Benefits and Risks of Bariatric Surgery in Adults: A Review

Roseburia hominis improves host metabolism in diet-induced obesity

Next-generation live biotherapeutics are promising to aid the treatment of obesity and metabolic diseases. Here, we reported a novel anti-obesity probiotic candidate, Roseburia hominis, that was depleted in stool samples of obese subjects compared with lean controls, and its abundance was negatively correlated with body mass index and serum triglycerides. Supplementation of R. hominis prevented body weight gain and disorders of glucose and lipid metabolism, prevented fatty liver, inhibited white adipose tissue expansion and brown adipose tissue whitening in mice fed with high-fat diet, and boosted the abundance of lean-related species. The effects of R. hominis could be partially attributed to the production of nicotinamide riboside and upregulation of the Sirtuin1/mTOR signaling pathway. These results indicated that R. hominis is a promising candidate for the development of next-generation live biotherapeutics for the prevention of obesity and metabolic diseases.

Obesity management in primary care: A joint clinical perspective and expert review from the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) and the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) - 2025

Background

This collaboration from the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) and the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) examines obesity management from a primary care perspective.

Methods

This joint perspective is based upon scientific evidence, clinical experience of the authors, and peer review by the OMA and ACOFP leadership. The goal is to identify and answer sentinel questions about obesity management from a primary care perspective, utilizing evidence-based publications, and guided by expert clinical experience.

Results

Obesity is a disease that contributes to both biomechanical complications and the most common cardiometabolic abnormalities encountered in primary care. Barriers that impede optimal care of patients with obesity in primary care include failure to recognize obesity as a disease, lack of accurate diagnosis, insufficient access to obesity treatment resources, inadequate training, insufficient time, lack of adequate reimbursement and the adverse impact of bias, stigma, and discrimination.

Conclusions

Family physicians are often the first line of treatment in the healthcare setting. This affords early intervention opportunities to prevent and/or treat overweight and/or obesity. Patient care is enhanced when primary care clinicians recognize the risks and benefits of anti-obesity medications and bariatric procedures, as well as long-term follow-up. Practical tools regarding the 4 pillars of nutrition therapy, physical activity, behavior modification, and medical interventions (anti-obesity medications and bariatric surgery) may assist primary care clinicians improve the health and lives of patients living with obesity.

Characterizing obesity: A qualitative study

Background

The prevalence of obesity among US adults has risen over the past several decades. In addition to bariatric surgery and behavioral weight management, several effective anti-obesity medications have emerged in the last ten years and become increasingly available. The goal of this qualitative study is to explore the perspectives of people with obesity (PwO), health professionals (HPs), and payors on obesity management and treatments.

Methods

This was a 3-group interview study using a qualitative description approach with a target sample size of 40 PwO, 30 HPs who provide care to PwO (10 primary care providers; 10 providers specializing in obesity medicine; and 10 nurse practitioners, physician assistants, or dieticians/nutritionists), and 10 payors. PwO were eligible if they had a Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 using self-reported height and weight and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) BMI calculator and were recruited via an online research registry. Health professionals and payors were recruited via direct contact from the research team and sponsor's professional networks in the United States.

Results

A total of 38 PwO, 30 HPs, and 6 payors were interviewed, with PwO interviews occurring from October 2023 to March 2024 and HP/payor interviews occurring from November 2023 to May 2024. The majority of participants in each group accepted the idea of obesity as a chronic disease and that discussing obesity and weight management was important in medical contexts; however, they also acknowledged that stigma around obesity negatively impacted PwO health and health care. All participants described a treatment landscape beginning with lifestyle interventions followed by pharmaceutical or surgical treatment options.

Conclusion

This qualitative study of people with obesity, health professionals, and payors demonstrated current views of addressing and treating obesity in clinical settings. These findings could spur person-centered, less stigmatizing methods to craft plans for weight management.

Bariatric surgery in Poland in 2017-2022: retrospective analysis of public health system open data

Background

There little known about bariatric surgeries performed in Poland. We aimed to analyze trends in bariatric surgery performed in public health system in Poland.

Methods

Data was obtained from the National Health Fund (NFZ) database of aggregated statistics for the years 2017-2022. We retrieved data about hospitalizations during which bariatric surgery was performed. We performed descriptive statistics.

Results

From 2017 to 2022, the number of bariatric surgeries in Poland's public healthcare system increased from 3,278 to 5,580, with a temporary decline in 2020. The number of procedures per 100,000 residents increased from 8.5 in 2017 to 14.7 in 2022. The majority of surgeries (73.3%) were performed on women. Sleeve gastrectomy was the most frequently reported procedure. The median duration of hospitalizations was 3 days. The in-hospital mortality rate was equal to 0.057.

Conclusions

Between 2017 and 2022, bariatric surgeries in the Polish public healthcare system increased by about 70%, with a temporary drop in 2020. Nevertheless, Poland still reports fewer procedures per 100,000 residents compared to other developed countries. A key limitation of this study is the absence of data from private sector.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-025-01600-0.

Use of Preoperative Hypoalbuminemia as Independent Predictor of Post-Conversion and Revisional Bariatric Surgery Outcomes: MBSAQIP Registry Analysis

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic conversions and revisions remain crucial in addressing complications or suboptimal outcomes after primary bariatric procedures. Preoperative malnutrition, proxied by hypoalbuminemia, has traditionally been considered a risk factor for postoperative morbidity. This study investigates the validity of this association in revisional and conversion metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on 58,327 MBS revisions and anastomotic conversions from the 2020 to 2022 MBSAQIP registry. Approximately all cases studied were performed laparoscopically (98.8%). A preoperative albumin level of 3.5 g/dL was used as a threshold to identify patients with hypoalbuminemia. We used descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariable logistic regression, and 1:1 nearest-neighbor matching in complete-case analyses to explore the relationship between albumin levels and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Although univariate analyses illustrate an association between hypoalbuminemia and postoperative morbidity, multivariable regression and 1:1 matched analysis showed hypoalbuminemia is not an independently significant driver of 30-day overall postoperative complications (including leaks), reoperation, or reintervention. However, 1:1 matched analysis demonstrated significantly increased odds of 30-day postoperative superficial surgical site infection (odd ratio 8.138, p = 0.049) and readmission (odd ratio 1.75, p = 0.045) associated with albumin levels lower than 3.5 g/dL.

CONCLUSIONS

After adjustment for confounding patient factors, hypoalbuminemia alone did not arise as an independent predictive factor for the 30-day major complications, such as leak, reoperation, or reintervention after revisional and anastomotic conversion MBS, although there may be an increase in surgical site infection and readmission rates.

Improved erectile function after bariatric surgery: role of testosterone and other factors-a cohort prospective study

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of obesity has risen dramatically worldwide. Beyond its metabolic implications, obesity profoundly impacts sexual health, particularly in males, with erectile dysfunction (ED) emerging as a prevalent and distressing co-morbidity. Studies show that bariatric surgery alleviates ED. Patients suffering from obesity have lower testosterone levels, which increase after weight loss surgery.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to investigate the relationship between ED improvement, weight loss, and hormonal changes after surgery.

SETTING

University Hospital, Poland.

METHODS

This prospective study included 108 patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy from 2022 to 2023. All patients completed a section of International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire before surgery and 1 year postoperatively. Patients with a score <25 were included in the analysis. Linear regression models were created to evaluate the impact of weight loss and hormonal changes on ED remission.

RESULTS

Sixty patients with ED underwent analysis. The mean age was 41.9 and mean body mass index was 46.67. The average excess weight loss of the analyzed group was 59%. Significant improvements in erectile functioning were observed postsurgery: 40% of patients experienced full remission, and another 40% showed symptom alleviation. Multiple regression model identified preoperative severity of ED, weight loss, and diabetes as independent factors influencing ED remission Although testosterone levels increased significantly after the surgery, it was not an independent factor. Loss to follow-up was 20%.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery improves erectile function, with weight loss and diabetes mellitus being key factors influencing ED. ED should be considered as an obesity-related co-morbidity similarly as hypertension.

Medication Use Before and After Different Bariatric Surgery Procedures: Results from a Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic and bariatric surgery improves most obesity-related comorbidities. Here, we evaluate the effect of different metabolic and bariatric surgery interventions on the use of medications to treat chronic conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was an observational population-based cohort study performed in Lombardy, Italy. Healthcare utilization databases were used to identify all residents who underwent a metabolic and bariatric surgery procedure between 2010 and 2020 with available follow-up data for at least three years after surgery. We included patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), gastric bypass (GB), laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD).

RESULTS

During the period 2010 to 2020, 19,450 patients (22.5% males, 13.5% with diabetes) underwent a metabolic and bariatric surgery procedure. LSG was the most commonly performed procedure (65%), followed by LAGB (19%), GB (15%), and BPD (1%). There was a significant reduction in the use of glucose-lowering and antihypertensive drugs after the procedure in all groups. Compared to LSG, the reduction in the use of glucose-lowering drugs was greater following GB (reduction at 3 years: 59 vs 65%, p-interaction < 0.001) and lower following LAGB (59 vs 25%, p-interaction < 0.001). There was a significant reduction in lipid-lowering drug use following LSG and GB (3-year reduction: 21 and 50%, p-interaction < 0.001), and in psychiatric drug use following LSG, GB, and LAGB (with no difference between groups). In all groups, proton pump inhibitor use increased during the first 6 months, followed by a decrease from 1 year afterward.

CONCLUSION

The present study including a large number of patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery procedures shows robust reductions in the use of glucose, blood pressure and lipid-lowering drugs at 3 years follow-up, suggesting benefits of surgery on both quality of life and healthcare costs.

