[Gastric banding for extensive treatment of morbid obesity].

Morbid obesity results in multiple comorbidities and an increased rate of mortality. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB)--a restrictive operation, has been found to be a safe, effective and durable tool in the management of morbid obesity. Through clinical observation, the authors evaluate whether the effect of LAGB on the adjustment of the patients to the new mode of food intake and their change in lifestyle while losing weight, is restrictive or beyond. During the last decade, 5000 patients underwent LAGB and were followed up in our outpatient clinic by a single team. Careful observations and interviews contributed to our expending database. The data we collected during their visit is presented as a four phase eating habits model which describes the changes in quality and manner of life while reducing weight. The mechanism of LAGB for losing weight is beyond the restrictive effect of the band.