Laparoscopic versus open gastric bypass: a randomized study of outcomes, quality of life, and costs

The 100 Most Cited Papers in the History of the American Surgical Association

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine characteristics of the most cited publications in the history of the American Surgical Association (ASA).

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

The Annals of Surgery has served as the journal of record for the ASA since 1928, with a special issue each year dedicated to papers presented before the ASA Annual Meeting.

METHODS

The top 100 most cited ASA publications in the Annals of Surgery were identified from the Scopus database and evaluated for key characteristics.

RESULTS

The 100 most cited papers from the ASA were published between 1955 and 2010 with an average of 609 citations (range: 333-2304) and are included among the 322 most cited papers in the Annals of Surgery. The most common subjects of study included clinical cancer (n = 43), gastrointestinal (n = 13), cardiothoracic/vascular (n = 9), and transplant (n = 9). Ninety-three institutions were included lead by Johns Hopkins University (n = 9), University of Pittsburgh (n = 8), Memorial Sloan-Kettering (n = 7), John Wayne Cancer Institute (n = 7), University of Texas (n = 7), and 5 each from Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mayo Clinic, and University of Chicago. The majority of manuscripts came from the United States (n = 85), followed by Canada (n = 7), Germany (n = 5), and Italy (n = 5). Study design included randomized controlled trials (n = 19), retrospective matched cohort studies (n = 11), retrospective nonmatched studies (n = 46), and other (n = 24).

CONCLUSIONS

The top 100 most cited publications from the ASA are highly impactful, landmark studies representing a diverse array of subject matter, investigators, study design, institutions, and countries. These influential publications have immensely advanced surgical science over the decades and should serve as inspiration for all surgeons and surgical investigators.

Closure versus non-closure of mesenteric defects in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The comparative evidence regarding the outcomes of closure versus non-closure of mesenteric defects in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is poorly understood. We aimed to compare the outcomes of closure versus non-closure of mesenteric defects in LRYGB for morbid obesity.

METHODS

We conducted a search of electronic information sources to identify all comparative studies investigating the outcomes of closure versus non-closure of mesenteric defects in patients undergoing LRYGB for morbid obesity. We used the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the ROBINS-I tool to assess the risk of bias of RCTs and observational studies, respectively. Random or fixed effects modelling was applied as appropriate.

RESULTS

We included 10,031 patients from six observational studies and 2609 patients from two RCTs. Analysis of observational studies showed closure defects resulted in lower risks of internal hernia (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.15, 0.54) and reoperation for small bowel obstruction (SBO) (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.10, 0.83); no difference was found between the two groups in terms of SBO not related to internal hernia (OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.47, 2.99), early SBO (OR 0.74, 95% CI 0.04, 14.38), anastomotic leak (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.45, 1.57), bleeding (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.62, 1.89), and anastomotic ulcer (OR 2.08, 95% CI 0.62, 6.94). Analysis of RCTs showed closure of defects resulted in lower risks of internal hernia (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.19,0.45) and reoperation for SBO (OR 0.51, 95% CI 0.38, 0.69) but higher risks of SBO not related to internal hernia (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.09, 3.34) and early SBO (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.16, 5.96); no difference was found between the two groups in terms of anastomotic leak (OR 1.95, 95% CI 0.80, 4.72), bleeding (OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.38, 1.17), and anastomotic ulcer (OR 2.08, 95% CI 0.62, 6.94).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that closure of mesenteric defects in LRYGB may be associated with lower risks of internal herniation and reoperation for SBO compared with non-closure of the defects (moderate certainty). The available evidence is inconclusive regarding the risks of SBO not related to internal hernia and early SBO (low certainty). More RCTs are needed to improve the robustness of the available evidence.

Socioecological factors associated with ethnic disparities in metabolic and bariatric surgery utilization: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is a safe and effective treatment choice for severe obesity. Yet only approximately 50% of those referred to MBS complete the procedure. Studies show that racial minority groups are less likely than non-Hispanic whites to complete MBS despite having higher rates of severe obesity and co-morbidities.

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a qualitative study to determine facilitators and challenges to racially diverse patients completing MBS based on the 4 socioecological model domains (intrapersonal, interpersonal, organization/clinical interaction, and societal/environmental).

SETTING

One university-based surgery practice serving a racially diverse patient population.

METHODS

Focus groups and in-depth interviews were conducted (Spring 2019) among patients (n = 24, 70% female, 50% non-Hispanic black, 4% Hispanic) who completed MBS over the past year. Social support members were also included (n = 7). Grand tour questions were organized by the 4 socioecological model domains and within the context of MBS completion. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded. A thematic analysis combining a deductive and inductive approach was conducted. Codes were analyzed using Dedoose to identify themes/subthemes.

