Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials Comparing Long-Term Outcomes of Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy. Obes Surg. 2020;30:664-672. [PMID: 31724116 DOI: 10.1007/s11695-019-04235-2]

Pregnancy After Metabolic Bariatric Surgery: Risks and Rewards for Mother and Child

As the prevalence of obesity increases worldwide, and lifestyle modification or pharmaceutical treatment yields insufficient results for patients with severe obesity, an increasing number of patients opt for metabolic bariatric surgery as an effective and durable treatment of this disease. Seeing as 80% of these patients are women, many of whom are of reproductive age, pregnancies after metabolic bariatric surgery become increasingly common. Metabolic bariatric surgery has many benefits for overall health and pregnancy outcomes, but certain risks are also reported. This leads to the rise of a new population of patients with their own specific needs regarding follow-up. This review discusses the various benefits and risks of these types of surgery for pregnancy. We provide an overview of the current state of the evidence and look into future research goals.

Obesity and cardiovascular disease: an ESC clinical consensus statement

The global prevalence of obesity has more than doubled over the past four decades, currently affecting more than a billion individuals. Beyond its recognition as a high-risk condition that is causally linked to many chronic illnesses, obesity has been declared a disease per se that results in impaired quality of life and reduced life expectancy. Notably, two-thirds of obesity-related excess mortality is attributable to cardiovascular disease. Despite the increasingly appreciated link between obesity and a broad range of cardiovascular disease manifestations including atherosclerotic disease, heart failure, thromboembolic disease, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death, obesity has been underrecognized and sub-optimally addressed compared with other modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. In the view of major repercussions of the obesity epidemic on public health, attention has focused on population-based and personalized approaches to prevent excess weight gain and maintain a healthy body weight from early childhood and throughout adult life, as well as on comprehensive weight loss interventions for persons with established obesity. This clinical consensus statement by the European Society of Cardiology discusses current evidence on the epidemiology and aetiology of obesity; the interplay between obesity, cardiovascular risk factors and cardiac conditions; the clinical management of patients with cardiac disease and obesity; and weight loss strategies including lifestyle changes, interventional procedures, and anti-obesity medications with particular focus on their impact on cardiometabolic risk and cardiac outcomes. The document aims to raise awareness on obesity as a major risk factor and provide guidance for implementing evidence-based practices for its prevention and optimal management within the context of primary and secondary cardiovascular disease prevention.

Surgical Strategies for the Management of Obesity

Obesity is one of the most difficult medical conditions to treat in the United States (US) and requires multidisciplinary treatment. Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective treatment options for morbid obesity. In this review, we describe the most up-to-date information regarding the impact of obesity on cardiovascular disease and other comorbidities as well as the various surgical approaches for treatment.

What Is Long-Term Follow-Up in Bariatric Surgery? A Proposal

Gastric bypass surgery is a highly effective treatment for morbid obesity, offering significant and sustained weight loss and improvement in comorbid conditions. However, the long-term success of this intervention is closely tied to robust postoperative follow-up care. Currently, there is a lack of consensus on the definitions of medium- and long-term follow-up, complicating the comparison of outcomes across studies. This inconsistency, coupled with challenges in patient adherence and healthcare infrastructure, emphasizes the need for better-defined follow-up periods and increased monitoring over time. This commentary addresses the critical need for standardized definitions and practices in medium- and long-term follow-up to optimize patient outcomes.

Persistent Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease After RYGB: What Shall we do Next?

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is considered the weight loss procedure of choice for obese patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD). The long-term prevalence of GORD after RYGB for obesity is underestimated as many post-RYGB patients can still complain of severe reflux symptoms, refractory to medications.

METHODS

This is a narrative review using the patient, intervention, comparison, outcome and study strategy. The literature search was undertaken using PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases with the following MeSH terms: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, GORD, Obesity, Gastric bypass, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, complication, and fundoplication.

RESULTS

Twelve original papers and case report studies on 57 patients who met the inclusion criteria were suitable for the present review. Reporting styles on successful treatment outcomes were heterogeneous. Treatment options for these patients are limited but include further surgical or endoscopic interventions. Careful follow-up and appropriate management are paramount for this population.

CONCLUSION

There is significant paucity in the available evidence on managing GORD after RYGB. This narrative review provides a detailed overview of the underlying causes, discusses the various endoscopic and surgical therapy options, and suggests strategies to provide tailored and appropriate therapy for this complex group of patients.

Ultrasound guided-transabdominal plane block (UG-TAPB) reduces pain, opioid consumption and PONV, and is associated with faster recovery for patients undergoing bariatric surgery: a retrospective analysis in a high-volume Italian center

Ultrasound-guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block (UG-TAPB) reduces post-operative pain better than i.v. painkillers in patients operated with laparoscopic surgery. This study aims to compare the postoperative course of patients undergoing bariatric surgery treated with UG-TABP to that of patients treated with standard analgesic therapy. We retrospectively analyzed patients who have undergone bariatric surgery from November 2021 to April 2023, comparing patients treated with UG-TAPB (Group A) with patients treated with standard i.v. analgesic therapy (Group B). Post-operative numeric-pain rating scale (NRS), nausea and vomiting (PONV), opioid and antiemetic consumption were compared between the two groups until postoperative day (POD) 2. 41 patients underwent bariatric surgery in the aforementioned period. 11 patients were included in group A, whereas 30 patients were included in group B. The two groups were homogeneous for age, BMI, surgery type and comorbidities. Females were more common in Group B (64% vs. 80%; p = 0.019). NRS was significantly lower in Group A than Group B from POD0 to POD2 (3.8 ± 1.2 vs. 6.1 ± 2; p = 0.001 and 1.1 ± 0.3 vs. 3.1 ± 1.3; p < 0.001 after surgery and on POD2 8 pm, respectively). On POD 0, opioid consumption (9% vs. 57%; p = 0.011 and 9% vs. 47%; p = 0.033 after surgery and at 8 pm, respectively), PONV (27% vs. 90%; p < 0.001 and 9% vs. 57%; p = 0.011) and antiemetic consumption (36% vs. 90%; p = 0.001 and 9% vs. 53%; p = 0.014) were higher in Group B. Patients in Group A can be discharged earlier than patients in Group B (1.45 ± 0.82 vs. 2.67 ± 1.39 days; p = 0.005). UG-TAPB is associated with a better and faster recovery after bariatric surgery and should be considered in ERABS.

Evaluation of the cost and care outcomes by group related to the diagnosis of bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

To conduct a comprehensive assessment of real patient data undergoing the procedure within a healthcare provider, integrating both costs and care stages related to bariatric surgery, emphasizing the relevance of analysis by Diagnosis-related group (DRG).

METHODS

Prospective study of patients coded by DRG within a network of providers accredited to a Brazilian healthcare provider. All patients coded with metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) between 01/2019 and 06/2023 and undergoing gastrectomy procedure were included for analysis. The cost base used was derived from administrative payment information of the healthcare provider. Analyses were presented as mean, median, and standard deviation. Levene, Student's t-test, Kendall's tau, and Pearson's chi-square tests were used.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 1408 patients who underwent MBS in four prominent hospitals in the area during the specified period. Among these patients, an average of 74.8% were female, with a mean age of 37.31 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 40.3 kg/m2. Furthermore, 88.9% of the patients underwent gastric bypass. Although there were few acquired complications during hospital admission there were vascular complications following infusion, transfusion, and therapeutic injection, 22.45% (n = 11), hemorrhage and hematoma complicating procedure not classified elsewhere, 8.16% (n = 4), leakage, 8.16% (n = 4), and one death during this study. There were 67 readmissions within 30 days (4,75%). The total costs incurred throughout the patient's journey, covering hospitalization and one-year post-procedure, exhibited a median value of $4,078.53. Additionally, a notable positive association was observed between post-discharge expenses and age, indicating a tendency for costs to rise as patients grow older.

CONCLUSION

The identified results highlight the complexity and challenges associated with bariatric surgery, including patient management and substantial costs involved. Therefore, a more comprehensive and personalized approach in postoperative management and resource allocation may be necessary to optimize clinical and economic outcomes.

Bariatric surgery partially reverses subclinical proarrhythmic structural, electrophysiological, and autonomic changes in obesity

BACKGROUND

Obesity confers higher risks of cardiac arrhythmias. The extent to which weight loss reverses subclinical proarrhythmic adaptations in arrhythmia-free obese individuals is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to study structural, electrophysiological, and autonomic remodeling in arrhythmia-free obese patients and their reversibility with bariatric surgery using electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi).

