Clinical application of laparoscopic bariatric surgery: an evidence-based review

Laparoscopic Conversion of Vertical Banded Gastroplasty to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Gives Better Result Compared to an Open Approach

BACKGROUND

Vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) has a relatively high failure rate in the long run, requiring revisional surgery in 30-65%. A common conversion option is to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), which can be performed laparoscopically or open. Current literature contains small cohorts and inconclusive results. Therefore, we set out to compare our series of open and laparoscopic VBG to RYGB conversions.

METHODS

All conversions performed between 1996 and 2020 were included. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on conversion indication: weight recurrence (group 1), excessive weight loss (group 2), and eating/pouch difficulties (group 3). The primary outcome was postoperative complications according to the Clavien-Dindo (CD) classification. Secondary outcome was %total weight loss (%TWL) 1 to 5 years after revisional surgery.

RESULTS

We included 205 patients (84.9% female) of whom 105 underwent laparoscopic and 100 open VBG to RYGB conversion. Twenty-three short-term complications occurred in the laparoscopic group, with 16 > CD3a. In the open group, 33 complications occurred with 12 > CD3a. Overall complications were 33.3% in laparoscopic and 64% in open patients. There were no significant differences between the laparoscopic and open group in BMI (p = 0.76) and %TWL (p = 0.694) after 5 years. After 5 years, lost to follow-up was 97% in the open group. Twenty-eight percent of patients who reached follow-up in the laparoscopic group had available data.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrate that the overall complication rate is lower in the laparoscopic group compared to the open group. Regarding BMI, an improvement was achieved in both groups after 5 years.

Microbial changes from bariatric surgery alters glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and prevents fatty liver disease

Bariatric surgery remains a potent therapy for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but its inherent risk and eligibility requirement limit its adoption. Therefore, understanding how bariatric surgery improves NAFLD is paramount to developing novel therapeutics. Here, we show that the microbiome changes induced by sleeve gastrectomy (SG) reduce glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) signaling and confer resistance against diet-induced obesity (DIO) and NAFLD. We examined a cohort of NALFD patients undergoing SG and evaluated their microbiome, serum metabolites, and GI hormones. We observed significant changes in Bacteroides, lipid-related metabolites, and reduction in GIP. To examine if the changes in the microbiome were causally related to NAFLD, we performed fecal microbial transplants in antibiotic-treated mice from patients before and after their surgery who had significant weight loss and improvement of their NAFLD. Mice transplanted with the microbiome of patients after bariatric surgery were more resistant to DIO and NAFLD development compared to mice transplanted with the microbiome of patients before surgery. This resistance to DIO and NAFLD was also associated with a reduction in GIP levels in mice with post-bariatric microbiome. We further show that the reduction in GIP was related to higher levels of Akkermansia and differing levels of indolepropionate, bacteria-derived tryptophan-related metabolite. Overall, this is one of the few studies showing that GIP signaling is altered by the gut microbiome, and it supports that the positive effect of bariatric surgery on NAFLD is in part due to microbiome changes.

Inflammation and Metabolism of Influenza-Stimulated Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells From Adults With Obesity Following Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Obesity dysregulates immunity to influenza infection. Therefore, there is a critical need to investigate how obesity impairs immunity and to establish therapeutic approaches that mitigate the impact of increased adiposity. One mechanism by which obesity may alter immune responses is through changes in cellular metabolism.

METHODS

We studied inflammation and cellular metabolism of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) isolated from individuals with obesity relative to lean controls. We also investigated if impairments to PBMC metabolism were reversible upon short-term weight loss following bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

Obesity was associated with systemic inflammation and poor inflammation resolution. Unstimulated PBMCs from participants with obesity had lower oxidative metabolism and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production compared to PBMCs from lean controls. PBMC secretome analyses showed that ex vivo stimulation with A/Cal/7/2009 H1N1 influenza led to a notable increase in IL-6 with obesity. Short-term weight loss via bariatric surgery improved biomarkers of systemic metabolism but did not improve markers of inflammation resolution, PBMC metabolism, or the PBMC secretome.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that obesity drives a signature of impaired PBMC metabolism, which may be due to persistent inflammation. PBMC metabolism was not reversed after short-term weight loss despite improvements in measures of systemic metabolism.

The influence of gastric bypass surgery on the concentration of high mobility group box 1, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and the genes expression of high mobility group box 1, nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2, interleukin 6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with morbid obesity

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Obesity is known as a disease with a chronic low-grade state of inflammation and high levels of oxidative stress. Given the challenges and consequences caused by obesity, obesity therapy is an essential subject to address. For sustainable weight loss, gastric bypass surgery is the most successful and essential option.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was performed on 35 patients aged (18-54) with morbid obesity (BMI: 42.06 kg/m²). Volunteers blood was taken, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated, high mobility group box 1(HMGB1), nuclear factor erythroid2-related factor 2(Nrf2), Interleukin 6(IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and biochemical factors were determined one day before and 4 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Four months following surgery, the BMI, hip and waist circumferences, and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) all decreased significantly. The lipid profile and antioxidant power were dramatically enhanced after surgery. IL-6 and TNF-α expression in PBMC patients showed a significant decrease after surgery. HMGB1 and Nrf2 expression in PBMC of postoperative patients decreased compared to before surgery, and HMGB1, and Nrf2 protein levels also decreased after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Weight loss indicated the significant function of adipose tissue in the induction of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors. Gastric bypass reduced the inflammation conditions and improved the metabolic status and living situations in the patients with morbid obesity.

