Patient predictors of follow-up care attendance in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients

Study protocol for a non-inferiority, multicenter, randomized study to evaluate a smartphone app-based follow-up program after bariatric surgery (BELLA plus trial)

INTRODUCTION

Adherence to follow-up (FU) care after bariatric surgery is poor despite strong recommendations. In our pilot Bella trial, we demonstrated that a completely remote follow-up program via smartphone is feasible and safe for patients after bariatric surgery. Building on this, we aim to verify our results in a multicenter, randomized controlled setting.

METHODS

This trial plans to enroll 410 participants undergoing primary bariatric surgery in seven German bariatric centers. Participants are randomized into two groups: a control group receiving in-person FU according to the standard in the bariatric centers, and an interventional group monitored using a smartphone application (app). The app sends standardized questionnaires and reminders regarding regular vitamin intake and exercises. The built-in messaging function enables patients to communicate remotely with medical care professionals. After one year, all participants are evaluated at their primary bariatric centers. The primary outcome is weight loss 12 months after surgery. The secondary outcomes include obesity-related comorbidities, quality of life, serum values of vitamins and minerals, body impedance analysis, visits to the emergency department or readmission, patient compliance, and medical staff workload.

DISCUSSION

The current study is the first prospective, individually randomized-controlled, multicenter trial where a mobile application completely replaces traditional in-person visits for post-bariatric surgery follow-ups in bariatric centers.

Patient proximity to follow-up care after bariatric surgery: Does it matter?

One factor that may play a significant role in the follow-up care compliance and long-term weight loss of post-bariatric surgery patients is the geographical distance from the surgery center to the patient's home address. This is a retrospective review which aims to evaluate whether the distance from a patient's home address to two Gundersen Health System (GHS) facilities (La Crosse and Onalaska, Wisconsin) is predictive of follow-up appointment compliance and subsequent long-term weight loss. 1336 patients undergoing bariatric surgery at GHS between October 15, 2013 and Dec 31, 2022 were included. Patients were grouped according to the distance between their home addresses and GHS with 60 ​% of patients living less than 30 miles from GHS, 33 ​% living 30 to 60 miles from GHS, and the remaining 7.3 ​% living >60 miles away. No significant difference was observed in the distribution of patients falling short, meeting, or exceeding the recommended number of post-operative appointments with a surgery provider based on proximity (p ​= ​0.10). As distance increased, the number of nutrition and behavioral health appointments completed per year decreased [nutrition/dietary appointments (p ​= ​0.046); behavioral health appointments (p ​= ​0.040)]. The pattern of percent excess weight loss (%EWL) over time was significantly different based on distance from home (p ​< ​0.001). Specifically, we found a similar %EWL among all groups in the first year post-operatively but an 18.8 ​% higher %EWL in the >60-mile group compared to the <60-mile group at 5 years (SE ​= ​5.4, P ​= ​0.0014). The lower number of post-op nutrition and behavioral health visits among patients living farther from the surgery center was an expected result, given potentially greater inconvenience of follow-up appointments for these patients. However, there was a paradoxical finding of significantly increased %EWL among patients living >60 miles from the surgery center. Greater distance from the bariatric surgical center was therefore not found to represent a barrier to favorable weight loss outcomes.

Exploring Social Support Dynamics After Bariatric Surgery: Insights From Patients and Providers

INTRODUCTION

Weight loss after bariatric surgery is impacted by several factors, and social support is one of them. Our objective was to characterize patient and provider perceptions about social support after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

We reported a secondary analysis of qualitative data acquired from semi-structured interviews conducted from January-November 2020 with bariatric surgery patients and providers. Participants included primary care providers, health psychologists, registered dietitians, bariatric surgeons, and patients with at least 1 y of follow-up after their bariatric procedure. Interview guides were designed using a hybrid of Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services and Torain's Framework for Surgical Disparities. Using directed content analysis, study team members generated codes, which were categorized into themes about social support pertaining to dietary habits, physical activity, and follow-up care.

RESULTS

Forty-five participants were interviewed, including 24 patients (83% female; 79% White; mean age 50.6 ± 10.7 y) and 21 providers (six primary care providers, four health psychologists, five registered dieticians, and six bariatric surgeons). We identified four themes relating to social support affecting weight loss after surgery: (1) family involvement in helping patients adjust to the bariatric diet, (2) engagement in activities with partners/friends, (3) help with transportation to appointments, and (4) life stressors experienced by patients within their social relationships.

CONCLUSIONS

Continued assessment of interpersonal factors after bariatric surgery is essential for weight loss maintenance. Providers can contribute by reinforcing the facilitators of social support and making referrals that may help patients overcome barriers to social support for sustained weight loss after surgery.

Factors Impacting One-year Follow-up Visit Adherence after Bariatric Surgery in West China: A Mixed Methods Study

PURPOSE

Quality follow-up (FU) is crucial after bariatric surgery. However, poor adherence after surgery is prevalent. This research aimed to explore the factors related to FU adherence after bariatric surgery in West China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design. Participants (n = 177) were identified from the West China Hospital. Demographic information, disease profile, treatment information, and post-surgery FU information were obtained from the bariatric surgery database of the Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery of the West China Hospital. The survey data were analyzed using logistic regression. Semi-structured interviews with participants (n = 10) who had low adherence were conducted. The recording was transcribed verbatim and entered into qualitative data analysis software. Qualitative data were analyzed using a content analysis approach.

RESULTS

Multiple logistic regression revealed that living in Chengdu (OR, 2.308), being employed (OR, 2.532), non-smoking (OR, 2.805), and having less than five years of obesity (OR, 2.480) were positive predictors of FU adherence within one year. Semi-structured interviews suggested that factors related to adherence to FU were lack of motivation, lack of opportunity, insufficient ability, and beliefs regarding consequences.

CONCLUSION

Factors impacting one-year FU visit adherence after bariatric surgery include not only demographic and disease-related factors but also social and family factors. These results will provide evidence to support healthcare professionals in developing personalized postoperative FU management strategies.

Enhancing Clinical Success Through Intensive Dietary Support in Bariatric Patients: a Retrospective Study in Asian Population

BACKGROUND

Weight loss surgery is an established intervention for obesity and related conditions, ensuring sustained weight reduction and improved comorbidities. Post-bariatric surgery, maintaining nutritional adequacy and weight loss necessitates ongoing, intensive dietary support. This research aims to discern the impact of standard care vs. intensive dietary support on outcomes following bariatric surgery within an Asian demographic. This study aims to research the part that intensive dietary support plays in contrast to standard care in altering weight loss and BMI change following bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of medical records from a Malaysian tertiary care hospital documented bariatric surgeries conducted from January 2020 to January 2022. Rigorous criteria selected 200 patients from 327, evenly split between standard care and intensive dietary support groups. The latter underwent six mandatory visits with a surgeon and a dietitian in the initial 3 months post-surgery. A dual-review mechanism was implemented for data interpretation, increasing robustness, and reducing biases in our findings.

RESULTS

At 6 and 12 months, the intensive dietary support group exhibited significantly greater weight loss and BMI reduction (p < 0.01). Postoperative complications did not significantly differ between groups.

CONCLUSION

In an Asian population, intensive dietary support enhances weight loss and BMI reduction compared to standard care after bariatric surgery.

Psychological predictors of adherence to lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery: A systematic review

Objective

Adherence to lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery is associated with better health outcomes; however, research suggests that patients struggle to follow post-operative recommendations. This systematic review aimed to examine psychological factors associated with adherence after bariatric surgery.

Methods

PubMed, PsycInfo, and Embase were searched (from earliest searchable to August 2022) to identify studies that reported on clinically modifiable psychological factors related to adherence after bariatric surgery. Retrieved abstracts (n = 891) were screened and coded by two raters.

