wall. The pain worsened after eating and gastroscopy revealed slight gastric erosion of the band under the cardia. The gastric wall covering the LAGB was incised using an endoscopic needle knife. In a second upper endoscopy performed 7 days later at the endoscopy suite, endoscopic scissors were used to cut the thread and part of the band lock. The open band was then removed orally. This novel endoscopic incision in the gastric wall hastened band erosion and avoided abdominal reoperation.

Endoscopic removal of dysfunctioning bands or rings after restrictive bariatric procedures

BACKGROUND

Intragastric band migrations or dysfunctions are common long-term complications of both vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band) that classically require surgical treatment.

OBJECTIVE

In this series, we describe the endoscopic removal of partially eroded Lap-Bands or Silastic rings and noneroded dysfunctioning rings after VBG.

DESIGN

Case series.

SETTING

A European, tertiary-care academic center.

PATIENTS

This study involved 13 patients--3 with eroded Lap-Bands, 4 with eroded Silastic rings, and 6 with refractory outlet stoma stenosis after VBG.

INTERVENTION

Endoscopic removal was performed within 1 or 2 sessions, according to the presence and extent of band erosion at presentation, including optional placement of a self-expandable plastic stent across the band, followed about 6 to 8 weeks later by extraction with transsection, if needed, by using a wire-cutting system.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Technical success and safety.

RESULTS

One failure was caused by huge adhesion formation around a Lap-Band on the lesser curvature of the stomach and the left liver lobe. Twelve of 13 endoscopic removals were successful in 1 (n = 2) and 2 (n = 10) sessions.

LIMITATIONS

Highly selected patients (tertiary-case academic center).

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic removal of dysfunctioning bands or rings is safe and feasible by the use of a 1- or 2-step endoscopic procedure.

Endoscopic removal of eroded adjustable gastric band: lessons learned after 5 years and 78 cases

BACKGROUND

One of the complications of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is intragastric erosion, leading to a revisional procedure to remove the band. Our aim was to present the procedure and results of endoscopic band removal in a 5-year multicenter experience from the Gastro Obeso Center and Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, and Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil.

METHODS

From 2003 to 2008, 82 patients were diagnosed with band erosion. The clinical data concerning the endoscopic procedure were prospectively recorded and retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The average preoperative body mass index was 43.2 kg/m(2) (range 34-50). At the diagnosis of intragastric erosion, the body mass index was 24-41 kg/m(2) (average 31.8). The erosion occurred an average of 16.3 months (range 6-36) postoperatively. The symptoms included pain in 25 (31%), port infection in 21 patients (27%), and weight regain in 20 (25%), and 12 patients (15%) were asymptomatic. Endoscopic removal was possible for 78 patients (95%). In 85% of patients, the band was removed in the first session, with an average duration of 55 minutes (range 25-150). Five cases of pneumoperitoneum occurred after the procedure. Of these, 3 were treated conservatively, 1 was treated by laparoscopy, and 1 was treated by abdominal puncture using the Veress needle.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic removal of eroded laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is safe and effective. It can be used as a first choice procedure in clinical practice.

Translumenal endoscopic drainage of abdominal abscess due to early migration of adjustable gastric band

We describe the case of early band migration that developed into intraabdominal infection treated by natural orifice translumenal endoscopic surgery. A 40-year-old man was seen 4 years after gastric band placement. He complained of epigastric pain and fever. Gastroscopy revealed minimal gastric fundus erosion and a bulging of the antrum wall. Abdominal CT scan showed perigastric abscess surrounding the band tube. Antibiotic therapy was initiated, and endoscopic transgastric abscess drainage was performed. The endoscope was guided into the abscess cavity, and the band tubing was brought into the gastric lumen to serve as a stent to drain the infection, which ceased 5 days later. During the follow-up, the mucosa covering the band was incised in two more sessions to hasten the erosion process. Endoscopic removal was done 7 months after the drainage.

The role of endoscopy in bariatric surgery

Morbid obesity is a chronic disease of excess fat storage, characterised by premature death and obesity-associated co-morbidities. The results of the current non-surgical treatment to treat obesity are disappointing, but surgical approaches may achieve a durable and longstanding weight loss with resolution and improvement of co-morbidities. Gastrointestinal complaints and digestive complications may, however, increase and may require an actively involved gastroenterologist.

