Safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in morbidly obese patients with severe systolic heart failure

Bariatric surgery is as safe as other common operations: an analysis of the ACS-NSQIP

BACKGROUND

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (MBS) is the most effective management for patients with obesity and weight-related medical conditions. Nonetheless, some primary care physicians (PCPs) and surgeons from other specialties are reluctant to refer patients for MBS due to safety concerns.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the outcomes of patients who underwent MBS with those who underwent other common operations.

SETTING

American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP).

METHODS

Patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), classified as MBS, were compared to nine frequently performed procedures including hip arthroplasty and laparoscopic cholecystectomy, appendectomy, colectomy, hysterectomy, and hernia repairs, among others. A multivariable logistic regression was constructed to compare outcomes including readmission, reoperation, extended length of stay (ELOS) (>75th percentile or ≥3 days) and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 1.6 million patients were included, with 11.1% undergoing MBS. The odds of readmission were marginally lower in the cholecystectomy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = .88, 95% confidence interval (CI) [.85, .90]) and appendectomy (aOR = .88, 95% CI [.85, .90]) cohorts. Similarly, odds of ELOS were among the lowest, surpassed only by same-day procedures such as cholecystectomies and appendectomies. The MBS group had significantly low odds of mortality, comparable to safe anatomical procedures such as hernia repairs. Infectious and thrombotic complications were exceedingly rare and amongst the lowest after MBS.

CONCLUSIONS

MBS demonstrates a remarkably promising safety profile and compares favorably to other common procedures in the short-term. PCPs and surgeons from other specialties can confidently refer patients for these low-risk, lifesaving operations.

Ventricular Remodeling Following Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Decreases Need for Heart Transplantation: A Predictive Model

PURPOSE

For patients with obesity and congestive heart failure (CHF) who require heart transplantation (HT), aggressive weight loss has been associated with ventricular remodeling, or subclinical alterations in left and right ventricular structure that affect systolic function. Many have suggested offering metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) for these patients. As such, we evaluated the role of MBS in HT for patients with obesity and CHF using predictive modelling techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Markov decision analysis was performed to simulate the life expectancy of 30,000 patients with concomitant obesity, CHF, and 30% ejection fraction (EF) who were deemed ineligible to be waitlisted for HT unless they achieved a BMI < 35 kg/m2. Life expectancy following diet and exercise (DE), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was estimated. Base case patients were defined as having a pre-intervention BMI of 45 kg/m2. Sensitivity analysis of initial BMI was performed.

RESULTS

RYGB patients had lower rates of HT and received HT quicker when needed. Base case patients who underwent RYGB gained 2.2 additional mean years survival compared with patients who underwent SG and 10.3 additional mean years survival compared with DE. SG patients gained 6.2 mean years of life compared with DE.

CONCLUSION

In this simulation of 30,000 patients with obesity, CHF, and reduced EF, MBS was associated with improved survival by not only decreasing the need for transplantation due to improvements in EF, but also increasing access to HT when needed due to lower average BMI.

The Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Patients with Heart Failure: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The current study aims to evaluate the effect of bariatric metabolic surgery (BMS) on the New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with diagnosed heart failure (HF). Fourteen related articles with 217 patients were included in the final analysis. LVEF significantly improved after BMS in patients with HF with a mean difference of 7.78% (CI 95%: 3.72, 11.84, I2 = 83.75, p-value < 0.001). Also, the NYHA class significantly decreased after BMS with a mean difference of - 0.40 (CI 95%: - 0.62, - 0.19, I2: 47.03, p-value < 0.001). A total of 27 patients with obesity and HF were listed for cardiac transplantation after BMS. Of those, 20 patients successfully underwent heart transplantation after BMS.

Evidence of Bariatric Surgery Benefits Cardiac Function in Non-HFpEF Patients with Obesity: a Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Nowadays, increasing clinical evidence on metabolic and weight-loss effects of bariatric surgery on improving cardiac structure in obese patients, but its application in improving the cardiac function of HF (heart failure) patients remains controversial. The objective of this meta-analysis was to assess the effects of BS on cardiac function by quantifying the changes of LVEF (left ventricular ejection fraction) and NYHA (New York Heart Association classification) after operations in non-HFpEF (heart failure and preserved ejection fraction) patients.

METHODS

Articles were searched using PubMed and Embase from inception to December 9, 2022, and the Minors scale was used for quality assessments. The included patients should be non-HFpEF and clinically severely obese, and their pre-operative and post-operative values of LVEF or NYHA should be reported.

RESULT

Nine studies involving 146 patients were eventually included with a final result showing that the cardiac functional parameters were improved in non-HFpEF patients. After a weighted mean follow-up time of 15.8 months, the mean NYHA decreased by 0.59 (I2 = 0; 95% CI 0.27 ~ 0.92; p = 0.003), and the mean LVEF increased by 7.49% (I2 = 0; 95% CI - 9.99 ~  - 4.99; p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery offers beneficial cardiac effects on non-HFpEF patients with obesity but failed to show a significant improvement in the pooled analysis for the changes of cardiac parameters. The improving degree may be related to the baseline BMI, the extent of BMI loss, and the baseline age. Future studies should focus on finding out the influencing factors of effectivenesses and defining the suitable crowd.

Efficacy of bariatric intervention as a bridge to cardiac transplant

BACKGROUND

Many patients with heart failure (HF) are denied cardiac transplants due to inability to meet transplantation body mass index (BMI) criteria. Bariatric intervention, including surgery, medication, and weight loss guidance, may help patients lose weight and become eligible for transplantation.

OBJECTIVE

We aim to contribute to the literature on the safety and efficacy of bariatric intervention on patients with obesity and HF who are awaiting cardiac transplantation.

SETTING

University hospital, United States.

METHODS

This was a mixed retrospective/prospective study. Eighteen patients with HF and BMI >35 kg/m2 were reviewed. Patients were divided based on whether they underwent bariatric surgery or nonsurgical intervention and whether they had left ventricular assist devices or other advanced heart failure therapy including inotropic support, guideline-directed medical therapy, and/or temporary mechanical circulatory support. Weight, BMI, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were collected before bariatric intervention and 6 months after bariatric intervention.

