Enterohormonal Changes After Digestive Adaptation: Five-Year Results of a Surgical Proposal to Treat Obesity and Associated Diseases

One Anastomosis Transit Bipartition (OATB): Rational and Mid-term Outcomes

BACKGROUND

The "One-anastomosis transit bipartition" (OATB) is a promising emerging technique in the metabolic syndrome treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate the results achieved with OATB in the first 5 years after surgery.

METHOD

Cross-sectional, retrospective study, with individuals undergoing primary OATB. Individuals included in the study were: ≥ 18 years, BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2; and excluded smoking habits, drug dependence, inflammatory bowel diseases. The data analyzed demographic, anthropometric, surgical, clinical, and nutritional.

RESULTS

Sixty eight participants, 75% women, average age 45.5 years and BMI 41 kg/m2. Associated diseases: osteoarthritis (52.9%), hypertension (48.5%) and type 2 diabetes mellitus-T2DM (39.7%). All underwent laparoscopy, without conversions. Average operative time is 122.6 ± 31.7 min, and hospital stay is 2.2 ± 0.8 days. The common channel length 27 and 41 patients with 250 cm and 300 cm respectively. We registered no intraoperative complications, 2 (2.9%) early complications, and 14 (20.6%) late complications. In the first 6 months, 94.7% (250 cm) and 88.9% (300 cm) of the patients no longer used medication for T2DM, with no statistical difference between the two groups. The incidence of nutritional disorders at any time during follow-up: hypovitaminosis D (14.7%), folate hypovitaminosis (14.7%), elevated PTH (7.4%), hypoproteinemia (5.9%) and anemia (5.9%). We found no statistically significant difference between 250 and 300 cm common channel groups.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that OATB is a safe and effective technique, demonstrating good control of T2DM and metabolic syndrome. There is a requirement to treat previous nutritional deficits. We need more long-term evidence and comparison to other surgical techniques.

IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL DETECTION OF L CELLS IN GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT MUCOSA OF PATIENTS AFTER SURGICAL TREATMENT FOR CONTROL OF TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a disease of global impact that has led to an increase in comorbidities and mortality in several countries. Immunoexpression of the incretin hormones such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and peptide YY (3-36) (PYY3-36) can be used as a scorer in the gastrointestinal tract to analyze L-cell activity in response to T2DM treatment. This study aimed to investigate the presence, location, and secretion of L cells in the small intestine of patients undergoing the form of bariatric surgery denominated adaptive gastroenteromentectomy with partial bipartition.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical assays, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and Western blot analysis were performed on samples of intestinal mucosa from patients with T2DM in both the preoperative and postoperative periods.

RESULTS

All results were consistent and indicated basal expression and secretion of GLP-1 and PYY3-36 incretins by L cells. A greater density of cells was demonstrated in the most distal portions of the small intestine. No significant difference was found between GLP-1 and PYY3-36 expression levels in the preoperative and postoperative periods because of prolonged fasting during which the samples were collected.

CONCLUSION

The greater number of L cells in activity implies better peptide signaling, response, and functioning of the neuroendocrine system.

Optimal Length of Biliopancreatic Limb in Single Anastomosis Sleeve Gastrointestinal Bypass for Treatment of Severe Obesity: Efficacy and Concerns

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to compare two newly introduced procedures, single anastomosis sleeve jejunal (SASJ) with ileal (SASI) bypass in terms of weight loss, remission of obesity-associated medical problems, complications, and nutritional status.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study was carried out with 162 patients who underwent single anastomosis sleeve gastrointestinal bypass from October 2017 to September 2021, either single anastomosis sleeve jejunal bypass (SASJ) or single anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass (SASI). The main outcome measures were weight loss and improvement in obesity-associated medical problems, nutritional status, and complications at 12 months post-surgery.

RESULTS

At 12 months, both groups showed significant weight loss and remission in obesity-associated medical problems. There were significant differences in body mass index (BMI), total weight loss (TWL), and excess weight loss (EWL) between SASI and SASJ bypass (P < 0.05). Improvements in associated medical problems after the two procedures were similar except for hypertension. The reversal surgery rate of the SASI group was significantly higher than that of the SASJ group (5.5% vs. 0.0%, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

SASJ and SASI bypass achieved satisfactory weight loss and improvement in obesity-associated medical problems that were comparable between the two groups. SASI bypass was followed by a significant difference in the rate of reversal surgery at 1 year due to a short common channel, which was not observed after SASJ bypass.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) Bypass for Patients with Morbid Obesity: a Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

Single anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass is a newly introduced bariatric and metabolic procedure. The present multicenter study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the SASI bypass in the treatment of patients with morbid obesity and the metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, seven-country, multicenter study on patients with morbid obesity who underwent the SASI bypass. Data regarding patients' demographics, body mass index (BMI), percentage of total weight loss (%TWL), percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), and improvement in comorbidities at 12 months postoperatively and postoperative complications were collected.

RESULTS

Among 605 patients who underwent the SASI, 54 were excluded and 551 (390; 70.8% female) were included. At 12 months after the SASI, a significant decrease in the BMI was observed (43.2 ± 12.5 to 31.2 ± 9.7 kg/m²; p < 0.0001). The %TWL was 27.4 ± 13.4 and the %EWL was 63.9 ± 29.5. Among the 279 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), complete remission was recorded in 234 (83.9%) patients and partial improvement in 43 (15.4%) patients. Eighty-six (36.1%) patients with hypertension, 104 (65%) patients with hyperlipidemia, 37 (57.8%) patients with sleep apnea, and 70 (92.1%) patients with GERD achieved remission. Fifty-six (10.1%) complications and 2 (0.3%) mortalities were recorded. Most complications were minor. All patients had 12 months follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The SASI bypass is an effective bariatric and metabolic surgery that achieved satisfactory weight loss and improvement in medical comorbidities, including T2DM, hypertension, sleep apnea, and GERD, with a low complication rate.

DOES EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY HELP THE UNDERSTANDING OF METABOLIC SURGERY? A FOCUSED REVIEW

Introduction:

The wide net of physiological issues involved in metabolic surgery is extremely complex. Nonetheless, compared anatomy and phisiology can provide good clues of how digestive tracts are shaped for more or less caloric food, for more or less fiber, for abundance and for scarcity.

Objective:

To review data from Compared Anatomy and Physiology, and in the Evolutionary Sciences that could help in the better comprehension of the metabolic surgery.

Method:

A focused review of the literature selecting information from these three fields of knowledge in databases: Cochrane Library, Medline and SciELO, articles and book chapters in English and Portuguese, between 1955 and 2019, using the headings “GIP, GLP-1, PYY, type 2 diabetes, vertebrates digestive system, hominid evolution, obesity, bariatric surgery “.