METHODS

Sixteen arrhythmia-free obese patients (mean age 43 ± 12 years; 13 (81%) female participants; BMI 46.7 ± 5.5 kg/m2) had ECGi pre-bariatric surgery, of whom 12 (75%) had ECGi postsurgery (BMI 36.8 ± 6.5 kg/m2). Sixteen age- and sex-matched lean healthy individuals (mean age 42 ± 11 years; BMI 22.8 ± 2.6 kg/m2) acted as controls and had ECGi only once.

RESULTS

Obesity was associated with structural (increased epicardial fat volumes and left ventricular mass), autonomic (blunted heart rate variability), and electrophysiological (slower atrial conduction and steeper ventricular repolarization time gradients) remodeling. After bariatric surgery, there was partial structural reverse remodeling, with a reduction in epicardial fat volumes (68.7 cm3 vs 64.5 cm3; P = .0010) and left ventricular mass (33 g/m2.7 vs 25 g/m2.7; P < .0005). There was also partial electrophysiological reverse remodeling with a reduction in mean spatial ventricular repolarization gradients (26 mm/ms vs 19 mm/ms; P = .0009), although atrial activation remained prolonged. Heart rate variability, quantified by standard deviation of successive differences in R-R intervals, was also partially improved after bariatric surgery (18.7 ms vs 25.9 ms; P = .017). Computational modeling showed that presurgical obese hearts had a larger window of vulnerability to unidirectional block and had an earlier spiral-wave breakup with more complex reentry patterns than did postsurgery counterparts.

CONCLUSION

Obesity is associated with adverse electrophysiological, structural, and autonomic remodeling that is partially reversed after bariatric surgery. These data have important implications for bariatric surgery weight thresholds and weight loss strategies.

Obesity and cardiovascular disease: an ESC clinical consensus statement

The global prevalence of obesity has more than doubled over the past four decades, currently affecting more than a billion individuals. Beyond its recognition as a high-risk condition that is causally linked to many chronic illnesses, obesity has been declared a disease per se that results in impaired quality of life and reduced life expectancy. Notably, two-thirds of obesity-related excess mortality is attributable to cardiovascular disease. Despite the increasingly appreciated link between obesity and a broad range of cardiovascular disease manifestations including atherosclerotic disease, heart failure, thromboembolic disease, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death, obesity has been underrecognized and sub-optimally addressed compared with other modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. In the view of major repercussions of the obesity epidemic on public health, attention has focused on population-based and personalized approaches to prevent excess weight gain and maintain a healthy body weight from early childhood and throughout adult life, as well as on comprehensive weight loss interventions for persons with established obesity. This clinical consensus statement by the European Society of Cardiology discusses current evidence on the epidemiology and aetiology of obesity; the interplay between obesity, cardiovascular risk factors and cardiac conditions; the clinical management of patients with cardiac disease and obesity; and weight loss strategies including lifestyle changes, interventional procedures, and anti-obesity medications with particular focus on their impact on cardiometabolic risk and cardiac outcomes. The document aims to raise awareness on obesity as a major risk factor and provide guidance for implementing evidence-based practices for its prevention and optimal management within the context of primary and secondary cardiovascular disease prevention.

Assessing clinical and metabolic responses related to hyperlipidemia, MASLD and type 2 diabetes: sleeve versus RYGB

OBJECTIVE

Both Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are effective at inducing weight loss, but more information is needed on their comparative effectiveness at improving clinical/biochemical outcomes related to the presence of hyperlipidemia, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), or type 2 diabetes (T2D) at baseline. Here we aimed to assess this in real-world practice.

METHODS

This is a prospective cross-sectional and cohort study of 142 patients who underwent RYGB or LSG as per clinical practice. Clinical/biochemical data were collected at baseline, prior to surgery and 12 months post-bariatric surgery. Liver biopsy was performed during surgery to diagnose MASLD. The main outcome was 12-month changes in lipid parameters, mainly total cholesterol, between types of surgery.

RESULTS

A TOTAL OF: 107 participants underwent RYGB and 35 underwent LSG. Both groups were similar at baseline except for a higher proportion of males and waist circumference in the LSG group. At 12 months postsurgery, RYGB versus LSG resulted in a significantly lower body mass index, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein. However, alanine aminotransferase was significantly lower in those who underwent LSG. In subgroup analyses RYGB was superior at improving lipid-related parameters in those with hyperlipidemia, whereas LSG was superior at reducing alanine aminotransferase in those with MASLD.

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB versus LSG leads to greater reductions in body mass index and lipid parameters, especially in those with hyperlipidemia, whereas LSG showed greater improvements in liver enzymes in those with MASLD.

Portomesenteric Venous Thrombosis after Bariatric Surgery: A Case Series and Systematic Review Comparing LSG and LRYGB

(1) Background: Portomesenteric Venous Thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare but serious complication of Metabolic Bariatric Surgery (MBS). Although more frequently reported after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), the risk factors for PMVT remain unclear. This study aims to compare the incidence and determinants of PMVT between LSG and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). (2) Methods: A retrospective analysis of 5235 MBSs conducted at our institution between 2015 and 2023 identified five cases of PMVT. Additionally, a systematic review in March 2023, covering PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, was performed. Several data were analyzed regarding risk factors. (3) Results: In our case series, the incidence of PMVT was 0.1%. The five cases described involved four females with a BMI between 39.7 and 56.0 kg/m2. Their comorbidities were associated with metabolic syndrome, all women used oral contraceptive and two patients were diagnosed with thrombophilia or pulmonary embolism. Per protocol, thromboprophylaxis was administered to all patients. Diagnosis was made at a median of 16 days post-surgery, with abdominal pain being the main presenting symptom. Acute cases were managed with enoxaparin, unfractionated heparin and fibrinolysis. One patient required surgery. Ten studies were included in the systematic review and 205 patients with PMVT were identified: 193 (94.1%) post-LSG and 12 post-LRYGB. The most common comorbidities were dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea and liver disorders; (4) Conclusions: PMVT is a potentially life-threatening complication after MBS, requiring preventive measures, timely diagnosis and several treatments. Our findings suggest a higher occurrence in women with an elevated BMI and post-LSG. Tailored thromboprophylaxis for MBS patients at risk of PMVT may be warranted.

[When should a patient with obesity be referred to endocrinology? Current indications for bariatric surgery]

Bariatric surgery (BS) has been shown to be effective and efficient, but only 1% of selected patients will ever receive it. Compared to medical treatment of obesity, BS has demonstrated greater long-term sustained weight loss, a reduction in both total and cardiovascular (CV) mortality, improvement or remission of CV risk factors and other comorbidities associated with obesity, as well as improved mobility and quality of life. BS presents similar risks to other abdominal surgeries, with obesity as an added risk factor. However, mortality after this type of surgery is less than 1%, being in specialised centres even lower than 0.3%, with a morbidity of less than 7%. The most commonly performed surgical procedures at present are vertical gastrectomy and Roux---Y gastric bypass, preferably by laparoscopic approach.

Comparative Analysis of Mortality Rates among Morbidly Obese Individuals: A Study of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery, Nonsurgical Morbidly Obese Individuals, and the General Population

INTRODUCTION

Mortality decreases following bariatric surgery. We explored the extent of the reduction and whether or not it reaches the general population level in a large cohort of patients with obesity. This study aimed to compare all-cause mortality between patients with obesity who undergo bariatric surgery and those who do not, with the general Iranian population during the same period.

METHOD

Data from Iran's National Obesity Surgery Database were used to establish a large cohort of patients registered between 2009 and 2019. The current vital status of the patients was determined by utilizing post-surgery follow-up data for those who underwent the operation. For patients without a surgery record, a predefined checklist was filled out through telephone interviews. Death data from the National General Registrar's office were obtained for all cohort members.

RESULTS

Of 13,313 cohort members, 12,915 were eligible for analysis. The median age at the first visit was 38 years, and 78% were women. 6,190 patients (47.9%) underwent bariatric surgery, and 6,725 patients (52.1%) were not yet operated on at the time of analysis. We observed 139 deaths during 53,880 person-years follow-ups. The median follow-ups for operated-on and not operated-on groups were 4 and 4.8 years. The mortality rates among nonoperated patients were 2.89 times higher (standardized mortality ratio [SMR] = 2.89, 95% CI: 2.36-3.53) than those in the general population, while in operated patients, the mortality rate decreased to 1.82 as high (SMR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.34-2.46).