RESULTS

Ten themes and 15 subthemes were identified. Key intra- and interpersonal facilitators to MBS completion included social support systems, primary care physician support of MBS, co-morbidity resolution, discrimination experiences, and mobility improvements. Key community and environment themes associated with post-MBS sustained weight loss included community support groups and access to healthy foods and exercise facilities. No themes or subthemes varied by race.

CONCLUSIONS

Educating primary care physicians and social support networks about the benefits of MBS could improve utilization rates. MBS patients have a desire to have their communities provide resources to support their postoperative success.

Preventing Wernicke Encephalopathy After Bariatric Surgery

Half a million bariatric procedures are performed annually worldwide. Our aim was to review the signs and symptoms of Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE) after bariatric surgery. We included 118 WE cases. Descriptions involved gastric bypass (52%), but also newer procedures like the gastric sleeve. Bariatric WE patients were younger (median = 33 years) than those in a recent meta-analysis of medical procedures (mean = 39.5 years), and often presented with vomiting (87.3%), ataxia (84.7%), altered mental status (76.3%), and eye movement disorder (73.7%). Younger age seemed to protect against mental alterations and higher BMI against eye movement disorders. The WE treatment was often insufficient, specifically ignoring low parenteral thiamine levels (77.2%). In case of suspicion, thiamine levels should be tested and treated adequately with parenteral thiamine supplementation.

Impact of Mesenteric Defect Closure During Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (LRYGB): a Retrospective Study for a Total of 2093 LRYGB

BACKGROUND

Internal hernia is a rare but a potentially fatal complication of laparoscopic Roux-En-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). The aims of this study are to determine the impact of mesenteric defects closure on the incidence of internal hernia after LRYGB and to determine the symptoms, characteristics, and management of internal hernias after LRYGB.

METHODS

A retrospective study for a total of 2093 LRYGB was carried out from 1998 to December 2013. Four hundred twenty-one patients were operated without closure of the mesenteric defects (group A). From January 2005 to December 2013, 1672 patients were operated with closure of the mesenteric defects at Petersen defect (PD) and at jejunojejunal anastomosis (J-J) defect (group B). The incidence of internal hernias was compared between the two periods.

RESULTS

Out of the 2093 patients who underwent LRYGB, 20 patients (0.95%) developed a symptomatic internal hernia that required primary surgical intervention; 7 patients (1.66%) in group A all at J-J DEFECT versus 13 patients (0.78%) in (group B) 6 at (J-J DEFECT), 5 at PD, and 2 at PD, J-J DEFECT. This incidence was significantly lower in (group B) (p = 0.0021). The median interval between LRYGB and reoperation was 53 months in group A and 26 months in group B. A CT scan was performed in 8 patients, 40%, and showed signs of occlusion in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

The closure of mesenteric defects during LRYGB is recommended because it is associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of internal hernia.

Improving Access to Laparoscopy in Low-Resource Settings

Laparoscopy has numerous clinical benefits compared to laparotomy. However, a functional laparoscopy program requires significant investment and, as a result, remains unavailable for the majority of the world’s population in low- and middle-income countries. The effort to bring laparoscopy to low-resource settings has produced variable outcomes resulting from the challenges inherent to a complex surgical program. This paper highlights these shortcomings and identifies opportunities to improve future laparoscopy programs.

Is it the technique or wound protection that is key to reducing wound infections in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedures?

INTRODUCTION

An unusually high surgical site infection (SSI) rate after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) was noted on routine outcomes review. Surgeon A, who had a rate of 8.9%, utilized the transoral technique (passage down esophagus into gastric pouch) for anvil insertion for the circular-stapled gastrojejunostomy. By comparison, SSI rate was 0% for Surgeon B, who inserted anvil transabdominally (direct passage into stomach via gastrotomy) and used wound protection (wound protector and plastic drape over stapler). We sought to determine if it was the technique for anvil insertion (transoral or transabdominal) or use of wound protection that could help reduce SSIs.

METHODS

In mid-2017, Surgeon A added wound protection (wound protector and plastic drape over stapler) to the transoral technique to minimize oral flora wound contamination. Surgeon B made no changes. In this study, wound-related outcomes are examined, comparing patients who underwent surgery before (Group 1) versus after (Group 2) this intervention. Statistical analysis performed utilizing t tests and Chi square analysis; p < 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Three hundred and thirty-three patients underwent RYGB. Group 1 consisted of 182 patients over 17 months; 151 patients over 13 months were in Group 2. Groups were similar in age, BMI, gender, and prevalence of diabetes. There was a decrease in SSIs between Group 1 and Group 2 (5 vs. 0, p = 0.04). 11 wound complications occurred in Group 1 (5 SSIs, 4 seromas and 2 hematomas); whereas 2 wound complications occurred in Group 2 (1 seroma and 1 hematoma); decrease from 6 to 1.3%, p = 0.03.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that changing technique can lead to best outcomes. There was a dramatic reduction of wound complications and complete elimination of SSIs with a change in operative technique. The higher risk of SSI with the transoral anvil insertion when preforming a circular-stapled anastomosis can be mitigated with use of wound protection.

