Clarifying Terminology in Bariatric Metabolic Surgery: The Need for Distinction Between “Band” and “Ring”

Dear Sir,
As healthcare providers and researchers in the field of bariatric metabolic surgery (BMS), we write this letter to initiate a discussion on the terminology currently used in literature to describe various surgical procedures.
We specifically wish to address the confusion surrounding using the term “band.” This term is often used to
describe both the placement of a laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB), an inflatable device placed tightly and a non-adjustable, non-inflatable ring, which should be positioned loosely around the pouch.
Thus, the term “band” represents two distinctly different mechanisms. This leads to confusion among patients and healthcare providers. The terminology used in literature should clearly differentiate between the two to prevent any form of confusion.