ASMBS Clinical Issues Committee. Bariatric surgery in class I obesity (body mass index 30-35 kg/m²)

The metabolic and molecular mechanisms of α‑mangostin in cardiometabolic disorders (Review)

α-mangostin is a xanthone predominantly encountered in Garcinia mangostana. Extensive research has been carried out concerning the effects of this compound on various diseases, including obesity, cancer and metabolic disorders. The present review suggests that α-mangostin exerts promising anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on various pathways in cardiometabolic diseases. The anti-obesity effects of α-mangostin include the reduction of body weight and adipose tissue size, the increase in fatty acid oxidation, the activation of hepatic AMP-activated protein kinase and Sirtuin-1, and the reduction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ expression. Hepatoprotective effects have been revealed, due to reduced fibrosis through transforming growth factor-β 1 pathways, reduced apoptosis and steatosis through reduced sterol regulatory-element binding proteins expression. The antidiabetic effects include decreased fasting blood glucose levels, improved insulin sensitivity and the increased expression of GLUT transporters in various tissues. Cardioprotection is exhibited through the restoration of cardiac functions and structure, improved mitochondrial functions, the promotion of M2 macrophage populations, reduced endothelial and cardiomyocyte apoptosis and fibrosis, and reduced acid sphingomyelinase activity and ceramide depositions. The antioxidant effects of α-mangostin are mainly related to the modulation of antioxidant enzymes, the reduction of oxidative stress markers, the reduction of oxidative damage through a reduction in Sirtuin 3 expression mediated by phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α signaling pathways, and to the increase in Nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 expression levels. The anti-inflammatory effects of α-mangostin include its modulation of nuclear factor-κB related pathways, the suppression of mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, increased macrophage polarization to M2, reduced inflammasome occurrence, increased Sirtuin 1 and 3 expression, the reduced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, the reduced expression of Toll-like receptors and reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels. These effects demonstrate that α-mangostin may possess the properties required for a suitable candidate compound for the management of cardiometabolic diseases.

Effectiveness and Safety of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy for Weight Loss in Mild Obesity: Prospective Cohort Study with 3-Year Follow-up

PURPOSE

Patients with mild obesity especially in absence of associated medical problems (OAMP) are commonly managed by non-surgical approaches. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has proved itself to be effective and it is now the most performed weight loss procedure. We aimed to study the effectiveness and safety of LSG for weight loss in mild obesity.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study. Group A; BMI (30-34.9 kg/m²), and group B; BMI ≥ 40 or BMI ≥ 35 with OAMP. Demographic data, perioperative complications, % excess weight loss (EWL), % total weight loss (TWL), nutritional profile, and evolution of OAMP were recorded and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 250 patients, with 80 patients (32%) in group A, and 170 (68%) in group B. The majority were female. The mean preoperative weight, BMI, and excess weight were 90.1 ± 9.52, 32.7 ± 1.4, and 21.5 ± 4.9 in group A, and 129.88 ± 26.12, 47.8 ± 8.2, and 62.3 ± 23.6 kg in group B respectively. The low BMI group had significantly lower OAMP, with higher pre-LSG non-surgical procedures rate. Overall post-operative morbidity rate was significantly higher in group B. %TWL was significantly lower in low BMI group. Nutritional profile was within the normal range in both groups at 3-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and effective weight loss solution for mild obesity with better outcome than for higher BMI. Further studies are warranted to reconsider NIH's statement for medicolegal aspects, and for matching the current changes in bariatric surgery practice, safety evidence, and patients' demand.

Are Chinese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and a Body Mass Index of 27.5-32.5 kg/m2 Suitable for Metabolic Surgery? A One-Year Post-Surgery Study

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to clarify the efficacy and safety of metabolic surgery in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and a body mass index (BMI) of 27.5-32.5 kg/m².

METHODS

A total of 99 patients with T2DM were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. Of these patients, 53 had a BMI of 27.5-32.5 kg/m² and had undergone metabolic surgery (n = 21) or were on conventional antidiabetic therapy (n = 32)]; 46 had a BMI ≥ 32.5 kg/m² and all had undergone metabolic surgery. Primary endpoints included the triple endpoint [hemoglobin A1c < 6.5%, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) < 2.6 mmol/L, and systolic blood pressure (SBP) < 130 mmHg] and successful weight loss 1 year later. Remission of diabetes, glucose and lipid metabolism, medication usage, and adverse events were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of patients with BMI 27.5-32.5 kg/m² undergoing metabolic surgery, 33.33% achieved the composite endpoints, and 100% achieved successful weight loss. This result was similar to that in patients with BMI ≥ 32.5 and better than those with BMI 27.5-32.5 kg/m² receiving conventional antidiabetic therapy. A significant and similar reduction in BMI, waist circumference, SBP, serum LDL-C, hemoglobin A1c, and uric acid, as well as similar frequency postoperative adverse events, were confirmed in both metabolic surgery groups. Patients with BMI 27.5-32.5 kg/m² who had undergonemetabolic surgery showed more metabolic improvement than those only receiving medications but they experienced more adverse events.

CONCLUSION

A BMI cutoff of 27.5 kg/m² for metabolic surgery may be suitable for Chinese patients with T2DM.