Trending Weight Loss Patterns in Obese and Super Obese Adolescents: Does Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Provide Equivalent Outcomes in both Groups?

BACKGROUND

Many factors, including preoperative weight, may determine final weight loss after bariatric surgery; however, their proportional contribution is unclear. To such end, we evaluated weight loss patterns among obese adolescents.

METHODS

We evaluated 57 adolescents who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy from 2011 to 2017. Data collection included demographics, anthropometrics, and comorbidities and was done over a 3-year follow-up period. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t test and repeated measures ANOVA.

RESULTS

In the morbidly obese (MO) group, 82% were female, while 52% were male in the super obese (SMO) group (P < 0.0059). While 13/34 patients in the obese group achieved > 60% percent excess body weight loss (%EBWL), only 3/23 super obese patients achieved > 60% EBWL (P = 0.0695). %EBWL at 1-year follow-up significantly differed between the obese and super obese groups, 61.7 ± 14.6% and 47.7 ± 14.9% respectively (P = 0.035). The average BMI in the obese group was 29.8 at 1 year and 41.3 in the super obese group. There was a significant difference in the rate of excess weight loss (%EBWL/month) between the two groups (P < 0.01). There was good comorbidity resolution (about 70%) in both groups after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Comorbidity resolution after sleeve gastrectomy is excellent in the adolescent population irrespective of initial BMI. Consideration should be given to earlier bariatric intervention in SMO adolescents to facilitate return to near normal BMI. Focus on education of referral sources, such as community pediatricians and family practitioners to facilitate early bariatric evaluation should be considered. Weight loss in postsurgical SMO patients should be carefully monitored and adjunctive interventions should be considered.

An Exploratory Study: A Head-to-Head Comparison of the EQ-5D-5L and AQoL-8D for Long-Term Publicly Waitlisted Bariatric Surgery Patients Before and 3 Months After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Choice of a multi-attribute utility instrument (MAUI) that appropriately assesses an intervention's health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) impacts is a vital part of healthcare resource allocation and clinical assessment.

OBJECTIVE

Our exploratory study compared the EuroQol (EQ)-5D-5L and Assessment of Quality of Life (AQoL)-8D MAUIs, which were used to assess the effect of bariatric surgery for a cohort of long-term publicly waitlisted, severely obese patients.

METHODS

The study was conducted at the Hobart Private Hospital (Tasmania, Australia). To compare the sensitivity and instrument content of the two MAUIs, we used dimensional comparisons by investigating the distribution of patient-reported responses (number/percentage) across the MAUIs' levels and dimensions; summary health-state utility valuations (utilities); and individual/super-dimension scores (AQoL-8D) to investigate discriminatory power and HRQoL improvements preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Participants' (n = 23) overall MAUI completion rate was 74%. Postoperative total weight loss was 9.9%. EQ-5D-5L utilities were relatively higher pre- and postoperatively than AQoL-8D utilities [mean standard deviation (SD) EQ-5D-5L 0.70 (0.25) to 0.80 (0.25); AQoL-8D 0.51 (0.24) to 0.61 (0.24)]. AQoL-8D Psychosocial super dimension was relatively low postoperatively [0.37 (0.25)], driving the instrument's lower utility. These results were supported by the dimensional comparisons that revealed an overall greater dispersion for the AQoL-8D. Nevertheless, there were clinical improvements in utilities for both instruments. AQoL-8D utilities were lower than population norms; not so the EQ-5D-5L utilities. The AQoL-8D dimensions of Happiness, Coping, and Self-worth improved the most.

CONCLUSIONS

AQoL-8D more fully captured the impact of obesity and bariatric surgery on HRQoL (particularly psychosocial impacts) for long-term waitlisted bariatric surgery patients, even 3 months postoperatively. AQoL-8D preoperative utility revealed our population's HRQoL was lower than people with cancer or heart disease.

Ten Years After Bariatric Surgery: Bad Quality of Life Promotes the Need of Psychological Interventions

Background: This study aims to evaluate long-term quality of life (QoL) and primary clinical outcomes, 10 years after biliointestinal bypass (BIB) surgery. It was expected that, although BIB might show encouraging primary outcomes, long term QoL could be significantly impaired. Methods: Ninety patients were contacted for a phone interview [age 41.0 ± 10.6 (mean ± SD) years, age-range 31-65 years]. QoL (by SF-36) and the clinical situation (by ad hoc questionnaire) were collected. Data were analyzed with SPSS 22. SF-36 scores were compared with Italian normative data from general and healthy population. We also compared primary clinical outcomes and SF-36 scores between patients who reported high and low levels of satisfaction with BIB. Results: Considering SF-36 results, patients showed significant impairments in QoL compared to general and healthy populations. Sixty-five percent would repeat the BIB. All patients showed at least one chronic adverse event. It occurred a significant decrease in pre-post co-occurrence rates of diabetes (χ2 = 18.41; p < 0.001) and hypertension (χ2 = 50.27; p < 0.001). Large and significant weight loss indexes (i.e., percent excess weight loss (%EWL); body mass index) were observed between pre-post intervention. Conclusion: BIB showed promising primary clinical outcomes (i.e., hypertension, diabetes, and weight loss). However, subjects reported a significant impairment in all SF-36 domains. Ad hoc psychological interventions should be implemented to ameliorate the quality of life of these patients.