Intra-gastric band erosion from an un-inflated Lap-Band: a case report

The increasing prevalence of morbid obesity is of public health concern throughout the world, and surgical intervention seems to offer the only long-term solution to the problem. Gastric banding is one of the available options in the bariatric armamentarium. As more Lap-Bands are being inserted, intragastric erosion is increasingly being encountered as a major complication. The case of a 40-year-old man with intra-gastric band erosion is presented with the band never having been inflated, suggesting that additional factors may play a role in the development of erosions. The presentation, diagnostic modalities, and pathognomomic findings are discussed.

Inadequate weight loss vs secondary weight regain: laparoscopic conversion from gastric banding to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Beside complications like band migration, pouch-enlargement, esophageal dilation, or port-site infections, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has shown poor long-term outcome in a growing number of patients, due to primary inadequate weight loss or secondary weight regain. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) in these two indications.

METHODS

A total of 25 patients, who underwent laparoscopic conversion to RYGBP due to inadequate weight loss (n = 10) or uncontrollable weight regain (n = 15) following LAGB, were included to this prospective study analyzing weight loss and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

All procedures were completed laparoscopically within a mean duration of 219 +/- 52 (135-375) min. Mean body weight was reduced from 131 +/- 22 kg (range 95-194) at time of the RYGBP to 113 +/- 25, 107 +/- 22, and 100 +/- 21 kg at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively, which results in excess weight losses (EWL) of 28.3 +/- 9.9%, 40.5 +/- 12.3%, and 50.8 +/- 15.2%. No statistically significant differences were found comparing weight loss within these two groups.

CONCLUSION

RYGBP was able to achieve EWLs of 37.6 +/- 16.1%, 48.5 +/- 15.1%, and 56.9 +/- 15.0% at 3, 6, and 12 months following conversion, respectively, based on the body weight at LAGB.

[Gastric band erosion as complication of bariatric surgery. Case report and review of the literature]

Gastric banding has become a common procedure amongst bariatric surgery techniques. Because of the possibility of using a laparoscopic route to achieve a good technical result and low complication rates, this method has become the most frequently used options in the treatment of morbid obesity in Chile. We report an uncommon complication that, if left undiagnosed, could lead to considerable morbidity and even mortality: gastric band erosion and intragastric migration. Radiologists, gastroenterologists and surgeons should be able to recognize this event to provide a prompt diagnosis.

Hypovolemic shock due to intragastric migration of an adjustable gastric band

Migration of the adjustable gastric band (AGB) is a serious complication which usually does not require emergency treatment, except when there is a risk to life. We report a 30-year-old patient who presented with syncope, melena and hypovolemic shock due to the intragastric erosion of an AGB, 13 months after laparoscopic band placement. The diagnosis of migration had been made 7 months after placement, and bleeding only occurred 6 months later. Greater intraluminal penetration had been awaited to facilitate gastroscopic extraction, but, faced with hemodynamic instability, resuscitation was carried out followed by emergency endoscopy to cut the device, using endoscopic scissors. Then, the band was removed orally. There has been no recurrence of hemorrhage 12 months later. Delayed treatment may be indicated in cases of initial band migration; however, rigorous follow-up is necessary with frequent re-evaluation, to diagnose potentially life-threatening complications promptly.

Band erosion following gastric banding: how to treat it

BACKGROUND

Intragastric band migration is an unusual but major long-term complication of gastric banding: its frequency ranges from 0.5-3.8% and always requires removal of the band. Different laparoscopic, laparotomic or endoscopic methods are currently used for band removal.

METHODS

571 morbidly obese patients underwent adjustable gastric banding from February 1998 to July 2006. Band erosion occurred in 3 patients (0.52%). In addition, 6 such patients were referred to our Department from other hospitals. To remove the migrated band, in most patients we used an endoscopic approach with a device designed to cut the band: the Gastric Band Cutter (AMI, Agency for Medical Innovation).