Antiobesity Pharmacotherapy for Patients With Genetic Obesity Due to Defects in the Leptin-Melanocortin Pathway

Lifestyle interventions are the cornerstone of obesity treatment. However, insufficient long-term effects are observed in patients with genetic obesity disorders, as their hyperphagia remains untreated. Hence, patients with genetic obesity often require additional pharmacotherapy to effectively manage and treat their hyperphagia and obesity. Recent advancements in antiobesity pharmacotherapy have expanded the range of available antiobesity medications (AOM). This includes the targeted AOM setmelanotide, approved for specific genetic obesity disorders, as well as nontargeted AOMs such as naltrexone-bupropion and glucagon-like peptide-1 analogues. Targeted AOMs have demonstrated significant weight loss, reduced obesity-related comorbidities, and improved hyperphagia and quality of life in patients with specific genetic obesity disorders. Small observational studies have shown that similar benefits from nontargeted AOMs or off-label pharmacotherapies can be achieved in patients with specific genetic obesity disorders, compared to common multifactorial obesity. In the future, novel and innovative pharmacotherapeutical options, including combination therapies and possibly gene therapy, will emerge, offering promising effects on body weight, hyperphagia, and, most importantly, quality of life for patients with a variety of genetic obesity disorders.

Compound J27 alleviates high-fat diet-induced metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease by targeting JNK

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most characteristic form of liver diseases. As the member of MAPK family, the cJun-N-terminal-kinase (JNK) plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of MASLD. A small molecule compound, J27, has demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting JNK phosphorylation, but its therapeutic potential in MASLD remains unclear.

METHODS

To evaluate the effect of J27, we used a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced MASLD mouse model with or without J27 treatment. Pathological changes were assessed through tissue staining, biochemical analysis, and other assays. In vitro, J27's effects were tested on macrophages, hepatocytes, and co-culture systems under palmitic acid stimulation.

RESULTS

J27 significantly reduced HFD-induced hepatic steatosis, liver injury, insulin resistance, and inflammatory responses by targeting JNK both in vivo and in vitro. On one hand, J27 blocked JNK activation, thereby improving insulin signaling and alleviating metabolic dysfunction in hepatocytes. On the other hand, J27 inhibited the inflammatory response in macrophages by disrupting the JNK/NF-κB axis, which, through cell-cell communication, further reduced hepatocyte injury.

CONCLUSIONS

J27, as a potent JNK inhibitor, markedly reduced HFD-induced MASLD, suggesting it as a promising therapeutic candidate for this disease.

First-in-Human Linear Magnetic Jejuno-Ileal Bipartition: Preliminary Results with Incisionless, Sutureless, Swallowable Technique

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive surgery may be further advanced with the novel biofragmentable magnetic anastomosis compression system. Two magnets may be swallowed, or placed by flexible endoscopy, in a side-to-side magnetic jejuno-ileostomy (MagJI) bipartition for weight and type 2 diabetes (T2D) reduction. MagJI markedly reduces the major complications of enterotomy, stapling/suturing, and retained foreign materials.

METHODS

This was a prospective first-in-human investigation of feasibility, safety, and preliminary efficacy in adults with body mass index (BMI, kg/m2) ≥ 30.0- ≤ 40.0. After serial introduction via swallowing or endoscopy, linear magnets were laparoscopically guided to the distal ileum and proximal jejunum where they were aligned. Magnets fused over 7-21 days forming jejuno-ileostomy.

PRIMARY ENDPOINTS

feasibility and severe adverse event (SAEs) incidence (Clavien-Dindo grade); secondary endpoints: weight, T2D reduction.

RESULTS

Between 3-1 - 2024 and 6-30 - 2024, nine patients (mean BMI 37.3 ± 1.1) with T2D (all on T2D medications; mean HbA1C 7.1 ± 0.2%, glucose 144.8 ± 14.3 mg/dL) underwent MagJI. Mean procedure time: both magnets swallowed, 86.7 ± 6.3 min; one magnet swallowed with second delivered endoscopically, 113.3 ± 17.0 min. Ninety-day feasibility confirmed in 100.0%: 0.0% bleeding, leakage, infection, mortality. Most AEs grade I-II; no SAEs. At 6-month radiologic confirmation, all anastomoses were patent. Excess weight loss 17.5 ± 2.8 kg; mean BMI reduction 2.2 ± 0.3, HbA1C 6.1 ± 0.1% (p < 0.01), glucose 115.5 ± 6.5 mg/dL (p = 0.19); 83.0% dropped below 6.5% HbA1C and had markedly reduced anti-T2D medications.

CONCLUSIONS

The swallowable, biofragmentable magnetic anastomosis system appeared to be feasible and safe in achieving incisionless, sutureless jejuno-ileostomy. The first-in-human MagJI procedure may offer minimally complicated anastomosis creation and moderate MBS weight loss and T2D reduction.

Establishing a Prediction Model for Weight Loss Outcomes After LSG in Chinese Obese Patients with BMI ≥ 32.5 Kg/m2 Using Body Composition Data

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is associated with sustained and substantial weight loss. However, suboptimal results are observed in certain patients.

Objective

Drawing from body composition data at our center, clinically accessible predictive factors for weight loss outcomes were identified, leading to the development and validation of a preoperative predictive model for weight loss following LSG.

Methods and Materials

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the general clinical baseline and body composition data of obese patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 32.5 kg/m2) who underwent LSG between December 2016 and December 2022. Independent predictors for weight loss outcomes were selected through univariate logistic regression, random forest analysis, and multivariate logistic regression. Subsequently, a nomogram was developed to predict weight loss outcomes and was evaluated for discrimination, accuracy, and clinical utility, with validation performed in a separate cohort.

Results

A total of 473 patients with mean BMI were included. The preoperative resting energy expenditure to body weight ratio (REE/BW), fat-free mass index (FFMI), and waist circumference (WC) emerged as independent predictive factors for weight loss outcomes at one year post-LSG. These body composition parameters were incorporated into the construction of an Inbody predictive nomogram, which yielded area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.868 (95% CI: 0.826-0.902) for the modeling cohort and 0.829 (95% CI: 0.756-0.887) for the validation cohort. Calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curves (CIC) from both groups demonstrated the model's robust discrimination, accuracy, and clinical utility.

Conclusion

In obese Chinese patients with a BMI ≥ 32.5 kg/m2, the Inbody-based nomogram integrating REE/BW, FFMI, and WC offers an effective preoperative tool for predicting weight loss outcomes one year after LSG, facilitating surgical planning and postoperative management.

The effect of preoperative body weight loss on 5-year bariatric surgery outcomes

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of preoperative total body weight loss (TBWL) following a structured 6-month lifestyle change programme (LCP) on the level of TBWL at 12 months and its maintenance at 60 months post bariatric surgery (BS), as well as its impact on operation time, hospital stay, surgical complications and obesity-associated pathology remission.

METHODS

This retrospective, single-centre study analysed patients undergoing primary BS between 2013 and 2014. Outcomes were compared between patients participating in the LCP (LCP group) and those receiving standard preoperative education (Control group: CG). Data collected included anthropometric measurements, obesity-related pathologies, surgical complications, and weight-related outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 340 BS procedures performed, 165 patients met the inclusion criteria; 59 in the LCP group and 106 in the CG. The mean age was 47 ( ± 11.6) years in the LCP group and 45 ( ± 11.1) years in the CG with no significant differences in baseline clinical characteristics. At surgery, the LCP group showed significant weight reduction (-5.9 kg vs. -0.72 kg in controls, p = 0.008) and their BMI was significantly lower (46.55 vs. 49.47 kg/m², p = 0.002). Postoperatively, weight-related outcomes [BMI and TBWL] were better in the LCP group at 1 and 5 years. Additionally, patients achieving a preoperative TBWL > 5% demonstrated a significantly lower weight and BMI, along with a higher postoperative TBWL. Surgical complications were minimal, with no significant differences in 30-day complication rates. We did not observe a greater resolution of comorbidities in patients who participated in the LCP or those who achieved a preoperative TBWL ≥ 5%.

CONCLUSIONS

While current evidence suggests that preoperative TBWL provides short-term benefits, our data suggest this may also be the case for TBWL in the long-term. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of preoperative TBWL in comorbidity resolution in BS patients.

Association between the weight-adjusted waist index and age-related macular degeneration: Results from NHANES 2005-2008

The present study aimed to explore the association between weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) levels, a newly proposed indicator for assessing obesity, and the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). A cross-sectional analysis of 20,497 participants was conducted using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005-2008 dataset. Trend tests, multivariable logistic regression, and smoothing curve fitting were performed to examine the association between WWI and the risk of AMD. In addition, subgroup analysis and interaction tests were used to test this association in different groups. A total of 5476 participants were included in the study, of whom 420 (7.7%) had AMD. The risk of age-related macular degeneration increased with increasing WWI in all models. In the fully adjusted model, a 55% increase in the prevalence of AMD was observed in the highest tertile (tertile 3: >11.52) of WWI (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.09, 2.21) compared to the lowest tertile (tertile 1: <10.85). The interaction tests revealed that age, chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease had significant interactions with WWI on AMD risk (P for interaction < .05). This study revealed that higher WWI levels were associated with increased risk of AMD, suggesting that managing obesity according to WWI may reduce AMD risk. However, additional research is warranted to corroborate our results.

Effect of gastric bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy on the remission of type 2 diabetes, weight loss, and cardiovascular risk factors at 5 years (Oseberg): secondary outcomes of a single-centre, triple-blind, randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

For individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes, weight loss improves insulin sensitivity and β-cell function and can induce remission of diabetes. However, the long-term comparative effectiveness of standard gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy on remission of type 2 diabetes remains unclear. We aimed to compare the effects of gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy on type 2 diabetes remission, weight loss, and cardiovascular risk factors 5 years after surgery.