Comparison of gastrojejunostomy techniques and anastomotic complications: a systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

There are several ways to perform the gastrojejunostomy (GJ) anastomosis in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). Surgeons typically use a variation of three techniques: Hand-sewn anastomosis (HSA), Linear stapled (LS) and Circular stapled anastomosis (CSA). The purpose of this literature review is to determine which of the GJ techniques, if any, is superior and results in the least amount of postoperative complications, with a specific focus on rates of marginal ulcers, postoperative bleeding, and strictures.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane electronic databases were consulted for studies on LRYGB procedures utilizing a GJ anastomosis, from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. Cochrane and PRISMA screening methods were used to select the studies.

RESULTS

Eleven studies published between 2015 and 2019 were selected and included 135,899 patients that underwent LRYGB with a GJ anastomosis. Sample sizes ranged from 114 to 49,331 patients. Four studies reported that CSA had statistically significant higher rates of marginal ulcers when compared to HSA and LS techniques. Three studies concluded that CSA had statistically significant higher rates of postoperative bleeding when compared to HSA and LS. Five studies observed that CSA had statistically significant higher rates of strictures when compared to HSA and LS techniques. There was no consensus whether HSA or LS was superior in terms of reduced postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed statistically significant increases in rates of postoperative bleeding, marginal ulcer, and strictures with the use of mechanical circular staplers at the GJ anastomosis in LRYGB. Based on our results, avoiding the use of mechanical circular staplers can result in fewer postoperative complications. Nevertheless, there are limitations to retrospective studies which may influence the results and therefore a randomized controlled trial directly comparing HSA, CSA, and LS should be performed to truly determine which technique is superior.

Argon plasma coagulation alone versus argon plasma coagulation plus full-thickness endoscopic suturing to treat weight regain after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a prospective randomized trial (with videos)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A significant number of patients regain weight after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Ablation with argon plasma coagulation (APC) plus endoscopic full-thickness suturing (FTS-APC) and ablation alone have been reported for treating weight regain when associated with gastrojejunostomy (GJ) dilation. However, comparative controlled data are still lacking.

METHODS

This was a pilot single-center open-label randomized trial comparing the effectiveness and safety of APC alone versus FTS-APC for transoral outlet reduction. Patients with at least 20% weight regain from the nadir, and GJ ≥15 mm were considered eligible. The primary outcome was percentage total weight loss (%TWL) at 12 months. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of adverse events, amelioration of metabolic laboratory parameters, and improvement in quality of life and eating behavior.

RESULTS

Forty patients meeting the eligibility criteria were enrolled from October 2017 to July 2018. Technical and clinical success rates were similar between the groups. At 12 months, the mean %TWL was 8.3% ± 5.5% in the APC alone group versus 7.5% ± 7.7% in the FTS-APC group (P = .71). The pre-revisional % solid gastric retention at 1 hour positively correlated with the probability of achieving ≥10% TWL at 12 months. Both groups experienced significant reductions in low-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels at 12 months, and improvement in eating behavior and quality of life at 3 months. There were 2 cases of stenoses (1 from each group), which were successfully treated with endoscopic balloon dilation.

CONCLUSION

APC alone is similar to FTS-APC in terms of technical and clinical outcomes within 1 year of follow-up. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT03094936.).

Older Age Confers a Higher Risk of 30-Day Morbidity and Mortality Following Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery: an Analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Quality Improvement Program

INTRODUCTION

There is a paucity of literature describing the association of age with the risk of adverse events following bariatric surgery. The purpose of this study is to investigate the association of age with 30-day morbidity and mortality following laparoscopic bariatric surgery using the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database.

METHODS

All adult patients undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNGYB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) were identified within the MBSAQIP database. Patients were divided into five equal age quintiles. Binary outcomes of interest, including cardiac, pulmonary, wound, septic, clotting, and renal events, in addition to the incidence of related 30-day unplanned reintervention, related 30-day mortality, and a composite morbidity and mortality outcome were compared across the age quintiles and procedures.

RESULTS

A total of 266,544 patients met inclusion criteria. Older age was associated with an increased risk of all morbidity outcomes except venous thromboembolism events, 30-day mortality, and the composite morbidity and mortality outcome. Patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass had worse outcomes per quintile for almost every outcome of interest when compared to patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy.

CONCLUSION

Older patients and patients who undergo Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are at an increased risk of perioperative morbidity and mortality following laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Additional studies are needed to determine the association of age with long-term weight loss and cardiometabolic comorbidity resolution following bariatric surgery in order to determine if the increased perioperative risk is offset by improved long-term outcomes in older patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass/Minigastric Bypass in Patients with BMI < 35 kg/m2 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Preliminary Report

INTRODUCTION

Obesity in the world has been increasing, and the number of diabetic patients will increase by 114%, and the best treatment results are achieved through surgery. Several techniques have been described; the gastric bypass of an anastomosis (MGB/OAGB) has been gaining popularity for its simplicity and good results. We present a prospective study with this technique in 16 mild obesity patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or peripheral insulin resistance.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate weight loss as well as metabolic changes by measuring fasting glycemia and Hb A1c after 1 year of follow-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sixteen patients were operated on with the OAGB/MGB technique from September 2014 to January 2016, with some form of metabolic syndrome, whether DM2, RPI, HBP, or dyslipidemia, including patients in the study with a follow-up of at least 12 months.

