Perioperative Comparison of the MiniMizer^® Extra Band with the Other Laparoscopic Gastric Bands

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a widely used operation for morbid obesity. The most frequent complications of this operation are band migration and pouch dilatation (slippage). The use of the newly introduced MiniMizer^® Extra band with a unique gastric wall fixation system and a two-degree closure may decrease the postoperative complication rate. Very early (perioperative) results are hereby reported. Methods: From February 2005 through October 2005, 50 classical bands (Obtech-Ethicon, AMI, Midband, Inamed) and 10 MiniMizer^® Extra bands were inserted in our department. Bands were chosen randomly. Complications in the very early postoperative period were studied. Results: No statistically significant differences between surgery times were noted – classical bands mean 36 min (20-60), and MiniMizer^® Extra bands mean 34 min (25-55). No statistically different rates of perioperative complications were noted, with only 2 very minor intraoperative complications in the entire series. Conclusions: The absence of problems in the perioperative period allows the use of the MiniMizer^® Extra band as an alternative to classical bands for short- and long-term comparison.