METHODS

We present a secondary analysis of a two-armed, single-centre, triple-blind, randomised controlled trial conducted at a public tertiary obesity centre in Norway. Adults (ie, age ≥18 years) with type 2 diabetes and obesity were randomly assigned (1:1) by a computerised random number generator to laparoscopic gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, with balanced block sizes of ten. Study personnel, participants, and the primary-outcome assessor were all masked to the allocation until 1 year after surgery, after which further follow-up was open label. Changes in key secondary outcomes, including type 2 diabetes remission, weight loss, and cardiovascular risk factors, were assessed 5 years after surgery. The trial procedure estimand assessed treatment effects in all randomised participants, with data collected after conversional surgery removed from analyses. The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01778738) and was completed in December, 2022.

FINDINGS

Between Oct 15, 2012, and Sept 1, 2017, 319 patients were assessed for eligibility, resulting in 109 participants who were randomly assigned to gastric bypass (n=54) or sleeve gastrectomy (n=55). The baseline mean age was 47·7 years (SD 9·6), mean BMI 42·3 kg/m2 (SD 5·3), 72 (66%) were women, and 37 (34%) were men. 93 (85%) participants completed 5-year follow-up (47 [85%] in the sleeve gastrectomy group and 46 [85%] in the gastric bypass group). The proportions with remission of type 2 diabetes were higher after gastric bypass than after sleeve gastrectomy (HbA1c ≤6·0% 23 [50%] of 46 vs nine [20%] of 44, risk difference 29·5% [95% CI 10·8 to 48·3]; HbA1c <6·5% 29 [63%] vs 13 [30%], risk difference 33·5% [14·1 to 52·9]). Gastric bypass provided greater loss in bodyweight (mean 22·2% [95% CI 20·3 to 24·1] vs 17·2% [15·3 to 19·1], treatment difference 5·0% [2·4 to 7·7]) and lower LDL-cholesterol (treatment difference -0·5 mmol/L [-0·8 to -0·1]). The prevalence of erosive oesophagitis and Barrett's oesophagus was similar between groups, whereas pathological acid reflux occurred more frequently after sleeve gastrectomy (risk difference 51·1% [28·0 to 74·2]). More participants had symptomatic postprandial hypoglycaemia after gastric bypass than after sleeve gastrectomy (15 [28%] vs one [2%]).

INTERPRETATION

Gastric bypass was superior to sleeve gastrectomy regarding long-term remission of type 2 diabetes, weight loss, and LDL cholesterol concentrations, at the expense of a higher frequency of symptomatic postprandial hypoglycaemia. These findings could inform clinical practice and future guidelines regarding the preferred surgical procedure in patients with type 2 diabetes.

FUNDING

Vestfold Hospital Trust.

TRANSLATION

For the Norwegian translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Association Between Preoperative Anemia and Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: a Multi-institute Study

BACKGROUND

This multi-institute retrospective cohort study investigated the association between preoperative anemia and postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS).

METHODS

Using the TriNetX research network, we identified adult patients who underwent MBS between January 2010 and December 2024. Patients were categorized as anemic or non-anemic based on preoperative hemoglobin levels (hemoglobin < 12 g/dL for females and < 13 g/dL for males). Propensity score matching was performed to balance the baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was AKI within 30 days of MBS. The secondary outcomes included infections, intensive care unit admission, surgical complications, and deep vein thrombosis. Analyses were conducted separately for female and male patients, with additional sensitivity analyses for the female subgroups.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, preoperative anemia was significantly associated with an increased risk of postoperative AKI in females (1.51% vs. 0.71%, odds ratio (OR) 2.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.53-2.98, p < 0.0001) (n = 7144 pairs). This association persisted in all sensitivity analyses. Even mild anemia (hemoglobin 10-12 g/dL) was associated with a higher AKI risk (OR 1.62, p = 0.004) in female patients. In males (n = 971 pairs), anemia similarly increased the AKI risk (4.94% vs. 2.68%, OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.16-3.07, p = 0.009). No significant differences were observed in secondary outcomes for either sex.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative anemia is independently associated with an increased risk of postoperative AKI in both female and male patients undergoing MBS, suggesting that preoperative anemia screening and management could be important for reducing postoperative kidney complications in this population.

Costs of robotic and laparoscopic bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery is currently the most effective approach to addressing severe obesity and reducing related health issues. Laparoscopy remains the standard technique, whereas robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly adopted, although its role in bariatric surgery remains debated. The main criticism concerns its higher costs and the lack of evidence demonstrating improved clinical outcomes compared to other treatment methods. We aimed to compare the costs of robotic-assisted and laparoscopic bariatric surgery through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Following PRISMA reporting guidelines, a literature search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies comparing robotic-assisted and laparoscopic bariatric surgery. The primary outcome was total hospital costs, with bias assessed using the Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool. Effect sizes were calculated with 95% confidence intervals, and an overall effect was estimated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

A total of 14 retrospective studies (293 articles screened) were included, with 1,414,357 patients (112,363 robotic; 1,301,994 laparoscopic). Total hospital costs favored laparoscopic surgery (SMD 0.721, 95%CI: 0.555-0.887, p < 0.001, absolute difference USD 3819). Operating room costs also favored laparoscopy (SMD 1.339, 95%CI 0.202-2.476, p = 0.021, absolute difference: USD 9746). Laparoscopy was associated with shorter operative time, while robotic surgery showed a slight advantage in hospital stay and complication rates. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were consistent with the main findings. The quality of evidence was rated as low due to potential biases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our systematic review and meta-analysis provides the most current and robust evidence indicating that the robotic-assisted approach incurs significantly higher costs than the laparoscopic approach in bariatric surgery. This finding remained consistent across the overall analysis as well as in nearly all subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to accurately evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the robotic approach in both primary and revisional bariatric procedures.

Food Addiction 5 and 10 Years Following Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: a Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Food addiction (FA) is prevalent among individuals undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), but few studies have investigated the prevalence and correlates of post-surgical FA over longer periods. We report an observational, longitudinal study investigating prevalence of post-surgical FA at 5 and 10 years following MBS.

METHODS

Participants in the Oslo Bariatric Surgery Study (OBSS) completed the modified Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0 (mYFAS) and measures of psychological functioning and weight outcomes (% total weight loss: %TWL and % weight recurrence: %WR) at 5 and 10 years follow-up.

RESULTS

N = 173 of 224 (23% lost-to-follow-up) participants (73% women, 93.6% Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) completed the mYFAS 2.0 at 5 years and 10 years following MBS. The prevalence of FA was 12.9% at 5 years and 8.4% at 10 years after MBS. A higher number of FA symptoms at 5 years significantly predicted less %TWL and lower psychological functioning at 10 years. At 10 years, the majority of individuals with FA had moderate or severe symptoms and 3% were new-onset cases of FA. Higher FA at 10 years was concurrently associated with less %TWL, greater %WR, and lower psychological functioning at the 10-year follow-up (p's < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of FA decreased from 12.9 to 8.4% between 5 and 10 years following MBS. We observed prospective and concurrent associations between FA symptoms and poorer weight loss and mental health outcomes. The presence of post-operative FA may be an important target for continued assessment and follow-up care to improve longer-term outcomes.

The dual challenge of diabesity: pathophysiology, management, and future directions

Diabesity, the concurrent occurrence of obesity and type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), represents a pressing global health challenge characterized by intricate pathophysiological mechanisms and a wide range of associated comorbidities. Central to its development are insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and chronic low-grade inflammation mediated by dysregulated adipokine secretion and systemic metabolic dysfunction. These mechanisms underpin the progression of diabesity and its complications, including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Management strategies encompass lifestyle interventions focusing on tailored dietary modifications and structured physical activity, pharmacological treatments targeting both glycemic control and weight loss, and surgical interventions such as bariatric surgery, which have demonstrated efficacy in achieving durable outcomes. Clinical trials and meta-analyses underscore the comparative advantages of different treatment modalities in terms of efficacy, safety, and sustainability. Moreover, long-term follow-up studies emphasize the critical need for sustained multidisciplinary interventions to prevent relapse and enhance patient outcomes. Future advancements in management include exploring precision medicine approaches that integrate individual metabolic profiles, lifestyle factors, and emerging therapeutic innovations. A multidisciplinary approach combining advanced therapeutic strategies and patient-centered care remains pivotal for optimizing management and improving prognoses for individuals with diabesity. This review highlights the complex interplay between obesity and T2DM, offering comprehensive insights into their pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management paradigms.

Comparative survival of sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in adults with obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The difference in survival between sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) remains controversial.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the comparative survival difference between SG and RYGB in adults with morbid obesity.

SETTING

A meta-analysis.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trial were searched through June 30th, 2023 to identify studies comparing SG and RYGB. To minimize confounding, only adjusted outcomes were used from observational studies. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality during follow-up. Secondary outcomes were revision, reoperation, reintervention, hospitalization, endoscopic procedure, and emergency department visit.

RESULTS

Twenty-two studies (10 randomized controlled trials [RCTs] and 12 observational studies) met the inclusion criteria. Three RCTs and seven observational studies with 333,713 patients (SG, n = 172,909; RYGB, n = 160,804) were analyzed for all-cause mortality, with a weighted median follow-up of 34.4 months. SG was associated with decreased risks of all-cause mortality during follow-up (hazard ratio [HR]: .85; 95% confidence interval [CI]: .79 to .92), reoperation (HR: .69; 95% CI: .59 to .80), reintervention (HR: .74; 95% CI: .66 to .81), hospitalization (HR: .86; 95% CI: .77 to .97), and endoscopic procedure (HR: .55; 95% CI: 0.40-.76), whereas SG was associated with a higher risk of revision (HR: 2.18, 95% CI: 1.52 to 3.14). Meta-regression suggested consistent survival advantages of SG regardless of the proportion of patients with diabetes or follow-up duration.

CONCLUSION

In adults with morbid obesity undergoing bariatric surgery, SG was associated with a decreased risk of all-cause mortality during follow-up compared with RYGB. A large-scale randomized trial with long-term follow-up is still necessary for validation.

