Sleeve gastrectomy and anti-reflux procedures

Long-term (11 + years) efficacy of sleeve gastrectomy as a stand-alone bariatric procedure: a single-center retrospective observational study

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is currently the most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the long-term efficacy of SG as a stand-alone bariatric procedure.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective analysis of 104 patients who underwent SG as a stand-alone bariatric procedure between January 2005 and December 2009. Weight loss, weight regain, remission or improvement of comorbidities and the new onset of comorbidities were the main outcomes of the study.

RESULTS

The percent excess body weight loss (%EBWL), percent excess body mass weight (BMI) loss (%EBMIL), and percent total body weight loss (%TBWL) were 59 ± 25, 69 ± 29, and 29 ± 12, respectively, after a mean follow-up of 13.4 years. At the last follow-up, nearly two thirds of patients (67.3%) had an %EBWL greater than 50. The percentage of patients who experienced significant weight regain ranged from 47 to 64%, depending on the definition used for weight regain. The rate of improvement or remission of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, and degenerative joint disease at a mean follow-up of 13.4 years was 40%, 94.7%, 70%, 100%, and 42.9%, respectively. The new onset of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms in the same period was 43%.

CONCLUSION

Our data supports that SG results in long-lasting weight loss in the majority of patients and acceptable rates of remission or improvement of comorbidities. Weight regain and GERD may be issues of particular concern during long-term follow-up after SG.

Innovative Bariatric Procedures and Ethics in Bariatric Surgery: the IFSO Position Statement

With the rise in obesity and bariatric procedures worldwide, there has been a surge in new and innovative procedures that has been increasingly offered to patients. In this position statement, IFSO highlights the importance of surgical ethics in innovation and when offering new procedures. Furthermore, the task force reviewed the current literature to describe which procedures can be offered as mainstream outside research protocols versus those that are still investigational and need further data.

Sleeve Gastrectomy in a Patient With Left Hemidiaphragm Paralysis: A Case Report

Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis is a disorder in which one side of the diaphragm loses the capacity to contract to allow for adequate inspiration. The majority of patients suffering from unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis are asymptomatic and do not require treatment. The laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most common bariatric surgical operation. In this case report, I present the case of a 36-year-old male with congenital left hemidiaphragm paralysis who had LSG for the treatment of morbid obesity. This case demonstrates the efficacy and feasibility of LSG in patients with asymptomatic hemidiaphragm paralysis. During surgery, surgeons must pay close attention to a variety of factors, including a stomach fundus that is situated high in a subcostal region with a narrow space to work.

Predictive Factors for Developing GERD After Sleeve Gastrectomy: Is Preoperative Endoscopy Necessary?

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most common bariatric procedure performed in the USA. There is a concern for new gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Barrett's esophagus after SG. Endoscopic screening before bariatric surgery is controversial. We sought to identify preoperative endoscopic factors that may predict the development of GERD after SG.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated 217 patients undergoing primary robotic-assisted SG. All patients underwent endoscopy before SG and for-cause postoperatively. Patients were followed for the development of GERD, diagnosed by either biopsy-proven reflux esophagitis or a positive esophageal pH test. Patients were separated into 2 groups: Those who developed GERD after surgery (GERD group) and those who did not (No GERD group). Patients with a positive preoperative pH test, LA Grade B or greater esophagitis, or hiatal hernia > 5 cm on preoperative endoscopy were counseled to undergo gastric bypass and excluded.

