Causes of Dissatisfaction in Some Patients after Adjustable Gastric Banding

Background: The laparoscopic application of the adjustable gastric band has gained widespread acceptance as a gastric restrictive procedure. The weight loss been well documented. This paper evaluates the patients' satisfaction. Methods: Between April 1995 and July 1999, 82 consecutive patients underwent the Lap-Band^® procedure. Results: Follow-up is 100%.The satisfaction index is high. 80 % of all patients are extremely pleased or pleased. 15 % of patients are displeased or extremely displeased. 5 % have no opinion.The reason for low satisfaction differ, but 3 groups can be distinguished: 1) patients who suffered surgical complications; 2) patients who did not benefit from the procedure; 3) most importantly,patients who suffered psychological complications. Conclusion: Gastric Banding is a safe, standardized and effective operation, with good acceptance by the patients. More efforts have to be made to improve patient selection and to avoid surgical complications. Most importantly, more focus is needed on the psychological aspect of the procedure and its consequences.