Laparoscopic surgery for morbid obesity: 1,001 consecutive bariatric operations performed at The Bariatric Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida

Background: Morbid obesity is an epidemic in America. This series evaluates the safety and efficacy in the first 1,001 laparoscopic bariatric operations performed at The Bariatric Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted examining all patients undergoing a primary bariatric procedure (either laparoscopic gastric bypass or laparoscopic gastric banding) from July 2000 to December 2003. Results: 2 surgeons performed 1,001 laparoscopic bariatric operatons. Average age was 47 (19-75) years, average BMI was 55.6 (35-97) kg/m(2), and average ASA class was III. Excess weight loss was 51% at 6 months, 73.4% at 1 year for the gastric bypass group and 54% at 1 year for the laparoscopic banding group. The overall complication rate was 31.8% (12.4% major and 19.4% minor) in the gastric bypass group and 13% in the laparoscopic banding group. There was no postoperative mortality. Conclusion: Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is feasible and safe for weight loss. Results obtained have been comparable to those reported for the open approach for weight loss, with a similar major morbidity rate and an improved mortality rate.