Bariatric Surgery versus Intensive Medical Therapy for Diabetes - 5-Year 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.

Updated panel report: best practices for the surgical treatment of obesity

BACKGROUND

During the 2004 annual meeting of the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES), a panel of experts convened to provide updated information on best practices in bariatric surgery. The rapid evolution of endoluminal technologies, surgical indications, and training in bariatric surgery since 2004 has led to new questions and concerns about optimal treatment algorithms, patient selection, and the preparation of our current and future bariatric workforce.

METHODS

An expert panel was convened at the SAGES 2017 annual meeting to provide a summative update on current practice patterns, techniques, and training in bariatric surgery in order to review and establish best practices. This was a joint effort by SAGES, International Society for the Perioperative Care of the Obese Patient, and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

RESULTS

On March 23, 2017, seven expert faculty convened to address current areas of controversy in bariatric surgery and provide updated guidelines and practice recommendations. Areas addressed included the expanded indications for use of metabolic surgery in the treatment of diabetes, the safety and efficacy of new and investigational endoluminal procedures, updates on new guidelines for the management of airway and sleep apnea in the obese patient, the development of clinical pathways to reduce variation in the management of the bariatric patient, and new guidelines for training, credentialing, and bariatric program accreditation. The following article is a summary of this panel.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery is a field that continues to evolve. A timely, systematic approach, such as described here, that coalesces data and establishes best practices on the current body of available evidence is imperative for optimal patient care and to inform provider, insurer, and policy decisions.

Laparoendoscopic Single-Site Bariatric Surgery: A Review of Single-Port Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Bariatric Treatments

Bariatric surgery is an established and effective treatment, not only to combat morbid obesity, but also to address associated metabolic comorbidities. At this time, the cutoff for bariatric or metabolic surgery in terms of body mass index (BMI) is decreasing, making it more feasible for certain individuals to consider minimally invasive surgical options. Innovations in the technique have led to the application of laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) in the field of bariatrics, which uses a single or no incision in the performance of weight-reducing surgery. To date, there is no consensus regarding patient selection though most candidates for single-port bariatric surgery are female. Some doctors suggest that single-port bariatric surgery may not be recommended in patients with BMI of more than 50 kg/m², height of more than 180 cm, and xiphoid–umbilicus distance of more than 20 cm. Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is now the most widely performed bariatric surgery worldwide and single-port SG (SPSG) is already established as a routine procedure in various institutions. Current evidence shows that SPSG is less painful and demonstrates higher rates of patient satisfaction regarding the wound. SPSG is feasible and is recommendable in patients who meet certain criteria. Furthermore, endoscopic treatment modalities such as intragastric balloons and endoluminal malabsorptive devices are being developed to bridge the gap between medical and surgical treatments. Nevertheless, there is still insufficient evidence to prove the superiority of LESS bariatric surgery over conventional laparoscopic surgery. Large, well-designed prospective analyses are needed to determine the criteria for selecting patients suitable to undergo LESS bariatric surgery and to predict the procedure’s role in the growth of bariatric surgery.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy for Morbid Obesity at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center

BACKGROUND

Class III obesity is a global health emergency associated with an increase in the incidence of many other diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cancer, obstructive sleep apnea, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, infertility, and mental health disorders. Minimal work has been published regarding the efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in the veteran population to surgically manage morbid obesity.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of LSG performed at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) between 2010 and 2017. Veterans were followed from their enrollment in the bariatric program until twelve months following LSG. The primary outcome of interest was excess and total weight loss with resolution of associated comorbidities.

RESULTS

Excess weight loss at nine and 12 months was 43.5% and 40.7% and total weight loss was 20.1% and 19.0%, respectively. LSG performed at a VAMC resulted in 86.9% improvement in type 2 diabetes mellitus and a 66.1% improvement in hypertension and 74.3% improvement in hyperlipidemia. Approximately 10.0% of diabetics obtained partial and 9.0% obtained complete resolution of their disease. Similarly, 22.0% of Veterans obtained partial and 13.0% obtained complete resolution from hypertension. Complete resolution from hyperlipidemia was achieved in 8.8% of Veterans. There were no postoperative complications or staple line leaks.

CONCLUSION

LSG is a safe and effective tool for morbid obesity with clinical and serological improvements for individuals who are unable to lose weight with medical management alone.

PROVIDER PRACTICE HABITS AND BARRIERS TO CARE IN OBESITY MANAGEMENT IN A LARGE MULTICENTER HEALTH SYSTEM

OBJECTIVE

To identify provider recommendations and barriers in obesity management in a multicenter academic health system with extensive weight-loss management resources.

METHODS

A 26-question online survey was sent to attending physicians, trainees, and advanced practice providers in primary care specialties (internal medicine, family medicine, women's health) and endocrinology.

RESULTS

The survey response rate was 26% (111/430). Of respondents, 50% were internal medicine, 24% family medicine, 16% women's health, and 9% endocrinology. The majority were attending physicians (54%) and residents (40%). About 50% of respondents advised weight loss for a body mass index (BMI) >30 kg/m² in >50% of clinic visits. Limited time (82%) was the most common reason for not discussing weight loss, followed by the perception that discussion would not change patient behavior, insufficient knowledge, and discomfort broaching the subject. Common barriers to prescribing anti-obesity medications included limited experience (57%) and concern for adverse reactions (26%). Only 44% offered bariatric surgery to >50% of their patients who met criteria. Primary reasons for not referring included concerns of high surgical risk from comorbidities (57%) and potential adverse events (32%). Endocrinology had the highest referral to surgery. Attending physicians and fellows were more likely than residents to advise weight loss at lower BMI, offer medications, and refer to bariatric surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our study reveals reluctance and lack of primary care confidence in managing obesity with pharmacotherapy and bariatric surgery, especially in the earlier stages of obesity. Barriers to care include lack of clinic time, limited experience, and concerns about treatment risks.

ABBREVIATIONS

BMI = body mass index; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; IRB = Institutional Review Board.