The importance of patient engagement in the multimodal treatment of MASLD

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is often regarded in society as a disease caused by personal lifestyle and dietary choices. Healthcare providers who have empathy and are able to explain the disease trajectory can better engage with people with MASLD and actively work with them to improve their metabolic health on a sustainable basis. Non-invasive tests can assist in this process, but healthcare providers must ensure they explain their advantages and limitations. Discussing and setting lifestyle goals are priorities before initiating specific pharmacological treatment, since living a healthy lifestyle will remain the backbone of the multimodal management of MASLD. In this review, we discuss challenges and opportunities to actively engage with people living with MASLD in a multimodal treatment framework as a healthcare provider.

Duodenal mucosal ablation with irreversible electroporation reduces liver lipids in rats with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Duodenal mucosal ablation (DMA) using irreversible electroporation (IRE) with a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist has been clinically shown to reduce liver lipid deposition in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the specific metabolic contributions of DMA using IRE in NAFLD remain unclear.

AIM

To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of DMA using IRE in NAFLD rat models.

METHODS

Seven-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent DMA using IRE after 8 weeks on a high-fat diet. Two weeks post-treatment, duodenal and liver tissues and blood samples were collected. We evaluated differences in the duodenal wall structure, liver lipid deposition, enteroendocrine, claudin, and zonula ocludens-1 in the duodenal mucosa.

RESULTS

DMA using IRE could be safely performed in rats with NAFLD without duodenal bleeding, perforation, or stenosis. The duodenum healed well 2 weeks after DMA and was characterized by slimmer villi, narrower and shallower crypts, and thicker myenterons compared with the sham-control setting. Liver lipid deposition was reduced and serum lipid index parameters were considerably improved in the DMA setting. However, these improvements were independent of food intake and weight loss. In addition, enteroendocrine parameters, such as claudin, and zonula ocludens-1 levels in the duodenal mucosa, differed between the different settings in the DMA group.

CONCLUSION

By altering enteroendocrine and duodenal permeability, simple DMA using IRE ameliorated liver lipid deposition and improved serum lipid parameters in NAFLD rats.

Long-term outcomes of metabolic bariatric surgery: a 10-Year multicenter retrospective study in Poland (BARI-10-POL)

PURPOSE

Metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) is an effective treatment for obesity and obesity-related diseases, but long-term data on its outcomes remain limited, particularly in Poland. These data are crucial for understanding the durability of weight loss, trends in weight regain, and comorbidity remission, as well as for refining surgical techniques and improving long-term care. This study aims to evaluate the 10-year outcomes of MBS in Poland, focusing on weight loss and remission of obesity-related diseases in patients who completed follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study, named BARI-10-POL, analyzed 485 patients (mean age: 41.0 years, 71.5% female, median BMI: 43.4 kg/m²) who underwent laparoscopic MBS between 2008 and 2014 across five bariatric centers. Data collected included demographics, type of surgery, weight loss (%TWL, %EWL), and remission of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and hypertension (HT).

RESULTS

The follow-up rate was 28.5% (485/1703). Among the procedures, 317 (65.4%) were sleeve gastrectomies (SG). The median %EWL and %TWL were 59.2% and 22.8%, respectively. Revisional procedures were required in 23.9% of patients, most commonly after SG (24.3%) and adjustable gastric banding (100%). The remission rates for T2D and HT were 70.8% and 56.7%, respectively. One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) demonstrated superior median %EWL (80.1%) compared to SG (55.0%, p < 0.001) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (51.4%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Conducting long-term follow-up after bariatric surgery is challenging. MBS leads to significant long-term outcomes in both weight loss and remission of obesity-related diseases.

Perceptions and Beliefs About Obesity and Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Among Black and White Men

BACKGROUND

Although metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is a safe and effective procedure to reduce severe obesity and is covered by most health insurance plans, utilization of MBS is significantly lower among men compared to women. This study identifies unique factors that explain men's attitude towards MBS.

METHODS

The study survey (paper/online) included 129 Black and White men with severe obesity from metropolitan communities in Western New York. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate participants' personal and community factors influencing their consideration of MBS.

RESULTS

Men willing to undergo MBS had lower education (38% vs. 21% ≤ high school, p < 0.05), were less likely to be satisfied with their body weight (27% vs. 48%, p < 0.05), more likely to have a physician supporting their weight loss efforts (55% vs. 32%, p = 0.03) and discussing MBS treatment (39% vs. 19%, p = 0.02), believed that community role models who underwent MBS "lost weight and looked great" (66% vs. 40%, p = 0.02) and that MBS was safe and effective (40% vs. 13%, p < 0.01), compared to men unwilling to undergo MBS. When adjusted for education level, dissatisfaction with body size (odds ratio, OR = 4.56, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.16, 18.01) and physician support (OR = 3.71, 95% CI: 1.17, 11.78) remained significantly associated with men's willingness to undergo MBS. Race and BMI were not associated with willingness to undergo MBS.

CONCLUSIONS

Positive attitude toward MBS among men is influenced by self-perception of excess weight, strong physician support and community role models. Improving patient-provider communication about MBS and awareness from community role models may improve MBS utilization among men.

Eating Disorders in the Context of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Current Status and Future Directions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Eating disorders (EDs) are a relatively uncommon yet salient concern for patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). This report aims to advance understanding of the complex relationship between EDs and MBS by highlighting recent empirical evidence and identifying areas for future research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Little-to-no empirical evidence suggests that EDs be considered an absolute contraindication for MBS. However, a small subset of patients experience recurrent or emergent ED symptoms following surgery, invariably resulting in poorer postsurgical outcomes. Plausibly, a confluence of psychosocial and neurobiological mechanisms explains post-MBS ED symptoms. Accurate identification of MBS-related ED concerns is essential, with growing evidence suggesting structured postsurgical treatment may be optimal. Despite recent advances, more research on EDs in the context of MBS is needed, including rigorous mechanistic studies with long-term follow-up that clarify how predisposing factors interact to precipitate postsurgical ED symptoms. More work is also required to inform design and dissemination of targeted ED interventions for patients pursuing MBS.

Predictors of diabetes remission after bariatric surgery in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus duration ≥ 10 years: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) duration ≥ 10 years often have significant β-cell failure. This study aimed to explore predictors of diabetes remission after bariatric surgery in these patients.

METHODS

Patients with T2DM duration ≥ 10 years who underwent bariatric surgery were retrospective included and followed up. Remission of diabetes was defined as an HbA1c < 6.5 % (48 mmol/mol) at least 3 months after the discontinuation of hypoglycemic drugs. An intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) was performed in patients with diabetes remission.

RESULTS

203 patients with T2DM duration ≥ 10 years were included, 59.6 % were treated with insulin before bariatric surgery. One-, two- and three-year post-surgery remission rates were 65.6 %, 53.8 % and 41.9 %, respectively (∼10 % decrease/year). Cox regression analysis revealed that the odds of remission at one-year post-bariatric surgery were most strongly associated with β-cell function (HR 1.20, 95 % CI 1.03-1.40) and percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) (HR 1.04, 95 % CI 1.01-1.07). The first-phase insulin secretion peak was approximately 5-8 folds of the fasting insulin level in 50 patients with diabetes remission.

CONCLUSIONS

%TWL and β-cell function are significantly associated with diabetes remission after bariatric surgery in long-duration T2DM patients, with restored first-phase insulin secretion still observed.

Efficacy of 12 months therapy with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists liraglutide and semaglutide on weight regain after bariatric surgery: a real-world retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

The role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) in patients with weight regain after bariatric surgery remains unclear. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of 12 months of GLP1-RA treatment in a real-world patient population with weight regain after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A single-centre retrospective observational study. Patients with post-bariatric weight regain subsequently treated with GLP1-RA were identified, and the effect on weight after 12 months of treatment was determined. Data are presented as medians (interquartile ranges) or frequencies (%), and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for paired and nonpaired group comparisons, respectively.

RESULTS

Forty patients (80% female) were included in the analysis. Liraglutide (3.0 mg, daily subcutaneous injection, n = 22) or semaglutide (1.0 mg, weekly subcutaneous injection, n = 18) was started 74.5 (51.0, 108.3) months after surgery following a weight regain of 14.7 (10.3, 19.6)%. After 12 months of GLP1-RA treatment, a total body weight, BMI, and percentage excess body weight reduction of 10.5 (6.1, 14.7) kg, 3.7 (2.5, 5.3) kg/m2, and 41.7 (22.1, 70.5)% were observed, corresponding to a loss of 99.3 (61.0, 135.4)% of the weight regained (P-value < 0.0001). The observed reduction in BMI was significantly lower with liraglutide than with semaglutide, 3.1 (2.0, 4.7) vs. 4.7 (3.7, 6.0) kg/m2 (P-value = 0.04). Adverse events were reported in 13 (32.5%) patients, all of which were mild and transient.

CONCLUSION

GLP1-RA therapy with liraglutide or semaglutide for 12 months is efficacious and safe for the treatment of weight regain following bariatric surgery.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

Not applicable.

Rational design of dual-agonist peptides targeting GLP-1 and NPY2 receptors for regulating glucose homeostasis and body weight with minimal nausea and emesis

There is an urgent need for effective treatments targeting comorbidities of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity. Developing dual agonists of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP-1R) and neuropeptide Y receptor type 2 (NPY2R) with combined PYY3-36 and GLP-1 bioactivity is promising. However, designing such dual agonists that effectively control glycemia and reduce weight while minimizing gastrointestinal side effects is challenging. In this study, we systematically evaluated the side effects induced by co-administering various GLP-1R agonists and PYY3-36 analogue. Our findings revealed that different GLP-1R agonist-PYY analogue combinations elicited gastrointestinal side effects of varying intensities. Among these, the co-administration of bullfrog GLP-1 analogue (bGLP-1) with PYY3-36 analogue resulted in lower gastrointestinal side effects. Thus, bGLP-1 was selected as the preferred candidate for designing dual GLP-1R/NPY2R agonists. Through stepwise structural design, optimization of linker arms, and durability enhancements, coupled with in vitro receptor screening, the novel peptide bGLP/PYY-19 emerged as the lead candidate. Notably, experimental results in mice and rats showed a significant reduction in emesis with bGLP/PYY-19 compared to semaglutide and bGLP-1 long-acting analogue (LAbGLP-1). Furthermore, bGLP/PYY-19 significantly outperformed semaglutide and LAbGLP-1 in reducing body weight in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice, without inducing nausea-associated behavior. These findings underscore the potential of dual-targeting single peptide conjugates as a promising strategy for developing glucoregulatory treatments that offer superior weight loss benefits and are better tolerated compared to treatments targeting GLP-1R alone.