CONCLUSION

The risk of death has been diminished in the operated-on group. It still remains considerably higher than the risk in the general population.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, obesity, bronchial asthma: simple combination or complex interaction

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) continues to be one of the most common diseases in primary health care. In recent years, the presence of several diseases in the same patient at the same time has been widely discussed. An increase in persons suffering from several chronic diseases is associated with a deterioration in the quality of life, a high risk of hospitalization and mortality, and taking into account the presence of co/poly/multimorbidity is necessary for decision-making when developing a patient management strategy in primary health care. Studies on GERD, obesity and bronchial asthma have shown that there are common and bidirectional mechanisms in the development of these diseases. And, there are many gaps in understanding these relationships, it is important to identify concomitant diseases, since they can be the cause of resistance to therapy, to form an unfavorable prognosis of their course.

Comparison of revisional surgeries after OAGB versus RYGB: Results from the multicenter Polish Revision Obesity Surgery Study (PROSS)

<br><b>Introduction:</b> Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a leading bariatric surgery globally. One-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), a modification of RYGB, ranks as the third most common bariatric procedure in Poland. While clinical trials show that OAGB outcomes are comparable to those of RYGB regarding weight loss, remission of comorbidities, and hormonal impact, there is limited data on long-term outcomes and complications.</br><br><b>Aim:</b> The aim of the study was to compare the outcomes of revisional surgeries conducted after OAGB <i>versus</i> RYGB.</br> <br><b>Material and methods:</b> This retrospective study analyzed patients undergoing revisional bariatric surgeries from January 2010 to January 2020 across 12 Polish centers. The inclusion criteria were an age of at least 18 years and prior OAGB or RYGB surgery. Those with incomplete primary surgery data and follow-up post-revision were excluded. Data were collected regarding parameters for anthropometrics, comorbidities, and perioperative details. The patients were categorized based on their initial surgery: OAGB or RYGB. The primary endpoints were the reasons for and types of revisional surgery and weight changes; the secondary endpoints were postoperative complications and length of hospital stay (LOS).</br> <br><b>Results:</b> In total, 27 patients participated, with a mean age of 38.18 7 years. Differences between the OAGB (13 patients) and RYGB (14 patients) groups included median initial body weight (100 kg <i>vs.</i> 126 kg, p<0.016), number of postoperative complications (9 <i>vs.</i> 3, p = 0.021), and median LOS (3 <i>vs.</i> 4.5 days, p = 0.03). GERD was the primary reason for OAGB revisions (69.2%), whereas insufficient weight loss led to the most RYGB revisions (42.9%).</br><br><b>Conclusions:</b> The RYGB patients commonly needed revisions due to weight issues, whereas reoperations in the OAGB patients were conducted due to postoperative complications. The postoperative complications and LOS were similar between the groups.</br> <br><b>The importance of research for the development of the field:</b> The results may influence clinical surgeons' choice of surgical technique.</br>.

Banded Versus Non-banded Sleeve Gastrectomy: 5-Year Results of a 3-Year Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

Banded sleeve gastrectomy (BSG) has been shown to enable better weight loss than non-banded sleeve gastrectomy (SG) in retrospective analyses. These findings were supported by two randomized controlled trials (RCT). However, to date, mid-term prospective data is not available.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We invited all 94 patients of an RCT comparing banded to non-banded sleeve gastrectomy at 3 years (DRKS00007729) for a 5-year follow-up visit. Eighty-two patients (BSG n = 42; SG n = 40) came for evaluation. Outcome measures were identical with the RCT to allow longitudinal comparison. Data analysis was descriptive and focused on biometric data, development of comorbidities, mid-term complications, quality of life, and type of body contouring surgery (BCS).

RESULTS

The per-protocol analysis revealed a treatment difference of 9% (CI - 1.5 to 19.6) excess weight loss (EWL). Total weight loss (TWL) was 27.4% (CI 23.5-31.3) after SG and 31.6% (CI 27.3-35.5) after BSG. Twenty percent of patients after SG and 11.9% following BSG had been converted to a gastric bypass. Type 2 diabetes went into remission in most patients (SG 66.7% vs. BSG 63.6%). Antihypertensive medication was stopped or reduced in 81.3% after SG and 80% after BSG. Reflux symptoms were similar in both groups (symptoms [Formula: see text] 1/ week: SG 28.2% vs. BSG 26.8%). Frequency of postprandial regurgitation was higher after BSG (SG 23% vs. BSG 59%). Forty percent of patients had undergone BCS at time of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Five-year weight loss after BSG was 9% EWL and 4.2% TWL higher compared to SG. The main added morbidity following BSG was postprandial regurgitation.

The Impact of Drain Placement on Postoperative Complications in Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Obesity in individuals can have consequences ranging from metabolically healthy obesity to serious morbidities and reduce the quality and duration of life. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the role of abdominal drainage on postoperative complications after bariatric surgery. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched for eligible studies. The results revealed that abdominal drainage was associated with surgical complications, with a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 1.70 (P < .001), but not associated with wound infection (OR: 1.04; P = .762). Associations with surgical complications were mainly detected from retrospective cohort studies. The use of abdominal drainage showed associations with death (OR: 1.68; P < .001) and reoperation (OR: 1.49; P < .001). These findings revealed that abdominal drainage during bariatric surgery was associated with surgical complications, death, and reoperation. These results should be taken with caution since randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies were analyzed together.

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Randomized Prospective Trial

Background and Objectives: One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgeries are effective methods used in bariatric surgery. There are limited randomized studies comparing these procedures over more than 2 years. Here, we aimed to compare the 3-year results of two bariatric procedures. Materials and Methods: Patients included in this randomized prospective study were compared in OAGB and RYGB groups. A total of 55 patients, aged between 18 and 65, were eligible for the study. Thirteen patients who did not accept randomization were excluded. Patients were evaluated at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months postoperatively. Results: Three patients were excluded from the study due to loss of communication during the clinical follow-up and one due to death by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which started in the eighth month after surgery. The study was completed with a total of 38 patients (OAGB; n = 20, RYGB; n = 18). Patients in the two groups were similar in terms of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and obesity-related comorbidities. At the end of 3-year follow-up, BMI in the OAGB and RYGB groups was 28.80 ± 4.53 kg/m2 and 29.17 ± 5.36 kg/m2, respectively (p = 0.822). Percentage total weight loss (TWL%) was similar. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding percentage excess weight loss (EWL%). Remission of comorbidities was similar. De novo refluxes developed in four OAGB patients; there were no occurrences of these in RYGB patients (p = 0.066). Conclusions: Both OAGB and RYGB are effective in the treatment of morbid obesity. The two procedures are similarly successful in terms of obesity-related comorbidities.

Long-term follow-up of a cohort with post sleeve gastrectomy leaks: results of endoscopic treatment and salvage surgery

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most performed bariatric procedure worldwide. The most challenging postoperative complication is gastric leak. The objectives of this study are to examine the efficacy and morbidity of different therapeutic strategies addressing leakage, and the long-term outcomes of a cohort of LSG leaks.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients treated for LSG leaks between September 2014 and January 2023 at our high-volume bariatric surgery center was performed.

RESULTS

The charts of 37 patients (29 women and 8 men) were reviewed, with a mean age of 43 years and a median follow-up of 24 months. The mean preoperative body mass index was 45.1 kg/m2. Overall, 30/37 (81%) patients were successfully treated with endoscopic management, and 7/37 (19%) ultimately underwent salvage surgery. If the leak was diagnosed earlier than 6 weeks, endoscopic treatment had a 97% success rate. The median number of endoscopic procedures was 2 per patient, and included internal pigtails, stents, septoplasty, endoluminal vacuum therapy and over-the-scope clips. Complications included stent-related ulcers (10), esophageal stenosis requiring endoscopic dilatations (4), stent migrations (2) and kinking requiring repositioning (1), and internal pigtail migration (3). Revisional surgery consisted of proximal gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y esophago-jejunal anastomosis, Roux-en-Y fistulo-jejunostomy or classic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass proximal to the gastric stricture. In 62% of the cases, the axis/caliber of the LSG was abnormal. Beyond 4 attempts, endoscopy was unsuccessful. The success rate of endoscopic management dropped to 25% when treatment was initiated more than 45 days after the index surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Purely endoscopic management was successful in 81% of cases; with 97% success rate if diagnosis earlier than 6 weeks. After four failed endoscopic procedures, a surgical approach should be considered. Delayed diagnosis appears to be a significant risk factor for failure of endoscopic treatment.

Obesity Management in Adults: A Review

Importance

Obesity affects approximately 42% of US adults and is associated with increased rates of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, sleep disorders, osteoarthritis, and premature death.

