Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is increasingly recommended to women of reproductive age. For continued use, LAGB needs to be proven to be safe and well-tolerated during pregnancy. Maternal obesity is a well-recognized risk factor for gestational diabetes, maternal hypertension and is more likely to result in instrumental delivery or caesarean section. Weight control with the LAGB may reduce the incidence of these complications. Methods: An observational study was conducted of the LAGB in pregnancy, including a study comparing outcomes of LAGB pregnancies with previous nonLAGB pregnancies. Women who had had successful LAGB pregnancies were identified from a computerized database. A telephone questionnaire was used to collect the additional outcome data needed and was administered by an independent medical practitioner. Results: 49 LAGB and 31 previous non-LAGB pregnancies were included. 2 LAGBs (4%) required removal during pregnancy. Mean maternal weight gain was significantly reduced in the LAGB group, 3.7 kg vs 15.6 kg (P <0.0001), with no effect on fetal weight, 3.31 vs 3.53 kg, or neonatal complications, 4% and 3%. The incidence of gestational diabetes, 8 and 27% (P =0.048), and hypertension, 8 and 22.5% (P =0.06) was significantly reduced in the LAGB group. The overall complication rate during pregnancy for LAGB was 20.4% and 52% for non-LAGB (P =0.0037) Conclusion: LAGB is safe and well-tolerated during pregnancy with a lower incidence of gestational diabetes and maternal hypertension. LAGB can be safely recommended to morbidly obese women of childbearing age.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Skull, A.J., Slater, G.H., Duncombe, J.E. et al. Laparoscopic Adjustable Banding in Pregnancy: Safety, Patient Tolerance and Effect on Obesity-Related Pregnancy Outcomes. OBES SURG 14, 230–235 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1381/096089204322857618
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1381/096089204322857618