Results:

The digestive tract of superior animals shows highly specialized organs to digest and absorb specific diets. In spite of the wide variations of digestive systems, some general rules are observed. The proximal part of the digestive tract, facing the scarcity of sugars, is basically dedicated to generate sugar from different substrates (gluconeogenesis). Basic proximal gut tasks are to proportionally input free sugars, insulin, other fuels and to generate anabolic elements to the blood, some of them obesogenic. To limit the ingestion by satiety, by gastric emptying diminution and to limit the excessive elevation of major fuels (sugar and fat) in the blood are mostly the metabolict asks of the distal gut. A rapid and profound change in human diet composition added large amounts of high glycemic index foods. They seem to have caused an enhancement in the endocrine and metabolic activities of the proximal gut and a reduction in these activities of the distal gut. The most efficient models of metabolic surgery indeed make adjustments in this proximal/distal balance in the gut metabolic activities.

Conclusion:

Metabolic surgery works basically by making adjustments to the proximal and distal gut metabolic activities that resemble the action of natural selection in the development the digestive systems of superior animals.

Bariatric Surgery-Induced Changes in Intima-Media Thickness and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Class 3 Obesity: A 3-Year Follow-Up Study

OBJECTIVE

The impact of weight loss induced by bariatric surgery (BS) and nonsurgical approaches on cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) has not been fully elucidated. We assessed the effects of BS and a nonsurgical approach on carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and CVRFs in participants with class 3 obesity.

METHODS

A total of 87 participants with obesity (59 women; 46 [37-52] years old; BMI, 43 [40-47]) and 75 controls were recruited; 21 (25%) participants with obesity underwent BS. BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, fasting plasma glucose, C-reactive protein, CIMT, and Framingham Risk Score were measured at baseline and at 3-year follow-up. Independent factors for reduction in CIMT were analyzed. The literature on the effects of BS and CIMT was reviewed.

RESULTS

After BS, BMI decreased from 45.45 to 27.28 (P < 0.001), and mean CIMT decreased from 0.64 mm (0.56-0.75 mm) to 0.54 mm (0.46-0.65) mm (P < 0.012), equivalent to 0.005 mm/kg of weight lost. At 3-year follow-up, participants who had undergone BS had similar CIMT and CVRFs to the control group. No changes in CVRFs were seen related to the nonsurgical approach. BMI reduction after BS had the strongest independent association with decreased CIMT.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight loss after BS decreases CIMT and CVRFs in middle-aged participants with class 3 obesity, resulting in CIMT similar to that observed in lean participants.

Effect of Sleeve Gastrectomy on Ghrelin, GLP-1, PYY, and GIP Gut Hormones: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To perform a structured systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate changes in ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide YY (PYY), and gastric inhibitory peptide (GIP) gut hormone levels in patients after sleeve gastrectomy.

BACKGROUND

Despite sleeve gastrectomy becoming the most common surgical weight loss procedure, weight loss mechanisms remain less clear.

METHODS

Searches of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were performed through April 1, 2019, in accordance with PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. Randomized controlled trials and prospective observational studies evaluating pre and post-procedure hormones fasting ghrelin, postprandial GLP-1, postprandial PYY, and fasting GIP levels were included. Hedge g with random-effects models were used to determine pooled effect size and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

A total of 28 studies (n = 653; 29.56% male) were included. Mean age was 42.00 ± 5.48 years, with average follow-up of 11.70 ± 11.38 months. Pre-procedure body mass index (BMI) was 46.01 ± 4.07 kg/m with a postsleeve gastrectomy BMI of 34.07 ± 3.73 kg/m, representing total body weight loss of 25.13 ± 4.44% and excess weight loss of 57.48 ± 9.64% (P < 0.001). Ghrelin decreased (Hedge g -1.486, 95% CI -1.884 to -1.089, I = 91.95%), whereas GLP-1 and PYY increased post-procedure (Hedge g 1.095, 95% CI 0.509 to 1.642, I = 84.38%; and Hedge g 1.396, 95% CI 0.781 to 2.011, I = 84.02%, respectively). GIP did not significantly change (Hedge g -0.213, 95% CI -1.019 to 0.592, I = 79.65%).

CONCLUSIONS

Fasting ghrelin levels decreased, whereas postprandial GLP-1 and PYY increased after sleeve gastrectomy. Fasting GIP levels remained unchanged. Future studies are needed to assess the role of these gut hormones and relationship to weight loss and metabolic outcomes.

The jejunum is the key factor in insulin resistance

BACKGROUND

Biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) is more effective than Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on both insulin resistance and diabetes.

OBJECTIVES

Because the major difference between the 2 procedures resides in the length of jejunal bypass, we investigated the role of the jejunum in insulin resistance.

SETTING

University hospital in Italy.

METHODS

Insulin sensitivity (IS) and secretion were measured before and 4 weeks after RYGB or BPD in 16 patients. A translational study was also conducted in 6 pigs, by isolating a jejunal loop with its vascular and nerve supply (Thiry-Vella loop [TVL]). TVL was doubly stomatized and bowel continuity restored by a side-to-side jejuno-jejunostomy. At baseline and 4 weeks postoperatively a glucose bolus was injected either in the stomach or in the TVL. Whole-body IS and jejunal heat shock proteins (HSPs) were measured. Primary porcine hepatocyte cultures were incubated with plasma or individual HSPs.

RESULTS

Whole-body IS increased from 353.5 ± 26.7 to 442.0 ± 37.4 (P < .05) after RYGB and from 312.4 ± 14.9 to 441.2 ± 15.9 mL/m^-2/min^-1 (P < .001) after BPD. Hepatic IS was unchanged after RYGB, while it increased from .3 ± .01 to .4 ± .1 (μM/pM) - 1 (P < .01) after BPD. Total insulin secretion rate remained unchanged after RYGB but decreased (from 58.3 ± 23.6 to 33.1 ± 7.8 nmol/m^-2, P < .05) after BPD. Jejunectomy in pigs enhanced IS (.3 ± .01 versus .2 ± .01 mM/pM, P < .001), while injection of glucose into TVL reduced it (.1 ± .01 versus .3 ± .01 mM/pM, P < .0001). The jejunum secreted HSPs, Hsp70, and GRP78, which impaired insulin signaling in hepatocyte cultures.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that jejunal bypass in both humans and pigs improves IS. Injection of glucose into the TVL in pigs determines insulin resistance. In response to glucose, the jejunum secretes HSPs that impair insulin signaling.

Single-Anastomosis Sleeve Jejunal Bypass, a Novel Bariatric Surgery, Versus Other Familiar Methods: Results of a 6-Month Follow-up-a Comparative Study

BACKGROUND

Obesity and its associated morbidities have become a significant concern all over the world. Bariatric surgery, regardless of its type, is the most effective approach for treating morbid obesity. Single-anastomosis sleeve jejunal (SASJ) bypass is a novel bariatric surgery technique and can be considered for patients with former background of severe gastroesophageal symptoms. The purpose of this research was to compare SASJ bypass outcomes with other techniques during a 6-month follow-up.