Results

A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the narrative synthesis. Appointment attendance and dietary recommendations were the most frequently studied post-operative instructions. Higher self-efficacy was consistently predictive of better post-operative adherence to diet and physical activity, while pre-operative depressive symptoms were commonly associated with poorer adherence to appointments, diet, and physical activity. Findings were less inconsistent for anxiety and other psychiatric conditions.

Conclusions

This systematic review identified that psychological factors such as mood disorders and patients' beliefs/attitudes are associated with adherence to lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery. These factors can be addressed with psychological interventions; therefore, they are important to consider in patient care after bariatric surgery. Future research should further examine psychological predictors of adherence with the aim of informing interventions to support recommended lifestyle changes.

Factors Associated With Loss to Follow-up After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Purpose

After bariatric surgery, postoperative follow-up is important for evaluating long-term outcomes, such as successful weight loss and improvement of metabolic parameters. However, many patients are lost to follow-up within 1 year. This study aimed to identify the follow-up rate of bariatric surgery and predictive factors of loss to follow-up (LTF).

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 61 patients receiving bariatric surgery for obesity (laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy; LSG group) and 872 for early gastric cancer (EGC group) from November 2018 to July 2020 in a single center. After 1:1 matching, we compared the LTF rate. In the LSG group, we analyzed the factors associated with LTF. Additionally, we collected weight data in the LTF group by a telephone survey.

Results

By 1:1 matching, 47 patients for each group were identified. The LTF rates of the LSG and EGC groups were 34.0% (16 patients) and 2.1% (one patient), respectively (P=0.0003). In the LSG group, the LTF rate increased over the postoperative month. Of the patients, 29.5% who missed a scheduled appointment within one year comprised the LTF group. In the analysis, no significant factors associated with LTF were identified. The only factor with borderline significance was dyslipidemia with medication (P=0.094).

Conclusion

The LSG group demonstrated a high LTF rate, although adherence to follow-up was closely related to postoperative outcomes. Therefore, educating patients on the significance of follow-up is important. Particularly, continuous efforts to identify the associated factors and develop a multidisciplinary management protocol after bariatric surgery are necessary.

Remote Follow-up with a Mobile Application Is Equal to Traditional Outpatient Follow-up After Bariatric Surgery: the BELLA Pilot Trial

PURPOSE

Medical follow-up after bariatric surgery is recommended. However, the compliance was poor. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a smartphone-based fully remote follow-up (FU) program for patients after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

In the interventional group, patients were followed up using a smartphone application (app), through which questionnaires were sent regularly. Participants in the control group underwent standard FU at the outpatient clinic every three months. After 12 months, all the participants were evaluated at an outpatient clinic.

RESULTS

Between August 2020 and March 2021, 44 and 43 patients in the interventional and control groups, respectively, were included in the analysis after three patients were lost to FU, and three withdrew their informed consent because they wished for more personal contact with medical caregivers. After 12 months, total weight loss (TWL), %TWL, and percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) did not differ between groups. There were no significant differences in the complication rates, including surgical complications, malnutrition, and micronutrition deficiency. The parameters of bioelectrical impedance analysis and quality of life did not differ between the groups. Vitamins and minerals in serum were similar in both groups except for calcium, which was significantly higher in the interventional group (2.52 mmol/L vs. 2.35 mmol/L, p = 0.038).

CONCLUSION

Fully remote FU with a smartphone application is at least as effective as traditional in-person FU in an outpatient clinic after bariatric surgery. Through remote FU, patients can save time and medical professionals may have more resources for patients with more severe problems.

Determinants of Patient's Adherence to the Predefined Follow-up Visits After Bariatric Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Multidisciplinary care after bariatric surgery is essential for long-term safety and optimal weight loss. However, many patients do not participate in routine postoperative follow-ups. We have explored the determinants of patients' adherence to scheduled follow-up visits after bariatric surgery.

METHOD

A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients who underwent bariatric surgery from 2009 to 2019. Cohort participants with a proportion of attendance above the median were compared with those below the median in the first-year post-operation and the period after that. We assumed that the contribution of each predefined session to the overall attendance at eligible sessions is not equal. We weighted each predefined session by the proportion of attendance of all cohort members scheduled for that session. We then calculated the proportion of attendance for each individual at each period. Discriminatory logistic regression was used to identify factors separating adherers from non-adherers.

RESULTS

We followed 5245 patients who underwent bariatric surgery for up to 10 years. The median follow-up was 2 years. Patients with the following characteristics were more likely to comply with the postoperative attendance schedule: female sex, older age, higher body mass index at the first visit, non-smoker, readmission after surgery, being operated in a general hospital, and one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery type. Comorbidities did not significantly affect patients' adherence to the predefined follow-up schedules.

CONCLUSION

Younger male smokers are more likely non-adherers. Patients with comorbidities are not at an increased risk of missing predefined postoperative follow-up visits.

Analysis of the Lack of Follow-Up of Bariatric Surgery Patients: Experience of a Reference Center

Few studies have evaluated the association between non-clinical and clinical determinants in terms of discontinuing follow-up after bariatric surgery. This cohort study aims to assess these associations. Data were collected from a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery from January 2012 to December 2019. The Cox model was used to assess the influence of preoperative determinants on follow-up interruptions for more than one year. Multilevel logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between clinical factors and post-operative weight loss with the regularity of follow-up. During the study period, 9607 consultations were performed on 1549 patients. The factors associated with a follow-up interruption from more than 365 days included male gender (HR = 1.323; CI = 1.146−1.527; p = 0.001) and more recent years of intervention (HR = 1.043; CI = 1.012−1.076; p = 0.0068). Revisional bariatric surgery was associated with a lower risk of follow-up interruption (HR = 0.753; CI = 0.619−0.916; p = 0.0045). Independent risk factors of an irregular follow up were higher age (HR = 1.01; CI = 1.002−1.017; p = 0.0086); male gender (OR = 1.272; CI = 1.047−1.545; p = 0.0153); and higher %TWL (Total Weight Loss) (OR = 1.040 CI = 1.033−1.048 p < 0.0001). A higher preoperative BMI (OR = 0.985; CI = 0.972−0.998; p = 0.0263) and revisional surgery (OR = 0.707; CI = 0.543−0.922; p = 0.0106) were protective factors of irregularity. This study suggests that the male gender and most recent dates of surgery are the two independent risk factors for follow-up interruption. Older age, male gender, and higher weight loss were all independent risk factors of an irregular follow-up. Revision bariatric surgery is a protective factor against interruption and irregular follow-up with a higher preoperative BMI. Further studies are needed to obtain long-term results in these patients with discontinued follow-ups.

Adherence of Obese Patients from Poland and Germany and Its Impact on the Effectiveness of Morbid Obesity Treatment

This study aimed to investigate and compare the adherence of patients treated for morbid obesity living in Poland and Germany. Methods: A cross-sectional international multicenter survey design was adopted. The study involved 564 adult subjects treated for morbid obesity at selected healthcare facilities in Germany (210 participants) and Poland (354 participants). A validated, custom-made questionnaire based on the literature related to this issue was used. Results: The degree of adherence was higher, but not statistically significant, among Polish patients (83.82% vs. 78.33%, p = 0.26140). Patient adherence was associated with gender, age, level of education, duration of obesity, number of health professionals involved in obesity treatment, and type of obesity treatment (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed in the case of age, level of education, and a growing number of health professionals involved in obesity treatment, whereas a negative correlation was observed in the case of the duration of obesity. Patients who underwent bariatric surgery significantly more often followed medical recommendations regarding lifestyle changes, compared to obese participants treated only conservatively. Adherence in the field of obesity treatment significantly increases the percentage of total weight loss and excess weight loss due to applied obesity treatment among both Polish and German groups (p < 0.001). Both the percentage of total weight loss and that of excess weight loss were significantly higher in the group of adherent patients compared to the nonadherent patients (p < 0.00001). The levels of perceived anxiety, stress, and depression were significantly higher in nonadherent patients in both countries. Conclusions: These findings confirm the role of adherence in the effective and satisfactory treatment of morbid obesity. There is a great need to improve patient adherence to overcome the consequences of the obesity pandemic.