Vertical sleeve gastrectomy and semaglutide have distinct effects on skeletal health and heart function in obese male mice

Obesity is a global health challenge associated with significant metabolic and cardiovascular risks. Bariatric surgery and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are effective interventions for weight loss and metabolic improvement, yet their comparative effects on systemic metabolism-particularly energy metabolism, bone health, and heart function-remain unclear. In this study, obese male mice underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), 6 wk of GLP-1RA (semaglutide) treatment, or sham procedure with saline injection as controls. Dynamic changes in body weight, food intake, fat mass, lean mass, and bone mineral density were monitored. Energy metabolism was assessed using indirect calorimetry. Bone parameters and heart function were evaluated by microcomputed tomography or echocardiography, respectively. Compared with obese controls, VSG and semaglutide treatment comparably reduced body weight and improved glucose metabolism. However, VSG decreased energy expenditure, whereas both treatments similarly promoted lipid utilization. Semaglutide treatment increased ambulatory activity during nighttime. VSG led to significant bone loss, although 6 wk of semaglutide treatment had no significant effects on the skeleton. Cardiovascular outcomes also differed: VSG increased stroke volume without altering heart mass, whereas semaglutide reduced heart mass and transiently elevated heart rate. These findings underscore the importance of carefully weighing the benefits and potential risks of different weight loss treatments when addressing obesity and its systemic complications.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Comparative studies of surgical and pharmaceutical approaches to weight loss offer critical insights that can guide clinical decision-making for managing obesity. VSG and semaglutide exhibit comparable efficacy in promoting weight reduction and improving glucose metabolism. VSG reduces energy expenditure, whereas semaglutide increases animal activity during nighttime. VSG leads to significant bone loss, whereas semaglutide preserves bone mass independent of weight loss. VSG improves cardiac outcomes, whereas semaglutide transiently affects heart function.

Impact of bodyweight loss on type 2 diabetes remission: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Bodyweight loss is associated with type 2 diabetes remission; however, the quantitative relationship between the degree of bodyweight loss and the likelihood of remission, after controlling for confounding factors, remains unknown. We aimed to analyse the relationship between the degree of bodyweight loss and diabetes remission after controlling for various confounding factors, and to provide estimates for the effect sizes of these factors on diabetes remission.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-regression analysis followed Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines to systematically review, synthesise, and report global evidence from randomised controlled trials done in individuals with type 2 diabetes and overweight or obesity. The outcome was the proportion of participants with complete diabetes remission (HbA1c <6·0% [42 mmol/mol] or fasting plasma glucose [FPG] <100 mg/dL [5·6 mmol/L], or both, with no use of glucose-lowering drugs) or partial diabetes remission (HbA1c <6·5% [48 mmol/mol] or FPG <126 mg/dL [7·0 mmol/L], or both, with no use of glucose-lowering drugs) at least 1 year after a bodyweight loss intervention. We searched PubMed, Embase, and trial registries from database inception up to July 30, 2024. Data were extracted from published reports. Meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed to analyse the data. The study protocol is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024497878).

FINDINGS

We identified 22 relevant publications, encompassing 29 outcome measures of complete diabetes remission and 33 outcome measures of partial remission. The pooled mean proportion of participants with complete remission 1 year after the intervention was 0·7% (95% CI 0·1-4·6) in those with bodyweight loss less than 10%, 49·6% (40·4-58·9) in those with bodyweight loss of 20-29%, and 79·1% (68·6-88·1) in those with bodyweight loss of 30% or greater; no studies reported on complete remission with 10-19% bodyweight loss. The pooled mean proportion of participants with partial remission 1 year after the intervention was 5·4% (95% CI 2·9-8·4) in those with bodyweight loss less than 10%, 48·4% (36·1-60·8) in those with 10-19% bodyweight loss, 69·3% (55·8-81·3) in those with bodyweight loss of 20-29%, and 89·5% (80·0-96·6) in those with bodyweight loss of 30% or greater. There was a strong positive association between bodyweight loss and remission. For every 1 percentage point decrease in bodyweight, the probability of reaching complete remission increased by 2·17 percentage points (95% CI 1·94-2·40) and the probability of reaching partial remission increased by 2·74 percentage points (2·48-3·00). No significant or appreciable associations were observed between age, sex, race, diabetes duration, baseline BMI, HbA1c, insulin use, or type of bodyweight loss intervention and remission. Overall, data were derived from randomised controlled trials with a low risk of bias in all quality domains.

INTERPRETATION

A robust dose-response relationship between bodyweight loss and diabetes remission was observed, independent of age, diabetes duration, HbA1c, BMI, and type of intervention. These findings highlight the crucial role of bodyweight loss in managing type 2 diabetes and reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.

FUNDING

Biomedical Research Program at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar and the Qatar National Research Fund (a member of Qatar Foundation).

Assessment of predictors of acute kidney injury and progression to chronic kidney disease following bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Despite the overall safety of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), the potential for postoperative complications such as acute kidney injury (AKI) remains a critical concern. Decade-old studies from our institution reported rates of AKI following MBS between 5.8% and 8.6%, with factors such as higher body mass index (BMI), diabetes, and hypertension identified as potential contributors. However, the incidence and factors associated with AKI following MBS have remained underexplored in contemporary literature.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the incidence and risk factors associated with postoperative AKI, as well as the potential for progression to CKD and renal failure.

SETTING

Quaternary academic medical center with a high-volume MBS practice.

METHODS

A retrospective review of adult patients undergoing primary laparoscopic MBS between 2008 and 2022 to identify patients who developed AKI, defined as postoperative increase in serum creatinine (sCr) by .3 mg/dL within 72 hours. A multivariable logistic regression was constructed to identify potential AKI risk factors.

RESULTS

Among 1697 patients, the incidence of AKI was 3.0% (n = 51). The distribution of AKI was not significantly different between procedure types. There was no significant correlation between anesthesia medications given and the occurrence of AKI. Male gender was the most significant predictor of AKI (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.87, 95% confidence interval {CI} [2.14-6.99]), followed by hypertension (aOR = 2.12, 95% CI [1.03-4.83]) and longer surgical duration (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI [1.05-1.35]) per 30 minutes. Of those who developed AKI, 7 (13.7%) required dialysis acutely for management, while 3 patients (5.9%) progressed to chronic renal failure and required transplant.

CONCLUSIONS

AKI is a rare but serious complication following MBS that occurs in approximately 3% of cases. AKI incidence is higher in male patients, those with hypertension, insulin-requiring diabetes, renal insufficiency, and longer procedure durations. Heightened awareness of the identified risk factors should help guide patient selection, and additional efforts should be directed towards refining postoperative follow-up.

Pregnancy and birth complications among women undergoing bariatric surgery: sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Metabolic bariatric surgery is the most effective therapy for severe obesity, which affects the health of millions, most of whom are women of child-bearing age. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are the most common bariatric procedures and are associated with durable weight loss and comorbidity resolution. Although obstetric outcomes broadly improve, the safety profile comparing the impact of RYGB and SG on obstetric outcomes is underexplored.

OBJECTIVES

To compare obstetric outcomes in women who gave birth post-RYGB versus SG to determine whether there are differences in perinatal outcomes.

SETTING

United States, all patients within commercial, Medicare, Medicaid, government, and cash payor systems.

METHODS

The PearlDiver-Mariner database was used to identify women aged 18-52 years who underwent RYGB or SG between 2010 and 2020 and became pregnant within 2 years of surgery. Outcomes were defined by the presence of 1 or more pregnancy-related complications including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and hysterectomy. A 1:1 propensity-matched analysis was performed.

RESULTS

In total, 16,911 individuals, 10,675 (63.1%) and 6236 (36.9%) underwent SG and RYGB, respectively. Obstetric complication rates were 28.3% in the SG versus 32.1% in the RYGB group (P < .01). The RYGB group had an increased relative odds of experiencing an obstetric complication compared with the SG group (odds ratio 1.26; 95% confidence interval 1.14-1.38).

CONCLUSIONS

Although both are safe, RYGB was associated with a greater obstetric complication rate than SG. These findings can help women and surgeons decide which procedure to pursue and inform discussions regarding the timing of pregnancy after surgery.

Long-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass vs Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy for Obesity: The SM-BOSS Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Reports on long-term outcomes from randomized clinical trials comparing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are scarce.

Objective

To compare long-term weight and metabolic outcomes, reoperation rates, and quality of life for patients undergoing SG vs RYGB at 10 years and beyond.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The SM-BOSS (Swiss Multicenter Bypass or Sleeve Study) randomized clinical trial was conducted from January 2007 to November 2011 at 4 bariatric centers in Switzerland. (The last follow-up was obtained in July 2023.) A total of 3971 patients with severe obesity were assessed, and 217 patients were enrolled and randomized to undergo SG or RYGB.

Interventions

Laparoscopic SG or RYGB.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome of the SM-BOSS trial was the percentage excess body mass index loss (%EBMIL) at 5 years. The present study reports on the long-term weight and metabolic outcomes at 10 years and beyond, including changes in weight and obesity-related diseases, reoperation rates, and quality of life.