Gastric Histopathologic Findings in South Italian Morbidly Obese Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Is Histopathologic Examination of All Resected Gastric Specimens Necessary?

BACKGROUND

The value of the routine histopathologic examination of resected gastric remnants following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) remains to be controversial. This study aimed to determine whether the routine histopathologic examination of gastric specimens is necessary for all patients undergoing LSG if upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (UGIE) plus multiple biopsies are performed routinely during the preoperative work-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinicopathologic data of 474 patients who underwent LSG were analysed. Types of histopathologic findings in LSG specimens and the prevalence of these and Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection were estimated. Comparisons were conducted to assess the association of risk factors with the most frequent abnormal and premalignant histopathologic findings.

RESULTS

Chronic gastritis was the most common gastric pathology (63.5%) and premalignant lesions were present in 7.8% of the specimens. The prevalence of HP infection was 36.9%. A statistically significant association was observed between HP infection and chronic gastritis (P = .000), and premalignant lesions (P = .000). Similarly, a statistically significant association was noted between age and premalignant gastric lesions (P = .000).

CONCLUSION

Histopathologic examination of LSG specimens may not be routinely needed and can be performed on selected patients. While we recommend routine preoperative UGIE in all LSG-treated patients, we suggest that histopathologic assessment of the LSG specimens should be mandatory when UGIE biopsies demonstrate HP infection and/or premalignant lesions, in all patients older than 42 years, and in cases of intraoperative detection of incidental tumours or suspicious lesions.

Multi-Centre Micro-Costing of Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Adjustable Gastric Banding Procedures for the Treatment of Severe, Complex Obesity

BACKGROUND

There is a growing interest in comparing the effectiveness and costs of alternative forms of bariatric surgery. We aimed to examine the per-patient, procedural costs of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and adjustable gastric banding (AGB) in the United Kingdom.

METHODS

Multi-centre (two National Health Service; NHS and one private hospital) micro-costing, using a time-and-motion study. Prospective collection of surgery times, staff quantities, equipment, instruments and consumables for 12 patients (four RYGB, five SG, three AGB) from patients' first surgeon interaction on the day of surgery to departure from the theatre recovery area. Costs were attached to quantities and mean costs compared. Sensitivity and scenario analyses assessed the impact of varying surgery inputs and consideration of additional plausible factors respectively on total costs.

RESULTS

Mean procedural costs were £5002 for RYGB, £4306 for SG and £2527 for AGB. Varying staff seniority or altering procedure times had small impacts on costs (± 4-6%). Reducing prices of consumables by 20% reduced costs by 10-13%. Accounting for differences in surgical technique by altering the number of staple reloads used impacted costs by ± 7-10%. Adjusted total costs from scenario analyses were similar to NHS tariffs for RYGB and SG (difference of £51 and -£119 respectively) but were much lower for AGB (difference of £1982).

CONCLUSIONS

These detailed costs will allow for more precise reimbursement of bariatric surgery and support comprehensive assessments of cost-effectiveness. Additional work to investigate costs of post-surgical care, re-operations and life-long support received by patients following surgery is required.

Validation of the suter questionnaire after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in the Greek population

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The purpose of this study was to validate the Greek version of Suter questionnaire in order to be used for the evaluation of patients after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG).

METHODS

A total of 170 patients were enrolled in the study.

RESULTS

The correlation coefficients for criterion validity had range between 0.202 (Food Tolerance) and 0.252 (Suter Total Score) (p < 0.05).There was moderate correlation between the questionnaire's subscales and the Hematocrit which satisfied the criterion validity marginally. The internal consistency measured with Cronbach's alpha yielded a value of 0.866 for the factor tolerance and 0.78 for the factor symptoms, which indicate excellent internal consistency. Excellent test-retest reliability with ICC of 0.997 for food tolerance and 0.990 for symptoms were also observed. The Suter questionnaire demonstrated a high sensitivity to detect clinical changes.

CONCLUSION

The Greek version of Suter questionnaire seemed to be valid and reliable to assess morbidly obese patients after LSG.

Five-Year Outcome of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Resolution of Comorbidities, and Risk for Cumulative Nutritional Deficiencies

Background and Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term (5-year follow-up) results of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in terms of weight loss and obesity-related comorbidities, as well as the risk factors associated with postoperative nutritional deficiencies.