Effects of Bariatric Surgery in Obese Patients With Hypertension: The GATEWAY Randomized Trial (Gastric Bypass to Treat Obese Patients With Steady Hypertension)

BACKGROUND

Recent research efforts on bariatric surgery have focused on metabolic and diabetes mellitus resolution. Randomized trials designed to assess the impact of bariatric surgery in patients with obesity and hypertension are needed.

METHODS

In this randomized, single-center, nonblinded trial, we included patients with hypertension (using ≥2 medications at maximum doses or >2 at moderate doses) and a body mass index between 30.0 and 39.9 kg/m2. Patients were randomized to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass plus medical therapy or medical therapy alone. The primary end point was reduction of ≥30% of the total number of antihypertensive medications while maintaining systolic and diastolic blood pressure <140 mm Hg and 90 mm Hg, respectively, at 12 months.

RESULTS

We included 100 patients (70% female, mean age 43.8±9.2 years, mean body mass index 36.9±2.7 kg/m2), and 96% completed follow-up. Reduction of ≥30% of the total number of antihypertensive medications while maintaining controlled blood pressure occurred in 41 of 49 patients from the gastric bypass group (83.7%) compared with 6 of 47 patients (12.8%) from the control group with a rate ratio of 6.6 (95% confidence interval, 3.1-14.0; P<0.001). Remission of hypertension was present in 25 of 49 (51%) and 22 of 48 (45.8%) patients randomized to gastric bypass, considering office and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, respectively, whereas no patient submitted to medical therapy was free of antihypertensive drugs at 12 months. A post hoc analysis for the primary end point considering the SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial) target reached consistent results, with a rate ratio of 3.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.4-10.6; P=0.005). Eleven patients (22.4%) from the gastric bypass group and none in the control group were able to achieve SPRINT levels without antihypertensives. Waist circumference, body mass index, fasting plasma glucose, glycohemoglobin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and 10-year Framingham risk score were lower in the gastric bypass than in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery represents an effective strategy for blood pressure control in a broad population of patients with obesity and hypertension.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01784848.

Long term (7 or more years) outcomes of the sleeve gastrectomy: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is now the most common bariatric operation in the United States and has become an established procedure in the armamentarium of the bariatric surgeon. However, this has happened without the strong support of long-term outcomes data, namely the rate of revision and durability of the weight loss. Newly published data from around the world are starting to show alarming trends in these 2 areas. This paper will examine the published and presented data with at least a 7-year follow-up.

OBJECTIVES

This is a meta-analysis on published data with at least 7 years of follow-up from the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

SETTING

Online published articles.

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of publications with at least 7 years of follow-up with the keywords "laparoscopic, bariatric, sleeve gastrectomy, sleeve, long-term, long, term, results, follow-up, follow up, conversion, 7 years, 8 years, 9 years, 10 years, 11 years." We queried the PubMed, MEDLINE, and ClinicalKey search engines, which included abstracts as well. The I² statistic was used to determine the heterogeneity across the studies. In presence of heterogeneity, a random effect model using the Dersimonian and Laird method was used to estimate the pooled estimates. The results were summarized using effect size along with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Meta-regression was also used to assess the effect of body mass index and follow-up years on the incidence of recidivism at ≥7 years.

RESULTS

Nine cohort studies met the inclusion criteria, with a total of 2280 patients included initially. Only 652 patients had completed ≥7 years of follow-up. At ≥7 years, the long-term weight recidivism rate was estimated to be 27.8% (I² = .60%; 95% CI: 22.8%-32.7%) with a range of 14% to 37%. The overall revision rate was estimated to be 19.9% (I² = 93.8%; 95% CI: 11.3%-28.5%). This was broken down into 13.1% (I² = 93.8%; 95% CI: 5.6%-20.6%) due to weight regain (5 studies) and 2.9% (I² = 60.8%; 95% CI: 1%-4.9%) due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (5 studies).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on available data up to the beginning of 2017, bariatric surgeons should be aware of the long-term outcomes of the sleeve gastrectomy, especially regarding revisions and weight regain. It is incumbent on the surgeon to make sure that bariatric patients are truly informed regarding the long-term results of the sleeve gastrectomy.

[Referral behavior of general physicians for patients with obesity]

The prevalence of obesity and overweight is constantly rising. Thus, obesity is increasingly considered as one of the most important healthcare problems in Germany. Surgical interventions have been proven to be the only treatment option to achieve sustained weight loss along with a reduction of obesity-related comorbidities in the vast majority of morbidly obese patients. With respect to the small numbers of weight loss surgeries conducted in Germany, several reasons are currently discussed. General practitioners play a very important role in gatekeeping when it comes to decisions about treatment. Research has shown that knowledge and stigma play a role when treatment pathways for patients with obesity are defined. Interventions are required to make treatment decisions by physicians or patients independent of social pressure due to stigma or gaps in expertise.

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.

The Evolving Epidemiology of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in People with Diabetes

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a leading global cause of death and accounts for most deaths among individuals with diabetes. This article reviews the latest observational and trial data on changes in the relationship between diabetes and ASCVD risk, remaining gaps in how the role of each risk factor is understood, and current knowledge about specific interventions. Differences between high-income countries and low-income and middle-income countries are examined, barriers and facilitators are discussed, and a discussion around the concept of ideal cardiovascular health factors (Life's Simple 7) is focused on.

Metabolic Effect of Foregut Exclusion Demonstrated by the Impact of Gastrogastric Fistula on Recurrence of Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) resolves in >80% of patients after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). It has been hypothesized that foregut exclusion is mechanistically important to this observation. This study aimed to determine whether gastrogastric (GG) fistula, with a loss of foregut exclusion, is associated with T2DM relapse, and to assess whether closure of GG fistula is associated with T2DM resolution.