RESULTS

There were 13 cases of female sex and 3 of male, average age of 42.9 years, with an average weight of 87.7 kg and BMI of 32.2 kg/m². Metabolic values were fasting glycemia of 193.6 ± 52.9 mg/dl and HbA1c of 8.4% ± 1 (preop) and glycemia posop, 78.8 ± 7.6 mg/dl; HbA1c posop, 6.1 ± 0.2; preop weight, 87.7 ± 14 kg (69-116); weight posop, 66.8 ± 10.5 kg (49-90); BMI preop, 32.2 ± 1.8 (30-34.9); BMI posop, 25.4 ± 1.7 (21.7-27.6); percentage of excess weight lost, 87.6 ± 11.8 (70.9-100) % with 100% remission of diabetes.

CONCLUSION

The results show the benefits of MGB/OAGB in mild obese diabetic patients.

Bariatric Surgery Versus Lifestyle Intervention in Class I Obesity: 7-10-Year Results of a Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

The American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the International Federation of Surgery for Obesity (IFSO) have both stated that bariatric surgery (BS) should not be denied in Class I patients. However, lifestyle intervention (LI), such as diet plus gym programs, is still considered the preferred approach for subjects with a BMI ranging from 30 to 35 kg/m². The aim of this study was to retrospectively compare results of LI and BS in patients in Class I obesity.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of prospective maintained databases of two centers for the "Interdisciplinary Treatment of Obesity" was performed. All patients in Class I obesity and follow-up >7 years were included in the study. Subjects were divided into two groups: BS group that included patients who had undergone surgery and LI group that included patients who underwent lifestyle intervention (LI). Percentage of excess body mass index loss (%EBMIL) and comorbidities remission were recorded.

RESULTS

Seventy-six patients were included in the study. Fifty-six subjects were submitted to surgery (BS group); 20 subjects were treated with nonsurgical approach (LI group). In BS group, 34 underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, 13 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and 9 laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. EWL% resulted significantly higher in BS group at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 years (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery is more effective than LI for patients in Class I obesity. Due to its versatility, low-risk profile and high-effectiveness LSG could be the standard intervention for these patients.

Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Bariatric Surgery for Patients With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Cirrhosis

IMPORTANCE

Obesity is the most common risk factor for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the progressive form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease that can lead to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Weight loss can be an effective treatment for obesity and may slow the progression of advanced liver disease.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery in patients with NASH and compensated cirrhosis.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This economic evaluation study used a Markov-based state-transition model to simulate the benefits and risks of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG), laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (GB), and intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) compared with usual care in patients with NASH and compensated cirrhosis and varying baseline weight (overweight, mild obesity, moderate obesity, and severe obesity). Patients faced varied risks of perioperative mortality and complications depending on the type of surgery they underwent. Data were collected on March 22, 2017.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Life-years, quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), costs (in 2017 $US), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Demographic characteristics of the patient population were based on a previously published prospective study (n = 161). Patients in the model were 41.0% female, and the base case age was 54 years. Compared with usual care, SG was associated with an increase in QALYs of 0.263 to 1.180 (bounds of ranges represent overweight to severe obesity); GB, 0.263 to 1.207; and ILI, 0.004 to 0.216. Sleeve gastrectomy was also associated with an increase in life-years of 0.693 to 1.930; GB, 0.694 to 1.947; and ILI, 0.012 to 0.114. With usual care, expected life-years in overweight, mild obesity, moderate obesity, and severe obesity were 12.939, 11.949, 10.976, and 10.095, respectively. With usual care, QALY in overweight was 6.418; mild obesity, 5.790; moderate obesity, 5.186; and severe obesity, 4.577. Sleeve gastrectomy was the most cost-effective option for patients across all weight classes assessed: ICER for SG in patients with overweight was $66 119 per QALY; mild obesity, $18 716 per QALY; moderate obesity, $10 274 per QALY; and severe obesity, $6563 per QALY. A threshold analysis on the procedure cost of GB found that for GB to be cost-effective, the cost of the surgery must be decreased from its baseline value of $28 734 by $4889 for mild obesity, by $3189 for moderate obesity, and by $2289 for severe obesity. In overweight patients, GB involved fewer QALYs than SG, and thus decreasing the cost of surgery would not result in cost-effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Bariatric surgery could be highly cost-effective in patients with NASH compensated cirrhosis and obesity or overweight. The findings from this analysis suggest that it can inform clinical trials evaluating the effect of bariatric procedures in patients with NASH cirrhosis, including those with a lower body mass index.