Material and Methods:

The first 99 consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for the treatment of morbid obesity between October 2008 and August 2011 at Tartu University Hospital were followed prospectively in cohort study. The outpatient hospital follow-up visits were conducted at 3 months, 1 year, and 5 years postoperatively. At 5 years, the follow-up rate was 90.9%; 86 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patients were included in final analysis.

Results:

The mean excess weight loss (%EWL) was 44.3% ± 13.0%, 75.8% ± 23.1%, and 61.0% ± 24.3% at 3 months, 1 year, and 5 years, respectively. A linear association between preoperative weight and weight at 5 years was found. Remission rates at 5-year follow-up for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea were 68.8%, 32.7%, 27.4%, and 61.5%, respectively (all p < 0.05). There was a statistical difference (p < 0.05) in the dynamics of triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein level at 5-year follow-up but the level of total cholesterol did not show significant improvement. The risk for cumulative iron, vitamin B12 deficiency, and anemia was 20%, 48%, and 28%, respectively.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy ensured long-term excess weight loss 61.0% at 5 years. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has a long-term effect on significant improvement in the median values of triglycerides, low-density lipoproteins, and high-density lipoproteins, but not on total cholesterol levels. There is a risk of postoperative vitamin B12 and iron deficiency.

Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy-5-Year Follow-Up Study in an Eastern European Emerging Bariatric Center

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has gained ground in Eastern Europe in the decade but fewer reports of large series with medium-term follow-up exist. We describe a single-surgeon experience in LSG (the first 101 consecutive cases) in a Balkan emerging bariatric center.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database of the initial 101 consecutive patients submitted to LSG in our clinic between October 2010 and February 2016 was reviewed.

RESULTS

The percentages of mean excess weight loss (%EWL) in the 101 patients (mean age of 42 ± 10.6 years, 77 % female, median preoperative body mass index (BMI) of 44.5 kg/m²) were 51.3 (n = 82 followed-up patients) at 6 months postoperatively, 78.2 (n = 69) at 1 year, and 75.8 (n = 39), 77.1 (n = 20), 67.5 (n = 17), and 52.9 (n = 7) at 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively. One year after LSG, all comorbidities showed remission or significant improvement in all 69 followed-up patients; the highest resolution was seen with hypertension (73.3 %). We noted a negative correlation between a decrease in %EWL and both the age of the patient and the initial state weight and BMI. The mortality in our group was nil; we had three cases (2.9 %) of bleeding and no leaks.

CONCLUSIONS

LSG is a safe procedure, with low postoperative morbidity rates and excellent short-term %EWL results up to 3 years after surgery, including resolution or improvement of the main obesity-related comorbidities. The results were superior in the category of younger and lower initial BMI obese patients.

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

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

A Magnetic Soft Endoscopic Capsule-Inflated Intragastric Balloon for Weight Management

Overweight and obesity have been identified as a cause of high risk diseases like diabetes and cancer. Although conventional Intragastric Balloons (IGBs) have become an efficient and less invasive method for overweight and obesity treatment, the use of conventional tools such as catheter or endoscope to insert and remove the IGBs from the patient's body causes nausea, vomiting, discomfort, and even gastric mucous damage. To eliminate these drawbacks, we develop a novel magnetic soft capsule device with gas-filled balloon inflation. The balloon is made from a thin and biocompatible material that can be inflated to a desired volume using biocompatible effervescent chemicals. In addition, both the outer balloon and inner capsule are designed to be soft and chemical resistance. The soft capsule shell is fabricated using scaffold-solvent approach while the outer balloon utilizes a novel fabrication approach for 3D spherical structure. A prototype of the proposed capsule and balloon is given. Experiments are successfully carried out in stimulated gastric environment and fresh porcine stomach to validate the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed approach.

The effect of serosal suture reinforcement on burst pressure in sleeve gastrectomy specimens

PURPOSE

Staple-line leak is a life-threatening complication of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Reinforcement materials have been reported to lower the risk of staple-line bleeding, but their effects on leak risk have not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 2 supportive techniques on burst pressures in sleeved gastrectomy specimens.

METHODS

A total of 30 patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were evaluated. The resected sleeve gastrectomy specimens were categorized into 3 groups: group 1 had no extra support in the staple-line, group 2 had interrupted serosal suture on the staple-line, and group 3 had serosal suture on staple-line junction points. The endpoint was the first detectable leakage, at which point the leak pressure and anatomic site of the leakage were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 30 sleeved gastrectomy specimens were included (each group included 10 specimens). There were no differences between groups in terms of age, sex, and body mass index. The leak pressure was significantly higher (56.2±6.4 mm Hg) in group 2 (P<0.01). Leaks occurred significantly more frequently in the staple-line than in the staple-line junction points (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Interrupted serosal suture significantly increased the burst pressure. Increases in intraluminal pressure are known to be significant in leak etiology. Thus, we concluded that interrupted serosal suture may be beneficial in the prevention of leaks.