RESULTS

No patients were lost to follow-up. Bariatric surgery led to statistically significant decreases in weight and BMI when compared with nonsurgical patients. At 6 months after intervention, surgical patients lost an average of 18.6 kg and decreased their BMI by 6.4 kg/m2 while nonsurgical patients lost 1.9 kg and decreased their BMI by .7 kg/m2. After bariatric intervention, surgical patients had an average LVEF increase of 5.9% and nonsurgical patients had an average decrease of 5.9%, although these findings lacked statistical significance.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that bariatric intervention among patients with HF and obesity is a safe and effective method of weight and BMI reduction.

Association of prior metabolic surgery with outcomes after cardiac operations

BACKGROUND

Metabolic surgery has been shown to partially reverse metabolic and cardiovascular derangements associated with obesity. Using a national database, we examined the association of prior metabolic surgery with outcomes after elective cardiac operations.

METHODS

The 2016 to 2019 Nationwide Readmissions Database was queried to identify all adult hospitalizations for elective cardiac operations. Individual comorbidities and history of metabolic surgery were ascertained using International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision diagnosis codes. Entropy balancing was used to adjust for differences in baseline characteristics between patients with and without prior metabolic surgery. Multivariable logistic and linear regressions were subsequently developed to assess the association between metabolic surgery and in-hospital mortality, perioperative complications, length of stay, costs, and 30-day unplanned readmission.

RESULTS

An estimated 454,506 hospitalizations entailing elective cardiac operations met inclusion criteria, of whom 3,615 (0.80%) had a diagnosis code indicating a history of metabolic surgery. Compared to their counterparts, those with prior metabolic surgery were more frequently female, younger, and had a higher burden of comorbidities as measured by the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index. After adjustment, prior metabolic surgery was associated with significantly reduced mortality (adjusted odds ratio 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.31-0.83). Prior metabolic surgery was also linked to decreased pneumonia, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and respiratory failure. Of note, patients with a history of metabolic surgery encountered a greater likelihood of 30-day, non-elective readmission (adjusted odds ratio 1.26, 95% confidence interval 1.08-1.48).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a history of metabolic surgery had significantly reduced odds of in-hospital mortality and perioperative complications after cardiac operations but faced increased readmissions.

The H2FPEF and HFA-PEFF algorithms for predicting exercise intolerance and abnormal hemodynamics in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Exercise intolerance is a primary manifestation in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and is associated with abnormal hemodynamics and a poor quality of life. Two multiparametric scoring systems have been proposed to diagnose HFpEF. This study sought to determine the performance of the H₂FPEF and HFA-PEFF scores for predicting exercise capacity and echocardiographic findings of intracardiac pressures during exercise in subjects with dyspnea on exertion referred for bicycle stress echocardiography. In a subset, simultaneous expired gas analysis was performed to measure the peak oxygen consumption (VO₂). Patients with HFpEF (n = 83) and controls without HF (n = 104) were enrolled. The H₂FPEF score was obtainable for all patients while the HFA-PEFF score could not be calculated for 23 patients (feasibility 88%). Both H₂FPEF and HFA-PEFF scores correlated with a higher E/e' ratio (r = 0.49 and r = 0.46), lower systolic tricuspid annular velocity (r =  - 0.44 and =  - 0.24), and lower cardiac output (r =  - 0.28 and r =  - 0.24) during peak exercise. Peak VO₂ and exercise duration decreased with an increase in H₂FPEF scores (r =  - 0.40 and r =  - 0.32). The H₂FPEF score predicted a reduced aerobic capacity (AUC 0.71, p = 0.0005), but the HFA-PEFF score did not (p = 0.07). These data provide insights into the role of the H₂FPEF and HFA-PEFF scores for predicting exercise intolerance and abnormal hemodynamics in patients presenting with exertional dyspnea.

Parallel improvement of systolic function with surgical weight loss in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: a systematic review and patient-level meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Morbid obesity (MO) is an increasingly common condition in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Although substantial weight loss in morbidly obese patients has proved to slow the progression of heart failure, parallel alteration of ejection fraction (EF) and New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class along with post-bariatric surgery weight loss is yet to be determined.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review aimed to measure the effect of bariatric weight loss on EF and NYHA functional class in patients with HFrEF.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was performed in Medline/PubMed to identify studies in patients with MO and pre-existing HFrEF, who underwent bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies encompassing 136 patients with HFrEF undergoing bariatric surgery for MO were included. Six studies provided patient-level data on 37 cases. Patients lost an average body mass index (BMI) of 12.9 ± 4.2 kg/m² (5.1 to 23 kg/m²) after an average follow up of 22.43 ± 18.6 months (2-89 mo). There was a direct correlation between BMI loss and EF improvement (r = 0.61, P < .0001), but not between BMI loss and NYHA functional class changes (r = 0.17, P = .4).

CONCLUSION

Weight loss induced by bariatric surgery results in parallel EF increase in patients with MO and HFrEF. However, current data does not indicate a parallel improvement of clinical symptoms (NYHA functional class) along with such an increase in EF in this population of patients.

Clinical outcomes of bariatric surgery - Updated evidence

Obesity has grown to become a major health problem over the past few decades. Obesity-related comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and dyslipidemia, are inextricably linked with increased adverse clinical consequences and mortality. Compared with other strategies for obesity, bariatric surgery is efficient in weight loss and has been proved to exert positive effects on obesity-related risk factors. This broad improvement in risk factors has resulted in substantial remission or reductions of comorbidities and better performance on clinical outcomes, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and mortality. With the development of surgical procedures, the safety of bariatric surgery has been validated and the rate of peri-operative death is low all over the world. Nonetheless, surgeons ought to be careful about potential complications, such as nutrition deficiencies, psychological disorders, or new digestive tract tumors after surgery. For patients with obesity, bariatric surgery might be a precious and crucial tool to bring additional benefits including comorbidities protection and life span extension. All patients with obesity should be engaged in a union consultation group to select a suitable treatment.