Altmetric Versus Bibliometric Perspective Regarding Publication Impact and Force

BACKGROUND

Bibliometric and Altmetric analyses highlight key publications, which have been considered to be the most influential in their field. The hypothesis was that highly cited articles would correlate positively with levels of evidence and Altmetric scores (AS) and rank.

METHODS

Surgery as a search term was entered into Thomson Reuter's Web of Science database to identify all English-language full articles. The 100 most cited articles were analysed by topic, journal, author, year, institution, and AS.

RESULTS

By bibliometric criteria, eligible articles numbered 286,122 and the median (range) citation number was 574 (446-5746). The most cited article (Dindo et al.) classified surgical complications by severity score (5746 citations). Annals of Surgery published most articles and received most citations (26,457). The country and year with most publications were the USA (n = 50) and 1999 (n = 11). By Altmetric criteria, the article with the highest AS was by Bigelow et al. (AS = 53, hypothermia's role in cardiac surgery); Annals of Surgery published most articles, and the country and year with most publications were USA (n = 4) and 2007 (n = 3). Level-1-evidence articles numbered 13, but no correlation was found between evidence level and citation number (SCC 0.094, p = 0.352) or AS (SCC = 0.149, p = 0.244). Median AS was 0 (0-53), and in articles published after the year 2000, AS was associated with citation number (r = 0.461, p = 0.001) and citation rate index (r = 0.455, p = 0.002). AS was not associated with journal impact factor (r = 0.160, p = 0.118).

CONCLUSION

Bibliometric and Altmetric analyses provide important but different perspectives regarding article impact, which are unrelated to evidence level.

Endoscopic management of perforations, leaks and fistulas

The endoscopic management armamentarium of gastrointestinal disruptions including perforations, leaks, and fistulas has slowly but steadily broadened in recent years. Previously limited to surgical or conservative medical management, innovations in advanced endoscopic techniques like natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) have paved the path towards development of endoscopic closure techniques. Early recognition of a gastrointestinal defect is the most important independent variable in determining successful endoscopic closure and patient outcome. Some devices including through the scope clips and stents have been well studied for other indications and have produced encouraging results in closure of gastrointestinal perforations, leaks and fistulas. Over the scope clips, endoscopic sutures, vacuum therapy, glue, and cardiac device occluders are other alternative techniques that can be employed for successful endoscopic closure.

Benchmarking for surgical site infections among gastrointestinal surgeries and related risk factors: multicenter study in Kuwait

Purpose

To measure surgical site infection (SSI) rates among gastrointestinal surgeries and to identify the associated risk factors.

Patients and methods

We conducted a multicenter, retrospective, surveillance-based study of adults undergoing gastric, colon, and small bowel (SB) procedures from January to December 2016. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to determine the predictive variables in each surgery.

Results

In total, 71 of 2,099 patients developed SSI – 0.8%, 19.8%, and 10.8% following gastric, colon, and SB surgeries, respectively. In gastric surgery, the risk factors identified by univariate analysis were age, duration, wound class, risk index, emergency, and scope use (P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the laparoscopic approach was the only significant predictor, with an inverse relationship of SSI rate vs open gastric surgery (P<0.05). Prolonged duration was a significant risk factor for developing SSI in colon surgery, and emergency was a significant risk for development of SSI in SB surgery. Gram-negative bacilli were the main causative pathogens, with a high percentage of multidrug-resistant organisms.

Conclusion

Variances in SSI rates and risk factors among gastric, colon, and SB surgery were detected. The use of an endoscope in gastric surgeries exhibited a protective effect against the development of SSI. The reduction of the SSI rate can be achieved by targeted preventive interventions for the identified risk factors.

A health economic model to assess the cost-effectiveness of OPTIFAST for the treatment of obesity in the United States

OBJECTIVES

Obesity is associated with high direct medical costs and indirect costs resulting from productivity loss. The high prevalence of obesity generates a justified need to identify cost-effective weight loss approaches from a payer's perspective. Within the variety of weight management techniques, OPTIFAST is a clinically recognized and scientifically proven total meal replacement Low Calorie Diet that provides meaningful results in terms of weight loss and reduction in comorbidities. The objective of this study is assess potential cost-savings of the OPTIFAST program in the US, as compared to "no intervention" and pharmacotherapy.

