How safe is same-day discharge after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?

Ambulatory discharge of patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy results in significantly more adverse outcomes

BACKGROUND

Same-day discharge after sleeve gastrectomy (SDSG) has become more common during the COVID pandemic. Several payers have suggested that they would no longer reimburse for planned inpatient hospital stay for patients undergoing SG. The goal of our study was to determine which, if any, patient groups could safely undergo SDSG.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Project (MBSAQIP) from 2015-2021 was performed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed using demographics, comorbid disease, and participant use data file (PUF) year to determine the risk of adverse events within 30 days of SG by postoperative discharge day.

RESULTS

A total of 702,622 SGs were performed during the study period: 31,308 (4.46%) patients were SDSGs and 409,622 (58.3%) on postoperative day (POD) 1. From 2015 to 2019, the mean percentage of cases that were SDSG was 2.9%. The proportion of SDSG increased to 6.3% in 2020 and 9.6% in 2021. Compared with those discharged on POD 1, SDSG patients were at increased risk for any complication (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.1-1.36), minor complications (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.03-1.32), major complications (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.15-1.61), readmission (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00-1.18), and reoperation (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.16-1.62). Other interventions within 30 days were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

Compared with those discharged on POD 1, SDSG patients are at significantly increased risk for all adverse events analyzed. With growing pressure to shorten or eliminate the use of hospital beds, identification of appropriate candidates for safe SDSG is crucial.

Outcomes of same-day discharge in bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic influenced a shift to same-day discharge in bariatric surgery. Current studies show conflicting findings regarding morbidity and mortality. We aim to compare outcomes for same-day discharge versus admission after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Subjects included patients who underwent primary laparoscopic or robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-En-Y gastric bypass at an academic center. The inpatient group included patients discharged postoperative day one, and the outpatient group included patients discharged on the day of surgery. Primary outcomes included the number of emergency room visits, reoperations, IV fluid treatments, readmissions, and mortality within 30 days. Secondary outcomes were morbidity, including skin and soft tissue infection, pulmonary embolism, and acute kidney injury.

RESULTS

1225 patients met the inclusion criteria. In the gastric sleeve group, 852 subjects were outpatients and 227 inpatients. In the gastric bypass group, 70 subjects were outpatients, and 40 were inpatients. The mean age was 44.63 (17.38-85.31) years, and the mean preoperative BMI was 46.07 ± 8.14 kg/m2. The subjects in the outpatient group had lower BMI with fewer comorbidities. The groups differed significantly in age, BMI, and presence of several chronic comorbidities. The inpatient and outpatient groups for each surgery type did not differ significantly regarding reoperations, IV fluid treatments, or 30-day mortality. The inpatient sleeve group demonstrated a significantly higher readmission percentage than the outpatient group (4.6% vs 2.1%; p = 0.02882). The inpatient bypass group showed significantly greater ER visits (21.7% vs 10%; p = 0.0108). The incidence of adverse events regarding the secondary outcomes was not statistically different.

CONCLUSION

Same-day discharge after bariatric surgery is a safe and reasonable option for patients with few comorbidities.

Safety of Same-Day Discharge after Bariatric Surgery: Retrospective 6-Year North American Analysis

BACKGROUND

With increasing implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery protocols and rising demand for inpatient hospital beds accentuated by COVID-19, there has been interest in same-day discharge (SDD) for bariatric surgery. The aim of this study was to determine the national trends, safety profile, and risk factors for complications of SDD for minimally invasive bariatric surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

We analyzed the MBSAQIP database from 2016 to 2021 to characterize trends in SDD for minimally invasive bariatric operation. Multivariate logistic regression was performed on preoperative patient characteristics predictive of increased complications associated with SDD. A comparative analysis of postoperative outcomes within 30 days was performed for SDD and admission after 1:1 nearest neighbor propensity score matching for patient demographics and preoperative comorbidities.

RESULTS

SDD increased from 2.4% in 2016 to 7.4% in 2021. Major preoperative factors associated with increased complications for SDD included Black race, history of MI, renal insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, and smoking. SDD for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass had 72% increased risk of postoperative complications compared with sleeve gastrectomy. The overall major complications were lower in SDD cohort vs admission cohort (odds ratio [OR] 0.62, p < 0.01). However, there was a significant increase in deaths within 30 days (OR 2.11, p = 0.01), cardiac arrest (OR 2.73; p < 0.01), and dehydration requiring treatment (OR 1.33; p < 0.01) in SDD cohort compared with admission cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Nationally, there has been a rise in SDD for bariatric operation from 2016 to 2021. Matched analysis demonstrates that SDD is associated with a significantly higher mortality rate. Additionally, the risk of complications with SDD is higher for RYGB compared with sleeve gastrectomy. Therefore, further studies are required to appropriately select patients for whom bariatric surgery can be safely performed as an outpatient.