RESULTS

There were more males in the No GERD group (25.6% vs. 8.1%; p = 0.02). More patients had preoperative heartburn symptoms in the GERD group (40.5% vs. 23.9%; p = 0.04). Endoscopically identified esophagitis was more common in the GERD group (29.7% vs. 13.3%; p = 0.01), as was biopsy-proven esophagitis (24.3% vs. 11.1%; p = 0.03). There was no significant difference in the incidence or size of hiatal hernia or in the rate of H. pylori infection between the groups. On multivariate analysis, the strongest predictors of GERD after SG were endoscopically identified esophagitis (odds ratio [OR] 2.79; 95% confidence interval [CI]1.17-6.69; p = 0.02) and biopsy-proven esophagitis (OR 2.80; 95% CI 1.06-7.37; p = 0.04). Male patients were less likely to develop GERD after SG (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.06-0.85; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Our findings strengthen the rationale for routine preoperative endoscopy and highlight critical clinical and endoscopic criteria that should prompt consideration of alternatives to SG for weight loss.

Assessment of the Role of Omentopexy in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Tertiary Center Experience

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most common bariatric procedures due its high success and low complication rates. However, acid reflux and food intolerance remain drawbacks of the procedure, with high frequency of postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and eating disorders reported by previous studies. Omentopexy is not a standard technique in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and showed promising results in preventing these sequelae. The present study aimed to evaluate whether omentopexy would decrease the incidence of postoperative GERD, food intolerance, and gastric volvulus without increasing additional complications rates in comparison with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) without omentopexy. Patients and Methods: Our study included all the patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in our bariatric unit, who were divided into two groups. Group II had the added step of omentopexy. Comparison between both groups was done regarding incidence of acid reflux, food tolerance, and postoperative complications. Results: Omentopexy decreased the incidence of acid reflux, gastric kink, volvulus, and intrathoracic migration. Moreover, food tolerance significantly improved in patients, which in turn led to higher compliance with the postoperative dietary plan and better outcome with regard to weight loss. In addition, omentopexy showed lower incidence of postoperative leakage. Conclusion: Omentopexy is a valuable step in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, which should be considered a standard step in all cases.

Obesity Surgery

BACKGROUND

In 2017, the prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥= 30 kg/m2) in Germany was approximately 16%. Obesity increases an individual's risk of developing type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and arterial hypertension; it also increases overall mortality. Consequently, effective treatment is a necessity. Approximately 20 000 bariatric operations are performed in Germany each year.

METHODS

This review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search in the PubMed and Cochrane databases and on current German clinical practice guidelines.

RESULTS

The types of obesity surgery most commonly performed in Germany, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, lead to an excess weight loss of 27-69% ≥= 10 years after the procedure. In obese patients with T2DM, the diabetes remission rate ≥= 10 years after these procedures ranges from 25% to 62%. Adjusted regression analyses of data from large registries have shown that the incidence of malignancies is 33% lower in persons who have undergone obesity surgery compared to control subjects with obesity (unadjusted incidence 5.6 versus 9.0 cases per 1000 person-years). The operation can cause vitamin deficiency, surgical complications, gastroesophageal reflux, and dumping syndrome. Therefore, lifelong follow-up is necessary.

CONCLUSION

In view of an increasing number of patients undergoing bariatric surgery, it will probably not be feasible in the future for lifelong follow-up to be provided exclusively in specialized centers.

ANTI-REFLUX PROCEDURES AFTER ROUX-EN-Y GASTRIC BYPASS

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) has been the choice of bariatric procedure for patients with symptomatic reflux - and is known to be effective in reducing the need for anti-reflux medication postoperatively. However, a small number of RYGB patients can still develop severe reflux symptoms that require a surgical intervention.

AIM

To examine and describe the patient population that requires an anti-reflux procedure after RYGB evaluating demographics, characteristics, symptoms and diagnosis.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on 32 patients who underwent a hiatal hernia repair and/or Nissen fundoplication after RYGB Jul 1st, 2014 and Dec 31st, 2019. Patients were identified using the MBSAQIP database and their electronic medical records were reviewed.

RESULTS

Most patients were female (n=29, 90.6%). The mean age was 52.8 years and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 34.1 kg/m2 at the time of anti-reflux procedure. Patients underwent the anti-reflux procedure at a mean of 7.9 years after the RYGB procedure. The mean percentage of excess BMI loss during the time between RYGB and anti-reflux procedure was 63.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

Female patients with a significant weight loss may develop a severe reflux symptoms years after RYGB. Complaints of reflux after RYGB should not be overlooked. Careful follow-up and appropriate treatment (including surgical intervention) is needed for this population.