Contemporary Nationwide Heart Transplantation and Left Ventricular Assist Device Outcomes in Patients with Histories of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery may play a role in the management of morbidly obese patients with end-stage heart failure through increasing eligibility and improving the outcomes of destination therapies. We conducted a nationally representative, retrospective cohort study of patients with previous bariatric surgery undergoing either heart transplantation or left ventricular assist device implantation. Of 200 patients, < 6% experienced in-hospital mortality after destination therapy, comparable to that reported in the general population of heart recipients. Risk-adjusted outcomes differed minimally from those of obese patients undergoing destination therapy without previous bariatric surgery. This study provides important safety benchmarking data and demonstrates the feasibility of bariatric surgery as a potential bridge to left ventricular assist device implantation or heart transplantation in obese patients with end-stage heart failure.

Weight Change and Mortality Risk in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the associations of weight loss or gain with all-cause mortality risk in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Methods and Results: Non-lean patients from the Americas from the Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist study were analyzed (n = 1,515). Weight loss and weight gain were defined as a decrease or increase in weight ≥5% between baseline and 1 year. To determine the associations of weight change and mortality risk, we used adjusted Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic spline models. The mean age was 71.5 (9.6) years. Weight loss and gain were witnessed in 19.3 and 15.9% patients, respectively. After multivariable adjustment, weight loss was associated with higher risk of mortality (HR 1.42, 95% CI 1.06-1.89, P = 0.002); weight gain had similar risk of mortality (HR 0.98, 95% CI 0.68-1.42, P = 0.932) compared with weight stability. There was linear relationship between weight change and mortality risk. The association of weight loss and mortality was different for patients with and without diabetes mellitus (interaction p = 0.009). Conclusion: Among patients with HFpEF, weight loss was independently associated with higher risk of all-cause mortality, and weight gain was not associated with better survival. Clinical Trial Registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier: NCT00094302.

Short-term rapid weight loss induced by bariatric surgery improves ventricular ejection fraction in patients with severe obesity and heart failure

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a major risk factor for the development of metabolic syndrome, coronary artery disease, and heart failure (HF). Rapid weight loss following bariatric surgery can significantly improve outcomes for patients with these diseases.

OBJECTIVES

To assess whether bariatric surgery improves ventricular ejection fraction in patients with obesity who have heart failure.

SETTING

Private practice, United States.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of echocardiographic changes in systolic functions in patients with obesity that underwent bariatric surgery at our institution. Patients were divided into 2 groups, those (1) without known preoperative HF and (2) with preoperative HF. We compared the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before and after bariatric surgery in both groups. Common demographics and co-morbidities were also analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 68 patients were included in the analysis: 49 patients in group 1 and 19 in group 2. In group 1, 59.2% (n = 29) of patients were female, versus 57.9% (n = 11) in group 2. The excess body mass index lost at 12 months was 52.06 ± 23.18% for group 1 versus 67.12 ± 19.27% for group 2 (P = .0001). Patients with heart failure showed a significant improvement in LVEF, from 38.79 ± 13.26% before to 48.47 ± 14.57% after bariatric surgery (P = .039). Systolic function in patients from group 1 showed no significant changes (59.90 ± 6.37 mmHg) before and (59.88 ± 7.85 mmHg) after surgery (P = .98).

CONCLUSION

Rapid weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with a considerable increase in LVEF and a significant improvement of systolic function.

Bariatric Surgery for Congestive Heart Failure Patients Improves Access to Transplantation and Long-term Survival

INTRODUCTION

Obese patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) are often denied access to heart transplantation until they obtain significant weight loss to achieve a certain BMI threshold, often less than 35 kg/m². It is unknown whether the rapid weight loss associated with bariatric surgery leads to improved waitlist placement, and as such improved survival for morbidly obese patients with CHF.

METHODS

A decision analytic Markov state transition model was created to simulate the life of morbidly obese patients with CHF who were deemed ineligible to be waitlisted for heart transplantation unless they achieved a BMI less than 35 kg/m². Life expectancy following medical weight management (MWM), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was estimated. Base case patients were defined as having a pre-intervention BMI of 45 kg/m². Sensitivity analysis of initial BMI was performed. Markov parameters were extracted from literature review.

RESULTS

RYGB improved survival compared with both SG and MWM. RYGB patients had higher rates of transplantation, leading to improved mean long-term survival. Base case patients who underwent RYGB gained 2.1 additional years of life compared with patient's who underwent SG and 7.4 additional years of life compared with MWM. SG patients gained 5.3 years of life compared with MWM.

CONCLUSIONS

When strict waitlist criteria were applied, bariatric surgery improved access to heart transplantation and thereby increased long-term survival compared with MWM. Morbidly obese CHF patients who anticipate need for heart transplantation should be encouraged to pursue surgical weight management strategies, necessitating discussion between bariatric surgeons, cardiologists, and cardiac surgeons for appropriate perioperative risk management.

Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Following Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries, with worsening pandemics of type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity as major cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. Clinical trials of nonsurgical obesity treatments have not shown benefits in CVD, although recent diabetes trials have demonstrated major CV benefits. In many retrospective and prospective cohort studies, however, metabolic (bariatric) surgery is associated with substantial and reproducible CVD benefits. Despite a lack of prospective, randomized clinical trials, data suggest metabolic surgery may be the most effective modality for CVD risk reduction, likely through weight loss and weight loss-independent mechanisms.

Improvement of left ventricular systolic function in morbidly obese patients after bariatric surgery: Case report

INTRODUCTION

Morbid obesity (body mass index > 40 kg/m2) is a risk factor for the development of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and can complicate the management of LVSD. Bariatric surgery is increasingly recognized as a safe and effective way to achieve marked weight loss, but studies on improving LVSD populations are limited. We retrospectively analyzed the first case of the Asia-Pacific region with morbid obesity and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 50% who underwent bariatric surgery at our medical center.

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patient was admitted to the hospital due to progressive weight gain for more than 10 years. The patient used to be in good health. One year before admission, the patient was hospitalized in another hospital due to shortness of breath. After the relevant examination, the patient was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy.