Observations

A body mass index (BMI) of 25 or greater is commonly used to define overweight, and a BMI of 30 or greater to define obesity, with lower thresholds for Asian populations (BMI ≥25-27.5), although use of BMI alone is not recommended to determine individual risk. Individuals with obesity have higher rates of incident cardiovascular disease. In men with a BMI of 30 to 39, cardiovascular event rates are 20.21 per 1000 person-years compared with 13.72 per 1000 person-years in men with a normal BMI. In women with a BMI of 30 to 39.9, cardiovascular event rates are 9.97 per 1000 person-years compared with 6.37 per 1000 person-years in women with a normal BMI. Among people with obesity, 5% to 10% weight loss improves systolic blood pressure by about 3 mm Hg for those with hypertension, and may decrease hemoglobin A1c by 0.6% to 1% for those with type 2 diabetes. Evidence-based obesity treatment includes interventions addressing 5 major categories: behavioral interventions, nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy, and metabolic/bariatric procedures. Comprehensive obesity care plans combine appropriate interventions for individual patients. Multicomponent behavioral interventions, ideally consisting of at least 14 sessions in 6 months to promote lifestyle changes, including components such as weight self-monitoring, dietary and physical activity counseling, and problem solving, often produce 5% to 10% weight loss, although weight regain occurs in 25% or more of participants at 2-year follow-up. Effective nutritional approaches focus on reducing total caloric intake and dietary strategies based on patient preferences. Physical activity without calorie reduction typically causes less weight loss (2-3 kg) but is important for weight-loss maintenance. Commonly prescribed medications such as antidepressants (eg, mirtazapine, amitriptyline) and antihyperglycemics such as glyburide or insulin cause weight gain, and clinicians should review and consider alternatives. Antiobesity medications are recommended for nonpregnant patients with obesity or overweight and weight-related comorbidities in conjunction with lifestyle modifications. Six medications are currently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for long-term use: glucagon-like peptide receptor 1 (GLP-1) agonists (semaglutide and liraglutide only), tirzepatide (a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/GLP-1 agonist), phentermine-topiramate, naltrexone-bupropion, and orlistat. Of these, tirzepatide has the greatest effect, with mean weight loss of 21% at 72 weeks. Endoscopic procedures (ie, intragastric balloon and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty) can attain 10% to 13% weight loss at 6 months. Weight loss from metabolic and bariatric surgeries (ie, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) ranges from 25% to 30% at 12 months. Maintaining long-term weight loss is difficult, and clinical guidelines support the use of long-term antiobesity medications when weight maintenance is inadequate with lifestyle interventions alone.

Conclusion and Relevance

Obesity affects approximately 42% of adults in the US. Behavioral interventions can attain approximately 5% to 10% weight loss, GLP-1 agonists and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/GLP-1 receptor agonists can attain approximately 8% to 21% weight loss, and bariatric surgery can attain approximately 25% to 30% weight loss. Comprehensive, evidence-based obesity treatment combines behavioral interventions, nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy, and metabolic/bariatric procedures as appropriate for individual patients.

Portomesenteric Vein Thrombosis in Patients Undergoing Sleeve Gastrectomy: an Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 101,914 Patients

INTRODUCTION

Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare but potentially fatal complication of sleeve gastrectomy (SG). The rising prevalence of SG has led to a surge in the occurrence of PMVT, while the associated risk factors have not been fully elucidated. This study aims to determine the incidence and risk factors of PMVT in patients undergoing SG.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed and EMBASE databases. Proportion and regression meta-analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

In a total of 76 studies including 101,914 patients undergoing SG, we identified 357 patients with PMVT. Mean follow-up was 14.4 (SD: 16.3) months. The incidence of PMVT was found to be 0.50% (95%CI: 0.40-0.61%). The majority of the population presented with abdominal pain (91.8%) at an average of 22.4 days postoperatively and PMVT was mainly diagnosed with computed tomography (CT) (96.0%). Hematologic abnormalities predisposing to thrombophilia were identified in 34.9% of the population. Advanced age (p=0.02) and low center volume (p <0.0001) were significantly associated with PMVT, while gender, BMI, hematologic abnormality, prior history of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, type of prophylactic anticoagulation, and duration of prophylactic anticoagulation were not associated with the incidence of PMVT in meta-regression analyses. Treatment included therapeutic anticoagulation in 93.4% and the mortality rate was 4/357 (1.1%).

CONCLUSION

PMVT is a rare complication of sleeve gastrectomy with an incidence rate <1% that is associated with low center volume and advanced age but is not affected by the duration or type of thromboprophylaxis administered postoperatively.

Patients' Pre and Post-Bariatric Surgery Experience of Dieting Behaviours: Implications for Early Intervention

PURPOSE

Bariatric surgery works, in part, by surgically changing signals of hunger and satiety to achieve weight loss. Not all patients experience optimal outcomes. One potential explanation is that post-surgery dieting may subvert the ability to identify physiological cues of hunger and fullness. Dieting behaviours (e.g. restriction/cognitive restraint) are correlated with disordered eating, and disordered eating implicated in poor outcomes. This study examines the experience of dieting after bariatric surgery.

METHOD

Seventeen adult participants who had undertaken bariatric surgery and residing in Australia participated in semi-structured interviews. Surgeries occurred in 2021 (n = 8), 2020 (n = 4), 2019 (n = 2), and one participant each had surgery in 2014, 2009, and 2004. Thematic analysis elicited themes related to post-operative dieting.

RESULTS

All participants reported chronic pre-surgery dieting. Lifestyle change was the overarching post-surgical theme comprising (i) flexibility (e.g. allowing food, intuitive eating), and (ii) control, comprising surgery control (e.g. set portions, surgery instilled control) and dieting control (e.g. discipline, restriction/restraint). Descriptions of lifestyle change often mirrored pre-surgery descriptions of dieting.

CONCLUSION

Post-surgery lifestyle change appears to encompass a tension between flexible/adaptive approaches to eating and the need to maintain control. Control may emerge as practices that mirror pre-surgery dieting with the potential to interfere with adaptive eating behaviours or promote disordered eating. Dieting behaviours may be a precursor to the development of disordered eating. Health care practitioners should regularly assess dieting behaviour post-surgery to enable early intervention where warranted. Future research should consider how post-surgery re-emerging dieting may be identified and measured to aid in intervention.

Nutritional Status, Selected Nutrients Intake, and Metabolic Disorders in Bariatric Surgery Patients

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity and its complications. However, failure to adhere to dietary recommendations can result in both unsatisfactory weight loss and metabolic disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of bariatric surgery on the anthropometric parameters and selected nutrient intake. A total of 12 months postoperatively, percent excess weight loss (%EWL) was significantly higher after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) than laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) (93.78% vs. 56.13% and 55.65%, p < 0.001). The same was true for waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (p = 0.017) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) changes (p = 0.022). There was a significant decrease in total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels after RYGB. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in daily intake was found for energy (4278.4 kcal vs. 1355.17 kcal), sucrose (122.23 g vs. 38.22 g), dietary fiber (30.90 g vs. 14.20 g), eicosapentaenoic fatty acid and docosahexaenoic acid (EPA+DHA) (142.46 mg vs. 52.90 mg) and % energy from fats (42.43% vs. 35.17%), saturated fatty acids (SAFAs) (19.96% vs. 14.11%) and alpha-linolenic fatty acid (ALA) (0.87% vs. 0.69%). Energy intake and energy % from fats positively correlated with body weight (BW), waist circumference (WC), WHR, and WHtR, and negatively with %EWL. The percentage of unsaturated fatty acids positively correlated with WC and WHR. Energy intake correlated positively with serum triglycerides (TGs) and energy % from fats and carbohydrates. Despite significant weight loss, the patient's diet deviated from recommendations and may have contributed to metabolic disorders.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, gastric banding, or sleeve gastrectomy for severe obesity: Baseline data from the By-Band-Sleeve randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

This paper reports the study design, participant characteristics, and recruitment results of By-Band-Sleeve, which investigated the clinical and cost-effectiveness of gastric bypass, gastric banding, and sleeve gastrectomy in adults with severe obesity in the UK.

METHODS

A pragmatic open adaptive noninferiority trial with 3-year follow-up was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to bypass or band initially and to sleeve after the adaptation. Co-primary end points are weight loss and health-related quality of life assessed using the EQ-5D utility index.