Reduction in Comorbid Conditions Over 5 Years Following Bariatric Surgery in Medicaid and Commercially Insured Patients

OBJECTIVE

This study sought to determine changes in the prevalence of comorbid disease following bariatric surgery in Medicaid patients compared with commercially insured patients.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery, an observational cohort study of adults undergoing bariatric surgery at one of six geographically diverse centers in the United States. A total of 1,201 patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with 5 years of follow-up were identified. Poisson mixed models were used to estimate relative risks (RRs) and compare changes in common comorbidities between insurance groups within 0-1 and 1-5 years post surgery. Propensity scores were used to achieve balance in the baseline comorbidity burden between Medicaid and commercial patients.

RESULTS

In the first year, risk of all six comorbidities decreased substantially over time in both groups, ranging from a 32% to a 69% decrease from baseline. After 1 year post surgery, the risk of disease was stable in both groups (RRs ranged from 1.0 to 1.1). After propensity score weighting, the RRs in the first year were more similar in magnitude, while the RRs in the 1- to 5-year period were unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that Medicaid patients experience a medium-term reduction in comorbid disease after bariatric surgery.

Endoscopic Treatment of Weight Regain Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the most commonly performed bariatric procedure. Despite its high efficacy, some patients regain part of their lost weight. Several endoscopic therapies have been introduced as alternatives to treat weight regain, but most of the articles are relatively small with unclear long-term data. To systematically assess the efficacy of endoscopic therapies for weight regain after RYGB. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, OVID, CINAHL/EBSCo, LILACS/Bireme, and gray literature. Primary outcomes were absolute weight loss (AWL), excess weight loss (EWL), and total body weight loss (TBWL). Thirty-two studies were included in qualitative analysis. Twenty-six described full-thickness (FT) endoscopic suturing and pooled AWL, EWL, and TBWL at 3 months were 8.5 ± 2.9 kg, 21.6 ± 9.3%, and 7.3 ± 2.6%, respectively. At 6 months, they were 8.6 ± 3.5 kg, 23.7 ± 12.3%, and 8.0 ± 3.9%, respectively. At 12 months, they were 7.63 ± 4.3 kg, 16.9 ± 11.1%, and 6.6 ± 5.0%, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that all outcomes were significantly higher in the group with FT suturing combined with argon plasma coagulation (APC) (p < 0.0001). Meta-analysis included 15 FT studies and showed greater results. Three studies described superficial-thickness suturing with pooled AWL of 3.0 ± 3.8, 4.4 ± 0.07, and 3.7 ± 7.4 kg at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Two articles described APC alone with mean AWL of 15.4 ± 2.0 and 15.4 ± 9.1 kg at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Full-thickness suturing is effective at treating weight regain after RYGB. Performing APC prior to suturing seems to result in greater weight loss. Head-to-head studies are needed to confirm our results. Few studies adequately assess effectiveness of other endoscopic techniques.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Outcomes in Patients with BMI Between 30 and 35-3 Years of Follow-Up

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in patients with a BMI between 30 and 35 kg/m2 plus comorbidities has shown to be safe and effective. The purpose of this study is to describe our outcomes in this group of patients after 3 years of follow-up.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective descriptive analysis of patients with initial BMI between 30 and 35 kg/m2 plus comorbidities were submitted to LSG between 2006 and 2013. We analyzed gender, age, comorbidities, BMI, total weight loss (%TWL), excess weight loss (%EWL), comorbidity resolution, morbidity, and mortality. Postoperative success was defined as %TWL over 20% and EWL% over 50% maintained for at least 1 year and comorbidity remission with no need of medication.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 477 underwent a LSG in the above period and 252 met inclusion criteria; 188 (75%) were female and 64 (25%) were male. Median age was 39 years (15-70). Three-year follow-up was 43.9% (111 patients). Median preoperative BMI was 32.3 kg/m2 (30-34.3). Median postoperative %TWL was 12.9, 23.2, 28.2, 24.3, and 22.1% at 1, 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. %EWL was 42.88, 77.44, 98.42, 83.2, and 75.8%. Median surgical time was 86.9 min (40-120). There was comorbidity remission at 36 months. Insulin resistance was remitted in 89.4%, dyslipidemia 52%, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease 84.6%, hypertension 75%, and GERD 65%. T2DM had 60% of complete remission and 40% improvement. There were morbidity in six patients (2.4%), two reoperations, no leaks, and no mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Performing LSG in patients with grade I obesity is safe and effective. BMI should not be the only indicator to consider bariatric and metabolic surgery. We still require further studies and longer follow-up.

Esophagus-duodenum Gastric Bypass Surgery Improves Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Mice

Background

Despite of its significant therapeutic effects on obesity and metabolic diseases, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) has limited clinical application because of considerable impacts on the gastrointestinal structure and postoperative complications. This study aims to develop a simplified surgical approach with less damage and complication but efficient metabolic benefit.

Methods

The effects of Esophagus-Duodenum gastric bypass (EDGB) on body weight, food intake, glucose and lipid metabolism were compared to RYGB in mice.

Findings

EDGB is simple, has higher survival rate and less complication. Relative to RYGB, EDGB demonstrated modest body weight control, identical improvement of glucose and lipid metabolism in obese mice. Blood glucose increased significantly 15 and 30 min after oral glucose administration, then markedly decreased in both EDGB and RYGB groups relative to the sham surgery, indicating a quicker absorption of oral glucose and improvement in glucose uptake by insulin targeted tissues. Insulin sensitivity was identically improved. EDGB significantly decreased plasma and hepatic triglyceride levels, while increased browning in visceral and subcutaneous white adipose tissue to the extent identical to RYGB. Levels of ghrelin and nesfatin-1 increased significantly after EDGB and RYGB.

