Objective: To assess the safety and effectiveness of the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) as compared to the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB), the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and the open Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (ORYGB) for the treatment of obesity and obesity-related diseases.

Background: LSG is a newer procedure being done with increasing frequency. However, limited data are currently available comparing LSG to the other established procedures. We present the first prospective, multiinstitutional, nationwide, clinically rich, bariatric-specific data comparing sleeve gastrectomy to the adjustable gastric band, and the gastric bypass.

Methods: This is the initial report analyzing data from the American College of Surgeons-Bariatric Surgery Center Network accreditation program, and its prospective, longitudinal, data collection system based on standardized definitions and collected by trained data reviewers. Univariate and multivariate analyses compare 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year outcomes including morbidity and mortality, readmissions, and reoperations as well as reduction in body mass index (BMI) and weight-related comorbidities.

Results: One hundred nine hospitals submitted data for 28,616 patients, from July, 2007 to September, 2010. The LSG has higher risk-adjusted morbidity, readmission and reoperation/intervention rates compared to the LAGB, but lower reoperation/intervention rates compared to the LRYGB and ORYGB. There were no differences in mortality. Reduction in BMI and most of the weight-related comorbidities after the LSG also lies between those of the LAGB and the LRYGB/ORYGB.

Conclusion: LSG has morbidity and effectiveness positioned between the LAGB and the LRYGB/ORYGB for data up to 1 year. As obesity is a lifelong disease, longer term comparative effectiveness data are most critical, and are yet to be determined.