Postoperative complications in bariatric surgery using age and BMI stratification: a study using ACS-NSQIP data

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery results in long-term weight loss and significant morbidity reduction. Morbidity and mortality following bariatric surgery remain low and acceptable. This study looks to define the trend of morbidity and mortality as it relates to increasing age and body mass index (BMI) in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

METHODS

We queried the ACS/NSQIP 2010-2011 Public Use File for patients who underwent elective laparoscopic adjustable banding (LAGB), sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and gastric bypass (LGBP). Total morbidity and 30-day mortality were evaluated. Logistic regression models were created to estimate the effect of increasing age and BMI on morbidity for these bariatric procedures.

RESULTS

A total of 20,308 laparoscopic bariatric procedures were reviewed (11617 LGBP, 3069 LSG and 5622 LAGB). Overall mortality and morbidity rates were 0.11 and 3.84%, respectively. The odds of postoperative complications increased by 2% with each additional year of age (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.02-1.03) and every point increase in BMI (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.03). Multiple logistic regression identified COPD, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Dyspnea as major risk factors for postoperative morbidity. Postoperative complications were three times more likely after LGBP (OR 2.87, 95% CI 2.31-3.57) and two times more likely after LSG (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.57-2.72) when compared to patients undergoing LAGB.

CONCLUSION

Morbidity and mortality increase on a predictable trend with increasing age and BMI. There is increased risk of morbidity for stapling procedures when compared to gastric banding, but this must be considered in context of surgical efficacy when choosing a bariatric procedure. These data can be used in preoperative counseling and evaluation of surgical candidacy of bariatric surgical patients.

Diagnostic markers of postoperative morbidity after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for obesity

PURPOSE

The main objective of this study was to detect subacute complications that can arise from laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and take a rational approach to manage these complications.

METHODS

A prospective observational study was performed from November 2010 to December 2012. All patients undergoing gastric bypass surgery for morbid obesity were included in this study. Patients with complications before day 5 were excluded from the study. Clinical and laboratory data (C-reactive protein, leukocyte count) at postoperative day 5, 30-day morbidity, were recorded. The diagnostic value of C-reactive protein (CRP) and leukocytes were determined by the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-six patients were included. The overall incidence of 30-day morbidity was 8.7 %, and anastomotic leakage rate was 3.2 %. C-reactive protein at postoperative day 5 was a good predictor of complications (AUC was 0.862 (95 % CI [0.76; 0.96]; p < 0.001) and anastomotic leakage (AUC was 0.863 (95 % CI [0.66; 1]; p = 0.014). A CRP cutoff level of 136 mg/l at postoperative day 5 yielded a specificity of 95.5 % and a sensitivity of 57.1 % for the detection of postoperative complications. The negative predictive value was 94.6 %. A CRP level of 136 mg/l at day 5 was significantly associated with postoperative morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

C-reactive protein dosage at postoperative day 5 is a relevant predictor of postoperative complications permitting to select patients at risk. Radiological examination and close monitoring could be restricted to patients with CRP level exceeding 136 mg/l.

Comparison between laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding for morbid obesity: a meta-analysis

Bariatric surgery is now widely accepted for treatment of morbid obesity. This study compared the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) on excess weight loss (EWL) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). PubMed and Embase were searched for publications concerning LAGB and LSG from 2000 to 2012, with the last search on August 17, 2012. EWL and T2DM improvement over 6 and 12 months were pooled and compared by meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences were calculated with 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Eleven studies involving 1,004 patients met the inclusion criteria. Compared with LAGB, LSG achieved greater EWL. The mean percentage EWL for LAGB was 33.9 % after 6 months in six studies and 37.8 % after 12 months in four studies; for LSG, EWL was 50.6 % after 6 months and 51.8 % after 12 months in the same studies. LSG was also superior to LAGB in treating T2DM. In five studies, T2DM was improved in 42 of 68 (61.8 %) patients after LAGB and 66 of 80 (82.5 %) after LSG, representing a pooled OR of 0.34 (95 % CI 0.16–0.73) and pooled mean differences of −12.55 (95 % CI −15.66 to −9.43) and −4.97 (95 % CI −7.58 to −8.36), respectively. LSG is more effective than LAGB in morbid obesity, with higher percentage EWL and greater improvement in T2DM.

The evaluation of gallstone formation in patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass due to morbid obesity

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate gallstone formation, prophylactic and selective cholecystectomy and the effectiveness of ursodeoxycholic acid treatment following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in morbid obese patients.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Files of 60 patients who underwent LRYGB between October 2006 and March 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were evaluated for formation of gallstones.