Remote patient monitoring to facilitate same-day discharge after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a pilot evaluation

BACKGROUND

Limited hospital inpatient capacity, exacerbated by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) and associated staffing shortages, has driven interest in converting surgeries historically done as inpatient procedures to same-day surgeries (SDS). Remote patient monitoring (RPM) has the potential to increase safety and confidence in SDS but has had mixed success in a bariatric population.

OBJECTIVES

Assess the feasibility of and adherence to a protocol offering patients same-day laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) supported by RPM with an updated wearable device. Secondary outcomes were readmissions, costs, adherence, and clinical alarm rates.

SETTING

Academic, military tertiary referral center (United States).

METHODS

A single-center, retrospective case control study of patients undergoing SG, comparing SDS with RPM to patients admitted to the hospital for SG during this time. Patients for SDS were selected by set inclusion/exclusion criteria and patient/surgeon preference, and perioperative management was standardized.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were enrolled in the SDS group, then compared with 53 inpatients. Inpatients were older (46 versus 39, P = .006), but with no significant differences in sex, preoperative body mass index, or co-morbidities. RPM wearable and blood pressure adherence was found to be 97% and 80%, respectively. Readmission rates were similar (10% versus 7.5%, P > .05). RPM alarm rates were .5 (0-1.3) per patient for each 24-hour home monitoring period. SDS patients also demonstrated the potential for cost savings over inpatient SG, depending on the number of patients monitored per day as well as the healthcare setting.

CONCLUSIONS

SG as SDS with RPM was a feasible approach. It should be evaluated in other surgical procedures and higher-risk patient populations.

Outcomes of same-day discharge sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Length of stay after bariatric surgery has progressively shortened. Same-day discharge (SDD) has been reported for the 2 most common bariatric procedures, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and success of SDD following SG and RYGB. Systematic literature search on SDD after bariatric surgery was conducted in Medline, Cochrane library, Google Scholar, and Embase. SDD was defined as discharging the patient during the day of the bariatric operation, without an overnight stay. The primary outcomes of interest were successful SDD, readmission, and morbidity rates. The secondary endpoints included reoperation and mortality rates. A proportion meta-analysis was performed to assess the outcomes of interest. A total of 14 studies with 33,403 patients who underwent SDD SG (32,165) or RYGB (1238) were included in the qualitative synthesis. Seven studies with 5000 patients who underwent SDD SG were included in the quantitative analysis, and pooled proportions (PPs) were calculated for the outcomes of interest. The SDD success rate was 63%-100% (PP: 99%) after SG and 88%-98.1% after RYGB. The readmission rate ranged from .6% to 20.8% (PP: 4%) after SDD SG and 2.4%-4% after SDD RYGB. Overall morbidity, reoperation, and mortality were 1.1%-10% (PP:4%), .3%-2.1% (PP: 1%), and 0%-.1% (PP: 0%), respectively, for SDD SG, and 2.5%-4%,1.9%-2.5%, and 0%-.9%, respectively, for SDD RYGB. SDD after SG seems feasible and safe. The outcomes of SDDRYGB seem promising, but the evidenceis stilllimitedto draw definitive conclusions. Selection criteria and perioperative protocolsmust be standardized to adequately introduce this practice.

Making lemonade with lemons: a multicenter effort to improve outpatient sleeve gastrectomy amid the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted healthcare delivery worldwide. Resource limitations prompted a multicenter quality initiative to enhance outpatient sleeve gastrectomy workflow and reduce the inpatient hospital burden.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the efficacy of this initiative, as well as the safety of outpatient sleeve gastrectomy and potential risk factors for inpatient admission.

SETTING

A retrospective analysis of sleeve gastrectomy patients was conducted from February 2020 to August 2021.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria were adult patients discharged on postoperative day 0, 1, or 2. Exclusion criteria were body mass index ≥60 kg/m² and age ≥65 years. Patients were divided into outpatient and inpatient cohorts. Demographic, operative, and postoperative variables were compared, as well as monthly trends in outpatient versus inpatient admission. Potential risk factors for inpatient admission were assessed, as well as early Clavien-Dindo complications.

RESULTS

Analysis included 638 sleeve gastrectomy surgeries (427 outpatient, 211 inpatient). Significant differences between cohorts were age, co-morbidities, surgery date, facility, operative duration, and 30-day emergency department (ED) readmission. Monthly frequency of outpatient sleeve gastrectomy rose as high as 71% regionally. An increased number of 30-day ED readmissions was found for the inpatient cohort (P = .022). Potential risk factors for inpatient admission included age, diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, pre-COVID-19 surgery date, and operative duration.

CONCLUSION

Outpatient sleeve gastrectomy is safe and efficacious. Administrative support for extended postanesthesia care unit recovery was critical to successful protocol implementation for outpatient sleeve gastrectomy within this large multicenter healthcare system, demonstrating potential applicability nationwide.