RESULTS

In 7 of the 9 patients, we used the gastric band cutter to remove the band endoscopically. It was able to cut the band successfully in all cases except one, where twisting of the cutting wire required conversion from endoscopy to laparoscopy. In another case, the band, after being cut, was locked in the gastric wall and required laparotomic removal. In 2 patients, we had to remove the band surgically - in one case for port-site infection with subphrenic abscess, and in the other case for complete band migration into the jejunum associated with acute pancreatitis, cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis.

CONCLUSION

The Gastric Band Cutter, when used, was successful in dividing the band in all cases except one, although we could not always complete the procedure endoscopically. Endoscopic removal seems to be the procedure of choice for band erosion, because it allows earlier patient discharge and avoids a surgical operation. It is advisable to perform the endoscopic removal in the operating theater, because of possible complications of the procedure.

Laparoscopic removal of gastric band after early gastric erosion: case report and review of the literature

Laparoscopic gastric banding is a popular method for treating morbid obesity. One of the most serious complications is band erosion into the gastric lumen. We present the case of a patient who underwent gastric banding and presented with symptoms of gastrointestinal reflux and mild-to-moderate hypertension, fever, and pain. UGI revealed stomach wall erosion and partial migration of the band into the gastric lumen. The band was laparoscopically removed without any further complications. Migration after laparoscopic gastric banding must be immediately addressed to prevent infection. Close monitoring of the band location during adjustments as well as a high index of suspicion is necessary.

Migration of adjustable gastric banding from a cohort study of 4236 patients

BACKGROUND

Experience was gained management of intra-gastric migration of adjustable gastric banding.

METHODS

From July 1996 to January 2003, 4236 patients who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding were proposed for routine follow-up. Gastrograms were performed in case of band adjustment. Radiological controls and endoscopy were performed according to symptoms.

RESULTS

A total of 45 cases of band migration (1.6%) were diagnosed during follow-up. All but one of the migrated bands were removed laparoscopically either by a dissection outside the stomach or through a short gastrotomy. Mortality was 0% and morbidity 8% (n = 4).

CONCLUSION

The risk of an intragastric band migration remains low in the literature but could grow on account of the longer follow-up of patients. The retrieval of the band is the gold standard and must be planned promptly or delayed according to symptoms.

A 6-year experience with the Swedish adjustable gastric band

BACKGROUND

In morbid obesity conservative therapy often fails to reduce overweight permanently. As a consequence, several bariatric surgical procedures have been developed to achieve permanent excess weight loss. Among these, the laparoscopic restrictive procedures seem to be the least invasive. The aim of this prospective study was to assess and analyze the effects, complications, and outcomes after the implantation of the Swedish adjustable gastric band (SAGB) in long-term follow-up.

METHODS

All consecutive patients with implantation of a SAGB between August 1996 and August 2002 were prospectively investigated. The placement of the SAGB was done by laparoscopy in all cases. Success was rated by the reduction of body mass index (BMI) excess weight loss (EWL), and reduction of comorbidities. "Nonresponders" to SAGB were defined as <30% EWL after a 3-year follow-up. Band-related complications were recorded and classified. Patient's outcome was assessed after 6 months and subsequently each year postoperatively.

RESULTS

A total of 190 patients received a SAGB, 97% of whom could be followed up with a mean follow-up period of 39.4 months (duration of follow-up, 6-72). During follow-up, a significant reduction or improvement of BMI, EWL, and comorbidities were found. Nineteen percent of patients were identified as nonresponders. Early intraoperative and postoperative complications related to SAGB were one perforation of the gastric fundus (0.5%), one conversion (0.5%), one bleeding (0.5%), and two band infections (1.1%). The SAGB-related complications encountered during long-term follow-up were three port problems (1.6%), four band migrations (2.1%), five slipping/pouch dilatations (2.6%), and two band leakages (1.1%). All intra- and postoperative SAGB-related complications accounted for a total morbidity of 10.5%. Operative mortality was 0%. The overall reoperation rate was 8.5%.

CONCLUSIONS

In long-term follow-up, SAGB is safe and effective. Our results demonstrate a significant EWL of 50% during the first 24 months. However, patient selection has to be improved to reduce the nonresponder rate. SAGB leads to a significant reduction of obesity-related comorbidities. SAGB is an attractive alternative in the surgical treatment of morbid obesity.