S157-a structured early intervention program in patients with predicted poor long-term outcome following bariatric surgery: a prospective randomized study

BACKGROUND

Early postoperative weight loss can be predictive of one-year outcomes. It is unclear if poor performers identified in the first post-operative month can have improvement in outcomes with additional support and education.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact of a structured targeted support program for patients with lower-than-average early post-operative weight loss on 1-year outcomes.

METHODS

This was a prospective randomized study of bariatric surgery patients who experienced less than 50th percentile excess body weight loss (%EWL) at 3 weeks. Subjects with EWL < 18% were randomized into two groups: an intervention (IV) arm or a control (NI, no intervention) arm. The IV arm was offered a program with 7-weekly behavioral support sessions, while the NI patients received routine post-operative care.

RESULTS

A total of 128 patients were randomized: 65 NI and 63 IV. In the IV group, 20 attended all sessions, 7 attended < 4, and 36 did not participate. There was no difference in baseline demographics, procedure type, or BMI. At 1 year, there was no difference in %EWL (ratio 0.993, 95% CI 0.873, 1.131), %EBMIL (ratio 0.997, 95% CI 0.875, 1.137), and %TWL (ratio 1.016, 95% CI 0.901, 1.146) between groups. A subgroup analysis including only the subjects who participated in all seven sessions showed similar results.

CONCLUSION

Patients who present with suboptimal weight loss early after bariatric surgery do not experience a significant weight loss improvement with a structured behavioral support program. Importantly, despite being alerted to their poor early weight loss, patients demonstrated poor adherence to the proposed interventions.

Designing Digital Health Technology to Support Patients Before and After Bariatric Surgery: Qualitative Study Exploring Patient Desires, Suggestions, and Reflections to Support Lifestyle Behavior Change

Background

A patient’s capability, motivation, and opportunity to change their lifestyle are determinants of successful outcomes following bariatric surgery. Lifestyle changes before and after surgery, including improved dietary intake and physical activity levels, have been associated with greater postsurgical weight loss and improved long-term health. Integrating patient-centered digital technologies within the bariatric surgical pathway could form part of an innovative strategy to promote and sustain healthier behaviors, and provide holistic patient support, to improve surgical success. Previous research focused on implementing digital technologies and measuring effectiveness in surgical cohorts. However, there is limited work concerning the desires, suggestions, and reflections of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. This qualitative investigation explores patients’ perspectives on technology features that would support behavior changes during the pre- and postoperative periods, to potentially maintain long-term healthy lifestyles following surgery.

Objective

This study aims to understand how digital technologies can be used to support patient care during the perioperative journey to improve weight loss outcomes and surgical success, focusing on what patients want from digital technologies, how they want to use them, and when they would be of most benefit during their surgical journey.

Methods

Patients attending bariatric surgery clinics in one hospital in the North of England were invited to participate. Semistructured interviews were conducted with purposively sampled pre- and postoperative patients to discuss lifestyle changes and the use of digital technologies to complement their care. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Reflexive thematic analysis enabled the development of themes from the data. Ethical approval was obtained from the National Health Service Health Research Authority.

Results

A total of 20 patients were interviewed (preoperative phase: 40% (8/20); postoperative phase: 60% (12/20). A total of 4 overarching themes were developed and related to the optimization of technology functionality. These centered on providing tailored content and support; facilitating self-monitoring and goal setting; delivering information in an accessible, trusted, and usable manner; and meeting patient information-seeking and engagement needs during the surgical pathway. Functionalities that delivered personalized feedback and postoperative follow-up were considered beneficial. Individualized goal setting functionality could support a generation of digitally engaged patients with bariatric conditions as working toward achievable targets was deemed an effective strategy for motivating behavior change. The creation of digital package of care checklists between patients and clinicians was a novel finding from this study.

Conclusions

Perceptions of patients undergoing bariatric surgery validated the integration of digital technologies within the surgical pathway, offering enhanced connectedness and support. Recommendations are made relating to the design, content, and functionality of digital interventions to best address the needs of this cohort. These findings have the potential to influence the co-design and integration of person-centered, perioperative technologies.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Versus Sleeve Gastrectomy in Young Adults: a Dutch Registry Study

BACKGROUND

The most commonly performed bariatric procedures worldwide are Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG), yet outcomes following these procedures in young adults are limited. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare weight loss outcomes between RYGB and SG in young adults.

METHODS

This is a nationwide retrospective cohort study of young adults, aged 18-25 years, who underwent RYGB or SG between 2015 and 2019, with data from the Dutch Audit Treatment of Obesity (DATO). The primary outcome was weight loss expressed as percentage total weight loss (%TWL) in a period of 3 years after surgery. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of complications (< 30 days) and progression of obesity-related comorbidities.

RESULTS

In total, 2313 patients were included, 1246 in the RYGB group and 1067 in the SG group. Percentage TWL was significantly higher in the RYGB group compared to the SG group at 1, 2, and 3 years after surgery (respectively 2.4%, 2.9%, and 3.3% higher, p < 0.001). RYGB was associated with an on-average 2.75 higher %TWL compared to SG in females (p < 0.001), although this was not seen in males (β = 0.63, p = 0.514). No differences were found in the incidence of complications, nor the progression of obesity-related comorbidities except for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). There was more improvement or resolution of GERD in the RYGB group (95.2% vs. 56.3%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Similar numbers of RYGB and SG were performed in young adults, whereas RYGB was associated with greater weight loss in the short- and midterm, particularly in females.

Is Adherence to Follow-Up After Bariatric Surgery Necessary? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The association of adherence to follow-up (FU) after laparoscopic gastric bypass — and gastric sleeve with weight loss (WL) is unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate this association. Fourteen full text articles were included in the systematic review. Eight studies were included in the meta-analysis concerning FU up to 3 years postoperatively and 3 for the FU between 3 and 10 years postoperatively. Results showed a significant association between adherence to FU 0.5 to 3 years postoperatively and percentage excess WL (%EWL) but did not demonstrate a significant association between FU > 3 years postoperatively and total WL (%TWL). In conclusion, adherence to FU may not be associated with WL and therefore stringent lifelong FU in its current form should be evaluated.

Predictors of 30-day follow-up visit completion after primary bariatric surgery: an analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program data registry

BACKGROUND

Adherence to follow-up visits is often unsatisfactory after bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVES

To identify predictors, including surgery type and preoperative demographics, body mass index (BMI), medical conditions, and smoking status, of 30-day follow-up visit completion.

SETTING

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program participating centers (2015-2018).

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy were included in this analysis. Data were analyzed using weighted logistic regression. Subanalyses included stratification of the sample by sex and age (<45, 45-60, and >60 years).

RESULTS

Patients (n = 566,774) were predominantly female (79.6%), White (72.4%), non-Hispanic (77.9%), and middle-aged (44.5 ± 11.9 years), with a mean BMI of 45.3 ± 7.8 kg/m². More than 95% of patients completed the 30-day visits. In the whole-sample analysis, older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.02) and the presence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes (OR, 1.04), hypertension (OR, 1.03), hyperlipidemia (OR, 1.10), obstructive sleep apnea (OR, 1.15), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR, 1.16) were positive predictors of the 30-day visit completion (P_s < .01). Conversely, sleeve gastrectomy procedure (OR, .86), Black race (OR, .87), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, .94), and the presence of insulin-dependent diabetes (OR, .96) and smoking (OR, .83) were negative predictors (P_s < .01). Several differences emerged in subanalyses. For example, in sex stratification, Hispanic ethnicity lost its significance in men. In age stratification, BMI and male sex emerged as positive predictors in the age groups of <45 and 45-60 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although challenged by small effect sizes, this analysis identified subgroups at a higher risk of being lost to follow-up after bariatric surgery.