METHODS

This is a non-randomized clinical trial conducted on 100 patients, who underwent four types of bariatric surgery (classic Roux-en-Y bypass, SASJ bypass, omega gastric bypass, and sleeve gastrectomy), and each one of these types contained 25 cases, during the time period of 2 years from 2016 to 2018. Patients' information including age, gender, height, basal weight, body mass index (BMI), serum albumin, and hemoglobin A1C were recorded, within 1, 3, and 6 months after their surgery, and also were compared with each other.

RESULTS

Members of the four groups were similar due to their age, gender distribution, height, baseline BMI, hemoglobin A1C, albumin, and also excess weight (P value > 0.05); however, the sleeve gastrectomy group baseline weight was significantly higher compared with the other three groups (P value = 0.013). All of the groups significantly lost weight during this 6-month period, but the comparison between them indicated no statistical difference regarding excess weight loss, BMI, hemoglobin A1C, and albumin (P value > 0.05). The excess weight loss mean during 6 months in SASJ bypass was 34.2 ± 5.4%, which was comparable with other groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The weight loss trend after the SASJ bypass was similar to that of older techniques; consequently this technique can be considered for cases with particular indications due to the reversibility and also more accessible gastric follow-up studies in the SASJ approach. Further researches with longer follow-ups are strongly recommended.

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.

Rapid Improvement in Diabetes After Simple Side-to-side Jejunoileal Bypass Surgery: Does It Need a Ligation or Not?

BACKGROUND

Dual-path side-to-side jejunoileal bypass (SSJIB) can markedly ameliorate diabetes and obesity. However, whether SSJIB requires the ligation of the bypassed loop (single-path) and what is the most appropriate length of the bypassed small bowel remain unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of ligation and the length of the bypassed small bowel in mediating changes in glucose homeostasis after SSJIB in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Fourteen STZ-induced diabetic rats were randomized into two groups: one group was subjected to 50% SSJIB (SSJIB-50 group) and one group was subjected to sham surgery (sham group). Three weeks later, the SSJIB-50 group was re-operated, and the bypassed segment was ligated (SSJIBL-50 group). Three weeks later, the SSJIBL-50 group was operated again, and 60% of the length of the proximal small intestine was bypassed (SSJIBL-60 group). The measured primary outcomes were body weight, food intake, fasting blood glucose (FBG), and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

RESULTS

Body weight in the SSJIBL-60 group was lower than that in the sham group. Food intakes in the SSJIBL-50 and SSJIBL-60 groups were lower than that in the sham group. FBG and OGTT were not improved in the SSJIB-50 group compared with the sham group. However, FBG and OGTT were improved in the SSJIBL-50 group and were further improved in the SSJIBL-60 group.

CONCLUSIONS

Ligation of the first portion of the bypassed loop is essential to SSJIB, and bypassing approximately 60% of the small intestine length may be appropriate in SSJIBL.

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

PURPOSE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

Physiology, pathophysiology and therapeutic implications of enteroendocrine control of food intake

With the increasing prevalence of obesity and its associated comorbidities, strides to improve treatment strategies have enhanced our understanding of the function of the gut in the regulation of food intake. The most successful intervention for obesity to date, bariatric surgery effectively manipulates enteroendocrine physiology to enhance satiety and reduce hunger. Areas covered: In the present article, we provide a detailed overview of the physiology of enteroendocrine control of food intake, and discuss its pathophysiologic correlates and therapeutic implications in both obesity and gastrointestinal disease. Expert commentary: Ongoing research in the field of nutrient sensing by L-cells, as well as understanding the role of the microbiome and bile acid signaling may facilitate the development of novel strategies to combat the rising population health threat associated with obesity. Further refinement of post-prandial satiety gut hormone based therapies, including the development of chimeric peptides exploiting the pleiotropic nature of the gut hormone response, and identification of novel methods of delivery may hold the key to optimization of therapeutic modulation of gut hormone physiology in obesity.

Efficacy of single anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass for type-2 diabetic morbid obese patients: Gastric bipartition, a novel metabolic surgery procedure: A retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The single anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass is a Novel Metabolic/Bariatric Surgery operation based on mini gastric bypass operation and Santoro's operation in which a sleeve gastrectomy is followed by a side to side gastro-ileal anastomosis. The purpose of this Study is to report the clinical results of the outcomes of SASI bypass as a therapeutic option for obese T2DM patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of type 2 diabetic obese patients who underwent SASI bypass at one hospital from March 1, 2013 to December 31, 2014. Patients with previous bariatric surgery, history of upper laparotomy, and with less than one year follow up, were excluded. Sleeve gastrectomy was performed over a 36-Fr bougie, 6 cm from the pylorus, and 250 cm from the ileocecal valve the ileum brought to be anastomosis side to side with the antrum. Data collected included comorbidity resolution, percent excess weight loss (% EWL), and one-year morbidity and mortality.

RESULTS

During the study period, 61 underwent laparoscopic SASI bypass. Ultimately, 50 patients with a mean BMI of 48.7 ± 7.6 kg/m2 met inclusion criteria and were evaluated. %EWL reached 90% at one year and all patients have normal glucose level in the first 3 months after surgery. Hypertension remitted in 86%, hypercholesterolemia in 100% and hypertriglyceridemia in 97% of patients. There were 6 postoperative complications. One pulmonary embolism, one postoperative bleeding, one leak from biliary limb and one complete obstruction at the gastro-ileal anastomosis. Six months postoperative, one patient was diagnosed with marginal ulcer, 12 months after surgery, another patient was re-operated for fear of more excessive weight loss.

CONCLUSION

SASI bypass is a promising operation that offers excellent weight loss and diabetic resolution.

Comparative assessment of gastric emptying in obese patients before and after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy using radionuclide scintigraphy

Radionuclide scintigraphy provides a standard physiologic evaluation of gastric emptying (GE) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). This operation can be associated with motor gastric dysfunction and abnormal GE. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effect of LSG on GE quantitative indices for liquids and solids compared with preoperative results. Forty obese patients were divided into two equal groups, the liquid and solid groups. Tc-sulfur colloid GE scintigraphy was performed on all patients submitted to LSG before and after surgery (1-4 weeks for liquids and 4-6 weeks for solids). The quantitative indices included half emptying time (T1/2) and percentage gastric retention at 15, 30, and 60 min for liquids and at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min for solids. A modified technique was used to label a boiled egg in order to be tolerated by the patients. T1/2 was significantly enhanced after LSG compared with baseline (25.3±4.4 vs. 11.8±3.0 min for liquids and 74.9±7.1 vs. 28.4±8.3 min for solids, respectively, P<0.001). The percentage of gastric retention in operated patients was significantly less than that at baseline for liquids at 15, 30, and 60 min (33.9±5.6, 17.7±3.9, and 7.5±2.8% vs. 69.4±10.5, 55.6±14.95, and 26.1±4.7%, respectively, P<0.001), as well as for solids at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min (42.0±11.1, 20.8±6.1, 11.0±5.9, and 3.8±2.7% vs. 79.9±8.7, 67.4±12.2, 37.0±10.9%, and 13.8±4.4%, respectively, P<0.001). The significant acceleration of GE of liquids and solids after LSG may have contributed to weight loss in the immediate postoperative period (4-6 weeks). It remains to be determined whether the weight loss will continue beyond that period.

