Complications of adjustable gastric banding

Abstract

Adjustable gastric banding was once the leading bariatric procedure given its ease of laparoscopic placement, minimal recovery time, reversibility, and lower cost. Its prominence fell partly secondary to increased incidence of postoperative complications, including band slippage, erosion, infection, or other issues with the port or tubing itself. Although these complications, as discussed in this chapter, are rarely life-threatening, they frequently cause significant morbidity and even failure of therapy. It is important to understand the details of these complications in order to adequately diagnose and treat patients with adjustable gastric bands, as well as counsel patients before undergoing adjustable gastric banding.