RESULTS

Between December 2012 and August 2015, the study recruited into two groups and, after the adaptation, into three groups until September 2019. The study screened 6960 patients; 4732 (68%) were eligible and 1351 (29%) were randomized; 5 subsequently withdrew consent to use data, leaving 462, 464, and 420 assigned to bypass, band, and sleeve, respectively. Baseline data showed high levels of obesity (mean BMI = 46.4 kg/m2; SD: 6.9) and comorbidities (e.g., 31% diabetes), low scores for health-related quality of life, and high levels of anxiety and depression (e.g., 25% abnormal scores). Nutritional parameters were poor, and the average equivalized household income was low (£16,667).

CONCLUSIONS

By-Band-Sleeve fully recruited. Participant characteristics are consistent with contemporary patients having bariatric surgery, and therefore the results will be generalizable.

Total plasma magnesium, zinc, copper and selenium concentrations in obese patients before and after bariatric surgery

Obesity enhances the risk of type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and inflammatory conditions and often leads to metal dyshomeostasis, which contributes to the negative health aspects associated with the disease. In severe cases, bariatric surgery can be recommended to achieve sustained weight loss and improvement in health. Here, magnesium, zinc, copper and selenium concentrations were examined in 24 obese patients (7 males; 17 females) before and 9 months after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. All patients lost weight over this period, with the mean BMI reducing from 51.2±7.1 kg/m2 to 37.2±5.5 kg/m2. Moreover, whole-blood glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), as a marker of average glycaemia, was also measured and a correlative analysis of this parameter with metal concentrations performed. Significant alterations in the plasma concentrations of magnesium, zinc (both increased by 13.2% and 25.2% respectively) and copper (decreased by 7.9%) were observed over this period (plasma selenium concentration was unchanged), with BMI values correlating with plasma magnesium (p = 0.004) and zinc (p = 0.022) concentrations. At 9 months post-surgery, an increase in mean zinc/copper ratio was observed (0.86±0.29 compared to 0.63±0.14 pre-surgery). Comparison of whole-blood HbA1c concentrations pre- and post-surgery revealed a reduction from 6.50±1.28% pre-surgery to 5.51±0.49% post-surgery. Differences in plasma HbA1c and magnesium at either pre- and post-surgery correlated significantly, as did HbA1c and magnesium levels when pre- and post-surgery values were analysed together. Collectively, this work reveals that bariatric surgery, in conjunction with lifestyle/dietary changes, lead to improvements in the nutritional status of magnesium, zinc and copper. Furthermore, the observed improvements in magnesium and zinc were associated with weight loss and in the case of magnesium, to better glycaemic control.

Current treatment landscape for obesity in Singapore

The rising prevalence of obesity in Singapore is a harbinger for a corresponding increase in obesity-related complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and coronary heart disease. Obesity is a complex disease driven by multiple factors, and hence, treatment cannot follow a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. Lifestyle modifications involving dietary interventions, physical activity and behavioural changes remain the cornerstone of obesity management. However, similar to other chronic diseases such as T2DM and hypertension, lifestyle modifications are often insufficient on their own, hence the importance of other treatment modalities including pharmacotherapy, endoscopic bariatric therapy and metabolic-bariatric surgery. Weight loss medications currently approved in Singapore include phentermine, orlistat, liraglutide and naltrexone-bupropion. In recent years, endoscopic bariatric therapies have evolved as an effective, minimally invasive and durable therapeutic option for obesity. Metabolic-bariatric surgery remains the most effective and durable treatment for patients with severe obesity, with an average weight loss of 25%-30% after one year.

Does one-anastomosis gastric bypass provide better outcomes than sleeve gastrectomy in patients with BMI greater than 50? A systematic review and meta-analysis

In patients with BMI greater than 50, sleeve gastrectomy (SG) may not be adequate to treat obesity. To determine whether one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) can provide better outcomes compared with SG in patients with BMI greater than 50, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted, including a total of nine retrospective studies with a total of 2332 participants. There was a significant difference in the percentage of excess weight loss [weighted mean difference (WMD): 8.52; 95% CI: 5.81-11.22; P<0.001) and percentage of total weight loss (WMD: 6.65; 95% CI: 5.05-8.24; P<0.001). No significant differences were seen in operative time (WMD: 1.91; 95% CI: -11.24 to 15.07; P=0.77) and length of stay in hospital (WMD: -0.41; 95% CI: -1.18 to 0.37; P=0.30) between the two groups. There were no significant differences between OAGB with SG in Clavien-Dindo grades I-III [odds ratio (OR): 1.56; 95% CI: 0.80-3.05], or grade IV complications (OR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.18-2.94). The meta-analysis on remission of type 2 diabetes indicated a comparable effect between SG and OAGB (OR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.28-2.16). The OAGB group had a significantly higher rate of remission of hypertension compared with the SG group (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.06-2.50). The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that the OAGB accomplished a higher percentage of total weight loss and percentage of excess weight loss at short-term and mid-term follow-up but, there was no major difference between the OAGB and SG operations in terms of perioperative outcomes, complications, and diabetes remission.

Remission with an Intervention: Is Metabolic Surgery the Ultimate Solution?

Long-term remission of type 2 diabetes following lifestyle intervention or pharmacotherapy, even in patients with mild disease, is rare. Long-term remission following metabolic surgery however, is common and occurs in 23% to 98% depending on disease severity and type of surgery. Remission after surgery is associated with excellent glycemic control without reliance on pharmacotherapy, improvements in quality of life, and major reductions in microvascular and macrovascular complications. For patients with type 2 diabetes, early intervention with metabolic surgery, when beta cell function still remains intact, provides the greatest probability of long-term remission as high as 90% or more.

eHealth Intervention via LINE® Social Media as an Adjunct for Postoperative Care After Bariatric-Metabolic Surgery: Single Institution Experience

PURPOSE

Applying eHealth interventions via social media is common in modern medicine. LINE® is a popular communication app in Taiwan that can deliver messages 24 h a day. In addition to being free of charge, it also allows bariatric nurses (BNs) and patients to enjoy bidirectional communication via telecommunication services instead of direct, face-to-face contact for patients undergoing bariatric-metabolic surgery (BMS). We conducted this retrospective study to determine the frequency and reasons for early post-discharge of LINE® messages/calls and investigate the relationship between this frequency and contents of these messages and postoperative outcomes after BMS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was conducted in an Asian weight management center. The study period ran from August 2016 to December 2021, and a total of 143 native patients with severe obesity were enrolled. All patients were informed of the necessity of a postoperative dietitian consultation before bariatric surgery. The patterns of LINE® communication with the BN and associated actions to resolve patients' needs within 180 days after index BMS were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 143 enrolled patients, 100 underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and 43 underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. A total of 1205 messages/calls were analyzed concomitantly; most LINE® communications focused on diet problems (47.97%; n = 578), weight problems (11.54%; n = 139), and medications (9.21%; n = 111). Most problems could be resolved by LINE® communications directly, and only a small portion (5.6%) was directed to local clinics or emergency departments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the usage of LINE® communications significantly increased (12.2 ± 10.4 vs. 6.4 ± 4.9; p < 0.01); nonetheless, a higher frequency of LINE® communications would not hinder the regular clinic visits (r = 0.359; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Based on our limited experience, the LINE® consultation service operated by the BN could effectively address patients' problems. Moreover, it might reduce the need for emergency department visits or unexpected clinic appointments for patients after BMS.

Weight recurrence after Sleeve Gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a propensity score matched nationwide analysis

BACKGROUND

Literature remains scarce on patients experiencing weight recurrence after initial adequate weight loss following primary bariatric surgery. Therefore, this study compared the extent of weight recurrence between patients who received a Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) after adequate weight loss at 1-year follow-up.

METHODS

All patients undergoing primary RYGB or SG between 2015 and 2018 were selected from the Dutch Audit for Treatment of Obesity. Inclusion criteria were achieving ≥ 20% total weight loss (TWL) at 1-year and having at least one subsequent follow-up visit. The primary outcome was ≥ 10% weight recurrence (WR) at the last recorded follow-up between 2 and 5 years, after ≥ 20% TWL at 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes included remission of comorbidities at last recorded follow-up. A propensity score matched logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the difference between RYGB and SG.