Effects of omentectomy in addition to sleeve gastrectomy on the metabolic and inflammatory profiles of obese rats

BACKGROUND

Visceral obesity has been considered a risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular complications. In an attempt to reduce the visceral adipose tissue, omentectomy has been proposed to be performed along with bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to evaluate whether omentectomy associated with sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is beneficial to the inflammatory and metabolic profile of rats fed a standard diet (STD) or high-fat diet (HFD).

SETTING

University hospital, Brazil.

METHODS

For this experiment, male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 6 groups as follows: sham surgery (STD+L or HFD+L), SG alone (STD+SG or HFD+SG), or SG with omentectomy (STD+SGO or HFD+SGO). Anthropometric data and metabolic profiles were evaluated, and the tissue expression of inflammatory markers in the visceral adipose tissue was measured.

RESULTS

In rats with diet-induced obesity treated with SG with or without omentectomy, there was a reduction in weight (HFD+SG: P<.01 and HFD+SGO: P<.05), adiposity (HFD+SG: P<.001 and HFD+SGO: P<.05), plasma levels of glucose (HFD+SG: P<.01 and HFD+SGO: P<.01), plasma levels of C-peptide (HFD+SG: P<.01 and HFD+SGO: P<.001), plasma levels of insulin (HFD+SG: P<.05 and HFD+SGO: P<.001), plasma levels of total cholesterol (HFD+SG: P<.01 and HFD+SGO: P<.01), and tissue expression of TNF-α (HFD+SG: P<.001 and HFD+SGO: P<.01), but there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in which omentectomy was performed or was not.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we did not observe additional beneficial effects due to omentectomy associated with SG in the metabolic profile and tissue expression of inflammatory markers.

A meta-analysis of 2-year effect after surgery: laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for morbid obesity and diabetes mellitus

Literature search was performed for bariatric surgery from inception to September 2013, in which the effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on body mass index (BMI), percentage of excess weight loss (EWL%), and diabetes mellitus (DM) were compared 2 years post-surgery. A total of 9,756 cases of bariatric surgery from 16 studies were analyzed. Patients receiving LRYGB had significantly lower BMI and higher EWL% compared with those receiving LSG (BMI mean difference (MD) = -1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) = -1.72 to -1.03; EWL% MD = 5.06, 95% CI = 0.24 to 9.89). Improvement rate of DM was of no difference between the two types of bariatric surgeries (RR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.90 to 1.23). LRYGB had better long-term effect on body weight, while both LRYGB and LSG showed similar effects on DM.

The role of gut adaptation in the potent effects of multiple bariatric surgeries on obesity and diabetes

Bariatric surgical procedures such as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are the most potent treatments available to produce sustained reductions in body weight and improvements in glucose regulation. While traditionally these effects are attributed to mechanical aspects of these procedures, such as restriction and malabsorption, a growing body of evidence from mouse models of these procedures points to physiological changes that mediate the potent effects of these surgeries. In particular, there are similar changes in gut hormone secretion, bile acid levels, and composition after both of these procedures. Moreover, loss of function of the nuclear bile acid receptor (FXR) greatly diminishes the effects of VSG. Both VSG and RYGB are linked to profound changes in the gut microbiome that also mediate at least some of these surgical effects. We hypothesize that surgical rearrangement of the gastrointestinal tract results in enteroplasticity caused by the high rate of nutrient presentation and altered pH in the small intestine that contribute to these physiological effects. Identifying the molecular underpinnings of these procedures provides new opportunities to understand the relationship of the gastrointestinal tract to obesity and diabetes as well as new therapeutic strategies to harness the effectiveness of surgery with less-invasive approaches.

Mid to distal small bowel resection with the preservation of the terminal ileum improves glucose homeostasis in diabetic rats by activating the hindgut-dependent mechanism

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to develop a novel surgical model to test the "hindgut hypothesis" and thereby study the role of the gut in glucose homeostasis and the mechanism of action of bariatric surgery.

METHOD

Sprague-Dawley rats were given a high-fat and high-sugar diet and treated with 25 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ). The fat-sugar-fed/STZ-treated rats were randomized into mid to distal small bowel resection with the preservation of the terminal ileum (DBRPI) and sham operation (which had a formal celiotomy with bowel manipulation only) groups. Rats were observed for 12 weeks after the operation. The main outcome measures were weight, food intake, non-fasting glucose, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), an insulin tolerance test (ITT), the levels of fasting and glucose-induced insulin, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), peptide YY (PYY), serum bile acids, and lipid profile.

RESULT

The DBRPI and sham groups exhibited no difference in weight and food intake after surgery. When compared to the sham controls, the DBRPI group displayed an improvement in non-fasting glucose, oral glucose tolerance, and insulin tolerance at 4 and 12 weeks postresection. DBRPI elicited an increased serum insulin, PYY and GLP-1 levels at 12 weeks postoperation; furthermore, DBRPI resulted in higher serum levels of triglyceride, total bile acids, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin levels and lower free fatty acid level at 12 weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides strong evidences for the key role of hindgut in the amelioration of diabetes after bariatric surgery. Moreover, these findings confirm that DBRPI is a simple and effective surgical model for testing the "hindgut hypothesis" and focused study of biliary enterohepatic recycling in the context of bariatric operations.

Duodenal-jejunal bypass and jejunectomy improve insulin sensitivity in Goto-Kakizaki diabetic rats without changes in incretins or insulin secretion

Gastric bypass surgery can dramatically improve type 2 diabetes. It has been hypothesized that by excluding duodenum and jejunum from nutrient transit, this procedure may reduce putative signals from the proximal intestine that negatively influence insulin sensitivity (SI). To test this hypothesis, resection or bypass of different intestinal segments were performed in diabetic Goto-Kakizaki and Wistar rats. Rats were randomly assigned to five groups: duodenal-jejunal bypass (DJB), jejunal resection (jejunectomy), ileal resection (ileectomy), pair-fed sham-operated, and nonoperated controls. Oral glucose tolerance test was performed within 2 weeks after surgery. Baseline and poststimulation levels of glucose, insulin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) were measured. Minimal model analysis was used to assess SI. SI improved after DJB (SI = 1.14 ± 0.32 × 10(-4) min(-1) ⋅ pM(-1)) and jejunectomy (SI = 0.80 ± 0.14 × 10(-4) min(-1) ⋅ pM(-1)), but not after ileectomy or sham operation/pair feeding in diabetic rats. Both DJB and jejunal resection normalized SI in diabetic rats as shown by SI levels equivalent to those of Wistar rats (SI = 1.01 ± 0.06 × 10(-4) min(-1) ⋅ pM(-1); P = NS). Glucose effectiveness did not change after operations in any group. While ileectomy increased plasma GIP levels, no changes in GIP or GLP-1 were observed after DJB and jejunectomy. These findings support the hypothesis that anatomic alterations of the proximal small bowel may reduce factors associated with negative influence on SI, therefore contributing to the control of diabetes after gastric bypass surgery.