Interpretation

EDGB is a valuable model to study the metabolic benefit of bariatric surgery in mice.

•

Esophagus-Duodenum gastric bypass surgery is easier and safer to perform in mice.

•

Esophagus-Duodenum gastric bypass can produce a metabolic benefit as efficient as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

•

EDGB may serve as an alternative model to study the weight-loss-independent mechanisms for glycemic control.

A valuable bariatric surgery designated as esophagus-duodenum gastric bypass surgery is easier and safer to perform. Post-operative complications are rare and survival rate is higher. The benefits to reduce bodyweight and improve blood glucose are identical to the commonly used bariatric surgery named Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. In addition, esophagus-duodenum gastric bypass surgery improves lipid profile in the extent identical to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Our study indicates that esophagus-duodenum gastric bypass surgery may provide an alternative approach for the intervention of obesity, and its associated metabolic dysfunctions such as diabetes and fatty liver.

Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in 541 Consecutive Patients with Low Baseline Body Mass Index (30-35 kg/m2)

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is currently the leading bariatric procedure and targets, among other obesity classes, patients with BMI 30-35 kg/m², which are reaching alarming proportions.

METHODS

Between February 2010 and August 2015, data on 541 consecutive patients with BMI 30-35 kg/m² undergoing LSG were prospectively collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Mean age was 32 ± 8 years (13-65) and 419 (77.4 %) were women. Preoperative weight was 92.0 ± 8.8 kg (65-121) and BMI was 32.6 ± 1.5 kg/m² (30-35). Comorbidities were detected in 210 (39 %) patients. Operative time was 74 ± 12 min (40-110) and postoperative stay was 1.7 ± 0.22 days (1-3). There were no deaths, leaks, abscesses or strictures and the rate of hemorrhage was 1.2 %. At 1 year, 98 % were followed and BMI decreased to 24.7 ± 1.6, the percentage of total weight loss (% TWL) was 24.1 ± 4.7 while the percentage of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) reached 106.1 ± 24.1. At 5 years, 76 % of followed patients achieved a ≥50 % EBMIL.

CONCLUSION

With appropriate surgical expertise, LSG in patients with BMI 30-35 kg/m² achieved excellent outcomes with a zero fistula rate.

Bariatric surgery for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: A clinical and cost-effectiveness analysis

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) affects 2%-3% of the US population and is expected to become the leading indication for liver transplantation in the next decade. Bariatric surgery may be an effective but expensive treatment for NASH. Using a state-transition model, our analysis assessed the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of surgery to manage NASH. We simulated the benefits and harms of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery in patients defined by weight class (overweight, mild obesity, moderate obesity, and severe obesity) and fibrosis stage (F0-F3). Comparators included intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) and no treatment. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated. Our results showed that surgery and ILI in obese patients (with F0-F3) increased QALYs by 0.678-2.152 and 0.452-0.618, respectively, compared with no treatment. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for surgery in all F0-F3 patients with mild, moderate, or severe obesity were $48,836/QALY, $24,949/QALY, and $19,222/QALY, respectively. In overweight patients (with F0-F3), surgery increased QALYs by 0.050-0.824 and ILI increased QALYs by 0.031-0.164. In overweight patients, it was cost-effective to reserve treatment only for F3 patients; the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for providing surgery or ILI only to F3 patients were $30,484/QALY and $25,367/QALY, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgery was both effective and cost-effective for obese patients with NASH, regardless of fibrosis stage; in overweight patients, surgery increased QALYs for all patients regardless of fibrosis stage, but was cost-effective only for patients with F3 fibrosis; our results highlight the promise of bariatric surgery for treating NASH and underscore the need for clinical trials in this area. (Hepatology 2017;65:1156-1164).

THE ROLE OF METABOLIC SURGERY FOR PATIENTS WITH OBESITY GRADE I AND TYPE 2 DIABETES NOT CONTROLLED CLINICALLY

Introduction

Even considering the advance of the medical treatment in the last 20 years with new and more effective drugs, the outcomes are still disappointing as the control of obesity and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) with a large number of patients under the medical treatment still not reaching the desired outcomes.

Objective:

To present a Metabolic Risk Score to better guide the surgical indication for T2DM patients with body mass index (BMI) where surgery for obesity is still controversial.

Method:

Research was conducted in Pubmed, Medline, Pubmed Central, Scielo and Lilacs between 2003-2015 correlating headings: metabolic surgery, obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition, representatives of the societies involved, as an expert panel, issued opinions.

Results:

Forty-five related articles were analyzed by evidence-based medicine criteria. Grouped opinions sought to answer the following questions: Why metabolic and not bariatric surgery?; Mechanisms involved in glycemic control; BMI as a single criterion for surgical indication for uncontrolled T2DM; Results of metabolic surgery studies in BMI<35 kg/m²; Safety of metabolic surgery in patients with BMI<35 kg/m²; Long-term effects of surgery in patients with baseline BMI<35 kg/m² and Proposal for a Metabolic Risk Score.

