Evolving pattern of laparoscopic gastric band access port complications

Laparoscopic gastric banding (LGB) is the commonest bariatric procedure in Australia. The commonest complication of LGB is access port or tubing (AP/T) problems, requiring revisional surgery. The aim of this study was to document the evolving pattern of AP/T complications. All patients whose LGB procedure (Allergan™ Bands) and AP/T revision (Allergan™ port revision sets) were performed by one surgeon (1999 to 2008) were included, giving 167 AP/T revisions in 124 patients out of a total 1,928 LGB patients. All patient follow-up details were prospectively recorded and retrospectively analysed. Incidence of LGB AP/T problems was 8.7%. Mean time to first AP/T revision was 2 years. Over the last 4 years of the series, the number of LGB insertions was constant, but the number of AP/T revisions progressively increased. Twenty-seven percent of AP/T revision patients required two or more AP/T revisions. Sixty-two percent of the AP/T complications were leaks. Half the AP complications were flipping of the AP. There was no correlation of AP/T problems with any changes to port design to date. Infection rate for LGB insertion was 0.67%. The incidence of LGB AP/T complications progressively increases with duration after LGB insertion. Occurrence of one AP/T problem appears to select a subgroup more likely to experience further AP/T problems. To date, revisions of port design do not appear to have solved AP/T problems. Recent introduction of a significantly redesigned port may reduce AP/T failures.