RESULTS

A total of 19.762 patients were included, 14.982 RYGB and 4.780 SG patients. After matching 4.693 patients from each group, patients undergoing SG had a higher likelihood on WR up to 5-year follow-up compared with RYGB [OR 2.07, 95% CI (1.89-2.27), p < 0.01] and less often remission of type 2 diabetes [OR 0.69, 95% CI (0.56-0.86), p < 0.01], hypertension (HTN) [OR 0.75, 95% CI (0.65-0.87), p < 0.01], dyslipidemia [OR 0.44, 95% CI (0.36-0.54), p < 0.01], gastroesophageal reflux [OR 0.25 95% CI (0.18-0.34), p < 0.01], and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) [OR 0.66, 95% CI (0.54-0.8), p < 0.01]. In subgroup analyses, patients who experienced WR after SG but maintained ≥ 20%TWL from starting weight, more often achieved HTN (44.7% vs 29.4%), dyslipidemia (38.3% vs 19.3%), and OSAS (54% vs 20.3%) remission compared with patients not maintaining ≥ 20%TWL. No such differences in comorbidity remission were found within RYGB patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing SG are more likely to experience weight recurrence, and less likely to achieve comorbidity remission than patients undergoing RYGB.

Gastric Bypass Versus Sleeve Gastrectomy: Comparison of Patient Outcomes, Satisfaction, and Quality of Life in a Single-Center Experience

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most common primary bariatric operation performed in the United States. Its relative technical ease, combined with a decreased risk for anatomic and malabsorptive complications make LSG an attractive option compared to laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGB) for many patients and surgeons. However, emerging evidence for progressive gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after LSG, and the inferior weight loss in many studies, suggests that the enthusiasm for LSG requires reassessment. We hypothesized that patient satisfaction and quality of life (QoL) may be lower after LSG compared to LGB because of these differences. Methods: We distributed a survey querying weight-loss outcomes, complications, foregut symptoms, QoL, and overall satisfaction to patients who underwent bariatric operations at our institution between 2000 and 2020 and who had electronic mail contact information available. Mean follow-up was 2.75 ± 2.41 years for LGB patients and 3.37 ± 2.18 (P = .021) years for LSG patients. We compared these groups for weight-loss outcomes, changes in foregut symptoms, gastrointestinal QoL, postbariatric QoL, and overall satisfaction using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Among 323 respondents, 126 underwent LGB and 197 underwent LSG. LGB patients had larger body mass index (BMI) reduction than LSG patients (-17.16 ± 9.07 kg/m² versus -14.87 ± 7.4 kg/m², P = .023). LGB patients reported less reflux (P = .003), with decreased heartburn (P < .0001) and regurgitation (P = .0027). However, a greater proportion of LGB patients reported at least one complication (P = .025). Despite this, more LGB patients reported satisfaction (92.86%) than LSG patients (73.6%). Conclusion: LGB patients are significantly more likely to be satisfied than LSG patients. Factors contributing to the higher level of satisfaction include less GERD and better BMI decrease.

Low-Grade Hepatic Steatosis Is Associated with Long-term Remission of Type 2 Diabetes Independent of Type of Bariatric-Metabolic Surgery

BACKGROUND

Bariatric-metabolic surgery (BS) decreases the grade of steatosis, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis in patients with severe obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Mechanisms include substantial weight loss, but also simultaneous effects on glucose homeostasis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between NAFLD and remission of type 2 diabetes (T2D) up to 8 years following different types of BS.

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study including 107 patients with obesity and T2D at baseline, the association between biopsy-proven NAFLD defined as steatosis in > 5% of hepatocytes at the time of surgery and T2D remission up to 8 years following different surgical procedures was investigated. Univariate regression analysis was used to examine the association between NAFLD and remission of T2D.

RESULTS

Long-term remission of T2D was present in 56% of patients (n = 60). The presence of low-grade liver steatosis (grade 1) was associated with remission of T2D. Patients with a liver steatosis score ≥ 2 showed higher HbA1c levels at baseline. There were no significant differences in preoperative presence of lobular inflammation, hepatocyte ballooning, or fibrosis between patients who achieved T2D remission compared with those with no remission. Type of surgery did not affect remission of T2D.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the presence of low-grade liver steatosis is associated with remission of T2D following sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Therefore, BS should be considered at an early NAFLD stage in patients with T2D.

"Orphaned" Stomach-An Infrequent Complication of Gastric Bypass Revision

While generally safe, bariatric operations have a variety of possible complications. We present an uncommon complication after gastric bypass revision, namely the creation of an "orphaned" segment of remnant stomach that was left inadvertently in discontinuity, leading to recurrent intra-abdominal abscesses. Sinogram ultimately proved the diagnosis, and the issue was successfully treated using a combination of surgical and endoscopic methods to control the abscess and to allow internal drainage.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy effects on obesity comorbidities: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are the most commonly used bariatric procedures. There is an increasing awareness about a comorbidity-based indication for bariatric surgery regardless of weight (metabolic surgery). The best operation to mitigate obesity-associated comorbidities is a matter of controversy. This review is aimed at comparing LRYGB and LSG for the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemias, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Cochrane library for articles comparing these two commonly used bariatric approaches. We identified 2,457 studies, 1,468 of which stood after the removal of duplications; from them, 81 full texts were screened and only 16 studies were included in the final meta-analysis. LRYGB was equal weight to LSG for diabetes (P-value = 0.10, odd ratio, 1.24, 95% CI, 0.96-1.61, I ² for heterogeneity = 30%, P-value for heterogeneity, 0.14), and OSA (P-value = 0.38, odd ratio, 0.79, 95% CI, 0.47-1.33, I ² for heterogeneity = 0.0%, P-value for heterogeneity, 0.98). However, LRYGB was superior to LSG regarding hypertension (P-value = 0.009, odd ratio, 1.55, 95% CI, 1.20-2.0, I ² for heterogeneity = 0.0%, P-value for heterogeneity, 0.59), dyslipidemia (odd ratio, 2.18, 95% CI, 1.15-4.16, P-value for overall effect, 0.02), and GERD (P-value = 0.003, odd ratio, 3.16, 95% CI, 1.48-6.76). LRYGB was superior to LSG for gastroesophageal reflux, hypertension, and dyslipidemia remission. While the two procedures were equal regarding diabetes and obstructive sleep, further reviews comparing LSG, and one anastomosis gastric bypass are recommended.

[Indications in Obesity Therapy - Surgeons First?]

Obesity is a growing problem worldwide. For the first time since 2010, more people have been overweight than underweight. In particular, obesity-associated diseases, above all type 2 diabetes mellitus, pose enormous challenges to the healthcare system. On July 3, 2020, the German Bundestag recognised obesity as a disease and initiated the development of a diseases management program (DMP), which is currently being drawn up. So far, the indication for treatment of obesity in Germany has been based on the S3 guideline "Surgery of obesity and metabolic diseases" of the DGAV from 2018 and the S3 guideline "Prevention and therapy of obesity" of the German Obesity Society e. V. from 2014. This article gives an overview of the currently available conservative, medical, endoscopic and surgical treatment methods for overweight and obesity in Germany and explains the indications. Against the background of the reorientation of obesity treatment as a part of the DMP and the forthcoming revisions of the guidelines, the previous indication should be discussed critically. The scientific findings of the last few years show that surgical treatment of obesity not only achieves the greatest weight loss in the long term, but also that obesity-associated diseases are then treated more effectively and overall mortality is reduced significantly more effectively than with conservative treatment.

Combined non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes in severely obese patients-medium term effects of sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass on disease markers

Background

We aimed to evaluate the medium-term efficacy of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) vs. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on remission of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

We identified severely obese patients [body mass index (BMI) >35 kg/m2] with NAFLD (as defined by the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery Study) and T2DM (as defined by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American College of Endocrinology) who underwent SG or RYGB in a single university surgical centre. The cohorts were match-paired and data were analysed after at least 3 years of follow up. The key outcomes measured were: (I) the improvement of liver function tests and NAFLD markers; (II) glycemic control and insulin resistance.

Results

Ninety-six patients were investigated; 44 (45.8%) were women. The mean pre-operative BMI was 45.2 kg/m2 in the SG and 42.0 kg/m2 in the RYGB group. SG and RYGB both significantly reduced serum liver enzyme concentrations. NAFLD markers resolved 2 years after SG in all patients. In contrast, only 78% and 80% of patients achieved remission of NAFLD 2 and 3 years after RYBG respectively. Both procedures resulted in comparable rates of remission of T2DM.

Conclusions

Bariatric surgery with SG may be preferable to RYGB for obese patients with NAFLD and T2DM based on the rates of remission of markers of these co-morbidities. However, our results need to be confirmed in prospective trials. Understanding the metabolic effects of specific bariatric surgical procedures may facilitate the development of a personalised approach to weight-loss surgery.

Distal gastric bypass revision for weight recurrence or nonresponse to primary procedure: initial experience and outcomes in an academic practice

BACKGROUND

Considerable weight recurrence (WR) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) may occur in nearly 20% of patients. While several nonoperative, endoscopic, and surgical interventions exist for this population, the optimal approach is unknown. This study reports our initial experience with distal bypass revision (DGB) and provides a comparison with patients after primary RYGB.