Conclusion:

Metabolic surgery has well-defined mechanisms of action both in experimental and human studies. Gastrointestinal interventions in T2DM patients with IMC≤35 kg/m² has similar safety and efficacy when compared to groups with greater BMIs, leading to the improvement of diabetes in a superior manner than clinical treatment and lifestyle changes, in part through weight loss independent mechanisms . There is no correlation between baseline BMI and weight loss in the long term with the success rate after any surgical treatment. Gastrointestinal surgery treatment may be an option for patients with T2DM without adequate clinical control, with a BMI between 30 and 35, after thorough evaluation following the parameters detailed in Metabolic Risk Score defined by the surgical societies. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), because of its well known safety and efficacy and longer follow-up studies, is the main surgical technique indicated for patients eligible for surgery through the Metabolic Risk Score. The vertical sleeve gastrectomy may be considered if there is an absolute contraindication for the RYGB. T2DM patients should be evaluated by the multiprofessional team that will assess surgical eligibility, preoperative work up, follow up and long term monitoring for micro and macrovascular complications.

Bariatric surgery for obesity and metabolic disorders: state of the art

Obesity is one of the most important public health conditions worldwide. Bariatric surgery for severe obesity is an effective treatment that results in the improvement and remission of many obesity-related comorbidities, as well as providing sustained weight loss and improvement in quality of life. Contemporary bariatric operations include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric band and the duodenal switch. The vast majority of these procedures are now performed using laparoscopic technique, the main advantages of which include rapid recovery, the reduction of postoperative pain and the reduction of wound-related complications, compared with open surgery. Contemporary bariatric surgery is now safe, with a mortality of three in 1,000 patients; however, all bariatric operations are associated with their own unique short-term and long-term nutritional and procedural-related complications. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most studied metabolic disorder associated with obesity, with data demonstrating that improvement and remission of T2DM in patients with obesity is superior after bariatric surgery compared with conventional medical therapy. Bariatric surgery is now a part of some treatment algorithms for the medical management of patients with T2DM and severe obesity. New, minimally invasive and endoscopic devices for the treatment of obesity have now been approved in the USA, which will expand the treatment options for individuals with obesity.

Comprehensive Evaluation for Obesity: Beyond Body Mass Index

Many factors contribute to the diagnosis of obesity in a patient. Anthropometric measurements, such as the waist circumference and percentage of body fat, are used in the newly released obesity algorithm to risk stratify patients. Staging methods, which use the identification of comorbidities and disease burden to assess the severity of obesity, can result in treating a patient sooner than if the traditional body mass index is used. Obesity is a growing concern in the medical field, and providing additional avenues through which to diagnose obesity and address obesity-related health risks can improve prevention efforts and lead to expedited weight management. Obesity is a growing concern in the medical field, and providing additional avenues through which to diagnose obesity and address obesity-related health risks can improve prevention efforts and lead to expedited weight management.

Efficacy of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Mildly Obese Patients with Body Mass Index of 30-35 kg/m(2)

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has recently gained rapidly increasing popularity as a stand-alone procedure for the treatment of morbid obesity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of LSG in mildly obese patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30-35 kg/m(2).

METHODS

One hundred ninety-two patients who consecutively underwent LSG between April 2009 and December 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were classified into a lower BMI (30-35 kg/m(2)) and higher BMI group (>35 kg/m(2)). Demographics and surgical outcomes were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

Forty-nine patients (25.5 %) belonged to the lower BMI group, while the other 143 (74.5 %) to the higher BMI group. The preoperative BMI of each group was 32.7 ± 1.6 and 42.6 ± 6.6 kg/m(2), respectively. Severe complications requiring invasive intervention developed only in the higher BMI group (4/143, 2.8 %). The percent of excess weight loss (%EWL) in the lower BMI group was 86.1 % at mean follow-up of 24 months, which was significantly greater than in the higher BMI group (61.9 %, p<0.001). Serial follow-up showed that %EWL was significantly greater in the lower BMI group until 2 years postoperatively, and the difference became statistically insignificant thereafter. The resolution of comorbidities was observed in more than 80 % of the patients both in lower and higher BMI groups.

CONCLUSION

LSG achieved excellent outcomes without severe complications for mildly obese patients. LSG could serve as a safe and effective stand-alone procedure to achieve sustained weight loss and comorbidity resolution in patients with a lower BMI.

Endoscopic management of bariatric surgical complications

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Bariatric surgery is recognized as the most effective treatment against obesity as it results in significant weight reduction and a high rate of remission of obesity-related comorbidities. However, bariatric surgery is not uncommonly associated with complications and an endoscopic approach to management is preferred over surgical reintervention. This review illustrates the latest developments in the endoscopic management of bariatric surgical complications.