Five-year attrition, active enrollment, and predictors of level of participation in the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (LABS-2) study

BACKGROUND

Reporting high-quality bariatric surgery outcomes depends on participant attrition and level of study participation among enrolled participants.

OBJECTIVES

Our aims are to report participant attrition, active enrollment, and level of participation, and to evaluate pre-surgery sociodemographic, physical health, and psychosocial factors as predictors of attrition and level of participation through 5 years.

SETTING

The Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery-2 study which enrolled 2458 adults undergoing a first bariatric surgical procedure at 1 of 6 US cites from 2006 through 2009.

METHODS

In-person research assessments were conducted pre-surgery and annually for five years. Extensive retention strategies including offering remote assessments (telephone, email, mail, or a combination) were fully implemented in 2009. Among living participants, including those inactivated, annual follow-up assessments were categorized as in-person, remote or missed through 5 years.

RESULTS

By year 5, 1.7% of participants had died and 3.2% had withdrawn or were inactivated by the study staff; thus, attrition was 4.9% (n = 121). Controlling for site and calendar year, missed assessments increased from 14.7%-21.8% between years 1 and 2 and then stayed relatively stable (20.8%-19.6%) for years 3-5. Younger age, male sex, White race, lower body mass index, smoking, illicit drug use, and higher weight loss expectations preoperatively were independently associated with a higher likelihood of a missed versus in-person assessment across follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The LABS-2 participant attrition was low. The percentage of missed assessments did not increase after year 2, perhaps due to implementation of a comprehensive retention plan. Predictors of missed assessments highlight subgroups to target for focused retention efforts.

Impact of Self-Monitoring on Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Weight loss after bariatric surgery varies among patients. Patients who do not comply with self-monitoring are predicted to lose less weight than those who comply with self-monitoring.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effect of compliance with self-monitoring behavior on long-term %excess weight loss (%EWL) and %total weight loss (%TWL) among patients receiving laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).

METHODS

We used retrospective analysis to evaluate the self-monitoring behavior of patients and their weight changes throughout a 2-year follow-up. The participants were divided into two groups: group 1 consisted of participants who kept self-monitoring behavior records for all follow-ups and group 2 consisted of participants who kept self-monitoring behavior records for only six months of follow-up. Our investigators used telephone interviews to collect the data. By comparing %EWL and %TWL, we assessed the possible relationship between the long-term self-monitoring behavior, weight loss outcome, and operation type.

RESULTS

There were 384 included samples. %EWL was significantly different between group 1 and group 2, and group 1 participants had better outcomes regardless of operational method. In group 2, LRYGB patients had better %EWL outcomes than LSG patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with long-term self-monitoring behaviors have better %EWL and %TWL. Patients in LRYGB group had better weight loss outcomes than the LSG group.

Early postoperative follow-up reduces risk of late severe nutritional complications after Roux-En-Y gastric bypass: a population based study

BACKGROUND

Severe nutritional complications can occur following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Adherence to follow-up visits can reduce the risk of many bariatric surgery complications, but whether this applies to severe nutritional complications is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

Determine the association between adherence to follow-up visits after RYGB and risk of severe nutritional complications.

SETTING

Multicenter publicly-funded Ontario Bariatric Network.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of Ontario adults participating in the Ontario Bariatric Registry who underwent RYGB between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2015. The primary outcome was a severe nutritional complication (hospital admission with malnutrition or nutrient deficiency) occurring 1 year or more after RYGB. The primary exposure was adherence to postoperative follow-up visits, occurring at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively, and categorized as perfect (3 visits), partial (1-2 visits), or none. Cox proportional hazards modeling quantified the association between adherence to follow-up visits and the primary outcome using hazard ratios (HR).

RESULTS

In total, 9105 adults (84% female, age 44.7 ± 10.3 yr) met study criteria. Mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 48.6 kg/m². First year follow-up attendance was: 51.7% perfect, 31.6% partial, and 16.7% none. Median time in the study was 3.4 years. Severe nutritional complications occurred in 1.1% of patients. Compared with perfect follow-up, patients with no follow-up (HR 3.09, 95% CI 1.74-5.50) and partial follow-up (HR 1.94, 95% CI 1.25-3.03) had an increased risk of severe nutritional complications.

CONCLUSION

Adherence to follow-up visits during the first year after RYGB is independently associated with reduction in the risk of subsequent severe nutritional complications.

Predictors of early withdrawal from follow-up visits after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in a Japanese institution

PURPOSE

Postoperative weight loss is related to postoperative adherence to follow-up after bariatric/metabolic surgery, but many patients stop attending follow-up visits early. The aim of this study was to clarify predictors of early withdrawal from follow-up after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in a Japanese institution.

METHODS

One hundred and fifty-three patients who underwent LSG were retrospectively included in this study. Multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate independent predictors of withdrawal from follow-up visits within 12 months after LSG among significant or nearly significant factors in the univariate analyses. The discrimination power of significant factors was estimated using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Within 12 months after LSG, 25 of the 153 patients withdrew from follow-up visits. The multivariate analysis showed that age was the only significant predictor of withdrawal. The AUC for age was 0.685, and the cut-off value was < 40 years. The younger patients (< 40 years old) had a significantly higher rate of withdrawal compared with the older patients (≥ 40 years) (27.0% vs. 8.9%).

CONCLUSION

Older Japanese patients (≥ 40 years old) may be better candidates for LSG. We consider it significant to continue to emphasize the importance of follow-up visits in younger patients after LSG.

Sociodemographic Factors Associated with Loss to Follow-Up After Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE

Despite the importance of follow-up and multidisciplinary care after bariatric surgery, many patients do not attend postoperative appointments, particularly those with the medical team. The present study aimed to identify factors associated with loss to follow-up after bariatric surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We recruited patients who underwent bariatric surgery between 01/01/2012 and 31/12/2013. Data were collected on demographic and socioeconomic information and comorbidities. Ten baseline psychological evaluations were blindly reviewed to evaluate the relationship between emotions and compliance with follow-up. During the 3-year postoperative period, we defined frequent attendees as those who attended at least two visits, whereas non-attendees were those who attended one visit or none. We evaluated baseline variables associated with non-adherence with follow-up schedules.

RESULTS

Among 92 patients, 41 patients (44.6%) attended at least two postoperative appointments, while 51 (55.4%) were classified as non-attendees. Among the non-attendees, significantly more were younger than 45 years compared with attendees. No other statistically significant differences were found in terms of socioeconomic variables. Multivariate logistic regression revealed male gender and psychological issued related to obesity to be independent predictors of poor compliance with follow-up. Blinded psychological evaluation of ten patients did not suggest that psychological factors are predictive of follow-up attendance.

CONCLUSION

Identifying factors associated with loss to follow-up after bariatric surgery is challenging. However, this is important in order to enable the design of personalized follow-up plans, especially for younger patients and those with psychological issues.

Emotional Resilience and Bariatric Surgical Teams: a Priority in the Pandemic

The infection control measures implemented as a result of COVID-19 led to a postponement of bariatric surgical procedures across many countries worldwide. Many bariatric surgical teams were in essence left without a profession, with many redeployed to other areas of clinical care and were not able to provide the levels of patient support given before COVID-19. As the pandemic continues, some restrictions have been lifted, with staff adjusting to new ways of working, incorporating challenging working conditions and dealing with continuing levels of stress. This article explores the concept of emotional labour, defined as ‘inducing or suppressing feelings in order to perform one’s work’, and its application to multidisciplinary teams working within bariatric surgery, to offer insight into the mental health issues that may be affecting healthcare professionals working in this discipline.