METHODS

An event-driven decision analytic model was used to estimate payer's cost-savings from reimbursement of the 1-year OPTIFAST program over 3 years in the US. The analysis was performed for the broad population of obese persons (BMI >30 kg/m²) undergoing the OPTIFAST program vs liraglutide 3 mg, naltrexone/bupropion and vs "no intervention". The model included the risk of complications related to increased BMI. Data sources included published literature, clinical trials, official US price/tariff lists, and national population statistics. The primary perspective was that of a US payer; costs were provided in 2016 US dollars.

RESULTS

OPTIFAST leads over a period of 3 years to cost-savings of USD 9,285 per class I and II obese patient (BMI 30-39.9 kg/m²) as compared to liraglutide and USD 685 as compared to naltrexone/bupropion. In the same time perspective, the OPTIFAST program leads to a reduction of cost of obesity complications of USD 1,951 as compared to "no intervention", with the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of USD 6,475 per QALY. Scenario analyses also show substantial cost-savings in patients with class III obesity (BMI ≥ 40.0 kg/m²) and patients with obesity (BMI = 30-39.9 kg/m²) and type 2 diabetes vs all three previous comparators and bariatric surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Reimbursing OPTIFAST leads to meaningful cost-savings for US payers as compared with "no intervention" and liraglutide and naltrexone/bupropion in obese patients. Similar results can be expected in matching healthcare settings of other countries. Moreover, OPTIFAST has additional clinical and economic advantages through very low complication and adverse events rates.

Efficacy and Safety of Stents in the Treatment of Fistula After Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Fistula development is a serious complication after bariatric surgery. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of fistula closure and complications associated with endoscopic stent treatment of fistulas, developed after bariatric surgeries, particularly Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and gastric sleeve (GS). Studies involving patients with fistula after RYGB or GS and those who received stent treatment only were selected. The analyzed outcomes were overall success rate of fistula closure, mean number of stents per patient, mean stent dwelling time, and procedure-associated complications. Current evidence from identified studies demonstrates that, in selected patients, endoscopic stent treatment of fistulas after GS or RYGB can be safe and effective.

Thoracic Surgery Considerations in Obese Patients

The obesity epidemic in the United States has increased greatly over the past several decades, and thoracic surgeons are likely to see obese patients routinely in their practices. Obesity has direct deleterious health effects such as metabolic disorder and cardiovascular disease, and is associated with many cancers. Obese patients who need thoracic surgery pose practical challenges to many of the routine elements in perioperative management. Preoperative assessment of obesity-related comorbid conditions and risk stratification for surgery, thorough intraoperative planning for anesthesia and surgery, and postoperative strategies to optimize pulmonary hygiene and mobility minimize the risk of adverse outcomes.

The Science of Obesity Management: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement

The prevalence of obesity, measured by body mass index, has risen to unacceptable levels in both men and women in the United States and worldwide with resultant hazardous health implications. Genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors influence the development of obesity, and both the general public and health professionals stigmatize those who suffer from the disease. Obesity is associated with and contributes to a shortened life span, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, kidney disease, obstructive sleep apnea, gout, osteoarthritis, and hepatobiliary disease, among others. Weight loss reduces all of these diseases in a dose-related manner-the more weight lost, the better the outcome. The phenotype of "medically healthy obesity" appears to be a transient state that progresses over time to an unhealthy phenotype, especially in children and adolescents. Weight loss is best achieved by reducing energy intake and increasing energy expenditure. Programs that are effective for weight loss include peer-reviewed and approved lifestyle modification programs, diets, commercial weight-loss programs, exercise programs, medications, and surgery. Over-the-counter herbal preparations that some patients use to treat obesity have limited, if any, data documenting their efficacy or safety, and there are few regulatory requirements. Weight regain is expected in all patients, especially when treatment is discontinued. When making treatment decisions, clinicians should consider body fat distribution and individual health risks in addition to body mass index.

Implementation of laparoscopy surgery training via simulation in a low-income country

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate laparoscopy training using pelvitrainers for gynaecological surgeons in a low-income country.

METHODS

The study was carried out in Madagascar from April 2016 to January 2017. The participants were gynaecological surgeons who had not previously performed laparoscopy. Each surgeon was timed to evaluate the execution times of four proposed exercises, based on the fundamentals of laparoscopic surgery (FLS) programme's skills manual, as follows: exercise 1, involving a simple object transfer; exercises 2 and 3, comprising complex object transfers; and exercise 4, a precision cutting exercise. The 8-month training and evaluation programme was divided into different stages, and the four following evaluations were compared: a pretest (T0), assessment at the end of the first training (T1) and auto-evaluation at 2 months (T2) and 8 months (T3).

RESULTS

Eight participants were included. The median time was significantly reduced (P<0.05) at each evaluation for exercises 1, 2 and 4 compared to the pretest. For exercise 3, there was no difference between T0 and T1 (P=0.07). After 8 months of training, all participants progressed in all exercises.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that it is possible and beneficial to develop a programme for teaching laparoscopic surgery in low-income countries before providing the necessary equipment.