Bariatric surgery and its impact on cardiovascular disease and mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery has been shown to improve cardiovascular risk factors but long term benefits for survival and cardiovascular events are still uncertain.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for parallel group studies that evaluated the clinical outcomes associated with bariatric surgery as compared to non-surgical treatment. Relevant studies were pooled using random effects meta-analysis for risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular events and mortality.

RESULTS

14 studies met the inclusion criteria, which included 29,208 patients who underwent bariatric surgery and 166,200 nonsurgical controls (mean age 48 years, 30% male, follow up period ranged from 2 years to 14.7 years). Four studies were considered at moderate-high risk of bias, whilst ten studies were at moderate or lower risk of bias. Compared to nonsurgical controls there was more than 50% reduction in mortality amongst patients who had bariatric surgery (OR 0.48 95% CI 0.35-0.64, I2=86%, 14 studies). In pooled analysis of four studies with adjusted data, bariatric surgery was associated with a significantly reduced risk of composite cardiovascular adverse events (OR 0.54 95% CI 0.41-0.70, I2=58%). Bariatric surgery was also associated with significant reduction in specific endpoints of myocardial infarction (OR 0.46 95% CI 0.30-0.69, I2=79%, 4 studies) and stroke (OR 0.49 95% CI 0.32-0.75, I2=59%, 4 studies).

CONCLUSIONS

Data from observational studies indicates that patients undergoing bariatric surgery have a reduced risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular events and mortality compared to non-surgical controls. Future randomized studies should investigate whether these observations are reproduced in a clinical trials setting.

Alterations of global gastrointestinal motility after sleeve gastrectomy: a prospective study

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the role of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) in gastrointestinal motility.

BACKGROUND

SG is a widely used bariatric operation leading to weight loss and early improvement of patient's metabolic profile. Current data indicate faster postoperative gastric emptying, but detailed studies on alterations in small bowel motility are missing.

DESIGN

We evaluated 21 morbidly obese patients who underwent laparoscopic SG before and 4 months after the procedure. After consumption of a semisolid radiolabeled meal, their gastric and intestinal transit times were studied with a gamma camera. Particularly the times of 10% gastric emptying, 50% gastric emptying, maximal intestinal filling, 10% terminal ileum filling, duodenal to terminal ileum transit, cecal filling initiation, and ileocecal valve transit (T ICVt) were studied pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Ten percent gastric emptying and 50% gastric emptying were decreased postoperatively as well as maximal intestinal filling, indicating faster gastric emptying and intestinal filling. Duodenal to terminal ileum transit and 10% terminal ileum filling also decreased as small bowel transit time accelerated and the meal reached the terminal ileum more rapidly. Contrary opening of the ileocecal valve and food transit through it were delayed, with postoperative increase in cecal filling initiation and T ICVt, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

SG accelerates gastric emptying and small bowel transit of semisolids. In addition, it delays the initiation of cecal filling and T ICVt. This early and prolonged contact of food with the distal small bowel mucosa may explain the metabolic effects of SG occurring before substantial weight loss.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy differentially affects serum concentrations of FGF-19 and FGF-21 in morbidly obese subjects

OBJECTIVE

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-19 and FGF-21 are novel metabolic regulators that improve insulin resistance and obesity in rodents. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on serum concentrations of FGF-19 and FGF-21 along with circulating bile acids and other relevant hormonal and biochemical parameters.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Seventeen females with obesity undergoing LSG and 15 lean healthy females were included into the study. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, serum concentrations of FGF-19 and -21, insulin, adiponectin, leptin, C-reactive protein, resistin, amylin (total), ghrelin (active), glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1, active), glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP, total), peptide YY (PYY, total), pancreatic polypeptide (PP), and bile acids, and mRNA expression of selected adipokines and inflammatory markers in bioptic samples of subcutaneous fat were assessed at baseline and 6, 12, and 24 months after LSG.

RESULTS

LSG markedly decreased body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and insulin levels and improved systemic inflammation and lipid levels. FGF-19 concentrations increased and FGF-21 concentrations decreased after LSG along with increased adiponectin and decreased leptin, amylin, and ghrelin levels. GLP-1, GIP, PP, and circulating bile acids were not affected by LSG. PYY decreased significantly 24 months after surgery only. mRNA expression analysis in subcutaneous fat showed markedly reduced proinflammatory state.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that increased FGF-19 and decreased ghrelin concentrations could have partially contributed to the improvement of systemic inflammation and some metabolic parameters after LSG, while changes of FGF-21 are rather secondary because of weight loss.

De novo 19p13.2 microdeletion encompassing the insulin receptor and resistin genes in a patient with obesity and learning disability

Genetic studies have provided novel insights of appetite regulation and pathophysiology of obesity. The adipose tissue is an active endocrine organ secreting several hormones contributing to insulin resistance and the development of the comorbidities of obesity, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Herein, we report on a patient with severe obesity and mild learning disability with a 750 kb de novo deletion of chromosome 19. The deletion encompasses several genes, including resistin and the first part of the insulin receptor, genes that are relevant for obesity. This novel deletion may therefore represent a region for obesity research. Plasma analyses and gene expression demonstrated that the deletion resulted in haploinsufficiency for resistin and insulin receptor in the patient compared to controls. We then studied the biochemical and adipocytokine profile in these subjects. We observed no differences in glucose and lipid parameters between the patient and the controls. Thus, haploinsufficiency of insulin receptor and resistin does not appear to influence glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the patient had considerably higher values of adiponectin and TNFα than controls. In conclusion, we identified a 19p13.2 microdeletion encompassing the insulin receptor and resistin genes resulting in haploinsufficiency in an obese, but otherwise healthy patient. No firm conclusions could be drawn regarding the potential effect of the microdeletion on adipokine profile.

Partial small bowel resection with sleeve gastrectomy increases adiponectin levels and improves glucose homeostasis in obese rodents with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of small bowel resection with and without sleeve gastrectomy on glucose homeostasis in an obese rodent model of type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Zucker diabetic fatty rats were randomized into three surgical groups: Sham, small bowel resection, and small bowel resection with sleeve gastrectomy (BRSG). Weight and fasting glucose levels were measured at randomization and monitored after surgery. Oral glucose tolerance testing was performed at baseline and 45 days after surgery to assess glucose homeostasis and peptide changes.