STUDY DESIGN

A matched cohort study of patients who experienced T2DM remission after RYGB. Cases (patients with GG fistula) were matched to controls (patients without GG fistula) based on age, BMI, weight regain, and duration from RYGB. Primary end point was T2DM relapse. Time-to-event analysis was performed to identify an association between GG fistula and time to T2DM resolution.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-six patients (42 cases and 84 controls) were included. Cases experienced a higher rate of T2DM relapse than controls (48% vs 13%; odds ratio 18; p < 0.0001). On multivariable analysis, GG fistula remained a significant predictor of T2DM relapse after controlling for sex and insulin use (odds ratio 6.3; p = 0.02). Of the 42 cases, 20 experienced T2DM relapse, with 1 spontaneous resolution. Of 19, thirteen underwent fistula revision and experienced a higher rate of T2DM resolution than the nonrevision group (69% vs 0%; odds ratio 27; p = 0.036). Time to T2DM resolution was shorter in the revision group compared with the nonrevision group (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

The RYGB patients with GG fistula have a higher rate of T2DM relapse, compared with those without GG fistula with similar BMI and weight regain. Successful fistula revision is associated with resolution of T2DM.

Malnutrition secondary to gastrojejunal stricture after biliopancreatic diversion

CONTEXT

Bariatric surgery has beneficial effects on obesity and associated comorbidities such as glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and renal and hepatic function. Nevertheless, this surgery is not free of complications and possible side effects due to restrictive and/or malabsorptive related components.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We report the case of a 60-year-old woman whose past medical history included morbid obesity, hypertension and Scopinaro biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) with duodenal switch in 1998. In 2015, she attended the emergency department hypotensive with bad general condition and reporting chronic constitutional symptoms. A wide variety of tests were performed including endoscopic studies as her symptoms were not immediately correlated with the BPD surgery. Finally, she was diagnosed from gastrojejunal stricture which caused her severe malnutrition. The patient underwent successful surgical management.

DISCUSSION

BPD is one of the most effective surgical procedures for obesity, with an overall 5-year loss of excess body weight higher than 72%. Nonetheless, it is associated with long-term complications such as protein malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies due to malabsorption. Being surgically challenging, with high risk of nutritional complications and lifelong needed for the follow-up, BPD is rarely performed nowadays.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric Surgery is a well-known effective therapeutic measure to improve obesity and cardiovascular related disease. However, this case highlights the importance of robust multidisciplinary lifelong surgical and medical follow-up in all BPD patients. BPD complications can be minimised and recognised early with patient and healthcare staff education on the importance of lifetime follow-up and adherence to dietary and supplement regimes.

Roux en Y gastric bypass hypoglycemia resolves with gastric feeding or reversal: Confirming a non-pancreatic etiology

OBJECTIVE

Postprandial hypoglycemia is an infrequent but disabling complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Controversy still exists as to whether the postprandial hyperinsulinemia observed is due to inherent changes in pancreatic β-cell mass or function or to reversible alterations caused by RYGB anatomy. We aimed to determine if gastric feeding or reversal of RYGB would normalize postprandial glucose and hormone excursions in patients with symptomatic hypoglycemia.

METHODS

We completed a prospective study of six patients with severe symptomatic RYGB hypoglycemia who underwent RYGB reversal. An additional subject without hypoglycemia who underwent RYGB reversal was also studied prospectively. Mixed meal tolerance testing (MTT) was done orally (RYGB anatomy), via gastrostomy tube in the excluded stomach in the setting of RYGB, and several months after RYGB reversal.

RESULTS

All subjects reported symptomatic improvement of hypoglycemia after reversal of RYGB. Weight gain after reversal was moderate and variable. Postprandial glucose, insulin, and GLP-1 excursions were significantly diminished with gastric feeding and after reversal. Insulin secretion changed proportional to glucose levels and insulin clearance increased after reversal. Glucagon/insulin ratios were similar throughout study. We further compared the impact of modified sleeve gastrectomy reversal surgery to those with restoration of complete stomach and found no significant differences in weight regain or in postprandial glucose or hormone levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Reversal of RYGB is an effective treatment option for severe postprandial hypoglycemia. The pathophysiology of this disorder is primarily due to RYGB anatomy resulting in altered glucose, gut, and pancreatic hormone levels and decreased insulin clearance, rather than inherent β-cell hyperplasia or hyperfunction.

Surgical Treatment of Obesity in Latinos and African Americans: Future Directions and Recommendations to Reduce Disparities in Bariatric Surgery

Introduction: Obesity and metabolic syndrome are increasingly prevalent in the United States, particularly among African Americans and Latinos. Bariatric surgery has become one of the primary treatment modalities for obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, fewer Latinos and African Americans are undergoing bariatric surgery than whites. The aim of this article is to describe the disparities in seeking and accessing bariatric surgery, describe the outcomes following bariatric procedures in Latinos and African Americans, and offer recommendations and future research directions that may assist in addressing these disparities. Methods: Original research and review articles published in English were reviewed. Results: Potential reasons why Latinos and African Americans have low rates of seeking bariatric surgery are described. Disparities in access to care and financial coverage, low rates of referral by primary care providers, and cultural attitudes toward obesity in conjunction with mistrust of the healthcare system are discussed as potential contributors to the low rate of bariatric surgery in Latinos and African Americans. Finally, disparities in bariatric surgery outcomes, comorbidities, and complications are reviewed. Conclusions: Additional research studies in bariatric surgical disparities are needed. Recommendations and future directions that may help to reduce disparities in bariatric surgery are discussed.

Effect of bariatric surgery on diabetic nephropathy in obese type 2 diabetes patients in a retrospective 2-year study: A local pilot

PURPOSE

To determine the effects of bariatric surgery on albuminuria in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

Retrospective analyses of clinical records of obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who had either micro- or macroalbuminuria and had undergone various bariatric surgery were retrieved from a local hospital database. Their clinical data from follow-up appointments including albuminuria were analysed.