DIAGNOSIS

The body mass index of the patient was 45.9 kg/m2, and the patient was diagnosed with morbid obesity. He was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy and cardiac function class IV in another hospital. After completing a preoperative examination, the patient was diagnosed with hyperuricemia, hyperlipidemia, fatty liver disease and severe sleep apnea.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient successfully underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy plus jejunal bypass.

OUTCOMES

Six months after the surgery, patient weight lost was 33.6 kg, and the LVEF increased from 31% to 55%. The cardiac function of the patient recovered from class IV to class I, and the patient's hyperuricemia, hyperlipidemia and sleep apnea were significantly improved.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery may be a safe and effective intervention for morbidly obese patients with LVSD. Bariatric surgery was associated with an improvement in LVEF. However, the specific mechanism still needs further study.

Safety of Bariatric Surgery in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure: Results of an 11-Year Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a known risk factor for increased postoperative morbidity. However, the safety in patients with CHF has not been well established. The objective of this study was to assess the safety of surgery in patients with a history of CHF undergoing bariatric surgical procedures.

METHODS

Retrospective review of a prospectively maintained Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Center of Excellence database. Patients with known CHF undergoing bariatric procedures over an 11-year period were reviewed.

RESULTS

Over the 11-year period, 4470 total bariatric surgeries were performed, of which 41 (.92%) patients had known CHF. Twenty-one patients were men (51.2%) with a mean age of 55.8 years and mean body mass index (BMI) of 51.9. Comorbidities included hypertension (87.8%), obstructive sleep apnea (80.5%), osteoarthritis (63.4%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (56%), and diabetes (53.7%). Surgical procedures included 16 sleeve gastrectomies (SGs) (39%), 11 Roux-en-Y gastric bypasses (RYGBs) (26.8%), 10 laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands (LAGBs) (24.4%), 1 removal of a gastric band and conversion to SG (2.4%), 1 removal of a gastric band to RYGB (2.4%), 1 gastric band over RYGB pouch (2.4%), and 1 gastric band replacement (2.4%). All cases were performed minimally invasively (73.2% laparoscopic and 26.8% robotic). Mean LOS was 2.53 days. Thirty-day complications included 2 readmissions (4.9% [1 small bowel obstruction and 1 pulmonary edema]), 1 reoperation (2.4% [small bowel obstruction]), and 1 mortality (2.4%) on postoperative day 30 unrelated to the surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery can be performed safely in patients with CHF.

Regression of severe heart failure after combined left ventricular assist device placement and sleeve gastrectomy

Patients who suffer morbid obesity and heart failure (HF) present unique challenges. Two cases are described where concomitant use of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placement enabled myocardial recovery and weight loss resulting in explantation. A 29‐year‐old male patient with a body mass index (BMI) of 59 kg/m² and severe HF with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 20–25% underwent concomitant LSG and LVAD placement. Sixteen months after surgery, his BMI was reduced to 34 kg/m² and his LVEF improved to 50–55%. A second 41‐year‐old male patient with a BMI of 44.8 kg/m² with severe HF underwent the same procedures. Twenty‐four months later, his BMI was 31.1 kg/m² and his LVEF was 50–55%. In both cases, the LVAD was successfully explanted and patients remain asymptomatic. HF teams should consult and collaborate with bariatric experts to determine if LSG may improve the outcomes of their HF patients.

Clinical Outcomes, Trends in Weight, and Weight Loss Strategies in Patients With Obesity After Durable Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss clinical outcomes, changes in weight, and weight loss strategies of patients with obesity post left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Despite increased complications in patients with obesity after LVAD implantation, survival is comparable to patients without obesity. A minority of patients with obesity lose significant weight and become eligible for heart transplantation after LVAD implantation. In fact, a great majority of such patients gain weight post-implantation. Obesity by itself should not be considered prohibitive for LVAD therapy but, rather, should be incorporated into the overall risk assessment for LVAD implantation. Concerted strategies should be developed to promote sustainable weight loss in patients with obesity and LVAD to improve quality of life, eligibility, and outcomes after heart transplantation. Investigation of the long-term impact of weight loss on patients with obesity with LVAD is warranted.

Diabetes and cardiovascular disease: inter-relation of risk factors and treatment

Background

The diabetes mellitus prevalence is still advancing and increasingly becoming one of the globally most severe and expensive chronic illnesses. The strong correlation between diabetes as well as the most prominent reason for diabetes and death in diabetic patients is cardiovascular disorders. Health conditions like dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, and other factors of risk like the risk of cardiovascular are frequent in diabetic persons and raise the likelihood of heart attacks.

Main text

In particular, several researchers have found diabetes mellitus-related biochemical pathways that raise the likelihood of cardiovascular disorder in people with diabetes individually. This review describes diabetes-cardiovascular disorder relationships, explores potential therapeutic mechanisms, addresses existing treatment, care, and describes the directions for the future for study.

Conclusion

Thus, in individuals with diabetes, it is important to concentrate on cardiovascular threat variables to reduce the illness’s lasting cardiovascular complications. Further work to enhance knowledge of the disease state and its impact on cardiovascular function is required to boost medical treatment and cardiovascular disorders result in people with diabetes.

Does Weight Loss Improve Clinical Outcomes in Overweight and Obese Patients with Heart Failure?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Obesity increases the risk of new onset heart failure (HF), and particularly HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Despite the observations of favorable clinical outcomes in HF patients with obesity in general, sometimes referred to as the "obesity paradox," it is important to recognize that severe obesity is associated with worse clinical outcomes. This review summarizes the effects of obesity treatment on cardiovascular health and HF clinical outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Treatment for obesity utilizes a variety of modalities to achieve purposeful weight loss including lifestyle intervention, medications, and bariatric surgery. There are a cluster of benefits of obesity treatment in terms of clinical outcomes in HF. The mechanisms of these benefits include both weight loss-dependent and weight loss-independent mechanisms. Obesity treatment is safe and associated with favorable clinical outcomes across the spectrum of the HF population. The potential benefits are facilitated through multiple mechanisms.