Seven-year trajectories of body weight, quality of life and comorbidities following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

There is limited long-term data comparing the outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for severe obesity, both with respect to body weight, quality of life (QOL) and comorbidities. We aimed to determine 7-year trajectories of body mass index (BMI), QOL, obesity-related comorbidities, biomarkers of glucose and lipid metabolism, and early major complications after SG and RYGB.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Patients scheduled for bariatric surgery at two Norwegian hospitals, preferentially performing either SG or RYGB, were included consecutively from September 2011 to February 2015. Data was collected prospectively before and up to 7 years after surgery. Obesity-specific, generic and overall QOL were measured by the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite, Short-Form 36 and Cantril's ladder, respectively. Comorbidities were assessed by clinical examination, registration of medication and analysis of glucose and lipid biomarkers. Outcomes were examined with linear mixed effect models and relative risk estimates.

RESULTS

Of 580 included patients, 543 (75% women, mean age 42.3 years, mean baseline BMI 43.0 kg/m²) were operated (376 SG and 167 RYGB). With 84.2% of participants evaluable after 5-7 years, model-based percent total weight-loss (%TWL) at 7 years was 23.4 after SG versus 27.3 after RYGB (difference 3.9%, p = 0.001). All levels of QOL improved similarly after the two surgical procedures but remained below reference data from the general population at all timepoints. Remission rates for type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep-apnea and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as well as the rate of de novo GERD significantly favored RYGB. SG had fewer major early complications, but more minor and major late complications combined over follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In routine health care, both SG and RYGB are safe procedures with significant long-term weight-loss, improvement of QOL and amelioration of comorbidities. Long-term weight-loss and remission rates of main obesity-related comorbidities were higher after RYGB.

Current status of gastroesophageal reflux disease after sleeve gastrectomy: Still a long way to go

Obesity is a public health concern that is becoming increasingly more serious around the world. Bariatric surgery has become more prevalent due to the obesity epidemic worldwide. Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is one of the most popular procedures which is safe and efficient. Despite all its favorable features, however, there is an increasing evidence from the literature that the long-term incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is likely to represent the Achilles' heel of this procedure. Management of severe reflux after SG usually requires revisional surgery. The relationship between SG and GERD needs to be better ascertained in order to prevent related complications, such as esophageal adenocarcinoma. This review attempts to elucidate the effect of SG on GERD and the postoperative management of reflux disease according to recent literature in the hope of drawing the attention of clinicians to postoperative gastroesophageal reflux and guiding the optimal management strategy associated with this "troublesome complication".

Conversion of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: patterns predicting persistent symptoms after revision

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most common bariatric operation performed. However, it is not without its drawbacks and patients may develop gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) after LSG. There are limited data available to guide treatment choice for patients suffering these sequelae.

OBJECTIVE

This study was undertaken to evaluate the success of conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in treating GERD symptoms after LSG.

SETTING

Single bariatric center, United States.

METHODS

Analysis of a prospectively maintained clinical database was performed. Outcomes studied included heartburn-related quality of life score (GERD-HRQL), anti-secretory usage, and body mass index (BMI).