METHODS

Single-institution, retrospective review was conducted for patients who underwent DGB from 2018 to 2020. A Roux and common channel of 150 cm each were constructed (total alimentary limb 300 cm). A group of primary RYGB patients with similar demographics were selected as controls. Demographics, comorbidity resolution, surgical technique, complications, excess weight loss (EWL), total weight loss (TWL), BMI, and weight change data were compared. Patient postoperative weight loss (WL) was also compared after their primary and DGB operations.

RESULTS

Sixteen DGB patients, all female, were compared with 29 controls. DGB was performed on average 12.3 years after primary RYGB. In the DGB group, mean BMI was 53.7 before primary RYGB, 31.9 at nadir, and 44.1 prior to DGB. Post-DGB, mean BMI was 40.5, 37.4, 34.8, and 34.4, at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-months, respectively. Five patients (31.3%) experienced complications and were readmitted within 30 days, with two of them (12.5%) requiring reintervention and one (6.3%) undergoing reoperation. Mean EWL and TWL up to 2 years after DGB were lower than that after the patient's original RYGB (52.3 ± 18.6 vs. 67.2 ± 33.2; p = 0.126 and 19.6 ± 13.3 vs. 29.6 ± 11.8; p = 0.027, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

DGB resulted in excellent WL up to 2 years after surgery but was associated with considerable postoperative complication rates. The magnitude of TWL was lower compared with the primary operation. Only a few patients experienced nutritional complications. Results of this study can help counsel patients pursuing DGB for WR or nonresponse to primary RYGB. The comparative effectiveness of this approach to other available options remains to be determined.

Hospital Variation in Preference for a Specific Bariatric Procedure and the Association with Weight Loss Performance: a Nationwide Analysis

PURPOSE

Hospitals performing a certain bariatric procedure in high volumes may have better outcomes. However, they could also have worse outcomes for some patients who are better off receiving another procedure. This study evaluates the effect of hospital preference for a specific type of bariatric procedure on their overall weight loss results.

METHODS

All hospitals performing bariatric surgery were included from the nationwide Dutch Audit for Treatment of Obesity. For each hospital, the expected (E) numbers of sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) were calculated given their patient-mix. These were compared with the observed (O) numbers as the O/E ratio in a funnel plot. The 95% control intervals were used to identify outlier hospitals performing a certain procedure significantly more often than expected given their patient-mix (defined as hospital preference for that procedure). Similarly, funnel plots were created for the outcome of patients achieving ≥ 25% total weight loss (TWL) after 2 years, which was linked to each hospital's preference.

RESULTS

A total of 34,558 patients were included, with 23,154 patients completing a 2-year follow-up, of whom 79.6% achieved ≥ 25%TWL. Nine hospitals had a preference for RYGB (range O/E ratio [1.09-1.53]), with 1 having significantly more patients achieving ≥ 25%TWL (O/E ratio [1.06]). Of 6 hospitals with a preference for SG (range O/E ratio [1.10-2.71]), one hospital had significantly fewer patients achieving ≥ 25%TWL (O/E ratio [0.90]), and from two hospitals with a preference for OAGB (range O/E ratio [4.0-6.0]), one had significantly more patients achieving ≥ 25%TWL (O/E ratio [1.07]). One hospital had no preference for any procedure but did have significantly more patients achieving ≥ 25%TWL (O/E ratio [1.10]).

CONCLUSION

Hospital preference is not consistently associated with better overall weight loss results. This suggests that even though experience with a procedure may be slightly less in hospitals not having a preference, it is still sufficient to achieve similar weight loss outcomes when surgery is provided in centralized high-volume bariatric institutions.

Changes in plasma free fatty acids in obese patients before and after bariatric surgery highlight alterations in lipid metabolism

Obesity is a complex disease that increases an individual’s risk of developing other diseases and health-related problems. A common feature is dyslipidemia characterized by increased levels of plasma lipids, which include non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). The role of NEFAs in obesity-related morbidity is interesting as NEFAs constitute a reservoir of metabolic energy, are principal components of cell membranes and are precursors for signalling molecules. Bariatric surgery promotes sustained weight loss in severely obese patients, reducing the incidence and severity of co-morbidities. In this study we measure changes in circulating NEFA species in plasma samples taken from 25 obese individuals before and 9 months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The mean weight of the cohort reduced by 29.2% from 149.0 ± 25.1 kg pre-surgery to 105.5 ± 19.8 kg post-surgery and the BMI by 28.2% from 51.8 ± 6.3 kg/m² pre-surgery to 37.2 ± 5.4 kg/m². Mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) reduced from 6.5 ± 1.3 to 5.5 ± 0.5%, consistent with the intervention leading to improved glycaemic control, particularly in those who were dysglycemic prior to surgery. Total and LDL cholesterol concentrations were markedly reduced following surgery. Concentrations of seven NEFAs were found to decrease 9 months after surgery compared to pre-surgery levels: myristate, palmitoleate, palmitate, linoleate, oleate, stearate and arachidonate. Bariatric surgery led to increased lipogenesis and elongase activity and decreased stearoyl-CoA desaturase 1 activity. This study therefore highlights metabolic changes that take place following gastric bypass surgery in severely obese patients.

Weight loss outcomes for patients undergoing conversion to Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass after sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Despite excellent reported outcomes after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), a percentage of patients go on to have a secondary bariatric surgery to manage side-effects or address weight regain after LSG. Reported weight loss outcomes for patients undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) after previous LSG are variable. We sought to determine the weight-loss outcomes of patients undergoing LRYGB after LSG in the largest bariatric surgical network in Canada and to determine whether outcomes differ according to indications for conversion.

METHODS

The Bariatric Registry is a multi-center database with prospectively collected standardized data on patients undergoing bariatric surgery at ten Bariatric Centers of Excellence within the Ontario Bariatric Network in Ontario, Canada. A retrospective analysis was performed of patients who underwent LRYGB after previous LSG between 2012 and 2019. Weight loss outcomes were compared between patients who underwent LRYGB for insufficient weight loss/weight regain and those who underwent conversion to LRYGB for other reasons.

RESULTS

Excluding patients with multiple revisions and those without follow-up data, 48 patients were included in the analysis: 33 patients (69%) underwent conversion to LRGYB for insufficient weight loss/weight regain (Group 1) and 15 patients (31%) underwent conversion for other reasons (Group 2). Mean body mass index (BMI) measured pre-LSG, pre-LRYGB, and at mid-term follow-up after LRYGB was 61, 48, and 43 kg/m² in Group 1 and 51, 39, and 34 kg/m² in Group 2, respectively. ΔBMI and %total weight loss (TWL) at mid-term follow-up were not significantly different between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Conversion to LRYGB after previous LSG resulted in an additional loss of 4 kg/m² in BMI points at mid-term follow-up. Patients lost a similar number of BMI points and cumulative %TWL was similar regardless of reason for conversion. This can help inform surgical decision-making in the setting of weight regain after LSG.

Complications Rate Variability after Bariatric Surgery and the Importance of Standardization of a Reporting System

BACKGROUND

The rate of early (< 30 days) complications after bariatric surgery has been reported to be 0.4-27.4%. Although the incidence of serious adverse events has decreased with time and experience, controversy regarding how they are reported persists, and the current literature is heterogeneous.

METHODS

Data from patients, who underwent primary bariatric surgery (gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy) at a single institution between 2012 and 2018, were retrospectively reviewed. Any deviation from a "normal" postoperative course (< 30 days) was identified, and a comparative analysis of early complications according to five models was performed: modified Clavien-Dindo; Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (LABS); Bariatric Surgery Centers of Excellence (BSCOE); American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS); and Li (major/minor).

RESULTS

A total of 788 patients (83.7% gastric bypass), of whom 8.8% deviated from a "normal" postoperative course, were included. After applying the five classifications, the results were as follows: Clavien-Dindo, 8.8%; LABS, 2.3%; BSCOE, 0.4%; ASMBS, 9.9%; and Li, 11.2%. The incidence of major/severe/adverse outcomes were as follows: Clavien-Dindo, 2.4%; LABS, 2.3%; BSCOE, 0.4%; ASMBS, 6.9%; and Li 9.2%. Minor complications were as follows: Clavien-Dindo, 6.5%; ASMBS, 3%; and Li, 2%. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSION

Germane heterogeneity was found in reporting of early complications after bariatric surgery. Incidence varied according to classification system applied, and Clavien-Dindo demonstrated accuracy as a reporting model. To avoid bias, standardized reporting should be mandatory, and a more stringent and homogeneous reporting system should be established.