Hospitalizations and emergency department visits in heart failure patients after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Heart failure is a disease with significant healthcare utilization and a prioritized target for readmission prevention. Although obesity is related to heart failure morbidity, the effects of bariatric surgery in obese patients with heart failure are not well studied.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the impact of bariatric surgery on hospital-based healthcare utilization for patients with heart failure.

SETTING

Administrative statewide database.

METHODS

The New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database was used to identify patients with obesity and heart failure who underwent bariatric surgery from 2005 to 2015. Emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalization records from 1 year presurgery and up to 2 years postsurgery were compared.

RESULTS

Our study identified 899 patients with heart failure who underwent bariatric surgery. In the year presurgery, 11.48% of patients had any ED visit or hospitalization with a primary diagnosis of heart failure. The rate decreased drastically in the first year after surgery, with only 3.70% of patients having any heart failure-related hospital visits. The rate of heart failure-related visits was also lower in the second year postsurgery (3.44%) compared with the year before surgery. The risk of heart failure-related hospital visits was lower in both the first year (odds ratio [OR], .29; 95% confidence interval [CI], .19-.43) and second year postsurgery (OR, .26; 95% CI, .17-.41; P < .0001) than in the year before surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that bariatric interventions might be associated with decreased risks of ED visits or hospitalizations due to heart failure exacerbations in obese patients with preexisting heart failure.

Bariatric Surgery as a Bridge to Heart Transplantation in Morbidly Obese Patients: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Class 2 obesity or greater (body mass index [BMI] >35 kg/m) is a relative contraindication for heart transplant due to its associated perioperative risks and mortality. Whether bariatric surgery can act as a potential bridging procedure to heart transplantation is unknown. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to investigate the role of bariatric surgery on improving transplant candidacy in patients with end-stage heart failure (ESHF). MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and PubMed databases were searched up to September 2019 for studies that performed bariatric surgery on patients with severe obesity and ESHF. Outcomes of interest included incidence of patients listed for heart transplantation after bariatric surgery, proportion of patients that successfully received transplant, the change in BMI after bariatric surgery, and 30-day complications. Pooled estimates were calculated using a random effects meta-analysis of proportions. Eleven studies with 98 patients were included. Mean preoperative BMI was 44.9 (2.1) kg/m and BMI after surgery was 33.2 (2.3) kg/m with an absolute BMI reduction of 26.1%. After bariatric surgery, 71% (95% confidence interval [CI], 55%-86%) of patients with ESHF were listed for transplantation. The mean time from bariatric surgery to receiving a heart transplant was 14.9 (4.0) months. Of the listed patients, 57% (95% CI, 39-74%) successfully received heart transplant. The rate of 30-day mortality after bariatric surgery was 0%, and the 30-day major and minor complications after bariatric surgery was 28% (95% CI, 10%-49%). Bariatric surgery can facilitate sustained weight loss in obese patients with ESHF, improving heart transplant candidacy and the incidence of transplantation.

Outcomes in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery: an Updated 5-Year Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Knowledge regarding postoperative outcomes after bariatric and metabolic surgery continues to evolve. This review highlights key findings in outcomes research over the last 5 years related to weight loss, remission of obesity-related disease, reflux, revisional surgery, robotic-assisted surgical platforms, and adolescent populations.

RECENT FINDINGS

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) produce similar weight loss patterns at 5 years, while duodenal switch (BPD/DS) and related procedures are associated with maximal weight loss overall and optimal resolution of obesity-related comorbidities. Remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) following surgery is more likely in patients who are not insulin dependent prior to surgery. Bariatric and metabolic surgery offers a significant protective effect against coronary artery disease (CAD) and associated interventions in both diabetic and nondiabetic patients, as well as heart failure (HF). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and dysphagia following SG are common, and routine endoscopic surveillance for Barrett's esophagus may be of significant utility. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic platforms concur similar outcomes to laparoscopic intervention, with a potential benefit in high BMI patients. Revisional surgery is most commonly performed for weight regain and/or inadequate weight loss following an index procedure, or reflux, and generally characterized by higher postoperative complication rates and longer inpatient lengths of stay (LOS). Surgical intervention in adolescent populations has similar weight loss and postoperative complication profiles to those seen in adult populations, with improved outcomes related to T2DM. Bariatric and metabolic surgery continues to evolve as a treatment for obesity and obesity-related comorbidities. While effective for weight loss and remission of obesity-related disease, SG is associated with high rates of postoperative GERD.

Bariatric surgery to achieve transplant in end-stage organ disease patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

As obesity prevalence grows, more end-stage organ disease patients will be precluded from transplant. Numerous reports suggest bariatric surgery in end-stage organ disease may help patients achieve weight loss sufficient for transplant listing.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review/meta-analysis of studies of bariatric surgery to achieve solid organ transplant listing.

RESULTS

Among 82 heart failure patients, 40.2% lost sufficient weight for listing, 29.3% were transplanted, and 8.5% had sufficient improvement with weight loss they no longer required transplantation. Among 28 end-stage lung disease patients, 28.6% lost sufficient weight for listing, 7.1% were transplanted, and 14.3% had sufficient improvement following weight loss they no longer required transplant. Among 41 cirrhosis patients, 58.5% lost sufficient weight for listing, 41.5% were transplanted, and 21.9% had sufficient improvement following weight loss they no longer required transplant. Among 288 end-stage/chronic kidney disease patients, 50.3% lost sufficient weight for listing and 29.5% were transplanted.

CONCLUSIONS

Small sample size and publication bias are limitations; however, bariatric surgery may benefit select end-stage organ disease patients with obesity that precludes transplant candidacy.