RESULTS

A total of 54 patients met inclusion criteria during the review period. Of these, 41 patients (76%) underwent conversion for indication including GERD. Mean BMI at conversion was 33.8 ± 5.61 and was found to be significantly reduced at 12 months after conversion (n = 26; 63%; P < .001) and at long-term follow-up (n = 37; 90%) (P ≤ .001; mean follow-up period: 33.3 mo). Mean GERD-HRQL at time of conversion was 31.5 ± 11.4. Conversion to RYGB produced a significant reduction of HRQL at 6 months after conversion (n = 30; 73%) (mean: 5.6, P < .001) and long-term follow-up (n = 38; 93%) (mean: 7.3, P < .001. mean follow-up period: 15.1 mo). Prior to conversion, 32 patients (78%) required antisecretory therapy for GERD and after conversion, 12 of these patients (38%) required antisecretory therapy (P < .001). These 12 patients were found to exhibit a significantly (P = .005) smaller decrease in GERD-HRQL after revision compared with their peers who were liberated from antisecretory therapy. Preoperative symptoms were compared between these 2 groups. Delayed onset of GERD symptoms after LSG (>3 mo) was found to be a significant risk factor for continued antisecretory dependence after conversion to RYGB.

CONCLUSION

Conversion of LSG to RYGB quantitatively reduces GERD symptoms, and results in a modest but significant amount of weight loss. While there was a significant improvement in HRQL after revision, a subgroup of patients continued to be antisecretory-dependent and showed a limited improvement in HRQL. This limited response was predicted by a gradual onset of GERD symptoms prior to revision. An interval of 3 months or greater between LSG and onset of symptoms was found to be a significant risk factor for limited response to conversion.

Concomitant Hiatal Hernia Repair with Sleeve Gastrectomy: A 5-Year Analysis

Background: The sleeve gastrectomy (SG) can be associated with postoperative gastroesophageal reflux and when a hiatal hernia (HH) is present, it should be fixed. Earlier studies have shown that 20% of SG have a concomitant hiatal hernia repair (SG+HHR). The aim of this project is to determine the rate of SG+HHR in a large state administrative database.

Methods: The Texas Inpatient Public Use Data File (IPUDF) and Outpatient Public Use Data File (OPUDF) for the years 2013-2017 were examined for patients that underwent SG+HHR at the same time. Patient demographics, diagnosis, and charge data were also examined. A t-test was performed between groups and P was considered significant at < 0.05.

Results: In the OPUDF, there were 6,193 (33.7%) patients who underwent SG+HHR out of 18,403 patients who underwent SG. Mean charges were $94,741 [standard deviation (SD) = $87,284]. Length of stay (LOS) was 2.1 (SD = 3.5) vs 2.3 days (SD = 3.3) with a shorter stay for SG+HHR vs SG alone (P < 0.001). In the IPUDF, there were 11,536 (21.1%) patients who underwent SG+HHR out of 54,545 patients who underwent SG. Mean charges were $69,006 (SD = $46,365). LOS was 1.59 days (SD = 3.7) for SG+HHR vs 1.63 days (SD = 1.6) for SG (P = .043). The rate of SG+HHR increased over the study period.

Conclusions: SG+HHR is common in both the outpatient and inpatient setting. There is a yearly trend of increasing rates of SG+HHR.

Gastroesophageal Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy continues to be the most commonly performed bariatric operation worldwide. Development or worsening of pre-existing GERD has been recognized as a significant issue postoperatively. There is a paucity of information concerning the most appropriate preoperative workup and the technical and anatomical factors that may or may not contribute to the occurrence of reflux symptoms. Contemporary data quality is deficient given the predominantly retrospective nature, limited follow-up time, and heterogeneous outcome measures across studies. This has produced mixed results regarding the postoperative incidence and severity of GERD. Ultimately, better-constructed investigations are needed in order to offer evidence-based recommendations that may guide preoperative workup and improved patient selection criteria.

Augmentation of Hiatal Repair with the Ligamentum Teres Hepatis for Intrathoracic Gastric Migration After Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE

The augmentation of hiatoplasty (HP) with the ligamentum teres hepatis (LTA) is a new concept for intrathoracic migration of a gastric sleeve or pouch (ITGM). We retrospectively analyzed all cases of hiatal hernia repair in a single center between 2015 and 2019.