RESULTS

At baseline, all animals exhibited impaired glucose tolerance and showed no difference in weight or fasting (area under the curve) AUC(glucose). At sacrifice, Sham animals weighed more than BRSG animals (p = 0.047). At day 45, the Sham group experienced a significant increase in AUC(glucose) compared to baseline (p = 0.02), whereas there was no difference in AUC(glucose) in either surgical group at any time point: BR (p = 0.58) and BRSG (p = 0.56). Single-factor ANOVA showed a significant difference in AUC(glucose) of p = 0.004 between groups postoperatively: Sham (50,745 ± 11,170) versus BR (23,865 ± 432.6) (p = 0.01); Sham versus BRSG (28,710 ± 3188.8) (p = 0.02). There was no difference in plasma insulin, GLP-1, or adiponectin levels before surgery, although 45 days following surgery adiponectin levels where higher in the BRSG group (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Partial small bowel resection improved glucose tolerance independent of weight. The combination of small bowel resection and sleeve gastrectomy leads to an increase in adiponectin levels, which may contribute to improved glucose homeostasis.

Comparison of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity in a military institution

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is gaining acceptance in the bariatric community as a definitive weight loss procedure; however, longitudinal data remain limited. The objective of this study was to compare weight loss results of LSG with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) up to 5 years postoperatively using anthropometric measurements.

METHODS

Prospectively collected bariatric database at the Naval Medical Center San Diego was retrospectively reviewed from 2005-2011 . Anthropometric factors, including weight and hip circumference were measured during standard yearly follow-up appointments. Surgical outcomes were tested by the Student t test and demographic variables by Fisher's exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests.

RESULTS

Follow-up was achieved in 147/226 LRYGB versus 130/208 LSG at year 1, 92/195 versus 81/151 at year 2, 64/145 versus 50/100 at year 3, 32/81 versus 18/54 at year 4, and 12/42 versus 14/15 at year 5. The excess weight loss (EWL) for LRYGB versus LSG was 72% versus 64.7% at 1 year (P = .002), 71.3% versus 65.5% at 2 years (P = .113), and 68.3% versus 57.4% at 5 years (P = .252), respectively. Similarly, the body mass index (BMI) decrease was statistically significant at 1 year (P = .001) but not on subsequent annual visits. Mean percent body adiposity index (BAI) decrease was 28.4% for LRYGB versus 26.8% for LSG at 1 year (P = .679) and 21.8% versus 29.8% at 2 years (P = .134), respectively. Weight loss measured in terms of %EWL and decrease in BMI and BAI did not show significance between LRYGB and LSG 2 years after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides similar long-term weight loss between LSG and LRYGB, and therefore, LSG is a viable option as a definitive bariatric procedure.

Response of gut hormones after implantation of a reversible gastric restrictive device in different animal models

BACKGROUND

Variable responses of gut hormones have been observed after bariatric procedures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and leptin levels in nonobese canine and obese rat models after weight loss owing to a reversible gastric restriction (RGR) device.

METHODS

Mongrel dogs and obese Zucker rats were submitted to either surgical implantation or a sham operation and were followed up for 6 wk. The serum fasting ghrelin, GLP-1, and leptin levels in dogs were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay before and after surgical implantation and after implant removal. The protein expression of mucosa ghrelin, GLP-1, and leptin in the dog and rat stomach were measured using Western blotting.

RESULTS

The RGR implant in dogs and rats resulted in a significant decrease in food intake and body weight. In the nonobese dog, the serum ghrelin level and mucosa ghrelin expression were significantly increased after surgical implantation (P < 0.05) and tended to recover after implant removal. In the obese rat, mucosa ghrelin expression decreased by about 27% (P = 0.06) 6 wk after implantation. A lower serum leptin level in dogs and lower mucosa leptin expression in dogs and rats was observed after surgical implantation compared with the sham procedure (P < 0.05). The RGR implant had no influence on the serum GLP-1 level in dogs or mucosa GLP-1 expression in either animal model.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that ghrelin levels are downregulated with short-term RGR implantation in obese rats but upregulated in nonobese dogs, implying that the energy balance could be an important determinant of ghrelin level. The marked suppression of leptin in both animal models might contribute to the weight-reducing effect of the RGR implant.

The role of a pre-load beverage on gastric volume and food intake: comparison between non-caloric carbonated and non-carbonated beverage

BACKGROUND

There is conflicting data on the effects of carbon dioxide contained in beverages on stomach functions. We aimed to verify the effect of a pre-meal administration of a 300 ml non-caloric carbonated beverage (B+CO2) compared to water or a beverage without CO2 (B-CO2), during a solid (SM) and a liquid meal (LM) on: a) gastric volume, b) caloric intake, c) ghrelin and cholecystokinin (CCK) release in healthy subjects.

METHODS

After drinking the beverages (Water, B-CO2, B+CO2), ten healthy subjects (4 women, aged 22-30 years; BMI 23 ± 1) were asked to consume either an SM or an LM, at a constant rate (110 kcal/5 min). Total gastric volumes (TGV) were evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging after drinking the beverage and at maximum satiety (MS). Total kcal intake at MS was evaluated. Ghrelin and CCK were measured by enzyme immunoassay until 120 min after the meal. Statistical calculations were carried out by paired T-test and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The data is expressed as mean ± SEM.

RESULTS

TGV after B+CO2 consumption was significantly higher than after B-CO2 or water (p < 0.05), but at MS, it was no different either during the SM or the LM. Total kcal intake did not differ at MS after any of the beverages tested, with either the SM (Water: 783 ± 77 kcals; B-CO2: 837 ± 66; B+CO2: 774 ± 66) or the LM (630 ± 111; 585 ± 88; 588 ± 95). Area under curve of ghrelin was significantly (p < 0.05) lower (13.8 ± 3.3 ng/ml/min) during SM following B-CO2 compared to B+CO2 and water (26.2 ± 4.5; 27.1 ± 5.1). No significant differences were found for ghrelin during LM, and for CCK during both SM and LM after all beverages.

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in gastric volume following a 300 ml pre-meal carbonated beverage did not affect food intake whether a solid or liquid meal was given. The consistency of the meal and the carbonated beverage seemed to influence ghrelin release, but were unable, under our experimental conditions, to modify food intake in terms of quantity. Further studies are needed to verify if other food and beverage combinations are able to modify satiation.

Third International Summit: Current status of sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been performed for morbid obesity in the past 10 years. LSG was originally intended as a first-stage procedure in high-risk patients but has become a stand-alone operation for many bariatric surgeons. Ongoing review is necessary regarding the durability of the weight loss, complications, and need for second-stage operations.

METHODS

The first International Summit for LSG was held in October 2007, the second in March 2009, and this third in December 2010. There were presentations by experts, and, to provide a consensus, a questionnaire was completed by 88 attendees who had >1 year (mean 3.6 ± 1.5, range 1-8) of experience with LSG.

