Predicting Outcomes Following Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding Surgery: Weight Loss versus Improved Perceptions of Appearance

Background: The number of overweight individuals continues to rise; some of these individuals require bariatric surgery to assist weight loss. In order to determine which individuals are most likely to benefit from surgery there is a need to know which factors predict success. To date, the focus of success has been on weight loss, but improvements in psychological factors are also important. Method: A longitudinal study over five years with 73 participants having laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding [LAGB] surgery (58 female, 50 with diabetes, aged between 30 to 74 years (mean ± standard deviation, 46.3 ± 8.9). Scores from the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS], and Derriford Appearance Scale [DAS-24] were recorded along with participants' weight. Two separate linear regression analyses were performed to predict the 5 year outcomes for; a) DAS-24 scores, and b) Percentage Excess Body Weight Lost [%EBWL]. Results: Rates of social anxiety (DAS-24) were predicted by three variables; age group, pre-LAGB HADS anxiety and depression categories. %EBWL could not be predicted from the dependent variables (gender, age group, pre-LAGB BMI, pre-LAGB diabetic status, DAS24 score at baseline, and the pre-LAGB HADS anxiety and depression categories). Conclusion: Although the variables used in this study could not predict %EBWL following LAGB, rates of social anxiety associated with appearance (DAS-24) could be predicted by three variables. The DAS-24 findings highlight the importance of assessing an individual's mental health status prior to LAGB surgery.