The neoClose Abdominal Closure vs Carter-Thomason Trial

Randomized Trial Evaluating Effectiveness of neoClose Abdominal Closure Device Versus Carter-Thomason Needle Passer

The purpose of this study is to compare the neoClose abdominal closure to the standard Carter-Thomason closure in a bariatric surgery gastric bypass population.

Both the neoClose abdominal closure to the standard Carter-Thomason closure will be used to close 12 mm camera port sites and 12 mm stapler port sites upon completion of a robotic assisted laparoscopic gastric bypass. The procedure requires a 12 mm port site be placed in the midline approximately 3 cm cephalad to the umbilicus and a second 12mm port site in the right mid abdomen. Port sites will be closed as defined as the inability to palpate a fascial defect and the incision being air tight upon carbon dioxide insufflation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Morbid obesity (BMI > 35).
• Completed multimodality pre operative evaluation (Psychology, Nutrition, Support Groups).
• Approved for robotic assisted laparoscopic gastric bypass.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous midline laparotomy or weight loss procedure.