RESULTS

The results of the questionnaire were based on 19,605 LSGs performed within 3.6 ± 1.5 years (228.8 ± 275.0 LSGs/surgeon). LSG had been intended as the sole operation in 86.4% of the cases; in these, a second-second stage became necessary in 2.2%. LSG was completed laparoscopically in 99.7% of the cases. The mean percentage of excess weight loss at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years was 62.7%, 64.7%, 64.0%, 57.3%, and 60.0%, respectively. The bougie size was 28-60F (mean 36F, 70% blunt tip). Resection began 1.5-7.0 cm (mean 4.8) proximal to the pylorus. Of the surgeons, 67.1% reinforced the staple line, 57% with buttress material and 43% with oversewing. The respondents excised an estimated 92.9% ± 8.0% (median 95.0%) of fundus (i.e., a tiny portion is maintained lateral to the angle of His). A drain is left by 57.6%, usually closed suction. High leaks occurred in 1.3% of cases (range 0-10%); lower leaks occurred in .5%. Intraluminal bleeding occurred in 2.0% of cases. The mortality rate was .1% ± .3%.

CONCLUSION

According to the questionnaire, presentations, and debates, the weight loss and improvement in diabetes appear to be better than with laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding and on par with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. High leaks are infrequent but problematic.

Comparative study of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with and without partial enterectomy and omentectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a novel bariatric surgical procedure that constitutes the first-stage procedure of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in high-risk patients, the long-term results of which are unknown. Our objective was to establish whether partial enterectomy and omentectomy are necessary in addition to LSG to achieve weight loss in obese patients. The setting was a case series in a provincial hospital.

METHODS

A total of 40 obese patients (29 women and 11 men) were separated into 2 equal groups according to patient choice. Group 1 underwent LSG alone, and group 2 underwent LSG plus partial enterectomy and omentectomy. The partial enterectomy left the first 100 cm of the jejunum and the last 200 cm of the ileum. The data were collected during the follow-up examinations, performed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

The body mass index loss (BMIL) was 3.9 ± .5 kg/m(2) and 9.4 ± 1.3 kg/m(2) at 1 and 12 months in group 1, respectively. The BMIL was 4.5 ± .9 kg/m(2) and 10.4 ± 1.9 kg/m(2) at 1 and 12 months in group 2, respectively. At 1 and 12 months postoperatively, the percentage of excess body weight loss was 32.2% ± 12.6% and 81.5% ± 20.4% in group 1 and 35.5% ± 10.5% and 83.8% ± 24.5% in group 2, respectively. Except for the BMIL at 1 month after surgery, no significant differences were found in the BMIL or percentage of excess body weight loss.

CONCLUSION

LSG with and without partial enterectomy and omentectomy in our study was an effective method of bariatric surgery, but they did not differ in their effect on weight loss. However, the long-term effect of weight loss with LSG alone or combined with partial enterectomy and omentectomy needs additional study.

Metabolic effects of an entero-omentectomy in mildly obese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients after three years

BACKGROUND

Various digestive tract procedures effectively improve metabolic syndrome, especially the control of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Very good metabolic results have been shown with vertical gastrectomy and entero-omentectomy; however, the metabolic effects of an isolated entero-omentectomy have not been previously studied.

METHODS

Nine patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and a body mass index ranging from 29 to 34.8 kg/m² underwent an entero-omentectomy procedure that consisted of an enterectomy of the middle jejunum and exeresis of the major part of the omentum performed through a mini-laparotomy. Glucagon-like peptide-1 and peptide YY were measured preoperatively and three months following the operation. Fasting and postprandial variations in glycemia, insulinemia, triglyceridemia, hemoglobin A1c, and body mass index were determined in the preoperative period and 3, 18 and, 36 months after the operation.

RESULTS

All patients significantly improved the control of their type 2 diabetes mellitus. Postprandial secretion of peptide YY and Glucagon-like peptide-1 were enhanced, whereas hemoglobin A1c, fasting and postprandial glucose, insulin, and triglyceride levels were significantly reduced. Mean body mass index was reduced from 31.1 to 27.3 kg/m². No major surgical or nutritional complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Entero-omentectomy is easy and safe to perform. A simple reduction in jejunal extension and visceral fat causes important improvements in the metabolic profile.

Profiles of atherosclerotic risk factors in gastrectomized men

Postprandial hyperglycemia is an established risk factor for atherosclerotic vascular diseases, and it is frequently observed in gastrectomized subjects. This study sought to examine whether other atherosclerotic risk factors are also common among gastrectomized subjects. The study population comprised of 44 non-diabetic men who previously underwent gastrectomy. The age- and body mass index-matched control population comprised of 278 non-diabetic men without gastrectomy. In addition to traditional atherosclerotic risk factors for atherosclerosis, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were also compared between the groups. Fasting plasma glucose was not different between both groups, while glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was significantly higher in the gastrectomized men than in the control men. Systolic and diastolic blood pressures and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were significantly higher, whereas low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was lower in the gastrectomized men than in the control men. baPWV, hsCRP, triglycerides and insulin resistance (as per the homeostasis model assessment) were not different between groups. While levels of certain atherosclerotic risk factors, including HbA1c and blood pressure are higher among gastrectomized men, HDL-C and LDL-C were actually favorable. Additionally, levels of more emerging risk factors, such as hsCRP and baPWV were not altered among gastrectomized men.

Surgical interventions to correct metabolic disorders

Obesity and related metabolic disorders are increasing especially in developing countries. It is widely accepted that in extremely obese patients bariatric surgery reduces body weight and improves type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. Weight loss partially explains this effect as do weight loss-independent mechanisms linked to gut hormones, peptide YY, ghrelin, glucagon-like peptide-1, and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide/gastric inhibitory polypeptide. Several groups performing established and novel surgical techniques have shown encouraging metabolic results. Herein we consider whether it is theoretically plausible to use surgery as an alternative or complementary approach to medical treatment of diabetes in overweight and mildly obese patients.

Bariatric surgery and the gut-brain communication--the state of the art three years later

OBJECTIVE

This review analyzes the literature concerning gut peptides and bariatric surgery, from 2005 to July 2009. In particular, we are interested in whether, and how, gastrointestinal peptide alterations following surgery interfere with appetite/satiety, and what role they might play in the resolution of comorbidities.

RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURE

PubMed/MEDLINE and ISI Web of Knowledge were used to search for human studies concerning gut peptides profiles after any bariatric operation technique.

RESULTS

Most of the studies reviewed had longitudinal design, short follow-up, and low statistical power. The diversity of study results may be partially explained by methodological aspects. Glucagon-like peptide-1, gastric inhibitory peptide, and peptide YY alterations may contribute to the excellent results in glycemic control of diabetics. Results do vary depending on bariatric operation technique; this is particularly evident in the case of ghrelin, which has been much studied in recent years. Ghrelin suppression has been linked to increased satiety, alterations in energy homeostasis, and better glucose metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a lack of long-term data on gastrointestinal hormone profiles after bariatric surgery and the studies have many methodological pitfalls. We still need prospective, long-term, good methodological studies in this area.

