Methods
RECRUITMENT
This randomized controlled trial aimed to compare the outcomes and two-year follow-up results of BLSG and NBLSG after weight regain following primary LSG. Recruitment occurred between March 2020 and mid-October 2020 at the Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Egypt, when the clinic was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. After re-opening the clinic, the patients were operated on between mid-October 2020- and mid-December 2020. The study protocol was approved and registered with the Ethics Committee by an institutional review board.Before enrolling in the trial, patients were informed about the potential benefits and risks of both banded and non-banded procedures. Additionally, all participants were informed that the institute would cover the cost of band placement but that some would not receive the band during the procedure and would remain blinded until the end of the two-year follow-up period. Informed consent forms were signed by all participants prior to their involvement in the trial.The revision procedures were performed at a specialized bariatric center. Two main/primary surgeons performed all the procedures with four assistant surgeons. Both main/primary surgeons performed BLSG and NBLSG procedures; all the cases were referred from other centers.