RESULTS

Of the 46 subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus, 15 subjects had diabetic nephropathy and had pre- and post-bariatric surgery urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio or urine protein-to-creatinine ratio data available for analysis; 13 out of the 15 subjects (86.7%) showed improvement of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio or urine protein-to-creatinine ratio after surgery; 2 showed equivocal results; 9 of 13 subjects (69.2%) showed remission of diabetic nephropathy; 7 of these 9 patients had microalbuminuria before surgery, 2 had macroalbuminuria before surgery. There were significant improvements to glycosylated haemoglobin, fasting plasma glucose, blood pressure and body weight post surgery. The usage of insulin and oral medications dropped significantly post surgery for all subjects.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that bariatric surgery significantly improves diabetic nephropathy in obese type 2 diabetes mellitus subjects. The results suggest that in our local type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, it is possible not only to improve metabolic parameters, but also to reverse what may be considered established microvascular complications by means of bariatric surgery.

Resolution of type 2 diabetes after sleeve gastrectomy: a 2-step hypothesis

BACKGROUND

Weight loss (WL) and altered gut hormonal levels are involved in glucose homeostasis after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the time-related effects of WL, ghrelin, and glucacon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) plasma concentrations on type 2 diabetes resolution after LSG.

SETTING

University hospital, Italy.

METHODS

Ninety-one patients who underwent LSG were investigated. Insulin secretion (insulinogenic index [IGI]), insulin resistance, plasma glucose level and percentage glycated hemoglobin using the oral glucose tolerance test were assessed before surgery, on postoperative day 3, and then at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months after LSG. At the same time points, WL, ghrelin, and GLP-1 levels were determined.

RESULTS

During follow-up, the resolution rate of type 2 diabetes was 9.4%, 42.3%, 71.8%, 81.2%, and 91.8%, respectively. Ghrelin plasma concentrations decreased significantly after LSG (271.5 ± 24.5 pg/mL versus 122.4 ± 23.4 pg/mL, P = .04). GLP-1 plasma concentrations increased significantly after LSG (1.7 ± 2.6 pg/mL versus 2.5 ± 3.4 pg/mL, P = .04). The percentage of excess weight loss and IGI presented a positive linear correlation (r) at all follow-up time points with a strong positive correlation at 12 and 24 months. A strong negative correlation between ghrelin and IGI was recorded during the first 3 days after LSG (r = -.9). GLP-1 and IGI presented a strong positive correlation at day 3 and 6 months (i.e., .8 and .8, respectively).

CONCLUSION

LSG may affect glucose homeostasis by 2 different time-related modes: a first step in which the hormonal changes play a predominant role in glucose homeostasis and a second step in which the percentage excess weight loss determines the metabolic results.

Is preoperative gastroscopy necessary before sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

BACKGROUND

Consensus on the necessity of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) before bariatric surgery is lacking. Recommendations and practices vary by country and unit. Several reports have expressed concerns on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its consequences after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and the risk of leaving a premalignant lesion in the excluded stomach after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

OBJECTIVES

We explored the number and types of clinically significant findings in preoperative EGDs and how they associate with preexisting GERD-symptoms (SG) and premalignant lesions (RYGB). We also studied how many reoperations were performed due to postoperative GERD in SG-patients.

SETTING

University hospital.

METHODS

We investigated preoperative EGD-findings and gastrointestinal symptoms before bariatric surgery in all patients with a primary bariatric operation in our unit between December 2007 and May 2016.

RESULTS

We performed 1474 operations: 1047 (71.0%) RYGB, 407 (27.6%) SG, and 20 (1.4%) others. One thousand two hundred seventy-five (86.5%) preoperative EGD reports were analyzed: 647 (50.7%) EGDs were completely normal. Altogether, 294 patients (23.0% of total) had a clinically significant finding that was relevant for SG (hiatal hernia, esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, esophageal dysplasia), 144 (49.0%) of whom reported gastrointestinal symptoms. Twenty patients (1.6%) had a significant finding relevant for RYGB (peptic ulcer, atrophic gastritis, gastrointestinal stromal tumor), and 6 (30%) reported gastrointestinal symptoms. Thirteen (3.2%) SGs were converted into RYGB due to GERD.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative EGD is indicated before SG but not before RYGB for asymptomatic patients without a risk for gastric pathology.

Is laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy safer than laparoscopic gastric bypass? a comparison of 30-day complications using the MBSAQIP data registry

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become popular due to its technical ease and excellent short-term results. Understanding the risk profile of LSG compared with the gold standard laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is critical for patient selection.

OBJECTIVES

To use traditional regression techniques and random forest classification algorithms to compare LSG with LRYGB using the 2015 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Data Registry.

SETTING

United States.

METHODS

Outcomes were leak, morbidity, and mortality within 30 days. Variable importance was assessed using random forest algorithms. Multivariate models were created in a training set and evaluated on the testing set with receiver operating characteristic curves. The adjusted odds of each outcome were compared.

RESULTS

Of 134,142 patients, 93,062 (69%) underwent LSG and 41,080 (31%) underwent LRYGB. One hundred seventy-eight deaths occurred in 96 (.1%) of LSG patients compared with 82 (.2%) of LRYGB patients (P<.001). Morbidity occurred in 8% (5.8% in LSG versus 11.7% in LRYGB, P<.001). Leaks occurred in 1% (.8% in LSG versus 1.6% in LRYGB, P<.001). The most important predictors of all outcomes were body mass index, albumin, and age. In the adjusted multivariate models, LRYGB had higher odds of all complications (leak: odds ratio 2.10, P<.001; morbidity: odds ratio 2.02, P<.001; death: odds ratio 1.64, P<.01).

CONCLUSION

In the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvements data registry for 2015, LSG had half the risk-adjusted odds of death, serious morbidity, and leak in the first 30 days compared with LRYGB.

Panniculectomy after bariatric surgical weight loss: Analysis of complications and modifiable risk factors

INTRODUCTION

Bariatric surgery results in massive weight loss, leaving many patients with redundant skin that can cause significant physical and psychosocial limitations. We sought to identify variables associated with postoperative complications and adjuncts associated with the mitigation of postoperative complications.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of all post-bariatric surgery patients who underwent panniculectomy over a 10-year period.