Metabolic response 4 years after gastric bypass in a complete cohort with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

To evaluate the long-term remission rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus and associated comorbidities after gastric bypass surgery in a complete cohort, in a real-life clinic setting.

METHODS

A retrospective study of all consecutive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who underwent gastric bypass at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center from 2003 to 2010. The main outcome was remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus defined as HbA1c <6.5% (49 mmol/mol) without diabetic medication usage. Secondary outcomes were remission of hypertension and hyperlipidemia, weight loss, and long-term complications four years post-gastric bypass.

RESULTS

Eighty-four patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus underwent gastric bypass. Four-year follow-up data were available for 92% (77/84) of patients. The patients (73% male; mean age 54 years) had a mean body mass index of 49 kg/m² ± 8.3. Hypertension and hyperlipidemia prevalence were 92% and 85%, respectively. The mean total body weight decrease over four years was 35 kg ± 21. Remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus occurred in 15% at 6 months and 49% four years after surgery. Diabetes remission was more likely (OR 3.2; 95% confidence interval 1.2-9.7) in patients not using insulin at baseline. Remission rates were 12% (9/74) for hypertension and 16% (11/68) for hyperlipidemia. Long-term surgical complications included reoperation (11%), incisional hernia (10%) and anastomotic ulcer (10%). Forty-four percent of patients had one or more nutritional complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The metabolic effects of gastric bypass are significant and durable for at least four years, even in a predominantly male cohort and real-life clinical setting.

Evolution and Standardisation of Techniques in Single-Incision Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery has proven benefits for morbid obesity and its associated comorbidities. Laparoscopic approach is well established for bariatric surgery. Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) offers even more minimally invasive approach for the same with the added advantage of better cosmesis. We have developed and standardised the SILS approach at our institute. We share our experience and technical "tips" and modifications which we have learnt over the years. Technical details of performing sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with special attention to liver retraction, techniques of dissection in difficult areas, creation of anastomoses and suturing have all been described. In our experience and in experience of others, single-incision bariatric surgery is feasible. Use of conventional laparoscopic instruments makes single-incision approach practical for day-to-day practice. Supervised training is essential to learn these techniques.

Prospective Comparison and Quality of Life for Single-Incision and Conventional Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in a Series of Morbidly Obese Patients

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has gained a wide acceptance in the surgical community with an increasing popularity in the field of bariatric surgery. Simultaneously more surgeons have become acquainted with the single port techniques and sleeve gastrectomy has been regarded as an ideal field of application. Literature is scarce about operative and clinical outcomes of single port sleeve gastrectomy compared to conventional laparoscopy. The primary purpose of the study was to compare operative outcomes in the two study groups. Assessment and comparison of functional outcomes in terms of quality of life between groups was also performed.

METHODS

Prospective data on 130 consecutive patients who underwent randomized SI or CL sleeve gastrectomy were collected between January 2009 to December 2014. Preoperative parameters, outcomes, post-operative functional results and quality of life, according to the short-form SF-36 questionnaire, were evaluated and compared between groups.

RESULTS

65 patients underwent conventional laparoscopic (CL) and 65 single incision (SI) sleeve gastrectomy. Operative time, post-operative pain, in-hospital stay, and complications were similar in the two groups. No difference emerged with respect to passage of flatus and resumption of oral intake (p = NS). Cosmetic results were excellent in SI patients with higher satisfaction rates. Post-operative quality of life was significant higher compared to baseline (p < 0.05), and comparable between the two procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Single incision sleeve gastrectomy is safe, effective and comparable to the conventional laparoscopic technique in terms of outcomes. Post-operative quality of life is comparable between the two procedures.

Bariatric Surgery: A Perspective for Primary Care

IN BRIEF Bariatric surgery is the most efficacious treatment for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other obesity-related comorbidities. In this article, the authors review the current indications for bariatric surgery and discuss the most commonly performed procedures. They analyze medical outcomes of bariatric procedures by reviewing key prospective trials and discuss changes in physiology after these procedures. They conclude by discussing long-term management of bariatric patients by reviewing current guidelines for nutritional support and listing common complications related to these procedures.

Gastric interventional endoscopy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review new advances in gastric interventional endoscopy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Implementation of gastric endoscopy as a therapeutic option in obesity, gastric cancer, and gastroparesis.

SUMMARY

Less invasive new gastric endoscopic procedures can potentially replace currently offered laparoscopic approaches in many fields. In this article, we will review the use of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty as a weight loss procedure, endoscopic submucosal dissection in treatment of early gastric cancer, and gastric per-oral endoscopic myotomy in treatment of refractory gastroparesis. These procedures can increase access to bariatric weigh loss procedures, provide an organ-saving curative option for early gastric cancer, and offer a new modality to improve refractory gastroparesis.