METHODS

A total of 171 patients underwent 307 hiatal hernia repairs after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) (n = 79), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (n = 129), and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) (n = 99). Each hiatal hernia repair was defined as a "case" and assigned to the LTA group or the non-LTA group. The primary outcome was the recurrence of ITGM as detected by endoscopy or CT.

RESULTS

The basic characteristics in the LTA group (78 cases) and the non-LTA group (229 cases) were comparable with the exception of the rate of revisional HP (72% vs. 21%), the rate of prior conversion to RYGB (33% vs. 17%), the initial BMI (45.9 ± 8.2 kg/m² vs. 49.0 ± 8.8 kg/m²), and the follow-up (7 months (1-16) vs. 8 months (1-54)). The ITGM recurrence rate was 15% in the LTA group and 72% in non-LTA group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that the length of ITGM and the type of surgical repair were independent risk factors. The addition of LTA to HP lowered the probability of ITGM recurrence by a factor of 0.35 (p = 0.015), but the conversion from SG or OAGB to RYGB did not reduce the risk.

CONCLUSIONS

LTA reduces the risk of early ITGM recurrence. The long-term durability, however, needs to be further investigated.

Magnetic sphincter augmentation at the time of bariatric surgery: an analysis of the MBSAQIP

BACKGROUND

Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) has gained popularity as a treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The role of MSA in treating GERD in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) patients at the time of primary MBS is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the short-term outcomes of MSA placed at the time of MBS.

SETTING

National database, United States.

METHODS

We queried the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database for MSA performed at time of the sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for the years 2017-2018. A propensity adjusted analysis was performed to assess 30-day outcomes of patients who had MSA placed versus those who did not.

RESULTS

There were 319,580 patients who underwent MBS in the study period. Twenty-four patients had MSA at time of surgery. These patients did not have a higher reported rate of preoperative GERD (P = .93). Six patients (25%) with MSA had a RYGB; the other 18 patients (75%) patients had SG (P < .001). Operative times were similar between the groups and there was no difference in length of stay. After propensity matched analysis (with 24 patients in each arm), patients who underwent an MSA had shorter discharge times (1.4 days [.8] versus 2.0 [.9], P = .012).

CONCLUSION

MSA is safe in the short term in MBS. There is no difference in major morbidity or mortality and operative times are similar in MSA patients. The long-term efficacy of this practice is unknown.

VERTICAL GASTRECTOMY VS. EXTENDED VERTICAL GASTRECTOMY: WHAT IS THE IMPACT ON GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE IN OBESE RATS?

BACKGROUND

Extended vertical gastrectomy is a variation of the vertical gastrectomy technique requiring studies to elucidate safety in relation to gastroesophageal reflux.

AIM

To analyze comparatively vertical gastrectomy (VG) and extended vertical gastrectomy (EVG) in rats with obesity induced by cafeteria diet in relation to the presence of reflux esophagitis, weight loss and macroscopic changes related to the procedures.

METHODS

Thirty Wistar rats were randomized into three groups, and after the obesity induction period by means of a 28-day cafeteria diet, underwent a simulated surgery (CG), VG and VGA. The animals were followed up for 28 days in the post-operative period, and after euthanasia, the reflux esophagitis evaluation was histopathologically performed. Weight and macroscopy were the other variables; weight was measured weekly and the macroscopic evaluation was performed during euthanasia.

RESULTS

All animals presented some degree of inflammation and the presence of at least one inflammation criterion; however, there was no statistically significant difference in the analysis among the groups. In relation to weight loss, the animals in CG showed a gradual increase during the whole experiment, evolving to super-obesity at the end of the study, while the ones with VG and EVG had weight regain after the first post-operative period; however, a less marked regain compared to CG, both for VG and EVG.

CONCLUSION

There is no difference in relation to reflux esophagitis VG and EVG, as well as macroscopic alterations, and both techniques have the ability to control the evolution of weight during postoperative period in relation to CG.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease complicating laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: current knowledge and surgical therapies

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is currently the most commonly performed bariatric procedure worldwide. However, the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after LSG is high.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this systematic review was to identify the optimal surgical strategy for treating GERD after LSG.