RESULTS

Total 706 patients included. Overall complication rate was 56%: dehiscence (24%), surgical site infection (22%), seroma (18%), and post-operative bleeding (5%). Return to operating room rate was 12%. Significant factors were: BMI >26 (p < 0.01), fleur-de-lis panniculectomy (p < 0.01), concomitant hernia repair (p < 0.01). Multivariate regression analysis demonstrated ASA class >2 (OR 1.97, p < 0.05) and incision type (OR 1.64, p < 0.05) to be independent predictors of morbidity.

CONCLUSION

High morbidity for post-bariatric panniculectomy is primarily local wound complications. Potentially modifiable factors that increase the complication risk profile include higher BMI, higher ASA class, and the use of fleur-de-lis incision.

Meta-analysis of metabolic surgery versus medical treatment for microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

This study aimed to examine the effect of metabolic surgery on pre-existing and future microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in comparison with medical treatment. Although metabolic surgery is the most effective treatment for obese patients with T2DM regarding glycaemic control, it is unclear whether the incidence or severity of microvascular complications is reduced.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) with no language restrictions, looking for RCTs, case–control trials and cohort studies that assessed the effect of metabolic surgery on the incidence of microvascular diabetic complications compared with medical treatment as control. The study was registered in the International prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42016042994).

Results

The literature search yielded 1559 articles. Ten studies (3 RCTs, 7 controlled clinical trials) investigating 17 532 patients were included. Metabolic surgery reduced the incidence of microvascular complications (odds ratio 0·26, 95 per cent c.i. 0·16 to 0·42; P &lt; 0·001) compared with medical treatment. Pre-existing diabetic nephropathy was strongly improved by metabolic surgery versus medical treatment (odds ratio 15·41, 1·28 to 185·46; P = 0·03).

Conclusion

In patients with T2DM, metabolic surgery prevented the development of microvascular complications better than medical treatment. Metabolic surgery improved pre-existing diabetic nephropathy compared with medical treatment.

Effect of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on liver mitochondrial dynamics in a rat model of obesity

Bariatric surgery provides significant and durable improvements in glycemic control and hepatic steatosis, but the underlying mechanisms that drive improvements in these metabolic parameters remain to be fully elucidated. Recently, alterations in mitochondrial morphology have shown a direct link to nutrient adaptations in obesity. Here, we evaluate the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery on markers of liver mitochondrial dynamics in a diet-induced obesity Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat model. Livers were harvested from adult male SD rats 90-days after either Sham or RYGB surgery and continuous high-fat feeding. We assessed expression of mitochondrial proteins involved in fusion, fission, mitochondrial autophagy (mitophagy) and biogenesis, as well as differences in citrate synthase activity and markers of oxidative stress. Gene expression for mitochondrial fusion genes, mitofusin 1 (Mfn1; P < 0.05), mitofusin 2 (Mfn2; P < 0.01), and optic atrophy 1 (OPA1; P < 0.05) increased following RYGB surgery. Biogenesis regulators, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α; P < 0.01) and nuclear respiratory factor 1 (Nrf1; P < 0.05), also increased in the RYGB group, as well as mitophagy marker, BCL-2 interacting protein 3 (Bnip3; P < 0.01). Protein expression for Mfn1 (P < 0.001), PGC1α (P < 0.05), BNIP3 (P < 0.0001), and mitochondrial complexes I-V (P < 0.01) was also increased by RYGB, and Mfn1 expression negatively correlated with body weight, insulin resistance, and fasting plasma insulin. In the RYGB group, citrate synthase activity was increased (P < 0.02) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) was decreased compared to the Sham control group (P < 0.05), although total antioxidant capacity was unchanged between groups. These data are the first to show an association between RYGB surgery and improved markers of liver mitochondrial dynamics. These observed improvements may be related to weight loss and reduced energetic demand on the liver, which could facilitate normalization of glucose homeostasis and protect against hepatic steatosis.

Prediction of type 2 diabetes remission after metabolic surgery: a comparison of the individualized metabolic surgery score and the ABCD score

BACKGROUND

Metabolic surgery has become increasingly accepted for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, there is limited evidence regarding the optimal candidate and surgical procedure. Although a new individualized metabolic surgery (IMS) score was recently proposed for procedure selection, it has yet to be validated.

OBJECTIVE

To validate the IMS score with regard to remission of T2D after metabolic surgery and compare it with the age, body mass index, C-peptide level, and duration of T2D (ABCD) score.

SETTING

Hospital-based bariatric center.

METHODS

A total of 310 T2D patients who underwent gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy at an academic center in Taiwan and had a minimum 5-year follow-up (2004-2012) were examined for the predictive power of complete remission using the IMS and the ABCD scoring systems.

RESULTS

At the 5-year follow-up, weight loss was 27.5%, with mean body mass index decreasing from 37.8 to 27.9 kg/m², mean glycated hemoglobin decreased from 8.6% to 6.1%, and prolonged remission of T2D achieved in 224 (72.3%) T2D patients. Remission rates were higher in patients who underwent gastric bypass than in those who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (73.6% versus 66.1%; P = .04), regardless of T2D severity, and were 96%, 68%, and 16% in patients with IMS mild, moderate, and severe scores, respectively. Although both scores predicted the success of surgery, the ABCD was better in patients with IMS moderate scores.

CONCLUSION

Metabolic surgery is an option for T2D patients with obesity. The ABCD score may be better at predicting T2D remission after metabolic surgery compared with the IMS score.

Pharmacotherapy for obesity in individuals with type 2 diabetes

INTRODUCTION

Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Obesity is one of the main risk factors for T2DM and its management requires a multidisciplinary approach, which may include pharmacotherapy.

AREAS COVERED

In this paper, data on efficacy, tolerability and safety of FDA-approved pharmacotherapies for obesity (orlistat, phentermine/topiramate extended-release, lorcaserin, bupropion sustained release/naltrexone sustained release and liraglutide) are reviewed, focusing on individuals with type 2 diabetes.