Results

Of 217 patients randomized to undergo SG or RYGB, mean (SD) age was 42.5 (11.1) years, mean (SD) baseline BMI was 43.9 (5.3), and 156 patients (71.9%) were female. Of 217 patients, 110 patients were randomized to RYGB and 107 to SG. Complete 10-year follow-up is available for 65.4% of patients. In the intention-to-treat population, mean (SD) %EBMIL was 60.6% (25.9) after SG and 65.2% (26.0) after RYGB (P = .29). Patients who underwent SG had significantly higher conversion rates because of insufficient weight reduction or reflux compared to RYGB (29.9% vs 5.5%; P < .001). Patients undergoing RYGB had significantly higher mean (SD) %EBMIL compared to SG after 10 years in the per-protocol (PP) population (65.9% [26.3] vs 56.1% [25.2]; P = .048). However, mean (SD) percentage total weight loss was not significantly different between groups (RYGB: 27.7% [10.8]; SG: 25.5% [15.1]; P = .37). SG patients had significantly more de novo gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) compared with RYGB (P = .02).

Conclusions and Relevance

In the SM-BOSS randomized clinical trial, RYGB led to significantly higher %EBMIL in the PP population compared with SG beyond 10 years of follow-up, with better results for GERD. Patients undergoing SG experienced a significantly higher number of conversions to different anatomy compared with RYGB.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT00356213.

How 'miracle' weight-loss semaglutide promises to change medicine but can we afford the expense?

Obesity is a complex and growing global concern, affecting one in eight individuals and compromising health, quality of life and life expectancy. It carries significant metabolic, cardiovascular, oncological, hepatorenal, skeletal and psychiatric risks, imposing substantial costs on health-care systems. Traditional treatments have often been ineffective or have led to relapse after lifestyle changes. Whereas bariatric surgery is effective, it also involves risks such as mortality and hospitalisation. Semaglutide, licensed in 2018, is a synthetic analogue of glucagon-like peptide 1 which regulates glucose metabolism and gastrointestinal (GI) motility. Studies show that semaglutide, administered either weekly and subcutaneously, or daily orally, induces an average weight loss of -11.62 kg compared to placebo and reduces waist circumference by up to -9.4 cm. It also improves blood pressure, fasting glucose levels, C-reactive protein levels and lipid profiles. The most common adverse events are mild-to-moderate GI complaints occurring more frequently with daily administration than weekly doses; hypoglycaemia is more common without lifestyle intervention. Weight regain often follows semaglutide withdrawal. Furthermore, semaglutide offers cardiovascular benefits for patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD), lowers the risk of kidney outcomes and cardiovascular-related death, resolves nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in many cases, and positively impacts mental health and quality of life. In conclusion, semaglutide therapy could significantly benefit many adults regarding CVD and mortality if made widely accessible. Ethical and financial considerations must be addressed for personalised obesity treatment approaches.

Greater durability of weight loss at ten years with gastric bypass compared to sleeve gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and gastric bypass (GB) are the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries. However, there is insufficient data on which leads to greater long-term (10 year) weight loss.

METHODS

Subjects who underwent SG and GB from 2008-2013 were followed up at 2, 5, and 10 years post-operatively for weight and diabetes (DM) outcomes. Percentage total weight loss (%TWL), weight regain ( ≥ 20% from nadir) and DM remission rates were compared.

RESULTS

Subjects (n = 253) who underwent SG (60.9%) and GB (39.1%) were included. The mean age was 41.4 ± 10.6 y, 39.1% were male, and the mean body mass index was 42.1 ± 9.3 kg/m2 with no significant difference between groups. The GB group had a greater proportion of subjects with DM (83.8% vs 19.5%, p < 0.001). At 2 y, %TWL was comparable (GB: 22.3 ± 9.6%, SG: 22.6 ± 10.5%, p = 0.824). However, those who underwent GB had significantly higher %TWL at 5 y (GB: 21.5 ± 8.9%, SG 18.0 ± 11.3%, p = 0.029) and 10 y (GB: 21.0 ± 9.0%, SG: 15.4 ± 12.1%, p = 0.001). The rate of significant weight regain was higher amongst the SG group at both 5 y (SG: 14.7%, GB: 3.8%, p = 0.018) and 10 y (SG: 27.9%, GB: 13.7%, p = 0.037) post-operatively. On multiple linear regression, GB remained significantly associated with greater %TWL at 10 y compared to SG (b = 5.51; adjusted p-value = 0.013), after adjusting for age, sex, pre-operative BMI, pre-operative glycemic status, and surgery year. There was no difference in DM remission rates at 10 y (SG: 26.7%, GB: 19.1%, p = 0.385).

CONCLUSION

GB was able to produce greater %TWL and less weight regain than SG at 5 and 10 years post-operatively. There was no difference in long-term DM remission rates between the two surgeries.

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases After Bariatric Surgery Based on the New Predicting Risk of Cardiovascular Disease EVENTs Equations

BACKGROUND

We applied the novel Predicting Risk of Cardiovascular Disease EVENTs equations to evaluate cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health and estimated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Among 7804 patients (aged 20-79 years) undergoing bariatric surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center during 1999 to 2022, CVD risk factors from before surgery to 2 years after surgery were extracted from electronic health records. The 10- and 30-year risks of total CVD, atherosclerotic CVD, coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart failure (HF) were estimated for patients without CVD history at each time point (n=124-2910), using the social deprivation index-enhanced Predicting Risk of Cardiovascular Disease EVENTs equations. Paired t tests or McNemar tests were used to compare pre- with postsurgery CKM health and CVD risk. Two-sample t tests were used to compare CVD risk reduction between patient subgroups.

RESULTS

CKM health was significantly improved after surgery with lower systolic blood pressure, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and diabetes prevalence, and higher high-density lipoprotein and estimated glomerular filtration rate. The 10-year risks of total CVD and its subtypes decreased by 21.7% to 56.3% at 1 year after surgery and by 14.6% to 46.5% at 2 years after surgery, with the largest reduction observed for HF. Younger age, White race, >30% weight loss, and diabetes history were associated with greater HF risk reductions. Similar results were found for the 30-year CVD risk estimates.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery significantly improves CKM health and reduces estimated CVD risk, particularly HF, by 47% to 56% within 1 to 2 years after surgery. HF risk reduction may vary by patient's demographics, weight loss, and disease history, which warrants further research.

Five-Year Revision Surgery Rates After Total Ankle Arthroplasty and Ankle Arthrodesis in Patients With Prior Bariatric Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study

INTRODUCTION

It is unclear how bariatric surgery for the treatment of obesity may affect outcomes of surgical treatment for ankle conditions. The purpose of this study was to compare rates of revision surgery after primary ankle arthrodesis ("arthrodesis") and total ankle arthroplasty ("arthroplasty") for patients who had undergone bariatric surgery and those who had not ("control group").

METHODS

In this retrospective study, we used data from the PearlDiver database to compare 5-year revision surgery rates after arthroplasty and arthrodesis in patients with and without a history of bariatric surgery. Cohorts were propensity-matched by age, sex, and Charlson Comorbidity Index value in a 1:4 ratio. We explored the following surgical outcomes: arthroplasty revision, joint infection, instrumentation removal, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), and adjacent joint fusion. Cumulative incidence was calculated through Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and compared using Cox proportional hazard ratios.

RESULTS

At 5 years after arthrodesis, the likelihood of adjacent joint fusion was higher among patients with a history of bariatric surgery than among control patients (hazard ratio: 1.8, 95% confidence interval, 1.2 to 2.6); however, we found no differences in surgical outcomes for joint infection, instrumentation removal, or ORIF. At 5 years after arthroplasty, surgical outcomes did not differ between those with a history of bariatric surgery versus control patients.

DISCUSSION

These findings suggest that a history of bariatric surgery is not an important predictor of joint infection, instrumentation removal, or ORIF within 5 years after primary total ankle arthroplasty or arthrodesis. When choosing between arthroplasty or arthrodesis in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery, higher incidence of adjacent joint fusion should be a consideration.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Retrospective cohort study.

Weight Reduction with GLP-1 Agonists and Paths for Discontinuation While Maintaining Weight Loss

Worldwide, nearly 40% of adults are overweight and 13% are obese. Health consequences of excess weight include cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and increased mortality. Treating obesity is challenging and calorie restriction often leads to rebound weight gain. Treatments such as bariatric surgery create hesitancy among patients due to their invasiveness. GLP-1 medications have revolutionized weight loss and can reduce body weight in obese patients by between 15% and 25% on average after about 1 year. Their mode of action is to mimic the endogenous GLP-1, an intestinal hormone that regulates glucose metabolism and satiety. However, GLP-1 drugs carry known risks and, since their use for weight loss is recent, may carry unforeseen risks as well. They carry a boxed warning for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. Gastrointestinal adverse events (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) are fairly common while pancreatitis and intestinal obstruction are rarer. There may be a loss of lean body mass as well as premature facial aging. A significant disadvantage of using these medications is the high rate of weight regain when they are discontinued. Achieving success with pharmacologic treatment and then weaning to avoid future negative effects would be ideal.

Alcohol use after metabolic and bariatric surgery: a qualitative investigation of the relation with mood and food

Background

Individuals who undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery are at increased risk for an alcohol use disorder. Clarity on the relationships between mood, food, and alcohol use could inform interventions to reduce alcohol use and mitigate risk of alcohol use disorders after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS).

Methods

Twenty patients who underwent MBS at a single health care system and reported engaging in post-operative alcohol use were recruited. Participants were between 6 months and 3 years post-operative and reported consuming alcohol at least 2-3 times per month. Participants engaged in a 1-hour semi-structured interview about factors influencing post-operative mood, eating behaviors, and alcohol use. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded by two independent raters.