SETTING

West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed to identify studies on surgical treatments for GERD after LSG. The effectiveness and safety profile of surgical management on GERD after LSG were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 40 articles enrolling 2049 patients were included in this review. Surgical strategies to prevent GERD after LSG were mainly of 2 types: concomitant LSG + antireflux procedures (hiatal hernia repair or fundoplication) and secondary procedures (conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass [RYGB] or repeat sleeve gastrectomy). The short-term remission or improvement rate of GERD was 34.6%-100% after concomitant LSG + antireflux procedures. The postoperative complication rate was the same (3.0%) for both LSG + antireflux procedures and LSG alone. The remission or improvement rate of GERD was 57.1%-100% after conversion to RYGB and 100% after repeat sleeve gastrectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness and safety profile of concomitant LSG + antireflux procedures is uncertain. However, secondary operations after LSG, such as conversion to RYGB, appear to provide good results. The data overall are heterogeneous, with imprecise methods of documenting and defining GERD complicating LSG. More cohort studies or RCT studies of high quality with long-term follow-up are needed in the future.

Gastroesophageal Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy: New Onset and Effect on Symptoms on a Prospective Evaluation

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is present in half of the obese candidates for bariatric surgery. Variability of symptoms and new onset of GERD are often debated. Prior studies have demonstrated that sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is associated with significant weight loss.

OBJECTIVES

We prospectively evaluated the effect of a standardized SG technique on GERD symptoms in 104 patients.

METHODS

All patients were surveyed on the presence of heartburn and/or regurgitation with a specific questionnaire (GERD-HRQL). Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGDS) was performed in the preoperative phase and after 12 months.

RESULTS

All patients completed a 12-month follow-up. In the preoperative phase, 27.9% presented GERD symptoms (29 cases), while endoscopic findings were observed in 19.2% (20 cases). Preoperative GERD was ameliorated/solved in 65.5% of cases. The mean value of the GERD-HRQL score was significantly lower in postoperative evaluation (33.8 vs 19.4; p < 0.05). At 12-month EGDS, esophagitis was present in 13.5%, and GERD-HRQL symptoms were recorded in 10.6%. Considering patients treated until December 2015 (group 1, 44 patients) and those treated after December 2015 (group 2, 60 patients), all new clinical and endoscopic GERD diagnoses were observed in group 1; the majority of unsolved GERD cases was present in Ggoup 1 (8 vs 2; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Significant amelioration on preoperative GERD was confirmed after SG. New characteristics of reflux are emerging in SG patients, often asymptomatic. Standardization is necessary to define the real effect of SG on GERD.

Gastroesophageal Reflux and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Results of the First International Consensus Conference

BACKGROUND

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is probably the main drawback of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Herein, we critically discuss the issue and report the results of the first international consensus conference held in Montpellier, France, during June 2019.

METHODS

Fifty international bariatric experts from 25 countries convened for 2 days for interactive discussions, and to formulate the most relevant questions by electronically submitting 55 preliminary questions to panelists. Following the meeting, a final drafted questionnaire comprised of 41 questions was sent to all experts via e-mail.

RESULTS

Forty-six experts responded (92%). Esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy was considered mandatory before (92%) and after (78%) surgery. No consensus was achieved as to time intervals after surgery and the role of specialized tests for GERD. Higher degrees of erosive esophagitis (94%) and Barrett's esophagus (96%) were viewed as contra-indications for LSG. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was recommended in postoperative patients with uncontrolled GERD and insufficient (84%) or sufficient (76%) weight loss and Barrett's esophagus (78%). Hiatal hernia (HH) repair was deemed necessary even in asymptomatic patients without GERD (80% for large and 67% for small HH). LSG with fundoplication in patients with GERD was considered by 77.3% of panelists.