Guidelines for Perioperative Care in Bariatric Surgery: Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Society Recommendations

BACKGROUND

During the last two decades, an increasing number of bariatric surgical procedures have been performed worldwide. There is no consensus regarding optimal perioperative care in bariatric surgery. This review aims to present such a consensus and to provide graded recommendations for elements in an evidence-based "enhanced" perioperative protocol.

METHODS

The English-language literature between January 1966 and January 2015 was searched, with particular attention paid to meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials and large prospective cohort studies. Selected studies were examined, reviewed and graded. After critical appraisal of these studies, the group of authors reached a consensus recommendation.

RESULTS

Although for some elements, recommendations are extrapolated from non-bariatric settings (mainly colorectal), most recommendations are based on good-quality trials or meta-analyses of good-quality trials.

CONCLUSIONS

A comprehensive evidence-based consensus was reached and is presented in this review by the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) Society. The guidelines were endorsed by the International Association for Surgical Metabolism and Nutrition (IASMEN) and based on the evidence available in the literature for each of the elements of the multimodal perioperative care pathway for patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

A Narrative of Intraoperative Staple Line Leaks and Bleeds During Bariatric Surgery

The primary objective of this review was to assess the incidence of intraoperative staple line leaks and bleeds during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). A literature search of MEDLINE®, EMBASE™, and Biosis from January 2010 to November 2014, plus secondary citations extending to 2008, identified 16 relevant articles. For LSG, the incidence of intraoperative leaks and bleeds was as high as 3.93 and 4.07 %, respectively. For LRYGB, leaks occurred in up to 8.26 % and bleeds in 3.45 % of cases. Stapler misfire was commonly cited as a cause. Widespread, precautionary use of staple line reinforcement (SLR), lack of standardized testing, and underreporting suggest the incidence may be underestimated. Published studies were insufficient to address the economic impact of bleeds and leaks or interventions, but development of improved stapler designs that obviate the need for SLR may reduce costs and improve outcomes.

Solo Single-Incision Laparoscopic Resectional Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Morbid Obesity with Metabolic Syndrome

With the advancement of laparoscopic devices and surgical technology, the era of minimal invasive surgery has progressed to reduced-port surgery, and finally to single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS). Several reports show successful application of SILS to various types of bariatric surgery. Oftentimes, this requires a skilled and experienced scopist to perform the procedure. To overcome the technical difficulties of single-incision Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, a manual scope holder was used instead of an assistant scopist, greatly stabilizing the field of view. This allows the surgery to be performed at any time without being influenced by the need of a highly experienced scopist. In this report, we describe in detail the world's first solo single-incision laparoscopic resectional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Clip closure and division instead of stapling for the last small gastric bridge between gastric pouch and remnant stomach in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

INTRODUCTION

Here, a modification during gastric pouch forming was implemented in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). We aimed to examine the feasibility of metallic clip closure for the remaining small stomach bridges (<1 cm) between the pouch and the remnant stomach.

METHODS

During pouch creation, after the last stapler firing, the remaining small bridge was closed with clips and divided instead of using a new stapler. Metallic clips for this aim were used in 41 of 520 LRYGP between September 2010 and January 2017. Preoperative mean body mass index (BMI) was 47.3 ± 5.3 kg/m² (male/female: 6/35, mean age 37.8 ± 9.1 years).

RESULTS

Gastric bridges in 41 patients were successfully closed with metallic clips and divided. In one patient, intraoperative methylene blue test was positive from the anastomosis (not from the clipped place) and repaired by intracorporeal sutures. Abdominal drain was used selectively (32%). No postoperative leakage or other complications were seen. Mean length of hospital stay was 3.8 ± 1.1 days. Mean BMI was 30.3 ± 6.1 kg/m² after mean 17.6 ± 11.3 months follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In LRYGB metallic clip closure for a stomach bridge (<1 cm) between the pouch and the remnant stomach is an easy, safe and reliable method.

Short- and long-term mortality after bariatric surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS

The objective of this study was to investigate short- (≤ 30 days) and long-term (≥ 2 years) all-cause mortality after bariatric surgery among adult patients with obesity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For short-term mortality, eligible studies comprised randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting perioperative mortality. For long-term mortality, eligible studies comprised RCTs and observational studies comparing mortality between obese patients after bariatric surgery and non-operated controls. Random-effects models using a Bayesian or frequentist approach were used to pool effect estimates of short- and long-term mortality, respectively.

RESULTS

Short-term all-cause mortality based on 38 RCTs involving 4030 patients was 0.18% (95% CI, 0.04%-0.38%) and was higher for open surgeries (0.31%; 95% CI, 0.03%-0.97%) and similar in mixed surgeries (0.17%; 95% CI, 0.03%-0.43%) and restrictive surgeries (0.17%; 95% CI, 0.03%-0.45%). For long-term mortality, 12 observational studies involving 27 258 operated patients and 97 154 non-operated obese controls were included. Of these, 8 studies were eligible for the meta-analysis, which showed a reduction of 41% in all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.52-0.67; P < .001). Additionally, operated patients were 0.42 times as likely (95% CI, 0.25-0.72, P < .001) and 0.47 times as likely (95% CI, 0.36-0.63, P < .001) as non-operated obese controls to die from cardiovascular diseases and cancer, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery is associated with low short-term mortality and may be associated with long-term reductions in all-cause, cardiovascular and cancer-related mortality.