Digital Support for Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: Narrative Review of the Roles and Challenges of Online Forums

Background

The internet has become an important medium within health care, giving patients the opportunity to search for information, guidance, and support to manage their health and well-being needs. Online forums and internet-based platforms appear to have changed the way many patients undergoing bariatric surgery view and engage with their health, before and after weight loss surgery. Given that significant health improvements result from sustained weight loss, ensuring patient adherence to recommended preoperative and postoperative guidance is critical for bariatric surgery success. In a patient cohort with high information needs preoperatively, and notoriously high attrition rates postoperatively, online forums may present an underutilized method of support.

Objective

The aim of this study was to conduct a narrative review focusing on the developing roles that online forums can play for patients with bariatric conditions preoperatively and postoperatively.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in October-November 2019 across 5 electronic databases: Scopus, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and MEDLINE. Qualitative or mixed methods studies were included if they evaluated patients undergoing bariatric surgery (or bariatric surgery health care professionals) engaging with, using, or analyzing online discussion forums or social media platforms. Using thematic analysis, themes were developed from coding patterns within the data to identify the roles and challenges of online forums for patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

Results

A total of 8 studies were included in this review, with 5 themes emerging around (1) managing expectations of a new life; (2) decision making and signposting; (3) supporting information seeking; (4) facilitating connectedness: peer-to-peer social and emotional support; and (5) enabling accessibility and connectivity with health care professionals.

Conclusions

Online forums could offer one solution to improving postoperative success by supporting and motivating patients. Future research should consider how best to design and moderate online forums for maximal effectiveness and the sharing of accurate information. The surgical multidisciplinary team may consider recommendations of online peer-support networks to complement care for patients throughout their surgical journey.

Impact of Routine and Long-Term Follow-Up on Weight Loss after Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Weight loss after bariatric surgery varies among patients. Patients who do not complete long-term follow-up are considered to loose less weight than those with regular follow-up visits.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the influence of patients' follow-up compliance on long-term excess weight loss (%EWL) and total weight loss (%TWL) after bariatric surgery, comparing results between gastric bypass (GB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG).

METHODS

Patients with up to 5 years of follow-up data after bariatric surgery were included in this retrospective analysis. Patients were divided in 2 groups: those in group 1 who had attended every scheduled postoperative appointment and those in group 2 who had been lost to follow-up before 1 year and were later contacted by telephone. %EWL and %TWL were compared to determine the possible relationship between type of surgery and regularity of the follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 385 patients were included. A significant difference in EWL was observed at 5 years in the SG group (78% for group 1 versus 39% for group 2; p = 0.02) and GB group (75% for group 1 versus 62% for group 2; p = 0.01). No significant differences between surgeries were found when comparing long-term EWL in group 1 patients 77% for SG versus 75% for GB. For group 2 patients, GB achieved greater EWL than SG; p = 0.005. %TWL patients in group 2 showed significant differences in all periods of study (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery patients who attended all scheduled follow-up appointments experienced significantly greater long-term EWL and TWL than those who did not. GB has apparent increased benefits for weight loss in long-term follow-up when compared with SG for patients who did not attend long-term follow-up. Therefore, continued long-term follow-up of bariatric patients should be encouraged to increase postoperative weight loss results.

Travel distance reduces follow-up compliance but has no effect on long-term weight loss success in bariatric patients

BACKGROUND

Patients seeking bariatric surgery are traveling longer distances to reach Bariatric Centers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of travel distance on adherence to follow-up and outcomes after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all consecutive patients who had undergone bariatric surgery from June 2013 to May 2014 was performed, and the patients were divided into two groups: those who traveled 50 miles or less and those who traveled more than 50 miles. Primary outcome assessed was the influence of distance on post-operative follow-up attrition over 4-year period. Secondary outcomes assessed were excess weight loss, length of stay (LOS), complications and readmission rates.

RESULTS

A total of 228 patients underwent bariatric surgery with 4 years of follow-up available. Of these, 145 patients traveled 50 miles or less and 83 patients traveled greater than 50 miles. Patient demographics were similar between the two groups. Those who traveled more had statistically higher probability of attrition up to 3-year follow-up mark. There was no difference in percent excess weight loss at each follow-up visit between the two cohorts. Furthermore, there was no difference in readmission rates (2% vs 5%), minor complications (14% vs 10%), major complications (3% vs 2%) and LOS (2.6 days vs 2.6).

CONCLUSION

The distance patients traveled for bariatric surgery did not affect their weight loss success, length of stay, postsurgical complications or readmission rate. Despite the lack of influence on postoperative outcomes, follow-up compliance was statistically affected by distance.

Weight Loss, Remission of Comorbidities, and Quality of Life After Bariatric Surgery in Young Adult Patients

INTRODUCTION

One of the current criteria for bariatric surgery is to be of an age between 18 and 65 years. In all the available literature, there is a lack of studies focusing on the results of bariatric surgery in younger patient. This could be of great interest because the weight loss response can be altered by differences in metabolism or compliance rate. In recent years, a high amount of patients between 18 and 25 years of age have undergone bariatric surgery in our center, and it is our aim to evaluate the weight loss results in this youngest patient group.

METHODS

All preoperative and perioperative data from patients aged 18-25 and 35-55 years (control group) were collected retrospectively. Bariatric procedures took place between 2011 and 2014. Follow-up data were gathered prospectively by collecting (laboratory) measurements and questionnaires.

RESULTS

In total, 103 young adults (mean age 22.5) were matched to 103 adult control patients (mean age 42.6) on BMI and date of surgery. Of the young adults' group, 75 patients underwent a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) compared with 80 patients in the control group. Three years after RYGB, mean %total body weight loss (%TBWL) was 34 (± 9) and 30.3 (± 9) (p = 0.03), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Bariatric surgery is effective in young adults, and results after RYGB are even better compared with age groups in which bariatric surgery is most often performed. The high remission rate of comorbidities shows the importance of effective treatment options at a young age and preventing damaging effects in the long term.

Bariatric endoscopy procedure type or follow-up: What predicted success at 1 year in 962 obese patients?

Background and study aims  It is uncertain if the difference in weight loss outcomes between different endoscopic bariatric therapies (EBTs) is technique-related or multidisciplinary team (MDT) follow-up-related. We hypothesized that at 1 year, the weight loss is determined more by adherence to MDT follow-up than by procedure type. We aimed to compare 1 year weight loss outcomes of four different EBTs at a single center with a standardized MDT follow-up. Patients and methods  We prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed outcomes in 962 patients (female-691, 71.2 %; mean age, 44.8 ± 10.6 years, mean BMI, 37.8 ± 5.9 Kg/m ² ) treated with Intragastric balloons (IGBs) or endoscopic gastroplasty (EG) at HM Sanchinarro University Hospital between March 2012 to January 2017. The procedures were performed by the same endoscopist and followed up by the same MDT. We compared the percentage total body weight loss (%TWBL) at 1 year. We performed linear and logistic regression to identify predictive factors for weight loss and follow-up adherence at 1 year. Results  Four hundred and eighty-one IGBs (Orbera-80.9 %; ReShape Duo-19.1 %), and 481 EG (Apollo ESG-51.3 %; Primary obesity surgery endoluminal-POSE-48.6 %) were performed. Only 480 patients (IGB- 45 %; EG- 55 %) completed 1 year follow-up. Among them, Apollo ESG achieved significantly higher TBWL (19.5 ± 13 %, P  = 0.035), %TBWL (17.4 ± 10.2 %, P  = 0.025), and ≥ 20 % TBWL (36.7 %, P  = 0.032). However, in linear regression after adjusting for variables, only higher initial BMI (B = 0.31, P  < 0.001) and higher percentage follow-up attendance (B = 0.24, P  < 0.001) significantly predicted %TBWL at 1 year in the completion group but not the procedure type (B = 0.02, P  = 0.72). In logistic regression, we observed female sex ( P  = 0.01), high initial BMI ( P  < 0.001), endoscopic gastroplasty ( P  = 0.04), and high 1-month %TBWL ( P  < 0.001) significantly predicted follow-up completion at 1 year. Conclusions  Weight loss at 1 year is dependent on MDT follow-up rather than procedure type. Endoscopic gastroplasty promoted follow-up adherence more than IGBs.