Range of adiposity and cardiorenal syndrome

Obesity and obesity-related co-morbidities, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension are among the fastest-growing risk factors of heart failure and kidney disease worldwide. Obesity, which is not a unitary concept, or a static process, ranges from alterations in distribution to the amount of adiposity. Visceral adiposity, which includes intraabdominal visceral fat mass and ectopic fat deposition such as hepatic, cardiac, or renal, was robustly associated with a greater risk for cardiorenal morbidity than subcutaneous adiposity. In addition, morbid obesity has also demonstrated a negative effect on cardiac and renal functioning. The mechanisms by which adipose tissue is linked with the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) are hemodynamic and mechanical changes, as well neurohumoral pathways such as insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, nitric oxide bioavailability, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone, oxidative stress, sympathetic nervous systems, natriuretic peptides, adipokines and inflammation. Adiposity and other associated co-morbidities induce adverse cardiac remodeling and interstitial fibrosis. Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction has been associated with obesity-related functional and structural abnormalities. Obesity might also impair kidney function through hyperfiltration, increased glomerular capillary wall tension, and podocyte dysfunction, which leads to tubulointerstitial fibrosis and loss of nephrons and, finally, chronic kidney disease. The development of new treatments with renal and cardiac effects in the context of type 2 diabetes, which improves mortality outcome, has highlighted the importance of CRS and its prevalence. Increased body fat triggers cellular, neuro-humoral and metabolic pathways, which create a phenotype of the CRS with specific cellular and biochemical biomarkers. Obesity has become a single cardiorenal umbrella or type of cardiorenal metabolic syndrome. This review article provides a clinical overview of the available data on the relationship between a range of adiposity and CRS, the support for obesity as a single cardiorenal umbrella, and the most relevant studies on the recent therapeutic approaches.

Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Cardiovascular Function and Heart Failure Outcomes

In this article, we explore the influence of obesity on cardiovascular health and the role of bariatric surgery in reducing cardiovascular comorbidities, preventing the onset of heart failure and improving mortality and quality of life in those with cardiac dysfunction. We highlight the mechanisms by which obesity leads to cardiovascular remodeling, diastolic dysfunction, and eventual heart failure. These mechanisms include systemic inflammation, local lipotoxicity by way of ectopic fat deposition, and hemodynamic alterations that have significant effects on cardiac structure and function. Bariatric surgery has been shown to reverse these mechanisms, thereby leading to the reversal of adverse cardiac remodeling, improved diastolic function, and in some cases, improved systolic function in patients with systolic heart failure. Most importantly, bariatric surgery leads to significant improvements in cardiovascular outcomes, including the risks of myocardial infarction and stroke, heart failure incidence, and mortality. In patients with heart failure, bariatric surgery has been shown to decrease heart failure exacerbations and admissions and improve quality of life. Furthermore, in advanced heart failure patients, including those requiring mechanical circulatory support, bariatric surgery has been successfully and safely used for weight loss, as a bridge to cardiac transplantation. Therefore, bariatric surgery should be considered as a treatment for conditions ranging from subclinical cardiac dysfunction to symptomatic, advanced heart failure.

Caloric restriction in heart failure: A systematic review

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Nutrition exerts a determinant role in maintaining cardiac function, regulating insulin and mitochondrial efficiency, that are essential to support energy production for contractility. In patients with heart failure (HF), myocardial tissue efficiency is reduced because of decreased mitochondrial oxidative capacity. In HF conditions, cardiomyocytes shift toward glucose and a reduction in fatty acid utilization. Calorie restriction induces weight loss in obese patients and can be beneficial in some HF patients, although this has generated some controversy. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the CR diet on myocardial efficiency in HF patients.

METHODS

On Pubmed and Embase, articles related to the keywords: "chronic heart failure" with "diet," "nutrition," "insulin resistance," and "caloric restriction" have been searched, Studies, including exercise or food supplementation, were excluded.

RESULTS

The retrieved articles showed that weight loss, through the activation of insulin and various kinase pathways, regulates the efficiency of myocardial tissue. In contrast, insulin resistance represents a strong cardiovascular risk factor that reduces myocardial function.

CONCLUSION

CR diet represents the first therapy in overweight HF patients, both with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and with reduced ejection fraction (HFrHF) because reducing body fat, the myocardial function increased. Insulin activity is the critical hormone that regulates mitochondrial function and cardiac efficiency. However, a severely restricted diet may represent a severe risk factor correlated with all-cause mortality, particularly in underweight HF patients. Long-term studies conducted on large populations are necessary to evaluate the effects of CR on myocardial function in HF patients.

Obesity Phenotypes, Diabetes, and Cardiovascular Diseases

This review addresses the interplay between obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. It is proposed that obesity, generally defined by an excess of body fat causing prejudice to health, can no longer be evaluated solely by the body mass index (expressed in kg/m²) because it represents a heterogeneous entity. For instance, several cardiometabolic imaging studies have shown that some individuals who have a normal weight or who are overweight are at high risk if they have an excess of visceral adipose tissue-a condition often accompanied by accumulation of fat in normally lean tissues (ectopic fat deposition in liver, heart, skeletal muscle, etc). On the other hand, individuals who are overweight or obese can nevertheless be at much lower risk than expected when faced with excess energy intake if they have the ability to expand their subcutaneous adipose tissue mass, particularly in the gluteal-femoral area. Hence, excessive amounts of visceral adipose tissue and of ectopic fat largely define the cardiovascular disease risk of overweight and moderate obesity. There is also a rapidly expanding subgroup of patients characterized by a high accumulation of body fat (severe obesity). Severe obesity is characterized by specific additional cardiovascular health issues that should receive attention. Because of the difficulties of normalizing body fat content in patients with severe obesity, more aggressive treatments have been studied in this subgroup of individuals such as obesity surgery, also referred to as metabolic surgery. On the basis of the above, we propose that we should refer to obesities rather than obesity.

