Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in patients over 55 years

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively long-term results after LAGB, in 21 obese patients over 55- years-old, compared with a matched group of patients under 55. Methods: Between January 1996 and January 2004, 350 morbidly obese patients underwent LAGB. 21 (6%) were more than 55-years-old (mean age 58.5 years, range 55-65, Group A). A comparative analysis with 21 patients under 55 (mean age 36.3 years, range 22-49) was performed (Group B). The following parameters were evaluated: postoperative complications, weight loss, effects on co-morbidities, BAROS evaluation. Co-morbidities were present in 7 patients in group A and 14 patients in group B. Sex ratio was 1: 3.2 (M/F) for both groups.Mean BMI was 42.1 (range 35-51.8) in group A and 44.6 (range 37.6-57.7) in group B. Results: No intra- and peri-operative complication was recorded. Conversion rate and mortality were nil. Re-operation rate for major complications was 9.5% for each group. An improvement of co-morbidities in all group A patients was observed 24 months after surgery. 7 resolutions and 6 improvement in co-morbidities were observed in group B 24 months after LAGB.Mean %BMI loss at 24 months was 15.5% for group A and 15.4% for group B. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in weight loss and effect on co-morbidities at 2 years follow-up between the two groups. BAROS analysis showed a similar improvement of quality of life in both groups. LAGB is safe and effective even in patients over 55 years of age.