Vertical Banded Gastroplasty

The Vertical Banded Gastroplasty (VBG and Laparoscopic VBG) limits food intake by creating a small pouch (1/2 ounce) in the upper stomach with a narrow outlet (1/2 inch) reinforced by a mesh band to prevent stretching. The pouch fills quickly and empties slowly with solid food, producing a feeling of fullness. Over eating results in pain or vomiting. This restricts food intake. This is the simpler of the two operations, with a generally lower risk of complication’s and shorter hospital stay.

The disadvantage of Laparoscopic Vertical Banding – VBG is it usually results in less weight loss than Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y or RNY. It does not restrict intake of high calorie liquids (sweets) and the pouch can stretch with overeating. As a result 20% of people do not lose weight and only half of people lose at least 50% of their excess weight with a Vertical Banding Gastroplasty. This procedure can usually be performed as a 23 hour procedure with return to full activity in 7-10 days. A soft diet, with 6 small meals is suggested for 6 weeks after surgery.