RESULTS

Fifty-three (88.3%) patients were female and seven (11.7%) were male. Eight of the 60 patients (13.3%) had previously undergone cholecystectomy. Six patients (11.5%) underwent cholecystectomy in addition to LRYGB due to preoperatively detected gallstones by ultrasonography. The remaining 46 patients were followed up for a mean duration of 28.57 months (5-56 months). In 10 (21.7%) of these patients, gallstones were detected and five patients with symptomatic gallstones underwent cholecystectomy. Patients who did and did not develop gallstones after LRYGB did not show a significant difference regarding age, gender and the new body mass index (BMI). Three patients were started on ursodeoxycholic acid and the treatment was continued for six months. Gallstones were not detected in these patients.

CONCLUSION

In light of these data, since only a very small portion of patients develops symptomatic gallstones after LRYGB, we recommend cholecystectomy in patients with symptomatic gallstones or the use of ursodeoxycholic acid rather than a prophylactic approach. Prospective randomized controlled studies in larger series are required to support these results.

Outcomes of the adjustable gastric band in a publicly funded obesity program

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is considered a safe and effective treatment for severe obesity and obesity-related comorbidities. We sought to examine the outcome of LAGB delivered through a Canadian publicly funded obesity program.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the cases of patients who underwent LAGB within a comprehensive, multidisciplinary, publically funded obesity program.

RESULTS

A total of 178 patients underwent LAGB. Mean percentage total body weight loss at 1, 2 and 3 years was 15.8%, 20.7% and 20.3%, respectively. The most common short-term complication was postoperative nausea (19%). The medium-term complications included band migration (5.6%) and port site complications, band leakage and incisional hernia at 1% each. The reoperation rate was 4.5%. The mean surgery duration was 56 minutes and the mean length of stay was 1.4 days. The average numbers of clinic visits and band adjustments were highest in the first year. The most common investigation for postoperative symptoms was fluoroscopy (86%). An outcome comparison between the 2 generations of the REALIZE gastric band was inconclusive, requiring further data collection.

CONCLUSION

Publicly funded LAGB results in effective weight loss and acceptable safety over the short term. Our patients may represent a distinct population that differs from that in the private system. Long-term data are necessary to determine the cost-effectiveness of this important surgical option for severe obesity.

Barbed unidirectional V-Loc 180 suture in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a study comparing unidirectional barbed monofilament and multifilament absorbable suture

BACKGROUND

This study aimed primarily to evaluate the safety of digestive running suture (in gastrojejunal and antecolic jejunojejunal anastomosis closure) using unidirectional absorbable barbed suture (V-Loc 180) in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and secondarily to assess the efficacy of V-Loc 180 in reducing operative time.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study of 315 consecutive patients who underwent LRYGB was performed between October 2009 and October 2012 using an identical procedure technique. For the first 76 patients, a multifilament absorbable suture was used to assess the gastrojejunal anastomosis and the antecolic jejunal suture. For the following 239 patients, a unidirectional barbed monofilament suture was used. Data including operative time, time required for gastric pouch creation, time spent in both anastomoses constructions, conversion rate, and complications were prospectively recorded.

RESULTS

The postoperative complications did not differ significantly between the two groups. Early complications were observed for 1 patient (1.3%) in the multifilament group and for 14 patients (5.8%) in the barbed procedure group (p > 0.05). Late complications were observed for 1 patient (1.3%) in the multifilament group and for 5 patients (2%) in the barbed procedure group (p > 0.05). A shortened operative time was achieved in the barbed suture group. The mean operative time was 74.3 ± 15.3 min in the Vicryl group versus 62.7 ± 15.5 min in the V-Loc group (p < 0.05). The mean operative time required to fashion the gastrojejunal anastomosis was 21.3 ± 6.3 min in the Vicryl group versus 17.4 ± 5.1 min in the V-Loc group (p < 0.05). The mean operative time required to fashion the jejunojejunal anastomosis was 21.4 ± 4.9 min in the Vicryl group versus 15.2 ± 5.5 min in the V-Loc group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The authors' experience has demonstrated that the use of interlocked V-Loc suture during LRYGB anastomosis appears to be safe and efficient. The findings show a shortened total operative time in terms of single gastrojejunal or jejunojejunal anastomosis time. No statistically significant differences in early or late postoperative complications were observed between the V-Loc and multifilament absorbable suture patients.

Prospective randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus open Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for the management of patients with morbid obesity

Introduction

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is considered the gold standard bariatric procedure with documented safety and effectiveness. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a newer procedure being done with increasing frequency. Randomized comparisons of LSG and other bariatric procedures are limited. We present the results of the first prospective randomized trial comparing LSG and RYGB in the Polish population.

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of LSG versus RYGB in the treatment of morbid obesity and obesity-related comorbidities.

Material and methods

Seventy-two morbidly obese patients were randomized to RYGB (36 patients) or LSG (36 patients). Both groups were comparable regarding age, gender, body mass index (BMI) and comorbidities. The follow-up period was at least 12 months. Baseline and 6 and 12 month outcomes were analyzed including assessment of percent excess weight lost (%EWL), reduction in BMI, morbidity (minor, major, early and late complications), mortality, reoperations, comorbidities and nutritional deficiencies.

