Results of revisional operation following vertical banded gastroplasty performed due to morbid obesity--comparison between restoration of vertical banded gastroplasty and conversion of gastric bypass up to three years.

The aim of this study was to analyse incidence and efficacy of revisional surgery for failed vertical banded gastroplasty among 458 patients who underwent primary surgery between 1993 and 2003. Staple line disruption was diagnosed in 29 patients and was an indication for restoration of gastroplasty in 10 cases and a conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in 19 patients. In two cases of outlet stenosis the band was exchanged to enlarge the collar. In two cases of psychological intolerance of restriction the band was removed because of refusion by patients the conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A substantial weight reduction without statistical differences between restoration and conversion group was recognized. In two patients (20%) after restoration and three patients (15.8%) after conversion we observed weight regain (p=0.57). In cases with removed band weight regained up to its value recorded before surgery. In patients with exchanged band weight was under control. No serious complications were observed. We could conclude that patients with weight regain after vertical banded gastroplasty should be offered conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. When malabsorption is refused, restoration of vertical banded gastroplasty could be also performed. Both of procedures are technically difficult but safe.