Perioperative comparison of the MiniMizer extra band with the other laparoscopic gastric bands.

Author: Szewczyk T, Modzelewski B

Author affiliation: Clinic of Gastroenterological, Oncological and General Surgery, Medical University of Lodz, 91-496 Lodz, Switezianski 21/16, Poland. ludwig@smrw.lodz.pl

Publication date & source: 2006.05, Obes Surg., 16(5):646-50.

Publication type: Comparative Study ; Randomized Controlled Trial; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a widely used operation for morbid obesity. The most frequent complications of this operation are band migration and pouch dilatation (slippage). The use of the newly introduced MiniMizer Extra band with a unique gastric wall fixation system and a two-degree closure may decrease the postoperative complication rate. Very early (perioperative) results are hereby reported. METHODS: From February 2005 through October 2005, 50 classical bands (Obtech-Ethicon, AMI, Midband, Inamed) and 10 MiniMizer Extra bands were inserted in our department. Bands were chosen randomly. Complications in the very early postoperative period were studied. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences between surgery times were noted--classical bands mean 36 min (20-60), and MiniMizer Extra bands mean 34 min (25-55). No statistically different rates of perioperative complications were noted, with only 2 very minor intraoperative complications in the entire series. CONCLUSIONS: The absence of problems in the perioperative period allows the use of the MiniMizer Extra band as an alternative to classical bands for short- and long-term comparison.