Results

There was no 30-day mortality and no significant difference in major complication rate (0% after RYGB and 8.3% after LSG, p > 0.05) or minor complication rate (16.6% after RYGB and 10.1% after LSG, p > 0.05). There were no early reoperations after RYGB and 2 after LSG (5.5%) (p > 0.05). Weight loss was significant after RYGB and LSG but there was no difference between both groups at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. At 12 months %EWL in RYGB and LSG groups reached 64.2% and 67.6% respectively (p > 0.05). There was no significant difference in the overall prevalence of comorbidities and nutritional deficiencies.

Conclusions

Both LSG and RYGB produce significant weight loss at 6 and 12 months after surgery. The procedures are equally effective with regard to %EWL, reduction in BMI and amelioration of comorbidities at 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and RYGB are comparably safe techniques with no significant differences in minor and major complication rates at 6 and 12 months.

Reinforcing the staple line during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: does it have advantages? A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

This study aims to identify whether reinforcing the staple line during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has advantages.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE (PubMed; till August 2011), EMBASE (till August 2011), and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Central) in the Cochrane Library (till August 2011) using common keywords related to sleeve gastrectomy and reinforcement. The keywords were as follows: "sleeve gastrectomy" and "reinforcement," or "reinforcing," or "reinforce," or "leak," or "leakage," or "staple," or "stapling," or "oversew," or "oversewing," or "oversewed." The language of publication was limited to English only.

RESULTS

Of the 358 articles meeting our initial criteria, eight full texts (two randomized control trial [RCT] and six cohort studies), involving 1,345 participants (828 patient cases and 517 controls) were included in the final analysis. Comparing the reinforcement of the staple line to no reinforcement of the staple line, the odds ratio (OR) for overall complications was 0.521 (95 % confidence intervals [CI], 0.349-0.777). In addition, the OR for staple line leak was 0.425 (95 % CI, 0.226-0.799) and for staple line hemorrhage was 0.559 (95 % CI, 0.247-1.266).

CONCLUSION

The current study showed that reinforcing the staple line during LSG has the following advantages: decreased incidence of postoperative leak and overall complications. More prospective studies with better evidence are needed.

Racial differences in weight loss, payment method, and complications following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

OBJECTIVES

Obesity affects approximately one-third of the US adult population. Although more black adults are considered to be obese compared to white adults, black adults are less likely to undergo bariatric surgery for weight loss. Black adults typically lose less weight and are more prone to adverse events following bariatric surgery than white adults. The objectives of this study were to compare weight loss, payment methods, and early postoperative complications between black and white adults.

DESIGN

A retrospective chart review of 420 Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients and 454 sleeve gastrectomy (SG) patients (all female) was conducted. A mixed-model analysis was used to assess statistical significance of differences in weight loss between surgeries and races. A Chi-square test was used to assess racial differences in payment method (insurance or private pay) and postoperative complications by operation. Statistical significance was set as P > 0.05.

RESULTS

RYGB patients lost significantly more weight at 26, 52, 78, and 104 weeks postoperatively compared to SG patients. White females (WF) lost significantly more weight than black females (BF) at 26, 52, 78, and 104 weeks postoperatively. WF experienced more minor and major complications in the perioperative period than BF, but BF experienced more minor and overall complications in the postoperative period than WF. A greater percentage of black patients had insurance coverage compared to white patients for both surgeries.

CONCLUSION

WF appear to lose more weight than BF regardless of surgery, but both races experience surgical complications. Black patients may be less likely to undergo bariatric surgery without insurance coverage.

Novel therapeutics and targets for the treatment of diabetes

The microvascular complications of insufficiently controlled diabetes (neuropathy, retinopathy and nephropathy) and the marked increased risk of macrovascular events (e.g., stroke and myocardial infarction) have a dire impact on society in both human and economic terms. In Type 1 diabetes total β-cell loss occurs. In Type 2 diabetes, partial β-cell loss occurs before diagnosis, and the progressive β-cell loss during the life of the patient increases the severity of the disease. In patients with diabetes, increased insulin resistance in the muscle and liver are key pathophysiologic defects. In addition, defects in metabolic processes in the fat, GI tract, brain, pancreatic α-cells and kidney are detrimental to the overall health of the patient. This review addresses novel therapies for these deficiencies in clinical and preclinical evaluation, emphasizing their potential to address glucose homeostasis, β-cell mass and function, and the comorbidities of cardiovascular disease and obesity.

Twelve year experience of laparoscopic gastric plication in morbid obesity: development of the technique and patient outcomes

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Gastric Plication (LGP) is a new restrictive bariatric surgery, previously introduced by the author. The aim of this study is to explain the modifications and to present the 12-year experience, regarding early and long term results, complications and cost.