RECENT FINDINGS

For successful management of complications, precipitating and perpetuating factors must be addressed in addition to directing therapy at the target pathology. Endoscopy is well tolerated even in the acute postoperative setting when performed carefully with CO2 insufflation. Chronic proximal staple-line leaks/fistulas frequently do not respond to primary closure with diversion therapy, and a new technique of stricturotomy has been reported to improve outcomes. Innovations in the field of transoral endoscopic instruments have led to the development of a single-session entirely internal endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography by creating a gastrogastric anastomosis.

SUMMARY

Endoscopy allows for early diagnosis and prompt institution of therapy and should, therefore, be the first-line intervention in the management of complications of bariatric surgery in patients who do not need urgent surgical intervention. Computed tomography-guided drainage may be necessary in patients with drainable fluid collections.

VIDEO ABSTRACT

http://links.lww.com/COG/A11.

Bariatric surgery in class I obesity : a Position Statement from the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)

Class I obesity conveys an increased risk of comorbidities, impairs physical and mental health-related quality of life, and it is associated to an increased psychosocial burden, particularly in women. The need for effective and safe therapies for class I obesity is great and not yet met by nonsurgical approaches. Eligibility to bariatric surgery has been largely based on body mass index (BMI) cut points and limited to patients with more severe obesity levels. However, obese patients belonging to the same BMI class may have very different levels of health, risk, and impact of obesity on quality of life. Individual patients in class I obesity may have a comorbidity burden similar to, or greater than, patients with more severe obesity. Therefore, the denial of bariatric surgery to a patient with class I obesity suffering from a significant obesity-related health burden and not achieving weight control with nonsurgical therapy simply on the basis of the BMI level does not appear to be clinically justified. A clinical decision should be based on a more comprehensive evaluation of the patient's current global health and on a more reliable prediction of future morbidity and mortality. After a careful review of available data about safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in patients with class I obesity, this panel reached a consensus on ten clinical recommendations.

Bariatric surgery in 1119 patients with preoperative body mass index<35 (kg/m(2)): results at 1 year

BACKGROUND

The use of body mass index (BMI) as the only criterion to indicate bariatric surgery is currently under discussion. There is growing evidence that supports bariatric surgery in carefully selected patients with lower BMI.

OBJECTIVES

To report our experience in bariatric surgery in>1000 patients with BMI<35 kg/m(2) and their results at 1 year.

SETTING

University hospital (censored).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed in patients who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) with preoperative BMI<35 kg/m(2) from January 2008 to December 2011. Demographic and anthropometric data, preoperative co-morbidities, and perioperative variables were retrieved. Weight loss and co-morbidities progression were analyzed 1 year after surgery and compared among procedures. A P value<.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

We identified 1119 patients: mean age 38.8±11.4, 951 (85%) women, preoperative weight 87.5±9.3 kg and BMI 33.1 (31.9-34.1) kg/m(2). Preoperatively, 11.7% had type 2 diabetes mellitus, 25.9% arterial hypertension, 55.6% insulin resistance, and 53.2% dyslipidemia. In total, 283 patients (25.2%) underwent LRYGB and 836 (74.8%) SG. One year after surgery (follow-up: 66.67%) patients reached 24.5 (22.8-26.4) BMI and the percentage of excess of weight loss (%EWL) was 107.9±36.6%. Diabetes, hypertension, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia remission/improvement rates were 54/39%, 58/29%, 72/17%, and 54/30%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery in selected class I obesity patients can safely be performed. We have observed good results in terms of weight loss and co-morbidity improvement/remission. Long-term follow-up is required.

Controversies in bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

There are many controversies related to bariatric surgery. This review explores selected areas.

METHODS

A combination of randomized clinical trials (RCTs), systematic reviews and expert opinion have been brought together to highlight areas of importance or conflict.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Metabolic surgery is an increasingly preferred term rather than bariatric or obesity surgery. Reporting should be standardized to include appropriate weight measures, valid disease measures and data on loss to follow-up. There are many putative mechanisms of effect of key bariatric procedures, but satiety and early satiation appear central. Weight loss must be durable. Long-term outcome studies (more than 10-year follow-up) show that biliopancreatic diversion is most effective, with 72 per cent excess weight loss (EWL). Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) are equally effective, with 54 per cent EWL. There are no long-term data on vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Type II diabetes is a common and serious disease, usually associated with increased weight. Multiple RCTs have shown that bariatric surgery provides clear benefits over continuing with non-surgical therapies. The earlier the treatment, the more likely and durable will be the remission. Bariatric surgery should be available to all who are obese (body mass index over 30 kg/m(2) ). LAGB, a safe, effective, reversible outpatient procedure, is the author's preferred primary option.

Re-examining the BMI threshold for bariatric surgery in the USA

BACKGROUND

The optimal BMI threshold above which gastric bypass surgery should be offered to obese patients is controversial. The objective of this study was to compare the impact of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) vs. diet and exercise (D&E) on life expectancy to find the BMI at which patients experience an improvement in their life expectancy by undergoing surgery.

METHODS

A Markov state transition model was designed to implement a decision tree that simulated the lives of obese patients. Life expectancies following RYGB and 2 years of D&E were estimated and compared. Ten thousand patients' lives were simulated in each weight-loss intervention group in the model. In addition to base case analysis (45 kg/m(2) BMI pre-intervention), sensitivity analysis of initial BMI at the start of the study was completed. Markov model parameters were extracted from the literature.