EXPERT OPINION

Obesity is the major pathophysiologic driver of T2DM; conversely 5-10% weight loss leads to significant improvement in glycemic control, lipids and blood pressure. Weight loss maintenance is difficult with lifestyle interventions alone and may require adjunctive therapies. There is good evidence for the efficacy and tolerability of approved anti-obesity pharmacotherapies in individuals with T2DM, with current cardiovascular safety data being most favorable for liraglutide, orlistat and lorcaserin. Given the link between obesity and T2DM, a weight-centric therapeutic approach including use of weight reducing anti-diabetic therapies, and anti-obesity pharmacotherapies is both intuitive and rational to improve glycemic and other metabolic outcomes in patients with T2DM.

Deep Brain Stimulation-Possible Treatment Strategy for Pathologically Altered Body Weight?

The treatment of obesity and eating disorders such as binge-eating disorder or anorexia nervosa is challenging. Besides lifestyle changes and pharmacological options, bariatric surgery represents a well-established and effective-albeit invasive-treatment of obesity, whereas for binge-eating disorder and anorexia nervosa mostly psychotherapy options exist. Deep brain stimulation (DBS), a method that influences the neuronal network, is by now known for its safe and effective applicability in patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, the use does not seem to be restricted to these patients. Recent preclinical and first clinical evidence points towards the use of DBS in patients with obesity and eating disorders as well. Depending on the targeted area in the brain, DBS can either inhibit food intake and body weight or stimulate energy intake and subsequently body weight. The current review focuses on preclinical and clinical evidence of DBS to modulate food intake and body weight and highlight the different brain areas targeted, stimulation protocols applied and downstream signaling modulated. Lastly, this review will also critically discuss potential safety issues and gaps in knowledge to promote further studies.

Bile acids in glucose metabolism in health and disease

Bile acids (BAs) are cholesterol-derived metabolites that facilitate the intestinal absorption and transport of dietary lipids. Recently, BAs also emerged as pivotal signaling molecules controlling glucose, lipid, and energy metabolism by binding to the nuclear hormone farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Takeda G protein receptor 5 (TGR5) in multiple organs, leading to regulation of intestinal incretin secretion, hepatic gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis, energy expenditure, inflammation, and gut microbiome configuration. Alterations in BA metabolism and signaling are associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), whereas treatment of T2DM patients with BA sequestrants, or bariatric surgery in morbidly obese patients, results in a significant improvement in glycemic response that is associated with changes in the BA profile and signaling. Herein, we review the roles of BAs in glucose metabolism in health and disease; highlight the limitations, unknowns, and challenges in understanding the impact of BAs on the glycemic response; and discuss how this knowledge may be harnessed to develop innovative therapeutic approaches for the treatment of hyperglycemia and diabetes.

Association of Bariatric Surgery vs Medical Obesity Treatment With Long-term Medical Complications and Obesity-Related Comorbidities

IMPORTANCE

The association of bariatric surgery and specialized medical obesity treatment with beneficial and detrimental outcomes remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To compare changes in obesity-related comorbidities in patients with severe obesity (body mass index ≥40 or ≥35 and at least 1 comorbidity) undergoing bariatric surgery or specialized medical treatment.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Cohort study with baseline data of exposures from November 2005 through July 2010 and follow-up data from 2006 until death or through December 2015 at a tertiary care outpatient center, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Norway. Consecutive treatment-seeking adult patients (n = 2109) with severe obesity assessed (221 patients excluded and 1888 patients included).

EXPOSURES

Bariatric surgery (n = 932, 92% gastric bypass) or specialized medical treatment (n = 956) including individual or group-based lifestyle intervention programs.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes included remission and new onset of hypertension based on drugs dispensed according to the Norwegian Prescription Database. Prespecified secondary outcomes included changes in comorbidities. Adverse events included complications retrieved from the Norwegian Patient Registry and a local laboratory database.

RESULTS

Among 1888 patients included in the study, the mean (SD) age was 43.5 (12.3) years (1249 women [66%]; mean [SD] baseline BMI, 44.2 [6.1]; 100% completed follow-up at a median of 6.5 years [range, 0.2-10.1]). Surgically treated patients had a greater likelihood of remission and lesser likelihood for new onset of hypertension (remission: absolute risk [AR], 31.9% vs 12.4%); risk difference [RD], 19.5% [95% CI, 15.8%-23.2%], relative risk [RR], 2.1 [95% CI, 2.0-2.2]; new onset: AR, 3.5% vs 12.2%, RD, 8.7% [95% CI, 6.7%-10.7%], RR, 0.4 [95% CI, 0.3-0.5]; greater likelihood of diabetes remission: AR, 57.5% vs 14.8%; RD, 42.7% [95% CI, 35.8%-49.7%], RR, 3.9 [95% CI, 2.8-5.4]; greater risk of new-onset depression: AR, 8.9% vs 6.5%; RD, 2.4% [95% CI, 1.3%-3.5%], RR, 1.5 [95% CI, 1.4-1.7]; and treatment with opioids: AR, 19.4% vs 15.8%, RD, 3.6% [95% CI, 2.3%-4.9%], RR, 1.3 [95% CI, 1.2-1.4]). Surgical patients had a greater risk for undergoing at least 1 additional gastrointestinal surgical procedure (AR, 31.3% vs 15.5%; RD, 15.8% [95% CI, 13.1%-18.5%]; RR, 2.0 [95% CI, 1.7-2.4]). The proportion of patients with low ferritin levels was significantly greater in the surgical group (26% vs 12%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with severe obesity followed up for a median of 6.5 years, bariatric surgery compared with medical treatment was associated with a clinically important increased risk for complications, as well as lower risks of obesity-related comorbidities. The risk for complications should be considered in the decision-making process.

Effect of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy vs Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass on Weight Loss at 5 Years Among Patients With Morbid Obesity: The SLEEVEPASS Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for treatment of morbid obesity has increased substantially despite the lack of long-term results compared with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Objective

To determine whether laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are equivalent for weight loss at 5 years in patients with morbid obesity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The Sleeve vs Bypass (SLEEVEPASS) multicenter, multisurgeon, open-label, randomized clinical equivalence trial was conducted from March 2008 until June 2010 in Finland. The trial enrolled 240 morbidly obese patients aged 18 to 60 years, who were randomly assigned to sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass with a 5-year follow-up period (last follow-up, October 14, 2015).