METHODS

We used LGP for morbid obesity during the past 12 years. Anterior plication (10 cases), one-row bilateral plication while right gastroepiploic artery included (42 cases), and excluded from the plication (104 cases) and two-row plication (644 cases). The gastric greater curvature was plicated using 2/0 prolen from fundus at the level of diaphragm preserving the His angle to just proximal to the pylorus. The anatomic and functional volume of stomach was 50cc and 25cc respectively in two-row method. Ordered postop visits also included evaluation of weight loss, complications, change of diet and control of exercise.

RESULTS

LGP was performed in 800 cases (mean age: 27.5, range: 12 to 65 years, nine under 18). Female to male ratio was 81% to 19% and average BMI was 42.1 (35-59). The mean excess weight loss (EWL) was 70% (40% to 100%) after 24 months and 55% (28% to 100%) after 5 years following surgery. 134 cases (16.7%) did not completed long term follow-up. The average time of follow up was 5 years (1 month to 12 years). 5.5% and 31% of cases complained from weight regain respectively during 4 and 12 years after LGP. The mean time of operation was 72 (49-152) minutes and average hospitalization time was 72 hours (24 hours to 45 days). The cost of operation was 2000 $ less than gastric banding or sleeve and 2500 $ less than gastric bypass. Eight patients out of 800 cases (1%) required reoperation due to complications like: micro perforation, obstruction and vomiting following adhesion of His angle. Other complications included hepatitis pneumonia, self-limiting intra-abdominal bleeding and hypocalcaemia.

CONCLUSION

The percentage of EWL in this technique is comparable to other restrictive methods. The technique is safe with 1.6% complication (1% reoperated), and 31% regain during 12 years. The cost of operation is less than the other methods.

Improved obesity reduction and co-morbidity resolution in patients treated with 40-French bougie versus 50-French bougie four years after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Analysis of 294 patients

BACKGROUND

We compared percent excess body mass index loss (%EBMIL) and resolution of dyslipidaemia, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus in the 4 years following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) between patients calibrated with a 40-French (40F) or a 50-French (50F) bougie.

METHODS

We conducted a longitudinal retrospective descriptive study of routinely collected pre- and post-surgical data from 294 patients who underwent LSG at a single surgical centre (50F--n = 106, 40F--n = 185). Obesity measurements were taken prior to surgery and at regular intervals until 48 months post-surgery. Co-morbidity resolution was also assessed across the 48-month observation period. Multivariate regression modelling was used to control analyses for baseline obesity and sociodemographic variables.

RESULTS

At 48 months post-surgery mean (±SD) %EBMIL was 60.2 ± 27.6% and 45.4 ± 38.4% for those treated with the 40F and 50F bougie, respectively. After controlling for sociodemographic variables and baseline excess weight, mean %EBMIL was 15.5% greater with a 40F bougie compared with a 50F bougie at the end of follow-up. The likelihood of dyslipidaemia resolution within 48 months post-LSG was 19.0 times greater (p = 0.006), hypertension resolution 3.6 times greater (p = 0.005) and type 2 diabetes mellitus resolution 5.2 times greater (p = 0.034) by 4 years post-surgery in patients treated with the 40F bougie compared with a 50F bougie.

CONCLUSION

Improved obesity reduction and resolution of dyslipidaemia, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus is experienced during the 4 years following surgery by patients treated with a 40F bougie compared with the 50F. These findings remain when controlling for potential confounding clinical and sociodemographic factors.

A review of studies comparing three laparoscopic procedures in bariatric surgery: sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding

Obesity is a major worldwide problem in public health, reaching epidemic proportions in many countries, especially in urbanized regions. Bariatric procedures have been shown to be more effective in the management of morbid obesity, compared to medical treatments in terms of weight loss and its sustainability. The two most commonly performed procedures are laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), and the novel laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The MEDLINE database (cutoff date September 2010), LILACS, and the Cochrane Library were searched using the key words "gastric bypass," "sleeve gastrectomy," and "gastric banding." Only studies that compared at least two of the laparoscopic procedures were included. Reviews and meta-analysis, editorial letters or comments, case reports, animal or in vitro studies, comparisons with medical treatment, comparisons with open (non-laparoscopic) procedures were excluded. Most studies indicated that LRYGB and LSG could be more effective achieving weight loss than LAGB. However, LAGB seems to be a safer procedure with frequent, but less severe, long-term complications. Although not uniformly reported, a resolution of obesity-related comorbidities was achieved with most bariatric procedures. The three procedures have acceptable efficacy and safety. We believe that patients should be informed in detail on the advantages and disadvantages of each available procedure, possibly in several interviews and always accompanied by a specialized interdisciplinary team, warranting long-term follow-up.

Management of acute postoperative hemorrhage in the bariatric patient

Bariatric surgery is one of the treatment options for achieving and preserving weight loss and managing medical complications related to obesity. After bariatric surgery, early or late adverse events, such as intraluminal or extraluminal gastrointestinal hemorrhage, can occur. Early gastrointestinal bleeding is more often a complication associated with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery than other bariatric procedures and usually arises from the gastrojejunal anastomosis. Early postoperative bleeding may be potentially life threatening, although death after postbariatric surgery as a consequence of acute bleeding is uncommon. Although early postoperative intraluminal bleeding can usually be managed conservatively, endoscopic therapy may be required.

