1502 UK National Survey of Huber Needle Availability for Deflation of Gastric Band Balloon in The Acute Setting

Introduction The laparoscopic gastric band was popularised in the 1990’s. The procedure involves placement of an adjustable band around the proximal stomach, aiming to induce satiety and offering a surgical solution to morbid obesity. Complications such as band slippage and erosion, together with succession by sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass which offer more significant weight loss has meant the procedure has gone out of favour. However, their legacy continues with a stream of patients presenting annually with complications, many of whom have travelled abroad for the procedure. The aim of this study was to examine Huber needle availability in acute surgical units nationally. Method All acute general surgical admission units across the UK were identified from the National Emergency Laparotomy Audit database. The senior nurse managing each unit was contacted by telephone and asked three questions; whether their hospital has an elective bariatric service on site, whether they review acute bariatric emergencies and whether the unit stocks Huber needles. Results 151 acute general surgical units were identified across the UK, of which 60% responded. 30/90(33%) have an elective bariatric service on site and 65/90(72%) reviewed acute bariatric patients. 8/90(8.9%) stock Huber needles for the acute deflation of gastric bands. Conclusions Patients presenting acutely with gastric band complications typically need urgent deflation of the gastric band. The Huber needle is a non-coring needle used for gastric band adjustment, preventing damage to the port. The Huber needle is a low-cost item and should be stocked by all acute general surgical units.