Variation of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Techniques: a Survey of 518 Bariatric Surgeons

INTRODUCTION

Surgical technique varies dramatically in the performance of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and these differences can potentially lead to variation in outcomes. The objective of this study was to characterize surgical techniques used during LRYGB.

METHODS

An anonymous 44-question survey was distributed by email to all bariatric surgeons with membership in the ASMBS, SAGES, and ACS from April to June 2020. Questions were designed to evaluate surgeon demographics, experience, and variation of techniques. Only surgeons who performed LRYGB within the past year were included for analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 534 (18.8%) surgeons responded and the majority (97.0%) reported performing LRYGB in the past year. Surgeons were predominantly from the USA (77.8%). For preoperative work-up, 20.1% performed upper gastrointestinal series while 60.8% performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Limb length evaluation revealed mean Roux and biliopancreatic limb lengths of 124.1 ± 29.4 cm and 67.4 ± 32.2 cm, respectively. The gastrojejunostomy was most commonly formed using a linear stapler with handsewn closure of the common enterotomy (53.1%) and the jejunojejunostomy using a linear stapled anastomotic technique with handsewn closure of the common enterotomy (60.6%). The majority of surgeons closed the jejunojejunostomy mesenteric defect (91.1%) and one of the antecolic or retrocolic mesenteric defects (65.1%). Intraoperative leak tests were performed in 95.9% of cases. Only 22.1% of surgeons routinely performed upper gastrointestinal swallow studies postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

There are wide variations in pre- and intraoperative practice patterns for LRYGB. Further clinical trials designed to evaluate the impact of these practice pattern differences on patient outcomes are warranted.

Outcomes of 325 one anastomosis gastric bypass operations: an Australian case series

BACKGROUND

The One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) is a relatively novel procedure. Studies have demonstrated that it is at least as effective as other bariatric procedures but with fewer major complications and shorter operating time, yet OAGB is performed less partially due to a paucity of supportive evidence. We report the outcomes of a prospectively maintained database of patients undergoing laparoscopic OAGB.

METHODS

All OAGB procedures performed by two surgeons across two hospitals from 2016 to 2019 were recorded in a prospectively maintained database. Patients with at least 1 year of follow up were included in this study and missing data was obtained from patient records. The primary outcome was percentage excess weight loss (EWL). The secondary outcome was surgical complication rate.

RESULTS

Three hundred and twenty-five patients with a mean pre-operative body mass index of 43.3 kg/m² were included. The majority (85.2%) had a biliopancreatic limb length of 150 cm. The median EWL was 74.2% and 79.4% of patients achieved at least 50% EWL. There were no deaths, the overall re-operation rate was 4.9% and 1.9% of patients developed stomal ulcers. Seven patients went on to have a Roux-en-Y conversion predominantly for symptomatic reflux.

CONCLUSION

OAGB leads to excellent weight loss and is at least as safe as more commonly performed procedures, it may be a suitable treatment for a greater number of patients than it is being offered to at present.

30-day morbidity and mortality of sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and one anastomosis gastric bypass: a propensity score-matched analysis of the GENEVA data

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of data comparing 30-day morbidity and mortality of sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB). This study aimed to compare the 30-day safety of SG, RYGB, and OAGB in propensity score-matched cohorts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This analysis utilised data collected from the GENEVA study which was a multicentre observational cohort study of bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) in 185 centres across 42 countries between 01/05/2022 and 31/10/2020 during the Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. 30-day complications were categorised according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Patients receiving SG, RYGB, or OAGB were propensity-matched according to baseline characteristics and 30-day complications were compared between groups.

RESULTS

In total, 6770 patients (SG 3983; OAGB 702; RYGB 2085) were included in this analysis. Prior to matching, RYGB was associated with highest 30-day complication rate (SG 5.8%; OAGB 7.5%; RYGB 8.0% (p = 0.006)). On multivariate regression modelling, Insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolaemia were associated with increased 30-day complications. Being a non-smoker was associated with reduced complication rates. When compared to SG as a reference category, RYGB, but not OAGB, was associated with an increased rate of 30-day complications. A total of 702 pairs of SG and OAGB were propensity score-matched. The complication rate in the SG group was 7.3% (n = 51) as compared to 7.5% (n = 53) in the OAGB group (p = 0.68). Similarly, 2085 pairs of SG and RYGB were propensity score-matched. The complication rate in the SG group was 6.1% (n = 127) as compared to 7.9% (n = 166) in the RYGB group (p = 0.09). And, 702 pairs of OAGB and RYGB were matched. The complication rate in both groups was the same at 7.5 % (n = 53; p = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

This global study found no significant difference in the 30-day morbidity and mortality of SG, RYGB, and OAGB in propensity score-matched cohorts.

Taste-Driven Responsiveness to Fat and Sweet Stimuli in Mouse Models of Bariatric Surgery

A preferential consumption of healthier foods, low in fat and sugar, is often reported after bariatric surgery, suggesting a switch of taste-guided food choices. To further explore this hypothesis in well-standardized conditions, analysis of licking behavior in response to oily and sweet solutions has been realized in rats that have undergone a Roux-en-Y bypass (RYGB). Unfortunately, these studies have produced conflicting data mainly due to methodological differences. Paradoxically, whereas the vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) becomes the most commonly performed bariatric surgery worldwide and is easier to perform and standardize in small animals, its putative impacts on the orosensory perception of energy-dense nutrients remains unknown. Using brief-access licking tests in VSG or RYGB mice, we found that (i) VSG induces a significant reduction in the fat mass in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice, (ii) VSG partially corrects the licking responses to lipid and sucrose stimuli which are degraded in sham-operated DIO mice, (iii) VSG improves the willingness to lick oily and sucrose solutions in DIO mice and (iv) RYGB leads to close outcomes. Altogether, these data strongly suggest that VSG, as RYGB, can counteract the deleterious effect of obesity on the orosensory perception of energy-dense nutrients in mice.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, or one-anastomosis gastric bypass? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine which bariatric procedure allows patients to obtain the best weight-loss outcomes and a remission of type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Databases were searched for randomized-controlled trials comparing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) with sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB). The mean difference (MD) or the relative risk was determined.

RESULTS

Twenty-five randomized-controlled trials were analyzed. Excess weight loss (EWL, percentage) was greater for RYGB patients at 3 years (MD: 11.93, p < 0.00001) and 5 years (MD: 13.11, p = 0.0004). Higher excess BMI loss (percentage) was found in RYGB at 1 year (MD: 11.66, p = 0.01). Total weight loss (percentage) was greater for RYGB patients after 3 months (MD: 2.41, p = 0.02), 6 months (MD: 3.83, p < 0.00001), 1 year (MD: 6.35, p < 0.00001), and 5 years (MD: 3.90, p = 0.005). No difference in terms of remission of type 2 diabetes was seen between RYGB and SG. EWL was significantly more important after OAGB than after RYGB after 1 year (MD: -10.82, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB is more efficient than SG in the midterm. OAGB offers greater EWL than RYGB after 1 year, but further evidence is needed to confirm this result.

Fracture risk following bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Bariatric surgery may negatively impact bone health. We aimed to compare fracture risk following bariatric surgery by type (malabsorptive, restrictive), or to non-surgical weight loss, or to controls with obesity. We systematically searched four databases from inception until October 2020. We included observational and interventional studies on adults. We screened articles and abstracted data in duplicate and independently and assessed the risk of bias. We conducted random-effects model meta-analyses (Review Manager v5.3), to calculate the relative risk of any or site-specific fracture (CRD42019128536). We identified four trials of unclear-to-high risk of bias and 15 observational studies of fair-to-good quality. Data on fracture risk following bariatric surgery compared to medical weight loss is scarce and limited by the small number of participants. In observational studies, at a mean/median post-operative follow-up > 2 years, the relative risk of any fracture was 45% (p < 0.001) and 61% (p = 0.04) higher following malabsorptive procedures compared to obese controls and restrictive procedures, respectively, with moderate to high heterogeneity. Site-specific relative fracture risk (hip and wrist) was one- to two-folds higher post malabsorptive procedures compared to obese controls or restrictive procedures. The risks of any and of site-specific fracture were not increased following restrictive procedures compared to obese controls. Fracture risk seems to increase following malabsorptive bariatric surgeries, at a mean/median follow-up > 2 years. The risk is not increased with restrictive surgeries. The available evidence has several limitations. A prospective and rigorous long-term follow-up of patients following bariatric surgery is needed for a better assessment of their fracture risk with aging.