Bariatric Surgery in End-Stage Heart Failure: Feasibility in Successful Attainment of a Target Body Mass Index

INTRODUCTION

Orthotopic heart transplantation (OHT) is contraindicated in morbidly obese patients with end-stage heart failure (HF), for whom cardiac allograft is the only means for long-term survival. Bariatric surgery may allow them to achieve target body mass index (BMI) for OHT METHODS: From 4/2014 to 12/2018, 26 morbidly obese HF patients who did not meet BMI eligibility criteria for OHT underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Outcomes of interest were median difference in BMI, number of patients achieving target BMI for OHT, and 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Median age was 49 (IQR 14) years, and 13 (50%) were women. HF was mainly systolic (15 patients, 58%). The median LVEF was 27% (IQR 37%). At the time of bariatric surgery, 12 (46%) patients had mechanical circulatory support: 2 (8%) concomitant left ventricular assist device (LVAD) placements, 8 (31%) LVAD already-in-place, and 2 (8%) intra-aortic balloon pumps. There was no 30-day mortality, but one mortality on postoperative day 48. Over a median follow-up of 6 months (range 0-36 months, IQR 17), there was a significant reduction in BMI (p<0.0001). The median postoperative BMI was 36.7 (IQR 8.7), compared to preoperative median BMI of 42.7 (IQR 9.4). Target BMI of < 35 was achieved in 11 (42%) patients. Three patients (12%) have undergone OHT.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery in end-stage HF is feasible and results in a high number of patients achieving target BMI, increasing their probability of undergoing OHT. The presence of a LVAD should not preclude these patients from undergoing a bariatric intervention.

Cardiac remodeling in obesity and after bariatric and metabolic surgery; is there a role for gastro-intestinal hormones?

Introduction: Obesity is associated with various diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. It affects several organ systems, including the pulmonary and cardiac systems. Furthermore, it induces pulmonary and cardiac changes that can result in right and/or left heart failure.Areas covered: In this review, authors provide an overview of obesity and cardiovascular remodeling, the individual actions of the gut hormones (like GLP-1 and PYY), the effects after bariatric/metabolic surgery and its influence on cardiac remodeling. In this review, we focussed and searched for literature in Pubmed and The Cochrane library (from the earliest date until April 2019), regarding cardiac function changes before and after bariatric surgery and literature regarding changes in gastrointestinal hormones.Expert opinion: Regarding the surgical treatment of obesity and metabolic diseases there is recognition of the importance of both weight loss (bariatric surgery) and improvement in metabolic milieu (metabolic surgery). A growing body of evidence further suggests that bariatric surgical procedures [like the Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), or One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB)] have can improve outcomes of patients suffering from a number of cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure.

A Population-Based Study of Early Postoperative Outcomes in Patients with Heart Failure Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Weight loss following bariatric surgery can improve cardiac function among patients with heart failure (HF). However, perioperative morbidity of bariatric surgery has not been evaluated in patients with HF.

STUDY DESIGN

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Project (NSQIP) database for 2006-2014 was queried to identify patients undergoing adjustable gastric band, gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion-duodenal switch. Patients with HF were propensity matched to a control group without HF (1:5). Univariate analyses evaluated differences in complications, and multivariate analysis was completed to predict all-cause morbidity.

RESULTS

There were 237 patients identified with HF (mean age 52.8 years, 59.9% female, mean body mass index 50.6 kg/m²) matched to 1185 controls without HF who underwent bariatric surgery. Preoperatively, patients with HF were more likely to be taking antihypertensive medication and have undergone prior percutaneous cardiac intervention and cardiac surgery. There was no difference in operative time, surgical site infections, acute renal failure, re-intubation, or myocardial infarction. HF was associated with increased likelihood of length of stay more than 7 days, likelihood to remain ventilated > 48 h, venous thromboembolism, and reoperation. For patients with HF, the adjusted odds ratio for all-cause morbidity was 2.09 (1.32-3.22).

CONCLUSION

The NSQIP definition of HF, which includes recent hospitalization for HF exacerbation or new HF diagnosis 30 days prior to surgery, predicts a more than two-fold increase in odds of morbidity following bariatric surgery. This must be balanced with the longer-term potential benefits of weight loss and associated improvement in cardiac function in this population.

Complex interaction of obesity, intentional weight loss and heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the meta-analysis was to determine the association of obesity and heart failure (HF) and the cardiac impact of intentional weight loss following bariatric surgery on cardiac structure and myocardial function in obese subjects.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science were searched up to 3 April 2018. Studies reporting association and prognostic impact of obesity in HF and the impact of intentional weight loss following bariatric surgery on cardiac structure and myocardial function in obesity were included in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

4959 citations were reviewed. After exclusions, 29 studies were analysed. A 'J curve' relationship was observed between body mass index (BMI) and risk of HF with maximum risk in the morbidly obese (1.73 (95% CI 1.30 to 2.31), p<0.001, n=11). Although 'obesity paradox' was observed for all-cause mortality, the overweight group was associated with lower cardiovascular (CV) mortality (OR=0.86 (95% CI 0.79 to 0.94), n=11) with no significant differences across other BMI groups. Intentional weight loss induced by bariatric surgery in obese patients (n=9) without established HF, atrial fibrillation or known coronary artery disease, was associated with a reduction in left ventricular mass index (p<0.0001), improvement in left ventricular diastolic function (p≤0.0001) and a reduction in left atrial size (p=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the increased risk of HF with obesity, an 'obesity paradox' is observed for all-cause mortality. However, the nadir for CV mortality is observed in the overweight group. Importantly, intentional weight loss was associated with improvement in indices of cardiac structure and myocardial function in obese patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

APP 74412.

Impact of prior bariatric surgery on outcomes of hospitalized patients with heart failure: a population-based study

BACKGROUND

Studies have suggested that obesity could improve prognosis in patients with heart failure (HF), known as the "obesity paradox." However, the association between bariatric surgery (BS) and HF outcomes is not well established.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the effects of prior BS on outcomes of HF patients.

SETTING

Inpatient hospital admissions from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample.

METHODS

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for years 2006 to 2014 was queried for adults with a primary diagnosis of HF. We performed multivariable regression analyses to compare outcomes including in-hospital mortality, complications, cost, and length of stay between prior BS (body mass index <35 and ≥35 kg/m²) and morbid obesity.

RESULTS

Of 164,220 patients with HF, 3617 were with prior BS and 160,603 were diagnosed with morbid obesity. Prior BS patients were younger, tended to be female, and had fewer co-morbidities and complications. Multivariate regression analyses adjusting for baseline patient and hospital characteristics revealed that compared with morbid obesity, prior BS with successful weight loss (body mass index <35 kg/m²) was associated with decreased mortality (odds ratio: .47; 95% confidence interval: .37-.74), urinary tract infection (odds ratio: .72; 95% confidence interval: .62-.84), 17% shorter hospitalization (median length of stay: 2.99 and 3.95 days), and 7% lower cost (median cost: $6984 and $7775). Propensity score-matching analysis validated main findings with permissible similarity regarding covariates between groups.

