Laparoscopy in Turkish bariatric surgery: Initial experience

Background: The recent application of the laparoscopic method combines mini mal invasiveness with reversibility, adjustability and shorter hospital sta y. The first laparoscopic bariatric operation in Turkey was performed by us in 1998. Methods: We report the results in 50 consecutive patients who underwent the laparoscopic application of SAGE between April 1998 and April 1999. The op eration setting was the same as for the laparoscopic antireflux procedure, After a closed CO2 pneumoperitoneum (16-18 mmHg), in the first 20 cases fiv e and in the remaining 30 cases four trocars were inserted. A 30 degrees la paroscope was placed on the line between the umbilicus and the xiphoid thro ugh a 10 mm trocar. We followed and respected the main steps of the operati on as well. Pre and postoperative body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI) a nd percent excess weight (%EW) values were calculated and compared. Results: Our early results were quite satisfactory and promising. After an average follow-up period of 1 year (range 6-18 months), the 50 patients of our laparoscopic series showed a BW of 74 kg (range 56-112), a BMI of 29 (r ange 21-40), and an EW of 62% (range 22-86). Conclusion: With its lower morbidity rate, shorter hospital stay and better cosmetic results, the laparoscopic approach may be considered the first ch oice in bariatric surgery.