Fewer nutrient deficiencies after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) than after laparoscopic Roux-Y-gastric bypass (LRYGB)-a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Deficiencies in micronutrients after bariatric operations are frequent, despite routine supplementation. Main outcome measures were pre- and postoperative frequency of nutrient deficiencies and success rate of their treatment.

METHODS

Between 5/2004 and 12/2006, 136 patients (m:f = 0:4) with an average body mass index of 45 (35-58) kg/m(2) and age of 53 (21-66) years were prospectively analysed. Laparoscopic Roux-Y-gastric bypass (LRYGB) was performed in 86 patients and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) was performed in 50 patients. The patients were examined before surgery as well as 3, 6, 12, 24, 30, and 36 months postoperatively using a standard protocol including laboratory tests. The mean follow-up time was 24.4 (12-40) months; the follow-up rate was 100%.

RESULTS

Prior to surgery, 57% of the patients had at least one deficiency, 23% of whom had vitamin D(3) deficiency. Frequent postoperative deficiencies after LSG were zinc, vitamin D(3), folic acid, iron, and vitamin B(12); after LRYGB, vitamin B(12), vitamin D(3), zinc, and secondary hyperparathyroidism. No vitamin B(1) or B(6) deficiencies were found. Calcium levels were normal in all patients. Treatment of the deficiencies was mostly successful.

CONCLUSION

Preoperatively, 57% of morbidly obese patients already had a deficiency. Postoperatively, significantly more vitamin B(12) and vitamin D deficiencies and hyperparathyroidism were found in patients who had undergone LRYGB. After LSG, folate deficiency was more frequent (but not significantly so). Calcium levels were normal in all patients; therefore, parathyroid hormone and vitamin D(3) levels are more sensitive markers for early detection of disorders of calcium metabolism. Iron deficiency anaemia is most efficiently treated by IV therapy.

Adiposopathy and bariatric surgery: is 'sick fat' a surgical disease?

OBJECTIVE

To review how bariatric surgery in obese patients may effectively treat adiposopathy (pathogenic adipose tissue or 'sick fat'), and to provide clinicians a rationale as to why bariatric surgery is a potential treatment option for overweight patients with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia.

METHODS

A group of clinicians, researchers, and surgeons, all with a background in treating obesity and the adverse metabolic consequences of excessive body fat, reviewed the medical literature regarding the improvement in metabolic disease with bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

Bariatric surgery improves metabolic disease through multiple, likely interrelated mechanisms including: (i) initial acute fasting and diminished caloric intake inherent with many gastrointestinal surgical procedures; (ii) favourable alterations in gastrointestinal endocrine and immune responses, especially with bariatric surgeries that reroute nutrient gastrointestinal delivery such as gastric bypass procedures; and (iii) a decrease in adipose tissue mass. Regarding adipose tissue mass, during positive caloric balance, impaired adipogenesis (resulting in limitations in adipocyte number or size) and visceral adiposity are anatomic manifestations of pathogenic adipose tissue (adiposopathy). This may cause adverse adipose tissue endocrine and immune responses that lead to metabolic disease. A decrease in adipocyte size and decrease in visceral adiposity, as often occurs with bariatric surgery, may effectively improve adiposopathy, and thus effectively treat metabolic disease. It is the relationship between bariatric surgery and its effects upon pathogenic adipose tissue that is the focus of this discussion.

CONCLUSIONS

In selective obese patients with metabolic disease who are refractory to medical management, adiposopathy is a surgical disease.

Scintigraphic evaluation of gastric emptying in obese patients submitted to sleeve gastrectomy compared to normal subjects

BACKGROUND

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has been accepted as an option for surgical treatment for obesity. This operation could be associated with motor gastric dysfunction and abnormal gastric emptying. The purpose of this prospective study is to present the results of gastric emptying to liquids and solids using scintigraphy in patients who underwent SG compared to normal subjects.

METHODS

Twenty obese patients were submitted to laparoscopic SG and were compared to 18 normal subjects. Gastric emptying of liquids and solids was measured by scintigraphic technique. Results were expressed as half time of gastric emptying and the percentage of retention at 20, 30, and 60 min for liquids and at 60, 90, and 120 min for solids.

RESULTS

In the group of operated patients, 70% of them (n = 14) presented accelerated emptying for liquids and 75% (n = 15) for solids compared to 22.2% and 27.7%, respectively, in the control group. The half time of gastric emptying (T (1/2)) in patients submitted to SG both for liquids and solids were significantly more accelerated compared to the control group (34.9 +/- 24.6 vs 13.6 +/- 11.9 min for liquids and 78 +/- 15.01 vs 38.3 +/- 18.77 min for solids; p < 0.01). The gastric emptying for liquids expressed as the percentage of retention at 20, 30, and 60 min was 30.0 +/- 0.25%, 15.4 +/- 0.18%, and 5.7 +/- 0.10%, respectively, in operated patients, significantly less than the control subjects (p < 0.001). For solids, the percentage of retention at 60, 90, and 120 min was 56 +/- 28%, 34 +/- 22%, and 12 +/- 8%, respectively, for controls, while it was 25.3 +/- 0.20%, 9 +/- 0.12%, and 3 +/- 0.05%, respectively, in operated patients (p < 001).

CONCLUSIONS

Gastric emptying after SG is accelerated either for liquids as well as for solids in the majority of patients. These results could be taken in consideration for the dietary indications after surgery and could play a significant role in the definitive results during the late follow-up.

Metabolic surgery and gut hormones - a review of bariatric entero-humoral modulation

The global pandemic of obesity is increasing. Inappropriate food intake relative to energy expenditure results in increased adiposity. These factors are partly regulated by signals through the gut-brain and adipose-brain axes. Metabolic operations (otherwise known as Bariatric surgery) offer the most effective results for sustained metabolic improvement and weight loss. They modulate a number of gut hormones that constitute the gut-brain axis. This review summarizes the literature to-date reporting the gut hormone changes associated with these operations and their subsequent effects on appetite. Understanding the anatomical differences between each operation and how these can differentially regulate gut hormonal release can provide new treatments and targets for obesity, appetite and metabolic disorders.

Adolescent obesity and bariatric surgery

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Examines the effects of bariatric surgery on adolescent obesity.

RECENT FINDINGS

The risks and outcomes of bariatric surgery in adolescence are presently being defined and may be somewhat different from those in adults. Adolescents may have a greater risk of weight regain, and greater risk of noncompliance to treatment after surgery. However, long-term outcomes are not yet available, and the underlying metabolic benefits appear to be substantial and similar to those of adults.

SUMMARY

Morbid obesity in adolescents has severe acute and chronic complications. Bariatric surgery in adolescents seems as well tolerated as in adults when performed in centers with appropriate experience and adequate surgical volume. The pathophysiologic implications of bariatric surgery are profound. A better understanding of the mechanisms leading to postsurgical improvement in insulin resistance and weight loss could lead to the development of other therapies to achieve the same effects with lesser morbidities.