A predictive model for non-completion of an intensive specialist obesity service in a public hospital: a case-control study

Background

Despite the growing evidence base supporting intensive lifestyle and medical treatments for severe obesity, patient engagement in specialist obesity services is difficult to achieve and poorly understood. To address this knowledge gap, we aimed to develop a model for predicting non-completion of a specialist multidisciplinary service for clinically severe obesity, termed the Metabolic Rehabilitation Programme (MRP).

Method

Using a case-control study design in a public hospital setting, we extracted data from medical records for all eligible patients with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥35 kg/m² with either type 2 diabetes or fatty liver disease referred to the MRP from 2010 through 2015. Non-completion status (case definition) was coded for patients whom started but dropped-out of the MRP within 12 months. Using multivariable logistic regression, we tested the following baseline predictors hypothesised in previous research: age, gender, BMI, waist circumference, residential distance from the clinic, blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), current continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, current depression/anxiety, diabetes status, and medications. We used receiver operating characteristics and area under the curve to test the performance of models.

Results

Out of the 219 eligible patient records, 78 (35.6%) non-completion cases were identified. Significant differences between non-completers versus completers were: age (47.1 versus 54.5 years, p < 0.001); residential distance from the clinic (21.8 versus 17.1 km, p = 0.018); obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) (42.9% versus 56.7%, p = 0.050) and CPAP therapy (11.7% versus 28.4%, p = 0.005). The probability of non-completion could be independently associated with age, residential distance, and either OSA or CPAP. There was no statistically significant difference in performance between the alternate models (69.5% versus 66.4%, p = 0.57).

Conclusions

Non-completion of intensive specialist obesity management services is most common among younger patients, with fewer complex care needs, and those living further away from the clinic. Clinicians should be aware of these potential risk factors for dropping out early when managing outpatients with severe obesity, whereas policy makers might consider strategies for increasing access to specialist obesity management services.

Telephone-based cognitive behavioural therapy for female patients 1-year post-bariatric surgery: A pilot study

OBJECTIVE

Although bariatric surgery is a durable treatment for patients with severe obesity, it does not directly address behavioural and psychological factors that potentially contribute to weight regain post-surgery. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can be challenging to access due to physical limitations and practical barriers. Telephone-based CBT (Tele-CBT) can improve eating psychopathology and psychological distress before and after surgery. Given the frequent occurrence/recurrence of problematic eating-related and psychological issues many patients face 1-year post-surgery, this open-trial pilot study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Tele-CBT delivered 1-year post-surgery as an adjunctive treatment to the usual standard of bariatric care.

METHODS

Patients (n=43) received six 1-h Tele-CBT sessions delivered weekly beginning at 1-year post-surgery. Patients completed questionnaire packages before and after the intervention to assess changes in binge eating (BES), emotional eating (EES), depression (PHQ-9), and anxiety (GAD-7).

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients completed Tele-CBT yielding a 74.4% completion rate. Participants reported significant improvements on the Binge Eating Scale (t(31)=3.794, p=0.001), Emotional Eating Scale (t(31)=3.508, p=0.001), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Item Scale (z=-2.371, p=0.018), and Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 Item Scale (z=-3.546, p<0.001) immediately following Tele-CBT.

DISCUSSION

The results demonstrate that Tele-CBT delivered 1-year post-surgery may improve binge eating, emotional eating, depression, and anxiety. Additional research is warranted to examine whether these changes translate into long-term improvements in bariatric surgery outcomes.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is an independent predictor of poor follow-up and reaching ≤ 40% excess body weight loss at 1, 2, and 3 years after bariatric surgery

INTRODUCTION

Contrary to published literature, our institutional data demonstrated reduced weight loss following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) compared to gastric bypass (LRYGB). The purpose of this study was to determine if known predictors of poor weight loss accounted for this discrepancy at a large volume center.

METHODS

All patients undergoing primary LSG (n = 322) and LRYGB (n = 249), from 2014 to 2016, at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline medical, socioeconomic, and follow-up data (6, 12, 24, and 36 months) were obtained. The first aim characterized differences in LSG and LRYGB. The second objective determined predictors of experiencing the lowest or highest quartile of excess body weight loss [(EBWL), (%EBWL-25th, %EBWL-75th)] at 12, 24, and 36 months. Thirdly, predictors of poor weight loss within sleeve gastrectomy were characterized.

RESULTS

In comparison to patients undergoing LRYGB, LSG patients demonstrated lower baseline BMI (47.9 ± 8.2 vs. 51.5 ± 10.1, p < 0.0005), lower incidences of obesity-related comorbidities (p < 0.05), were more likely to have higher education (p = 0.02), and were associated with no-shows up to 2 years post-operatively. LSG remained a strong independent predictor of %EBWL-25th at 12 months (OR = 5.2, p < 0.005), 24 months (OR = 5.3, p < 0.005), and 36 months (OR = 7.3, p = 0.006), after adjusting for comorbidities, education, and no-shows. Predictors of poor weight loss after LSG included hypertension, African American race, major depression, no-shows at 6 and 12 months. Within patients associated with these characteristics, the relative risk of experiencing poor weight loss was significantly higher following LSG compared to LRYGB at 12 months (60% vs. 25.0%, p < 0.05), 24 months (43% vs. 18%, p < 0.05), and 36 months (70% vs. 21%, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

LSG remained an independent predictor of poor weight loss at all post-operative time points. Furthermore, the risk of experiencing poor weight loss was significantly higher following LSG compared to LRYGB for patients with high-risk characteristics.

Pre-operative Bariatric Clinic Attendance Is a Predictor of Post-operative Clinic Attendance and Weight Loss Outcomes

AIM

Our primary aim was to determine whether non-attendance at pre-operative clinics were associated with non-attendance at post-operative clinics and its influence on weight loss. We also sought to examine the relationship between gender, ethnicity and post-operative clinic attendance with respect to weight loss post-bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective audit was performed for patients undertaking the bariatric surgery program at the Auckland City Hospital between 2013 and 2016.

RESULTS

One hundred and eighty-four patients completed our program, with a mean age of 46.1 years. Mean weight at commencement was 133.3 kg, with a BMI of 47.4. At 2 years follow-up (n = 143), excess weight loss was 70.8% following RYGB and 68.0% following LSG (p = 0.5743). More patients attended all pre-operative than post-operative clinics (67.4% vs 37.5% p = < 0.001). One pre-operative clinic non-attendance was associated with less weight loss at 2 years and it increases the risk of missing at least 50% of post-operative clinics with a risk ratio of 2.73, p = 0.005. Non-attendance of at least 50% of post-operative clinics was also associated with less weight loss at 2 years (33.4 kg vs 44.3 kg, p = 0.040). Although Maori and Pacific Islanders more frequently missed > 50% of post-operative clinics, weight loss was similar between European, Maori and Pacific Islander populations (2-year weight loss 44.2 kg vs 40.74 kg vs 44.1 kg, respectively, p = 0.8192).

CONCLUSION

Pre-operative clinic non-attendance helps predict post-operative clinic non-attendance. Missing any pre-operative clinics and at least 50% of scheduled post-operative clinics is associated with poorer weight loss outcomes.