The medicalization of obesity, bariatric surgery, and population health

This article examines how the medicalization of obesity validates the use of bariatric surgery to treat obesity in the United States and how expansions in access to bariatric surgery normalize surgical procedures as disease treatment and prevention tools. Building on this discussion, the article poses two questions for population health regarding health technology: (1) to what extent does bariatric surgery treat obesity in the United States while diverting attention away from the ultimate drivers of the epidemic and (2) to what extent does bariatric surgery improve outcomes for some groups in the US population while simultaneously generating disparities? We conduct a brief, historical analysis of the American Medical Association's decision to reclassify obesity as a disease through internal documents, peer-reviewed expert reports, and major media coverage. We use medicalization theory to show how this decision by the American Medical Association channels increased focus on obesity into the realm of medical intervention, particularly bariatric surgery, and use this evidence to review research trends on bariatric surgery. We propose research questions that investigate the population health dimensions of bariatric surgery in the United States and note key areas of future research. Our objective is to generate a discourse that considers bariatric surgery beyond the medical realm to better understand how technological interventions might work collectively with population-level obesity prevention efforts and how, in turn, population health approaches may improve bariatric surgery outcomes.

Outcomes after bariatric surgery according to large databases: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The rapid development of technological tools to record data allows storage of enormous datasets, often termed "big data". In the USA, three large databases have been developed to store data regarding surgical outcomes: the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP), the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) National Inpatient Sample (NIS) and the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). We aimed to evaluate the clinical impact of studies found in these databases concerning outcomes of bariatric surgery.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review using the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. Research carried out using the PubMed database identified 362 papers. All outcomes related to bariatric surgery were analysed.

RESULTS

Fifty-four studies, published between 2005 and February 2017, were included. These articles were divided into (1) outcomes related to surgical techniques (12 articles), (2) morbidity and mortality (12), (3) 30-day hospital readmission (10), (4) outcomes related to specific diseases (11), (5) training (2) and (6) socio-economic and ethnic observations in bariatric surgery (7). Forty-two papers were based on data from ACS-NSQIP, nine on data from NIS and three on data from MBSAQIP.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides an overview of surgical management and outcomes of bariatric surgery in the USA. Large databases offer useful complementary information that could be considered external validation when strong evidence-based medicine data are lacking. They also allow us to evaluate infrequent situations for which randomized control trials are not feasible and add specific information that can complement the quality of surgical knowledge.

What Are the Real Procedural Costs of Bariatric Surgery? A Systematic Literature Review of Published Cost Analyses

This review aims to evaluate the current literature on the procedural costs of bariatric surgery for the treatment of severe obesity. Using a published framework for the conduct of micro-costing studies for surgical interventions, existing cost estimates from the literature are assessed for their accuracy, reliability and comprehensiveness based on their consideration of seven ‘important’ cost components. MEDLINE, PubMed, key journals and reference lists of included studies were searched up to January 2017. Eligible studies had to report per-case, total procedural costs for any type of bariatric surgery broken down into two or more individual cost components. A total of 998 citations were screened, of which 13 studies were included for analysis. Included studies were mainly conducted from a US hospital perspective, assessed either gastric bypass or adjustable gastric banding procedures and considered a range of different cost components. The mean total procedural costs for all included studies was US$14,389 (range, US$7423 to US$33,541). No study considered all of the recommended ‘important’ cost components and estimation methods were poorly reported. The accuracy, reliability and comprehensiveness of the existing cost estimates are, therefore, questionable. There is a need for a comparative cost analysis of the different approaches to bariatric surgery, with the most appropriate costing approach identified to be micro-costing methods. Such an analysis will not only be useful in estimating the relative cost-effectiveness of different surgeries but will also ensure appropriate reimbursement and budgeting by healthcare payers to ensure barriers to access this effective treatment by severely obese patients are minimised.

Gastroduodenal and pancreatic surgeries: indications, surgical techniques, and imaging features

This review article focuses on gastroduodenal and pancreatic surgeries with the goal of identifying radiologic findings that translate to important surgical considerations. The topics covered include partial gastrectomy with reconstruction techniques, total gastrectomy, pancreaticoduodenectomy, and pancreaticojejunostomy. Indications, contraindications, surgical techniques, and postoperative imaging are described within each of these topics. Knowledge of these surgical techniques is extremely helpful for the interpreting radiologists to identify expected postoperative anatomy and related complications that would remain clinically relevant to our surgical colleagues and direct timely patient management.