Abstract
INTRODUCTION: As the use of gastric bands diminishes in bariatric and metabolic surgery, we present the results of a 15-year randomized controlled trial comparing 2 distinct adjustable gastric bands. AIM: The aim of this study was to compare long-term outcomes of bariatric surgery performed using 2 different adjustable gastric band types over a 15-year period. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 1, 2009, and January 31, 2010, a total of 103 patients with obesity underwent randomization to receive treatment with either a Swedish adjustable gastric band (SAGB; n = 49) or a MiniMizer Extra adjustable gastric band (n = 54). Weight loss outcomes, comorbidity resolution, long-term complications, and quality of life measures were assessed at 1, 5, and 15 years postoperatively. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups, with a mean (SD) patient age of 45.9 (11.7) years and a mean (SD) preoperative body mass index of 47.5 (7.3) kg/m(2) . Of the 103 patients, 55 (53.3%) completed the 15-year follow-up. After 15 years, the mean total body weight loss was 25.6% in the SAGB group and 20.6% in the MiniMizer Extra group, with no significant difference. Complications occurred in 19 patients (18.4%), including 5 band erosions, 4 port-related issues, 3 cases of band slippage, and 3 instances of band intolerance. Nine bands were removed, and 3 patients underwent conversion to gastric bypass. CONCLUSIONS: SAGB and MiniMizer Extra bands demonstrated comparable outcomes at both the 5- and 15-year follow-up with respect to weight loss, resolution of comorbidities, morbidity, and quality of life. However, most of the improvements in comorbidities observed at the 5-year follow-up significantly declined after 15 years.