Loss to follow-up after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery - a post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Follow-up after bariatric surgery is important if we are to identify long-term complications at an early stage and thereby improve long-term outcome. Despite great efforts, many patients are lost to follow-up. Definition of characteristics of patients failing to attend follow-up could help in defining a specific group for whom extra resources may be applied to improve the situation.

OBJECTIVES

To identify characteristics of patients failing to attend follow-up 2 years after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery.

SETTING

Multicenter study, Sweden.

METHODS

Post hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial in which preoperative patient characteristics and postoperative outcome measures were compared between patients who attended or did not attend a 2-year follow-up visit after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 2495 patients included, 260 did not attend a 2-year follow-up visit. Factors associated with higher risk for failure to attend were younger age (adjusted odds ratio [OR] .96, 95% confidence interval [CI] .94-.98/yr, P < .001); male sex (adjusted OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.51-3.63, P < .001); depression (adjusted OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.05-2.47, P = .029); history of smoking (adjusted OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.26-2.51, P = .001); being single (adjusted OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.03-2.11, P = .036); and being first-generation immigrant (adjusted OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.05-2.88; P = .032). Elementary occupation (adjusted OR .42, 95% CI .18-.99, P = .047) was associated with lower risk.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that there are preoperative characteristics that may help in identifying patients likely to fail to attend follow-up visits after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery. Special effort should be made to inform these patients of the importance of follow-up and to encourage them to attend.

The effect of distance on short-term outcomes in a regionalized, publicly funded bariatric surgery model

BACKGROUND

While high-volume Centers of Excellence (COE) for bariatric surgery may have improved clinical outcomes, their disparate distribution results in longer travel distances for patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate effect of distance from COE on outcomes and readmission.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of all adults, aged 18 years or older, receiving bariatric surgery from April 2009 to March 2012 in the province of Ontario. Main outcomes included 30-day complication rates and readmission. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the impact of distance from patients' primary residence to their bariatric COE on patient outcomes and readmissions.

RESULTS

Five thousand and seven patients were identified, two-thirds residing within 100 km of a COE with a mean distance of 117.2 km. The majority of patients did not reside within a Local Integrated Health Network (LHIN) that contained a COE, while 18.3% of patients lived in rural areas. Using multivariable adjustment, for every 10 km increase from the COE where surgery was performed, the Odds Ratio (OR) for complications was 1.00 [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.99-1.01; P = 0.747]. Additionally, both residing in a LHIN without a COE, OR 1.10 (95% CI 0.87-1.40; P = 0.434), and rural status, OR 0.97 (95% CI 0.77-1.23; P = 0.821) showed no increase in risk of complication. Similarly, further distances did not influence rate of readmission, OR 0.99 (95% CI 0.98-1.00; P = 0.077) nor did rural status OR 1.31 (95% CI 0.97-1.76; P = 0.076).

CONCLUSION

The COE model, where a few centers in high population areas service a large geographic region, is adequate in ensuring patients that live further away receive appropriate short-term care.

Predictors of poor follow-up after bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

to identify predictive factors of loss of follow-up of patients submitted to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy in a 48-month period.

METHODS

we conducted a retrospective, cohort study from January 2010 to December 2012. We analyzed thirteen variables and compared them to loss of follow-up.

RESULTS

among the 559 patients studied, there was a great reduction in the frequency (43.8%) of the consultations from the second postoperative year on, with a significant loss in the 4th year (70.8%). In the univariate analysis, only the variable "excess weight" was associated with loss of follow-up. The proportion of overweight (>49.95kg) was higher in the follow-up group with greater loss (>3 absences) (p=0.025). In the logistic regression, patients exposed to a greater excess weight (>49.95kg) presented a two-fold higher risk for loss of follow-up (>3 absences) (OR=2.04, 95% CI 1.15-3.62; p=0.015). In the univariate analysis, at the 48th postoperative month, only the variable "mesoregion of origin" was associated with loss of follow-up (p=0.012).

CONCLUSION

there was a progressive loss of follow-up from the second postoperative year on. Among the factors analyzed, only the variable "excess weight" greater than 49.95kg in the preoperative period was associated with loss of medical-surgical follow-up. In the 48th month of the postoperative period, there was a higher prevalence of loss of medical-surgical follow-up for patients outside the perimeter of the city of Recife (51%, p=0.052).

Evaluation of a Patient-Care Planning Intervention to Improve Appointment Attendance by Adults After Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVES

Bariatric surgery is recognized as a durable treatment for severe obesity; however, high rates of nonattendance and patient engagement during the postoperative period remain challenges. This pre/post study evaluates a quality-improvement initiative to improve attendance at bariatric surgery program appointments and to heighten program efficiency, as measured by appointment attendance, cancellations and new assessments.

METHODS

Patients and staff were consulted in order to identify causes for patient attrition after surgery. The ideas for change that were implemented were advance care-planning calls and e-mails in order to tailor appointments to patients' needs and an online application of follow-up care information. Online surveys were used to assess patient satisfaction. After several plan-do-study-act cycles, appointment attendance rates for 5,676 appointments between April 1, 2014, and May 29, 2015, were compared pre- and post-quality improvement intervention. For the intervention, 1,294 patients were called, representing 4,124 appointments. Both preoperative and postoperative attendance rates and costs were examined.

RESULTS

Although postoperative attendance and no-show rates changed by only 1.8% postintervention, advance cancellations increased by 6%; indications of special-cause variation were attributable to the intervention. With advance cancellations increasing, time was available for preoperative and nonroutine postoperative appointments, refilling 6.6 appointments per week. As a result, cost savings were $21,251 based on unused clinician time. The contact rate of patients was 45%, and patient satisfaction was high.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this quality-improvement intervention was able to improve patient-centred care and clinic efficiency through the use of advance-care planning as evaluated by appointment attendance data and patient satisfaction surveys.

Measurement of adherence in bariatric surgery: a systematic review

After bariatric surgery, rates of adherence to behavioral recommendations, including attending regular appointments and following specific dietary, physical activity, and vitamin use recommendations, tend to be highly variable across studies. Lack of consistency in measurement of adherence is a likely contributor to this variability, making it challenging to determine the prevalence and impact of nonadherence in this population. PubMed was searched for articles measuring behavioral adherence or compliance in patients after bariatric surgery, resulting in 85 articles. Articles were reviewed for the definition and measurement of adherence in each area (appointment attendance, as well as dietary, physical activity, and vitamin use adherence), and on the use and reporting of recommended adherence measurement strategies. Over half of the articles measured adherence to appointment attendance. Significant variability was found across adherence definitions and measurement methods, and use of recommended adherence measurement strategies was poor. Adherence was mostly commonly measured via self-report (either verbal or written) using cutoffs for adherent versus nonadherent behavior. Over half of studies assessed adherence up to ≥2 years postsurgery. Recommendations for ways to improve adherence measurement in patients who have had bariatric surgery are outlined.

Long-Term Results After Sleeve Gastrectomy for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: a Single-Center French Study

BACKGROUND

Many studies have analyzed the impact of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on weight loss and/or the evolution of obesity-related comorbid conditions, but few have reported the long-term outcomes after surgery. The objective of this study was to investigate the outcomes after SG on weight loss, obesity-related comorbid conditions, quality of life (QoL), and GERD symptoms (GERDS) beyond 5 years.

METHODS

A prospective database was retrospectively searched for the following factors: gender, age, anthropometrics, presence of comorbid conditions, QoL (BAROS questionnaire), and presence of GERDS. The data were analyzed before and at 1 and 6 years after surgery.