Interventions

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (n = 121) or laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 119).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was weight loss evaluated by percentage excess weight loss. Prespecified equivalence margins for the clinical significance of weight loss differences between gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy were -9% to +9% excess weight loss. Secondary end points included resolution of comorbidities, improvement of quality of life (QOL), all adverse events (overall morbidity), and mortality.

Results

Among 240 patients randomized (mean age, 48 [SD, 9] years; mean baseline body mass index, 45.9, [SD, 6.0]; 69.6% women), 80.4% completed the 5-year follow-up. At baseline, 42.1% had type 2 diabetes, 34.6% dyslipidemia, and 70.8% hypertension. The estimated mean percentage excess weight loss at 5 years was 49% (95% CI, 45%-52%) after sleeve gastrectomy and 57% (95% CI, 53%-61%) after gastric bypass (difference, 8.2 percentage units [95% CI, 3.2%-13.2%], higher in the gastric bypass group) and did not meet criteria for equivalence. Complete or partial remission of type 2 diabetes was seen in 37% (n = 15/41) after sleeve gastrectomy and in 45% (n = 18/40) after gastric bypass (P > .99). Medication for dyslipidemia was discontinued in 47% (n = 14/30) after sleeve gastrectomy and 60% (n = 24/40) after gastric bypass (P = .15) and for hypertension in 29% (n = 20/68) and 51% (n = 37/73) (P = .02), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in QOL between groups (P = .85) and no treatment-related mortality. At 5 years the overall morbidity rate was 19% (n = 23) for sleeve gastrectomy and 26% (n = 31) for gastric bypass (P = .19).

Conclusions and Relevance

Among patients with morbid obesity, use of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy compared with use of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass did not meet criteria for equivalence in terms of percentage excess weight loss at 5 years. Although gastric bypass compared with sleeve gastrectomy was associated with greater percentage excess weight loss at 5 years, the difference was not statistically significant, based on the prespecified equivalence margins.

Trial Registration

clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00793143.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease as a Nexus of Metabolic and Hepatic Diseases

NAFLD is closely linked with hepatic insulin resistance. Accumulation of hepatic diacylglycerol activates PKC-ε, impairing insulin receptor activation and insulin-stimulated glycogen synthesis. Peripheral insulin resistance indirectly influences hepatic glucose and lipid metabolism by increasing flux of substrates that promote lipogenesis (glucose and fatty acids) and gluconeogenesis (glycerol and fatty acid-derived acetyl-CoA, an allosteric activator of pyruvate carboxylase). Weight loss with diet or bariatric surgery effectively treats NAFLD, but drugs specifically approved for NAFLD are not available. Some new pharmacological strategies act broadly to alter energy balance or influence pathways that contribute to NAFLD (e.g., agonists for PPAR γ, PPAR α/δ, FXR and analogs for FGF-21, and GLP-1). Others specifically inhibit key enzymes involved in lipid synthesis (e.g., mitochondrial pyruvate carrier, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, stearoyl-CoA desaturase, and monoacyl- and diacyl-glycerol transferases). Finally, a novel class of liver-targeted mitochondrial uncoupling agents increases hepatocellular energy expenditure, reversing the metabolic and hepatic complications of NAFLD.

Increased Free Testosterone Levels in Men with Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes Five Years After Randomization to Bariatric Surgery

Hypogonadism frequently occurs in male patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and is linked to insulin resistance and inflammation. Testosterone levels rise acutely in obese patients following bariatric surgery, though long-term changes have not been investigated in a randomized controlled trial. This study evaluated obese men with T2DM randomized to either bariatric surgery or medical therapy. Testosterone, gonadotropins, body composition, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory markers were evaluated in 32 patients at baseline and at 5 years. Surgical patients had 47.4% increase in free testosterone compared to medical therapy patients who had 2.2% decrease (P = 0.013). Increase in free testosterone correlated with reduction in body weight, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and leptin levels. Prolonged improvements in testosterone levels after bariatric surgery in T2DM are found to be related to reduction in body weight and adipogenic inflammation.

The relevance of dietary protein after bariatric surgery: what do we know?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The growing obesity epidemic is associated with an increased demand for bariatric surgery with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy as the most widely performed procedures. Despite beneficial consequences, nutritional complications may arise because of anatomical and physiological changes of the gastrointestinal tract. The purpose of this review is to provide an update of the recent additions to our understanding of the impact of bariatric surgery on the intake, digestion and absorption of dietary protein.

RECENT FINDINGS

After bariatric surgery, protein intake is compromised because of reduced gastric capacity and aversion for certain foods. A minority of patients reaches the recommended protein intake of minimal 60 g per day, which results in the loss of fat-free mass rather than the desired loss of fat mass. Despite inadequate protein intake, protein digestion and absorption do not seem to be impaired suggesting that other mechanisms could counteract the reduced secretion of digestive enzymes and their delayed inlet.

SUMMARY

After bariatric surgery, protein supplementation or diet enrichment could attribute to achieve the minimal recommended protein intake and benefit the amount and composition of postoperative weight loss.

Health Outcomes and Explant Rates After Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding: A Phase 4, Multicenter Study over 5 Years

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the real-world safety and effectiveness of the LAP-BAND (Apollo Endosurgery Inc., Austin, Texas) adjustable gastric banding system (LBS) for 5 years following implantation.

METHODS

This prospective, longitudinal, phase 4, multicenter study involved 652 patients who had implantation of the LBS system. The primary outcome was the percentage of subjects who had LBS explant over 5 years. The secondary outcomes included the rate of reoperations, clinical and biochemical measures, and patient-reported outcome measures over 5 years.

