Two-year follow-up of wound complications associated with laparoendoscopic single-site adjustable gastric banding

BACKGROUND: In an effort to provide better cosmesis for patients, there has been a surge recently in the use of laparoendoscopic single-site adjustable gastric banding. Few data, however, are available on the long-term wound complications resulting from this technique. We conducted a retrospective review of patients to identify the extent of wound complications found during a minimum follow-up period of 2 years after laparoendoscopic single-site adjustable gastric banding. The complications evaluated included infection, hernia rates, and port and tubing complications. All the laparoendoscopic single-site adjustable gastric banding cases were performed at University of Illinois Medical Center by a single surgeon.

METHODS: Twenty-five patients underwent single-site laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding from March 2009 to January 2010, and the data were reviewed retrospectively. The single incision was made with multifascial trocar placement using conventional laparoscopic instruments. The patients were followed up during band adjustments and clinic visits and by telephone interview.

RESULTS: Six months after surgery, 1 patient required port removal because of port site infection with internalization of the tubing. A second patient experienced a foul-smelling, clear discharge and was treated with antibiotics, with no additional consequences. No incisional hernias or flipped ports were noted.

CONCLUSION: In our experience, laparoendoscopic single-site adjustable gastric banding produced a low rate of port and wound site complications in patients during a minimum follow-up period of 2 years. We believe this is a valid alternative to the standard procedure, providing cosmetic advantages and a low wound complication rate in morbidly obese patients.