RESULTS

The impact of RYGB on survival relative to D&E depended on the patient's initial BMI. Compared to patients who underwent 2 years of "optimal" diet and exercise (7 % total body weight loss/year), RYGB improved long-term survival for patients above a BMI of 31.3 kg/m(2).

CONCLUSIONS

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can improve long-term survival for patients with class I obesity. This study suggests that RYGB should not be reserved solely for patients with class II or III obesity.

Gastric band is safe and effective at three years in a national study subgroup of non-morbidly obese patients

AIM

To analyze the 3-year outcomes of lower body mass index (BMI) (<35 kg/m2) adjustable gastric band (AGB) recipients across multiple sites in the French health insurance system.

METHODS

From prospectively collected data on a cohort of 517 morbidly obese Swedish Adjustable Gastric Band® (SAGB) patients (Clinical Trials Web database, #NCT01183975), a retrospective analysis of a subgroup of 29 low-BMI patients was conducted. Patients had a severe obesity-related comorbidity, had undergone a prior bariatric procedure requiring reintervention, or had a maximum adult BMI≥40. Safety (mortality, adverse events) and effectiveness (BMI change, excess weight loss [EWL, %], total body weight loss [%TBWL], quality of life [QoL], and comorbidities) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Multiple surgical teams/sites enrolled patients and performed SAGB procedures between September 2, 2007 and April 30, 2008. Of 29 low-BMI patients (mean age, 41.3±10.3 years), 89.7% were female, and obesity duration was 13.6±7.3 years. Mean BMI was 31.5±3.7; there were 37 comorbidities in 15/29 patients. At 3-year follow-up, BMI was 29.4±4.9 (mean change, -2.3±6.2; P=0.069); total cohort EWL, 7.3±74.8%; TBWL, 6.2±18.8%; BMI≥30 to <35 EWL, 38.8±48.0%; there were 7 comorbidities in 15/29 patients (P<0.031). There were 20 adverse events in 13 patients (44.8%); SAGBs were retained in 25/29 (86.2%) at 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

In a retrospective analysis of a subgroup of BMI<35 kg/m2 patients, some following a prior bariatric procedure, SAGB was found to be safe and effective at 3-year follow-up.

Transcultural diabetes nutrition algorithm (tDNA): Venezuelan application

Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is a necessary component of comprehensive type 2 diabetes (T2D) management, but optimal outcomes require culturally-sensitive implementation. Accordingly, international experts created an evidence-based transcultural diabetes nutrition algorithm (tDNA) to improve understanding of MNT and to foster portability of current guidelines to various dysglycemic populations worldwide. This report details the development of tDNA-Venezuelan via analysis of region-specific cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, lifestyles, anthropometrics, and resultant tDNA algorithmic modifications. Specific recommendations include: screening for prediabetes (for biochemical monitoring and lifestyle counseling); detecting obesity using Latin American cutoffs for waist circumference and Venezuelan cutoffs for BMI; prescribing MNT to people with prediabetes, T2D, or high CVD risk; specifying control goals in prediabetes and T2D; and describing regional differences in prevalence of CVD risk and lifestyle. Venezuelan deliberations involved evaluating typical food-based eating patterns, correcting improper dietary habits through adaptation of the Mediterranean diet with local foods, developing local recommendations for physical activity, avoiding stigmatizing obesity as a cosmetic problem, avoiding misuse of insulin and metformin, circumscribing bariatric surgery to appropriate indications, and using integrated health service networks to implement tDNA. Finally, further research, national surveys, and validation protocols focusing on CVD risk reduction in Venezuelan populations are necessary.

Intensive medical weight loss or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in the treatment of mild to moderate obesity: long-term follow-up of a prospective randomised trial

BACKGROUND

Proven short-term effectiveness of obesity therapy should be re-evaluated in the long-term. The objective of this paper is to determine the long-term (10 years) outcome for patients from a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

METHODS

A RCT in 2002 compared laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) for obesity with non-surgical therapy. Follow-up has been conducted at 10 years. Eighty patients (BMI 30-35) were randomised to a non-surgical or a surgical program. Outcome data are available on 37 (92.5 %) of the surgical patients and 27 (62.5 %) of the non-surgical patients at 10 years.

RESULTS

Weight change, the metabolic syndrome, quality of life, adverse events and direct costs of the surgical cohort were the main results of the study. A durable weight loss is present in the surgical group with a mean (SD) 10-year weight loss of 14.1 (7.7) kg (63.4 % EWL), better than the non-surgical group (mean (SD) = 0.4 (10.5) kg; p < 0.001). The metabolic syndrome was reduced from 14 to 4 of the 37 patients who completed 10 years within the LAGB groups. Proximal gastric enlargements occurred in 17 (30 %) of the 57 who had LAGB and removal of the band occurred in 7 (12 %). The annual maintenance costs including additional surgery was AUD $765 per patient per year.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery with the LAGB can achieve long-term weight reduction which is better than a program of non-surgical therapy. There is also a sustained reduction of the metabolic syndrome. There is a significant maintenance requirement after LAGB.