Results

Statements by participants were deductively coded within different themes: (1) changes in mood, (2) changes in eating patterns, and (3) unintended alcohol use and eating. Participants reported positive changes in mood and eating behaviors following MBS, but also indicated potential for negative mood states and new eating patterns. They also suggested that mood was a driver of both eating and alcohol use, including unintended (i.e. unplanned) eating and unintended alcohol use. However, most did not consume food and alcohol at the same time.

Discussion

Food and alcohol may be used as a coping strategy for mood, though they are not often consumed together. There is currently a lack of post-operative interventions to reduce alcohol use and findings suggest that interventions could simultaneously target mood, unintended eating, and alcohol use.

Gallstones after bariatric surgery: mechanisms and prophylaxis

Gallstones represent a common yet often underappreciated complication following bariatric surgery, with reported incidence rates ranging widely from 10.4% to 52.8% within the first postoperative year. Multiple factors contribute to gallstone formation in this setting, including intraoperative injury to the hepatic branch of the vagus nerve, alterations in bile composition, reduced food intake, shifts in gastrointestinal hormone levels, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Notably, the risk of cholelithiasis varies by surgical procedure, with sleeve gastrectomy (SG) generally associated with a lower incidence compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Prophylactic cholecystectomy during bariatric surgery may benefit patients with preexisting gallstones, whereas preserving the hepatic branch of the vagus is an important technical consideration, particularly in RYGB, to mitigate postoperative gallstone risk. Pharmacological interventions, such as ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), have demonstrated efficacy in preventing gallstones and reducing subsequent cholecystectomy rates. However, consensus is lacking on the optimal dosing, duration, and administration frequency of UDCA across different bariatric procedures. Additionally, dietary measures, such as moderate fat intake or fish oil supplementation, have shown promise in alleviating lithogenic processes. Emerging evidence supports the use of probiotics as a safe and patient-friendly adjunct or alternative to UDCA, given their ability to improve gut dysbiosis and reduce gallstone formation. Further high-quality studies are needed to define standardized prophylactic strategies that balance efficacy with patient adherence, offering personalized gallstone prevention protocols in the era of widespread bariatric surgery.

The role of tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) in metabolic disorders: A promising cannabinoid for diabetes and weight management

Disorders of the metabolism, including obesity and type 2 diabetes, represent significant global health challenges due to their rising prevalence and associated complications. Despite existing therapeutic strategies, including lifestyle interventions, pharmacological treatments, and surgical options, limitations such as poor adherence, side effects, and accessibility issues call attention to the need for novel solutions. Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from Cannabis sativa, has emerged as a promising agent to manage metabolic disorders. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), THCV exhibits an antagonistic function on the CB1 receptor and a partial agonist function on the CB2 receptor, thus enabling appetite suppression, enhanced glucose regulation, and increased energy expenditure. Preclinical studies demonstrated that THCV improves insulin sensitivity, promotes glucose uptake, and restores insulin signaling in metabolic tissues. Additionally, THCV reduces lipid accumulation and improves the mitochondrial activity in adipocytes and hepatocytes, shown through both cell-based and animal research. Animal models further revealed THCV's potential to suppress appetite, prevent hepatosteatosis, and improve metabolic homeostasis. Preliminary human trials support these findings, thereby showing that THCV may modulate appetite and glycemic control, though larger-scale studies are necessary to confirm its clinical efficacy and safety. THCV's unique pharmacological profile positions it as a possible therapeutic candidate to address the multifaceted challenges of obesity and diabetes. Continued research should concentrate on optimizing formulations, undertaking well-designed clinical studies, and addressing regulatory hurdles to unlock its full potential.

Distressed community index as a predictor of metabolic and bariatric surgery outcomes

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with serious health and social consequences. Socioeconomically disadvantaged people are less likely to undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) than their socioeconomically advantaged counterparts and experience increased complications or health care resource utilization, such as longer length of stay. The Economic Innovation Group's Distressed Communities Index (DCI) offers a metric to broadly assess socioeconomic distress.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the relationship between community distress, as determined by DCI, and complications following MBS, including length of hospital stay, likelihood of an emergency department (ED) visit, 30-day readmissions, and perioperative/postoperative occurrences.

SETTING

Academic Medical Center, United States.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis on a cohort of patients undergoing primary sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y bypass at a large academic hospital from 2016 to 2020 (n = 758). Patients were categorized based on the DCI of their community. We used the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database to record each patient's postoperative complications. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the association between community distress and complications.

RESULTS

Patients from distressed communities were more likely to have Medicaid and less likely to have private insurance (P < .001). Community distress was significantly correlated with longer hospital stay (P < .001) and a higher likelihood of an ED visit (P < .007). No significant correlation was observed between community distress and 30-day readmissions or perioperative/postoperative occurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

DCI is not an independent risk factor for complications after adjusting for other variables but increase resource utilization.

Comparison of Benefits and Risks of Metabolic Surgery for Long-Term (5 Years) Weight Loss and Diabetes Remission in Overweight/Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

While there have been studies comparing the efficiency of several metabolic operations in overweight or obese individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), there is currently no comprehensive evidence about the complete remission of diabetes and its long-term safety.

METHODS

This comprehensive review and network meta-analysis encompassed searches of many databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Google Scholar. The search was conducted from the beginning of these databases' existence until 1 May 2024. The study selected randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a 5-year follow-up period to compare the clinical benefits and evaluate the occurrence of side events. The network meta-analysis employed a random-effects model. The registration number for PROSPERO is CRD42023412536.

RESULTS

There was a total of 16 RCTs that included 1059 patients. A total of 897 patients, representing 84.7% of the entire sample, successfully completed the 5-year follow-up. Seven metabolic procedures were conducted. All ensuing estimates are to the comparison with a non-surgical treatment (NST). The evidence strongly supports that One-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is the most effective surgical procedure for achieving long-term complete remission of diabetes (relative risk [RR] 10.28, 95% CI 1.87 to 56.40). Additionally, Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is the most effective procedure for achieving long-term partial remission of diabetes (RR 16.74, 95% CI 4.66 to 60.12). The study found that BPD was the most successful method for long-term weight loss, with a mean difference of -11.68 in BMI decrease (95% CI -15.06 to -8.31) and a mean difference of -32.01 in weight change (95% CI -43.27 to -20.74). The evidence supporting this conclusion is of moderate quality. Regarding the occurrence of adverse events and complications related to surgery, gastrointestinal, macrovascular, and microvascular issues are not as frequent in BPD compared with NST (relative risk 0.29, 95% confidence interval 0.06 to 1.37). On the other hand, OAGB may have a higher occurrence of these difficulties, second only to BPD (relative risk 0.08, 95% confidence interval 0.2 to 3.29). Based on the findings on effectiveness and safety, it has been determined that OAGB (One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass) is more effective in obtaining long-term complete remission of diabetes and in assuring overall safety in diabetes management. However, BPD is superior to OAGB in terms of partial remission, weight loss and safety in diabetes management, ranking second in these aspects.

CONCLUSIONS

Both BPD and OAGB have been demonstrated superior efficacy in achieving long-term weight loss and diabetes remission in overweight/obese individuals with T2DM. OAGB is particularly advantageous for achieving long-term complete remission of diabetes mellitus and boasts a higher level of safety overall. The study found that BPD was the most efficacious treatment for achieving partial remission and weight loss in patients with long-term diabetes, while also having the lowest number of reported side events.

Treatment of obesity: will incretin agonists make bariatric surgery a thing of the past?

The prevalence of obesity continues to increase worldwide. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic and other diseases, reduced quality of life and shortened life expectancy. Highly effective therapies are required to achieve meaningful and sustained weight reduction to prevent, slow or reverse disease associated with obesity. Bariatric surgery is a highly effective intervention to induce weight loss, with observational data demonstrating durability of weight loss over 10 or more years. In addition, bariatric surgery improves cardiometabolic risk factors, including hyperglycaemia and type 2 diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia. Observational data have shown a reduction in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events and mortality and a reduction in cancer risk and mortality in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery compared to matched patients who did not have surgery. The emergence of newer incretin agonists, particularly semaglutide and tirzepatide, have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in inducing and maintaining weight loss with ongoing use. As for bariatric surgery, incretin agonist therapies also improve type 2 diabetes outcomes, cardiovascular mortality and other obesity-related complications, with new evidence emerging and long-term outcome data awaited. This perspective compares bariatric surgery and incretin agonist therapy, assessing their relative efficacies in weight reduction, impact on obesity-related complications, their respective risk profiles and considerations of cost-effectiveness and equity of access. These comparisons seek to evaluate whether these increasingly popular medications could make bariatric surgery a thing of the past.

Association of long-term weight management pharmacotherapy with multiple health outcomes: an umbrella review and evidence map

BACKGROUND

Multiple meta-analyses (MAs) have demonstrated that six pharmacotherapies, including orlistat, liraglutide, phentermine/topiramate, naltrexone/bupropion, semaglutide, and tirzepatide, improve weight loss and weight maintenance. However, few studies have synthesized and evaluated the quality of this evidence.

OBJECTIVE

To identify the relevant MAs of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that explored the association between the six pharmacotherapies and obesity-related health outcomes and adverse events (AEs).

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science from database inception up to January 2024. We calculated the effect size as the mean difference and risk ratio using the random-effects model. The quality of MAs was evaluated using "A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2".

RESULTS

Sixteen MAs comprising 235 RCTs that described 115 unique associations between the six pharmacotherapies and various health outcomes were included. Overall, 101 statistically significant associations (88%) had beneficial outcomes on body weight, weight loss, waist circumference, body mass index, total cholesterol, triglycerides, both low-density and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood pressure, and glycemic profile. The pharmacotherapies were associated with significant weight loss and partial improvements in the lipid profile, blood pressure, and glycemic control among individuals with overweight or obesity. Notable AEs were associated with liraglutide, naltrexone/bupropion, semaglutide, and orlistat. The methodological quality of the included MAs requires improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

This umbrella review identified significant beneficial associations between pharmacotherapies and anthropometric measures, lipid profile, blood pressure, glycemic profile, and quality-of-life outcomes in individuals with overweight or obesity. In addition, the umbrella review highlighted safety considerations. The findings affirm the efficacy of the six pharmacotherapies in promoting weight loss in this demographic. Further clinical trials with long-term follow-up are essential to evaluate the effects of these pharmacotherapies on clinical outcomes, including cancer, cardiovascular events, and mortality.

