Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and Dr. George Fielding Study Effectiveness and Safety of LAGB

Patients consider several factors when deciding which bariatric surgery is right for them. The effectiveness and safety of a surgery are always top priorities. A group of doctors, including Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, studied the effectiveness and safety of Single-Incision Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) as well as Standard LAGB and found that it is both safe and effective.

Single-Incision Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding Basics

Single-Incision Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) is a growing practice of weight loss surgery. While it has a complicated name, it’s easy to understand when broken down.

Laparoscopy refers to the performing of surgery through a small incision or incisions. Surgeons then use small instruments including a flexible, tubular camera to perform the surgery while watching a monitor. This reduces the amount of skin, muscle, and even bone that has to be cut. Many surgeons and patients prefer laparoscopic methods because of the quicker and more comfortable recovery.

Adjustable Gastric Banding refers to the placement of an adjustable band around the stomach. This band creates a small pouch in the stomach, essentially a mini stomach, where a limited amount of food can be held. The nerves in this pouch send a full feeling to the brain sooner, limiting caloric intake.

Single-Incision LAGB is placing of an adjustable band around the stomach via a small incision in the abdomen.

Study Overview

The study evaluated 1,644 LAGB surgeries performed during the period of 2008 to 2010. 756 (46%) of the LAGB surgeries were single-incision and 888 (54%) were standard (more than one incision). The researchers, including Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding, compared patients across the two surgeries by age, initial BMI, and gender. They compared:

• Time required for procedure
• Percent excess weight loss at 1 and 2 years
• Complication rate
• Re-operation rate

Findings indicated that:

Findings show that the newer practice of single-incision LAGB is incredibly safe and effective.

People considering bariatric surgery should talk to their doctor and schedule a consultation with a bariatric surgeon like Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding. NYU Langone offers informational sessions for people considering their weight loss options.