Both the gastric band and gastric bypass bariatric procedures have excellent weight loss outcomes at six years, according to a matched-pair analysis. The study’s findings were published this month online in the Archives of Surgery. Half of the 442 patients in the analysis received a gastric band, and the other half received a gastric bypass.  The procedures were all performed from 1998 through 2005.

Some of the key finding included:

  • After 6 years, gastric bypass patients lost 78 percent of their excess weight and gastric banding patients lost 65 percent of their excess weight
  • For the gastric bypass patients, maximal weight loss was achieved on average at 18 months post-surgery, while for gastric banding patients, maximal weight loss was achieved on average 36 months after the procedure
  • Both surgery groups had experienced significant reductions in Body Mass Index (BMI) at six years:  Only 2.4 percent of the bypass group had a BMI greater than 40, and 14 percent of the gastric banding group.
  •  There were more complications immediately following gastric bypass procedures (17%), than after gastric banding (5.4%).
  • Both groups reported having a better quality of life than before surgery.

At the Bariatric Institute of Greater Chicago, we believe that Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding is a great choice for patients interested in a more gradual rate of weight loss with the least invasive approach. Aside from providing individualized weight loss, it is entirely and most simply reversible. You can learn more about our bariatric services here.