CONCLUSION

Among HF hospitalized patients, prior BS is associated with better in-hospital outcomes, mainly in those who had successful weight loss. Our findings emphasize potential clinical and economic impact of BS on HF patients.

Bariatric surgery among patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Bariatric surgery reduces cardiovascular risk in obese patients. Heart failure (HF) is associated with an increased perioperative risk following bariatric surgery. This systematic review aimed to assemble the evidence on bariatric surgery in patients with known HF and the potential effect of bariatric surgery on incident HF in obese patients without prevalent HF.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive literature search up to 30 September 2017 and included studies comparing bariatric surgery to non-surgical treatment in patients with known presurgical HF. To assess whether bariatric surgery has any effect on incident HF, we also assembled studies looking at new-onset HF among patients without HF prior to surgery.

Results

We found five observational studies (0 randomised trials) comparing bariatric surgery with non-surgical treatment in patients with a diagnosis of HF prior to surgery. A review of the available studies (n=676 patients) suggested reduced admission rates for HF exacerbation and increased left ventricular ejection fraction after bariatric surgery. No meta-analysis was possible due to the heterogeneous nature of these studies. Seven studies (one randomised trial) reported data on new-onset HF in obese patients without HF prior to bariatric surgery (n=111 127 patients). When comparing surgical to non-surgical treatment groups, the pooled univariable and multivariable HRs for incident HF were 0.28 (95% CI 0.13 to 0.55) and 0.44 (95% CI 0.36 to 0.55), respectively.

Conclusion

In this systematic review, no randomised trial assessed the benefits and risks of bariatric surgery in obese patients with concomitant HF. Available studies do, however, show that surgery might prevent incident HF.

Moving From Heart Failure Guidelines to Clinical Practice: Gaps Contributing to Readmissions in Patients With Multiple Comorbidities and Older Age

This feature article for the thematic series on congestive heart failure (CHF) readmissions aims to outline important gaps in guidelines for patients with multiple comorbidities and the elderly. Congestive heart failure diagnosis manifests as a 3-phase journey between the hospital and community, during acute, chronic stable, and end-of-life (palliative) phases. This journey requires in variable intensities a combination of multidisciplinary care within tertiary hospital or ambulatory care from hospital outpatients or primary health services, within the general community. Management goals are uniform, ie, to achieve the lowest New York Heart Association class possible, with improvement in ejection fraction, by delivering gold standard therapies within a CHF program. Comorbidities are an important common denominator that influences outcomes. Comorbidities include diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive airways disease, chronic renal impairment, hypertension, obesity, sleep apnea, and advancing age. Geriatric care includes the latter as well as syndromes such as frailty, falls, incontinence, and confusion. Many systems still fail to comprehensively achieve all aspects of such programs. This review explores these factors.

Cardiac structure and function before and after bariatric surgery: a clinical overview

Obesity, defined as a body mass index of ≥30 kg/m² , is the most common chronic metabolic disease worldwide and its prevalence has been strongly increasing. Obesity has deleterious effects on cardiac function. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the effects of obesity and excessive weight loss due to bariatric surgery on cardiac function, structural changes and haemodynamic responses of both the left and right ventricle.

Effects of intentional weight loss in patients with obesity and heart failure: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Obesity is an independent risk factor for the development of heart failure, and the two commonly co-exist. The European Society of Cardiology does not provide guidance regarding weight loss strategies in heart failure. The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence for outcomes following intentional weight loss in patients with heart failure and obesity.

METHOD

A systematic review of English articles was undertaken using databases PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting outcomes following intentional weight loss by lifestyle, surgical or pharmacotherapy intervention in patients with obesity and heart failure were included.

RESULTS

Four randomized controlled trials and seven observational studies were identified. Two randomized controlled trials used diet and exercise as an intervention, one used diet alone and one used a pharmacological intervention (orlistat). All but one reported significant weight loss. Two reported improvement in exercise capacity and quality of life. One reported improvement in New York Heart Association functional class in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The observational studies, five of which reported on outcomes following bariatric surgery, despite being small, heterogeneous and high risk of bias, suggested a trend in improvement of left ventricular function, quality of life and exercise capacity following weight loss.

CONCLUSION

Weight loss is achievable with lifestyle intervention in those with heart failure and obesity and may result in improvements in New York Heart Association classification, quality of life and exercise capacity.

Sleeve Gastrectomy and Left Ventricular Assist Device for Heart Transplant

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Heart failure (HF) is a severe obesity-related comorbidity. Many patients with end-stage HF eventually require cardiac transplantation for long-term survival. These patients may be precluded from enrollment in heart transplant programs secondary to morbid obesity. We propose a pathway involving sleeve gastrectomy (SG) for patients with morbid obesity and HF to afford cardiac transplantation eligibility.

METHODS

Three patients with HF and morbid obesity underwent implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and SG at an academic tertiary care institution in Washington, DC. This retrospective review from April 2012 through January 2017 examines the perioperative course of these 3 patients with regard to bariatric and cardiac indices, including ejection fraction (EF), HF classification, comorbid diseases, and percentages of total weight loss (%TWL) and excess weight loss (%EWL).

RESULTS

All three patients underwent LVAD placement as a bridge to transplant but were excluded from cardiac transplantation secondary to body mass index (BMI) and were referred for bariatric surgery. All have demonstrated considerable weight loss, with average decrease in BMI of 19 points, 39% TWL, and 81% EWL at a mean of 44 months after SG. Two patients have gone on to receive heart transplants, with near normalization of their EF.

CONCLUSION

LVAD and SG constitute a feasible pathway to cardiac transplantation in morbidly obese patients with end-stage HF. LVAD permits temporary cardiac support, whereas SG assists in efficacious weight loss. We explore SG as a durable weight loss option in patients with HF, with LVAD to improve eligibility for orthotopic cardiac transplantation.