Association of changes in appendicular skeletal muscle mass with weight loss and visceral fat reduction after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

PURPOSE

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) drastically affects body composition. However, studies focusing on the association between the changes in the pre-and postoperative muscle mass and postoperative results are limited. We evaluated the association between changes in the muscle mass and weight loss and fat reduction.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 29 consecutive patients who underwent both LSG and a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) consecutively. We investigated changes in the body composition on the BIA and visceral fat area (VFA) on computed tomography and correlational changes in muscle mass with weight loss and fat reduction.

RESULTS

The total weight loss (%TWL) 12 months after surgery was 30.9%. The VFAs pre- and postoperatively were 224 and 71.0 cm2, respectively. The fat mass (FM), percentage of FM, appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) decreased from pre- to postoperatively (54.8 vs. 32.2 kg; 49.0 vs. 41.2%, 26.7 vs. 23.9 kg, 9.24 vs. 8.27, respectively), whereas the percentage of ASM (%ASM) increased (22.1 vs. 28.0%). The rate of change in %ASM positively correlated with weight loss and fat reduction (%TWL, rs = 0.65; %VFA loss, rs = 0.62).

CONCLUSION

The rate of change in %ASM was positively correlated with weight loss and fat reduction.

Change in carbohydrate intake one year after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: A prospective study

Background and objectives: To investigate the effect of carbohydrate intake before laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) on body weight, body composition and glycaemic status after surgery. Methods: In a tertiary centre cohort study, dietary habits, body composition and glycaemic status were evaluated before and 3, 6 and 12 months after LRYGB. Detailed dietary food records were processed by specialized dietitians on the basis of a standard protocol. The study population was subdivided according to relative carbohydrate intake before surgery. Results: Before surgery, 30 patients had a moderate relative carbohydrate intake (26%-45%, M-CHO), a mean body mass index (BMI) of 40.4 ± 3.9 kg/m² and a mean glycated haemoglobin A1c (A1C) of 6.5 ± 1.2% compared to 20 patients with a high relative carbohydrate intake (> 45%, H-CHO), mean BMI of 40.9 ± 3.7 kg/m² (non-significant, NS) and a mean A1C of 6.2% (NS). One year after surgery, body weight, body composition and glycaemic status were similar in the M-CHO (n = 25) and H-CHO groups (n = 16), despite less caloric intake in the H-CHO group (1317 ± 285 g vs. 1646 ± 345 g in M-CHO, p < 0.01). Their relative carbohydrate intake converged to 46% in both groups, but the H-CHO group reduced the absolute total carbohydrate consumption more than the M-CHO group (190 ± 50 g in M-CHO vs. 153 ± 39 g in H-CHO, p < 0.05), and this was especially pronounced for the mono- and disaccharides (86 ± 30 g in M-CHO vs. 65 ± 27 g in H-CHO, p < 0.05). Conclusion: A high relative carbohydrate intake before LRYGB, did not influence the change in body composition or diabetes status after surgery, despite a significantly lower total energy intake and less mono- and disaccharide consumption after surgery.

Identifying At-Risk Populations for Reoperations, Readmissions, and Interventions in MBSAQIP Using a Novel Inpatient Postoperative Care Metric

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is increasingly used for obesity and metabolic disease, with safety profiles showing it is among the safest major operations. The last 20 + years have noted significantly improved safety that has been accompanied by decreasing length of stay and select populations electing for outpatient surgery, leading to continued decreases in cost. Regardless, readmissions and complications still occur, requiring inpatient postoperative care (IP-POC). The current study aimed to identify and characterize at-risk populations for MBS-related IP-POC.

STUDY DESIGN

The 2015-2021 MBSAQIP (n = 1,346,468 records) was used to extract 973,520 primary cases of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, duodenal switch, and associated IP-POC. Conversions, pediatric cases, and < 30-day follow-up were excluded. IP-POC severity scores were calculated by summing readmissions (1 point), interventions (5 points), and reoperations (15 points). Risk factors associated with IP-POC were identified using zero-inflated Poisson models.

RESULTS

GERD, COPD, smoking, and type of MBS procedure were significantly associated with increased IP-POC incidence and severity. Male sex was associated with increased severity but a lower likelihood of IP-POC, while Black and Hispanic race predicted increased IP-POC likelihood but not severity. ROC curve analysis identified IP-POC score thresholds of ≥ 6 and ≥ 10 as significantly associated with MACE (OR 2.4) and 30-day mortality (OR 4.7).

CONCLUSION

The weighted IP-POC model demonstrated associations between preoperative characteristics and increased IP-POC likelihood and severity. These findings add to the current understanding of MBS patient care dynamics, and can be used to improve patient counseling, refine postoperative protocols, and optimize resource allocation.

The Association Between Bariatric Surgery and Surgical Outcomes Following Open Carpal Tunnel Release

INTRODUCTION

While previous research has evaluated surgical outcomes following open carpal tunnel release (CTR) in obese patients, there is relatively minimal literature regarding outcomes in patients who have previously undergone bariatric surgery prior to open CTR. The purpose of this study is to compare the postoperative functional and surgical outcomes in patients who undergo open CTR with or without a history of bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Adult patients with a documented history of bariatric surgery undergoing open CTR surgery between 2015 and 2022 were propensity matched with control open CTR patients with no bariatric surgery history. Patients were matched based on age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), smoking status, and history of diabetes mellitus. A retrospective chart review was performed to collect demographic data, preoperative nerve conduction studies (NCS), surgical characteristics, complications, further treatment, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients having undergone bariatric surgery prior to CTR and 84 control CTR patients with no history of bariatric surgery were included. More bariatric surgery patients demonstrated mild carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) on preoperative NCS. The overall minor complication rate was similar between patients with and without bariatric surgery history. There were no differences in postoperative Physical Component score (PCS-12) and Mental Component score (MCS-12) as well as no change in PCS-12 scores (ΔPCS-12) between preoperative and one-year postoperative scores.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of bariatric surgery tended to have a larger benefit from open CTR in comparison to the control cohort; however, this was not statistically significant. The current literature regarding CTR outcomes as it relates to obesity and bariatric surgery is limited, and therefore, the association should be explored further with larger patient cohorts.

Health Expenditures of Patients With Diabetes After Bariatric Surgery: Comparing Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) differ in their effects on body weight and risk for reoperation. However, it is unclear whether long-term health expenditures differ by procedure type in patients with diabetes.

OBJECTIVE

To compare health expenditures 3 years before and 5.5 years after bariatric surgery between patients with diabetes undergoing RYGB versus SG.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study using target trial emulation principles.

SETTING

Integrated health system.

PATIENTS

Patients with diabetes undergoing RYGB (n = 3147) or SG (n = 3510) from 2012 to 2019.

MEASUREMENTS

Total, inpatient, outpatient, and medication expenditures.

RESULTS

Characteristics of patients undergoing RYGB and SG were well balanced after weighting; 73% were female, average body mass index was 43.8 kg/m2, and average age was 50 years. Expenditures per 6-month period decreased by about 30% for both groups, from $4039.06 (95% CI, $3770.88 to $4326.31) 3 years before to $2441.13 (CI, $2151.07 to $2770.30) 5.5 years after RYGB and from $3918.37 (CI, $3658.75 to $4196.40) 3 years before to $2658.15 (CI, $2279.17 to $3100.16) 5.5 years after SG. Total expenditures after surgery did not differ between groups through 5.5 years (difference at 5.5 years, -$217.02 [CI, -$671.29 to $201.96]) except for the first 6 months, when expenditures were transiently higher in the RYGB group (difference, $564.32 [CI, $232.60 to $895.20]), driven by a higher inpatient admission rate. Otherwise, postsurgical outpatient and medication expenditures did not appear to differ between RYGB and SG.

LIMITATION

Unobserved confounding.

CONCLUSION

Overall expenditures decreased substantially in the postsurgical period, primarily due to reductions in pharmacy expenditures, with no differences between RYGB and SG except in the first 6 months after surgery.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Interventions to prevent or treat obesity in adult Indigenous Australians: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (Indigenous) Australians experience a disproportionately higher prevalence of obesity compared with non-Indigenous Australians. We aimed to describe existing research into lifestyle, pharmacological or surgical interventions for preventing or treating obesity in Indigenous Australians.

METHODS

A systematic review of published and grey literature was performed. Medline, Embase, Emcare (on the OVID platform), Web of Science and website searches were conducted to April 2024. Observational and randomised studies of adult Indigenous Australians were included if an intervention was implemented to prevent and/or treat obesity and post-intervention results were reported. The PRISMA systematic review reporting methods was used to collate data.

RESULTS

Of 1019 records screened, 17 were included; most described educational initiatives or lifestyle programs for improving diet and exercise. There were no reports of pharmacotherapies for weight management. The effect of lifestyle programs on weight reduction was modest (∼2-4 kg after 4-12 months). There were five reports on short-term (12 week) structured exercise programs. Two non-randomised studies of structured exercise showed reduction in weight in the highest weight groups whilst the two randomised trials showed ∼2 kg weight reduction compared with control. One observational study described mean ∼26 kg weight reduction at two years after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in 26 Indigenous Australians.

CONCLUSIONS

Community-based lifestyle interventions to manage excess weight can be successfully conducted in Indigenous Australians, but with generally limited efficacy. Providing background community-based lifestyle programs may facilitate the conduct of randomised trials of newer, effective anti-obesity pharmacotherapy in this high priority population.