RESULTS

Of the 64 patients included, 32.8% were lost to follow-up (76% during the first postoperative year). A complete follow-up of >5 years was obtained for 41 patients. Before surgery, mean excess BMI was 22 ± 7 kg/m², and 26.8% of patients had GERDS. Percent excess BMI loss was 55 ± 30% at 1 year and 48 ± 27% at 6 years. Preoperative BMI and absence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) before surgery were the only independent variables for long-term failure. Six years after SG, remission from metabolic comorbidities was as follows: 50% for T2D, 28% for blood hypertension, 58% for dyslipidemia, and 33% for sleep-apnea syndrome. Thirty percent of patients with preoperative GERD had resolution of symptoms at 6 years whereas 9 patients (32%) had de novo GERD. QoL was improved for 62% of patients at 6 years.

CONCLUSION

The benefits of SG on weight loss, resolution of comorbidities, and QoL were maintained in the long term for most patients.

Weight Loss and Timing of J Tube Removal in Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch Patients Who Report Physical or Sexual Abuse

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery patients who report physical or sexual abuse form a sizeable cohort that stands out due to psychological comorbidity. Their possible vulnerability to suboptimal weight loss remains of interest. Their risk for malnutrition due to inadequate oral intake following surgery is underexplored.

OBJECTIVES

Study aims were to determine the effect of self-reported physical or sexual abuse in patients undergoing open biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) on (a) 3-year weight loss trajectories and (b) timing of feeding jejunostomy tube (J tube) removal. Delayed J tube removal served as an indicator for inadequate oral intake.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, the sample (N = 189) consisted of all patients who underwent primary BPD/DS by the same surgeon during 2009 and 2010 at a Midwestern health system. All patients had a J tube placed during surgery. Longitudinal mixed models were used for testing differences in weight loss trajectories by abuse status.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in weight loss trajectories by abuse status. The abused group had the J tube in place a mean of 61.9 days (SD = 39.5) compared to 44.8 days (SD = 32.8) for the not abused group, a significant difference.

CONCLUSIONS

Our use of the best available statistical methods lends validity to previous findings that suggest physical or sexual abuse does not affect weight loss after bariatric surgery. Increased likelihood of persistent inadequate oral intake in the abused group suggests the need for early multidisciplinary interventions that include mental health and nutrition experts.

Optimizing Bariatric Surgery Multidisciplinary Follow-up: a Focus on Patient-Centered Care

BACKGROUND

Failure to follow-up post-bariatric surgery has been associated with higher postoperative complications, lower percentage weight loss and poorer nutrition.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to understand the patient follow-up experience in order to optimize follow-up care within a comprehensive bariatric surgery program.

METHODS

Qualitative telephone interviews were conducted in patients who underwent surgery through a publically funded multidisciplinary bariatric surgery program in 2011, in Ontario, Canada. Inductive thematic analysis was used.

RESULTS

Of the 46 patients interviewed, 76.1 % were female, mean age was 50, and 10 were lost to follow-up within 1 year postsurgery. Therapeutic continuity was the most important element of follow-up care identified by patients and was most frequently established with the dietician, as this team member was highly sought and accessible. Patients who attended regularly (1) appreciated the specialized care, (2) favoured ongoing monitoring and support, (3) were committed to the program and (4) felt their family doctor had insufficient experience/knowledge to manage their follow-up care. Of the 36 people who attended the clinic regularly, 8 were not planning to return after 2 years due to (1) perceived diminishing usefulness, (2) system issues, (3) confidence that their family physician could continue their care or (4) higher priority personal/health issues. Patients lost to follow-up stated similar barriers.

CONCLUSION

Patients believe the follow-up post-bariatric surgery is essential in providing the support required to maintain their diet and health. More personalized care focusing on continuity and relationships catering to individual patient needs balanced with local healthcare resources may redefine and reduce attrition rates.

The hybrid doctor-patient relationship in the age of technology - Telepsychiatry consultations and the use of virtual space

The doctor-patient relationship is evolving and changing through the impact of many technological, social and environmental factors. These factors will be examined, especially the impact of changing attitudes among younger generations of physicians and patients who live in an information-driven networked world. Telepsychiatry is already over 50 years old and has a strong evidence base which suggests that it is a better form of practice compared with the traditional in-person consultation for certain patient groups. In particular, telepsychiatry encourages intimacy in relationships through the use of the 'virtual space' in the consultation, better collaboration between psychiatrists and primary care physicians, and improved patient satisfaction. The practice of psychiatry will change through the use of mobile devices, asynchronous consultations, and the opportunities that automated interpretation and translation bring to work across cultures. The future will likely bring many psychiatrists working increasingly in a hybrid model, both in-person, and online, using the strengths of both approaches to improve patient care.

The medicalization of obesity, bariatric surgery, and population health

This article examines how the medicalization of obesity validates the use of bariatric surgery to treat obesity in the United States and how expansions in access to bariatric surgery normalize surgical procedures as disease treatment and prevention tools. Building on this discussion, the article poses two questions for population health regarding health technology: (1) to what extent does bariatric surgery treat obesity in the United States while diverting attention away from the ultimate drivers of the epidemic and (2) to what extent does bariatric surgery improve outcomes for some groups in the US population while simultaneously generating disparities? We conduct a brief, historical analysis of the American Medical Association’s decision to reclassify obesity as a disease through internal documents, peer-reviewed expert reports, and major media coverage. We use medicalization theory to show how this decision by the American Medical Association channels increased focus on obesity into the realm of medical intervention, particularly bariatric surgery, and use this evidence to review research trends on bariatric surgery. We propose research questions that investigate the population health dimensions of bariatric surgery in the United States and note key areas of future research. Our objective is to generate a discourse that considers bariatric surgery beyond the medical realm to better understand how technological interventions might work collectively with population-level obesity prevention efforts and how, in turn, population health approaches may improve bariatric surgery outcomes.

Managing severe obesity: understanding and improving treatment adherence in bariatric surgery

Severe obesity (body mass index ≥40 kg/m²) is a chronic disease that is associated with significantly increased risk of serious and chronic health problems as well as impaired quality of life. For those with severe obesity, bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for significant and long-term weight loss and resolution of comorbid medical conditions, particularly diabetes. Long-term success is thought to depend to some degree on the patient's ability to adhere to a complex set of behaviors, including regular attendance at follow up appointments and following stringent dietary, exercise, and vitamin recommendations. Here, we summarize the current research on behavioral adherence in patients with severe obesity presenting for bariatric surgery and we highlight challenges and make recommendations for improved self-management before and after surgery.

Bariatric aftercare and outcomes in the Medicaid population following sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Medicaid patients tend to have poor access to care and suffer from more obesity and obesity-related co-morbidities compared to their privately insured counterparts. The impact of Medicaid status on outcomes after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is unknown. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence outcomes following LSG in the adult Medicaid population of Louisiana with particular focus on adherence to bariatric aftercare attendance and access to care.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 63 Medicaid patients undergoing LSG was performed. Demographic data, access to care, weight, co-morbidities morbidity, and mortality were analyzed. Changes in weight and obesity-related co-morbidities were analyzed for patients with ≥12 months of follow-up. Regression analyses were used for estimating the relationships among variables.

RESULTS

The majority of patients were female and non-Caucasian. The mean age was 38.6 years. Morbidity was 16% and mortality was 0%. The average distance traveled to clinic was 71.9 miles. Within the first year only 10% of the patients attended all post-operative clinic visits. A multiple logistic model showed that the only predictor of clinic attendance was increased age. At a mean follow-up of 17.7 months, the mean percent excess body weight loss was 47.2%. Greater pre-surgical weight was the only variable associated with suboptimal weight loss. Improvement or resolution of all major co-morbidities was seen in 65% of patients.

CONCLUSION

Medicaid patients had a poor attendance at bariatric surgery follow up appointments. Since long-term follow-up is critical, we needed to develop strategies that will optimize follow-up in this patient population.