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Bariatric surgery has been shown to be an effective solution for sustainable weight loss in the morbidly obese. This study aims to investigate the impact of LAGB on weight loss and obesity comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and hypercholesterolemia).
METHODS
698 patients with average preoperative BMI of 42.1±6.5 were retrospectively analyzed through electronic medical records from 2007-2011. Of those patients, 18.3% were men and 81.7% were women, with a mean age of 43. Resolution of comorbidities and weight loss were analyzed at three different intervals after band implantation (after year one, year two, and year three). All adjustments were performed in clinic setting without fluoroscopy. Analysis was performed with ANOVA. *P<0.05 considered statistical significance.
RESULTS
Analysis reveals that the first two years after LAGB are most critical for excess weight loss. The average percentage excess weight loss achieved was 54.2% ± 3.6% at year one, 67.9% ± 4.5% at year two, and 74.3% ± 7.5% at year three after band implantation. Average change in body mass index was 11.9 kg/m2 ± 1.6 kg/m2. Resolutions of comorbidities were analyzed each year after band implantation. Diabetes was resolved in 49% of the patients at year one, 58% at year two, and 61% at year three. Hypertension was resolved in 37% of the patients at year one, 45% at year two, and 53% at three. Obstructive sleep apnea was resolved in 63% of the patients at one, 76% at year two, and 91% at year three. Hypercholesterolemia was resolved in 45% of the patients at year one, 59% at year two, and 65% at year three. Of note, many patients continued their cholesterol medications with normal levels post-operatively. There was no mortality in the span of four years of the study.
CONCLUSION
We are reporting a four year consecutive data with no deaths and resolution of comorbidities were observed to be long lasting in correlation with their weight loss. We are reporting continued weight loss and improvement of co-morbid conditions are years after implantation of the adjustable gastric band. Lifestyle changes which include diet, exercise, and stress management in addition to follow up with the adjustable gastric band are key components in resolution of medical co-morbidities.