RESULTS

The study cohort consisted of 79.3% females with a mean age of 44 years and a mean BMI of 45.4 kg/m² . The primary end point was met with an explant rate of 8.74% (95% CI: 6.6%-10.9%) at 5 years. The rates for completer-only analysis and imputed missing data analysis were 12.81% (95% CI: 9.7%-15.9%) and 12.85% (95% CI: 10.2%-15.5%), respectively. All were significantly lower than the historic rate of 39.4% (P < 0.001). There were 43 patients who required reoperations or revisions excluding explants (6.6%). A mean weight loss of 18.7% was maximally achieved by 2 years, and weight loss was maintained through to 5 years. All patient-reported outcomes showed improvement following LBS treatment throughout 5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

This study validates the long-term safety and effectiveness of LBS for the treatment of patients with obesity and its related conditions.

Commissioning guidance for weight assessment and management in adults and children with severe complex obesity

The challenge of managing the epidemic of patients with severe and complex obesity disease in secondary care is largely unmet. In England, the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence and the National Health Service England have published guidance on the provision of specialist (non-surgical) weight management services. We have undertaken a systematic review of 'what evidence exists for what should happen in/commissioning of: primary or secondary care weight assessment and management clinics in patients needing specialist care for severe and complex obesity?' using an accredited methodology to produce a model for organization of multidisciplinary team clinics that could be developed in every healthcare system, as an update to a previous review. Additions to the previous guidance were multidisciplinary team pathways for children/adolescent patients and their transition to adult care, anaesthetic assessment and recommendations for ongoing shared care with general practitioners, as a chronic disease management pathway.

The Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy on Glucose Metabolism and Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 in Goto-Kakizaki Rats

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on glucose metabolism and changes in glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats.

METHODS

GK rats were randomly assigned to one of three groups: SG, SG pair-fed plus sham surgery (PF-sham), and ad libitum-fed no surgery (control). Food intake, body weight, blood glucose, GLP-1 and insulin levels, and GLP-1 expression in the jejunum and ileum were compared.

RESULTS

The SG rats exhibited lower postoperative food intake, body weight, and fasting glucose than did the control rats (P < 0.05). SG significantly improved glucose and insulin tolerance (P < 0.05). Plasma GLP-1 levels were higher in SG rats than in control or PF-sham rats in the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) (P < 0.05). Blood glucose levels expressed as a percentage of baseline were higher in SG rats than in control rats after exendin (9-39) administration (P < 0.05). The levels of GLP-1 expression in the jejunum and ileum were higher in SG rats than in PF-sham and control rats (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Improvement of glucose metabolism by SG was associated with increased GLP-1 secretion. SG contributes to an increase in plasma GLP-1 levels via increased GLP-1 expression in the mucosa of the jejunum and/or ileum.

Bariatric Surgery for Obesity

In this review, the authors discuss the indications for and the published outcomes of commonly performed bariatric procedures, including weight loss, perioperative morbidity and mortality, late complications, as well as the impact of bariatric surgery on comorbidities, cardiovascular risk, and mortality. They also briefly discuss the mechanisms by which bariatric/metabolic surgery causes such significant weight loss and health gain.

Metabolic Effects of Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Obesity can be defined as a chronic subcortical brain disease, as there is an important neurophysiological component to its etiology based on changes in the functioning of those areas of the brain controlling food intake and reward. Extensive metabolic changes accompany bariatric surgery-based treatment of obesity. Consequently, the term “metabolic” surgery is being increasingly adopted in relation to the beneficial effects these procedures have on chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes.

CONTENT

In the present review, we focus on the key biochemical and physiological changes induced by metabolic surgery and highlight the beneficial effects accrued systemically with the use of an organ-based approach. Understanding the impact on and interactions between the gut, brain, adipose tissue, liver, muscle, pancreas, and kidney is key to understanding the sum of the metabolic effects of these operations.

SUMMARY

Further mechanistic studies are essential to assess the true potential of metabolic surgery to treat metabolic comorbidities of obesity beyond type 2 diabetes. Approaches that may mitigate the metabolic side effects of surgery also require attention. Understanding the positive impact of metabolic surgery on metabolic health may result in a wider acceptance of this intervention as treatment for metabolic, comorbid conditions.

Medical Devices for Obesity Treatment: Endoscopic Bariatric Therapies

Endoscopic bariatric therapies (EBTs) are effective tools for the management of obesity. By mimicking restrictive and bypass surgery physiology, they provide a safe and effective treatment option with the added capabilities of reaching a broader population. Multiple efficacious medical devices, such as intragastric balloons, endoscopic suturing/plication devices, and bypass liners, at various stages of development are available in the United States. EBTs represent the newest addition to a multidisciplinary approach in obesity management. This article reviews several devices' safety and efficacy for primary care providers in the era of evolving obesity treatment.

7. Obesity Management for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes-2018

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes" includes ADA's current clinical practice recommendations and is intended to provide the components of diabetes care, general treatment goals and guidelines, and tools to evaluate quality of care. Members of the ADA Professional Practice Committee, a multidisciplinary expert committee, are responsible for updating the Standards of Care annually, or more frequently as warranted. For a detailed description of ADA standards, statements, and reports, as well as the evidence-grading system for ADA's clinical practice recommendations, please refer to the Standards of Care Introduction Readers who wish to comment on the Standards of Care are invited to do so at professional.diabetes.org/SOC.

Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Clinical Update

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is currently the most common chronic liver disease in developed countries because of the obesity epidemic. The disease increases liver-related morbidity and mortality, and often increases the risk for other comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance related to metabolic syndrome is the main pathogenic trigger that, in association with adverse genetic, humoral, hormonal and lifestyle factors, precipitates development of NAFLD. Biochemical markers and radiological imaging, along with liver biopsy in selected cases, help in diagnosis and prognostication. Intense lifestyle changes aiming at weight loss are the main therapeutic intervention to manage cases. Insulin sensitizers, antioxidants, lipid lowering agents, incretin-based drugs, weight loss medications, bariatric surgery and liver transplantation may be necessary for management in some cases along with lifestyle measures. This review summarizes the latest evidence on the epidemiology, natural history, pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of NAFLD.