Changes in eating behavior after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: a systematic review of the literature

This systematic review evaluates the current evidence base for eating behavior changes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). A literature search from 1990 to February 2010 was conducted to identify original studies that assessed eating behavior in adults who have undergone LAGB. Sixteen articles (14 separate studies) met inclusion criteria. Although strength of the evidence base was limited by observational study designs and methodological weaknesses, results suggest that positive changes in eating behavior occur after surgery, including reduced over-eating in response to emotional and situational cues. There is some evidence to suggest that uncontrolled eating behaviors persist in some individuals, and that this may be problematic for weight loss after surgery. Few studies examined the relationship between changes in eating behavior and weight loss; thus, optimal behavioral strategies for promoting positive weight outcomes remain unclear. Further interventional research addressing the inherent limitations of the current-evidence base is required to guide development of evidence-based management guidelines for LAGB in future.

Factors in selecting the optimal bariatric procedure for a specific patient and parameters by which to measure appropriate response to surgery

Bariatric operations are increasingly being used to induce weight loss and ameliorate or cure most of the morbidities that accompany obesity. These procedures not only produce substantial weight loss (>50% body weight), but they cure or ameliorate the comorbidities (diabetes type 2, hypertension, sleep apnea, hyperlipidemia) in the vast majority of patients. These procedures can usually be performed laparoscopically with a mortality of less than 0.5% and a hospital stay of 1 to 3 days. Presently they are the only effective treatment for weight loss in the extremely obese patient (body mass index >/= 35).

High case volumes and surgical fellowships are associated with improved outcomes for bariatric surgery patients: a justification of current credentialing initiatives for practice and training

BACKGROUND

Recent years have seen the establishment of bariatric surgery credentialing processes, center-of-excellence programs, and fellowship training positions. The effects of center-of-excellence status and of the presence of training programs have not previously been examined. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of case volume, center-of-excellence status, and training programs on early outcomes of bariatric surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Data were obtained from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998 to 2006. Quantification of patient comorbidities was made using the Charlson Index. Using logistic regression modeling, annual case volumes were analyzed for an association with each institution's center-of-excellence status and training program status. Risk-adjusted outcomes measures were calculated for these hospital-level parameters.

RESULTS

Data from 102,069 bariatric operations were obtained. Adjusting for comorbidities, greater bariatric case volume was associated with improvements in the incidence of total complications (odds ratio [OR] 0.99937 for each single case increase, p = 0.01), in-hospital mortality (OR 0.99717, p < 0.01), and most other complications. Hospitals with a Fellowship Council-affiliated gastrointestinal surgery training program were associated with risk-adjusted improvements in rates of splenectomy (OR 0.2853, p < 0.001) and bacterial pneumonias (OR 0.65898, p = 0.02). Center-of-excellence status, irrespective of the accrediting entity, had minimal independent association with outcomes. A surgical residency program had a varying association with outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The hypothesized positive volume-outcomes relationship of bariatric surgery is shown without arbitrarily categorizing hospitals to case volume groups, by analysis of volume as a continuous variable. Institutions with a dedicated fellowship training program have also been shown, in part, to be associated with improved outcomes. The concept of volume-dependent center-of-excellence programs is supported, although no independent association with the credentialing process is noted.

Impact of surgeon experience and buttress material on postoperative complications after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Sleeve gastrectomy is gaining popularity whether as a primary, staged or revisional operation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the perioperative safety and the learning curve for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of the prospectively collected data for all patients who underwent LSG for the treatment of morbid obesity at our institution from January 2003 to December 2008.

RESULTS

Data from 230 consecutive patients [male 47%, female 53%; mean age 44.0 ± 10.0 years, mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) 56.7 ± 11.5 kg/m(2)], who were operated upon by three surgeons with different degrees of bariatric experience, were analyzed. There was no 30-day mortality, but there were two cases of late mortality (0.87%). Early complications were noted in 23 cases (10.0%), including 10 cases of leak (4.3%) and 10 cases of hemorrhage (4.3%). In 17 cases (7.4%) reoperations were performed. The rates of overall and major complications did not differ among surgeons or between early and late period of experience for the three surgeons; this trend held true individually and in subgroups. Overall, over the course of the learning curve, a significant decrease in operative time was noted. The only factor that was independently associated with complications was use of buttress material; the likelihood of complications was found to be 72% lower in patients in whom buttress material was used.

CONCLUSIONS

LSG constitutes a potentially safe anti-obesity procedure with acceptable morbidity. Experience at the beginning can be discouraging, even for surgeons with advanced laparoscopic skills. LSG can be performed safely, with proper mentoring and in appropriate settings, even by less experienced bariatric surgeons. The use of staple-line reinforcement was associated with improved perioperative outcomes, and it should be considered in an attempt to decrease leaks.