Single incision laparoscopic adjustable gastric band: technique, feasibility, safety and learning curve

IntroductionSingle incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) is established in many procedures but not in bariatric surgery. One explanation may be that SILS is technically demanding in morbidly obese patients. This report describes our technique and experience with single incision laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (SILAGB). MethodsProspective data collection was performed on consecutive obese patients who underwent SILAGB between November 2009 and February 2011. A single 3cm transverse incision in the right upper quadrant was used for a Covidien SILS™ multichannel access port. The technique is described with a standard pars flaccida approach and the ‘tips and tricks’ needed for a wide range of candidates using standard laparoscopic equipment. ResultsA total of 29 patients (27 female) with a median body mass index of 41kg/m 2 (range: 35–52kg/m 2 ) and median age of 44 years (range: 22–57 years) underwent SILAGB. There were no ‘conversions’ to a standard laparoscopic technique. Two cases required the addi...