Conversion from Adjustable Band to Sleeve

Sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and an effective option for patients who require conversion from adjustable gastric banding. Patient selection is key, and conversion to sleeve gastrectomy should not be offered to patients who have underlying esophageal dysmotility or who did not lose weight after gastric banding. Conversion can be performed safely in one step with band removal, or in two steps with band removal and subsequent sleeve gastrectomy after a time interval. It is critical to dissect the band capsule off of the stomach adequately in order to properly shape the sleeve and to minimize stapler malfunction through thicker scar tissue.