CONCLUSIONS

The importance of pre- and postoperative endoscopy has been emphasized. The role of specialized tests for GERD and the exact surveillance programs need to be further defined. LSG is viewed as contra-indicated in higher degrees of endoscopic and clinical GERD. LSG with anti-reflux fundoplication emerges as a new valid option in patients with GERD.

Cardiopexy at the Time of Sleeve Gastrectomy as a Preventive Measure for Reflux

BACKGROUND

One of the most significant concerns after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the new-onset or worsening of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some patients with LSG undergo a conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) because of severe GERD. Cardiopexy at the time of LSG may help prevent GERD. This study aims to examine the safety and effectiveness of cardiopexy at the time of LSG.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on 161 consecutive patients who underwent LSG between May 1, 2017 and April 30, 2018. Of these, 79 underwent cardiopexy at the time of LSG. Weight, comorbidities, and complications were recorded at 6 months after LSG.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar between the cardiopexy and noncardiopexy groups of patients. In the cardiopexy group, 8 (10.1%) patients reported having GERD at the time of LSG, whereas 12 (14.6%) patients did in the noncardiopexy group. At 6 months after the procedure, 5 (8.9%) patients in the cardiopexy group reported symptoms of GERD, whereas 14 (17.7%) patients did in the noncardiopexy group (P=0.15). One (1.3%) patient in the cardiopexy group and 2 (2.4%) patients in the noncardiopexy group were converted to an RYGB because of severe reflux (P=0.58). The percentage of excess body mass index loss and the percentage of total weight loss were similar between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Cardiopexy was not associated with a reduced rate of symptomatic GERD and conversion to RYGB after 6 months.

The Skeletal Consequences of Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review outlines the recent findings regarding the impact of bariatric surgery on bone. It explores potential mechanisms for skeletal changes following bariatric surgery and strategies for management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Bone loss following bariatric surgery is multifactorial. Probable mechanisms include skeletal unloading, abnormalities in calciotropic hormones, and changes in gut hormones. Skeletal changes that occur after bariatric surgery are specific to procedure type and persist for several years post-operatively. Studies suggest that while bone loss begins early, fracture risk may be increased later in the post-operative course, particularly after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Further research is needed to assess the extent to which skeletal changes following bariatric surgery result in fragility. Current management should be geared toward prevention of bone loss, correction of nutritional deficiencies, and incorporation of weight bearing exercise. Pharmacologic treatment should be considered for high-risk patients.

Reflux, Sleeve Dilation, and Barrett's Esophagus after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Long-Term Follow-Up

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has become the most frequently performed bariatric procedure worldwide. De novo reflux might impact patients' quality of life, requiring lifelong proton pump inhibitor medication. It also increases the risk of esophagitis and formation of Barrett's metaplasia. Besides weight regain, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the most common reason for conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

METHODS

We performed 24-h pH metries, manometries, gastroscopies, and questionnaires focusing on reflux (GIQLI, RSI) in SG patients with a follow-up of more than 10 years who did not suffer from symptomatic reflux or hiatal hernia preoperatively.

RESULTS

From a total of 53 patients, ten patients after adjustable gastric banding were excluded. From the remaining 43, six patients (14.0%) were converted to RYGB due to intractable reflux over a period of 130 months. Ten out of the remaining non-converted patients (n = 26) also suffered from symptomatic reflux. Gastroscopies revealed de novo hiatal hernias in 45% of the patients and Barrett's metaplasia in 15%. SG patients suffering from symptomatic reflux scored significantly higher in the RSI (p = 0.04) and significantly lower in the GIQLI (p = 0.02) questionnaire.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a high incidence of Barrett's esophagus and hiatal hernias at more than 10 years after SG. Its results therefore suggest maintaining pre-existing large hiatal hernia, GERD, and Barrett's esophagus as relative contraindications to SG. The limitations of this study-its small sample size as well as the fact that it was based on early experience with SG-make drawing any general conclusions about this procedure difficult.