Telemonitoring for perioperative care of outpatient bariatric surgery: Preference-based randomized clinical trial

IMPORTANCE

Implementation of bariatric surgery on an outpatient basis is hampered by concerns about timely detection of postoperative complications. Telemonitoring could enhance detection and support transition to an outpatient recovery pathway.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate non-inferiority and feasibility of an outpatient recovery pathway after bariatric surgery, supported by remote monitoring compared to standard care.

DESIGN

Preference-based non-inferiority randomized trial.

SETTING

Center for obesity and metabolic surgery, Catharina hospital Eindhoven, the Netherlands.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients scheduled for primary gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

INTERVENTIONS

Same-day discharge with one week ongoing Remote Monitoring (RM) of vital parameters or Standard Care (SC) with discharge on postoperative day one.

MAIN OUTCOMES

Primary outcome was a thirty-day composite Textbook Outcome score encompassing mortality, mild and severe complications, readmission and prolonged length-of-stay. Non-inferiority of same-day discharge and remote monitoring was accepted below the selected margin of 7% upper limit of confidence interval. Secondary outcomes included admission duration, post-discharge opioid use and patients' satisfaction.

RESULTS

Textbook Outcome was achieved in 94% (n = 102) in RM versus 98% (n = 100) in SC (RR 2.9; 95% CI, 0.60-14.23, p = 0.22). The non-inferiority margin was exceeded which is a statistically inconclusive result. Both Textbook Outcome measures were above Dutch average (5% RM and 9% SC). Same-day discharge reduced hospitalization days by 61% (p<0.001) and by 58% with re-admission days included (p<0.001). Post-discharge opioid use and satisfaction scores were equal (p = 0.82 and p = 0.86).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, outpatient bariatric surgery supported with telemonitoring is clinically comparable to standard overnight bariatrics in terms of textbook-outcome. Both approaches reached primary endpoint results above Dutch average. However, statistically the outpatient surgery protocol was neither inferior, nor non-inferior to the standard pathway. Additionally, offering same-day discharge reduces the total hospitalization days while maintaining patient satisfaction and safety.

Bariatric surgeon perceptions of the safety of same-day sleeve gastrectomy in the state of Massachusetts

BACKGROUND

During the past 2.5 years, select bariatric surgeons in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have been implementing same-day sleeve gastrectomy (SDSG). Key reasons for this change have been to reduce risks associated with hospitalization in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and to comply with third-party payer preference to reduce costs.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate bariatric surgeons' attitudes about outcomes and morbidity between patients who are hospitalized after sleeve gastrectomy and patients who undergo SDSG.

SETTING

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Massachusetts (teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School).

METHODS

This prospective cohort study was conducted among bariatric surgeons practicing in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. An anonymous web-based questionnaire was distributed using the Research Electronic Data Capture software. A total of 58 bariatric surgeons in Massachusetts were identified and successfully contacted based on registration with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine, membership in the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and internet search.

RESULTS

A total of 33 bariatric surgeons in Massachusetts completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 56.9%. Among the respondents, 75.76% have not performed SDSG, reporting patient safety as the major concern, and 24.24% had performed SDSG in the past.

CONCLUSION

Survey responses showed no significant differences in surgeon perception between SDSG and hospitalization after surgery. Optimal patient selection was an important factor influencing surgeons' decisions with regard to performing SDSG. However, bariatric surgeons in Massachusetts are reluctant to perform SDSG.

Is Same-Day Discharge After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Safe? A Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Database Analysis

Purpose

Same-day discharge (SDD) after bariatric surgery is gaining popularity. We aimed to analyze the safety of SDD after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and compare its outcomes to inpatients discharged on postoperative days 1–2.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database for the period 2015–2020. Patients who underwent primary laparoscopic RYGB and were discharged the same day of the operation (SDD-RYGB) and inpatients discharged on postoperative days 1–2 (In-RYGB) were compared. Primary outcomes of interest were overall morbidity, serious morbidity, readmission, reoperation, intervention, and mortality rates.

Results

A total of 167,188 patients were included; 2156 (1.3%) SDD-RYGB and 165,032 (98.7%) In-RYGB. Mean age (SDD-RYGB: 44.5 vs. In-RYGB: 44.6 years), proportion of females (SDD-RYGB: 81.4% vs. In-RYGB: 80.6%), and mean body mass index (SDD-RYGB: 45.8 vs. In-RYGB: 45.9 kg/m²) were similar between groups. Overall morbidity (SDD-RYGB: 11.3% vs. In-RYGB: 10.2%; OR: 1.2, p = 0.08), serious morbidity (SDD-RYGB: 3.1% vs. In-RYGB: 3%; OR: 1.03, p = 0.81), reoperation (SDD-RYGB: 1.4% vs. In-RYGB: 1.2%; OR: 1.16, p = 0.42), readmission (SDD-RYGB: 4.8% vs. In-RYGB: 4.8%; OR: 1.01, p = 0.89), and mortality (SDD-RYGB: 0.04% vs. In-RYGB: 0.09%; OR: 0.53, p = 0.53) were comparable between groups. SDD-RYGB had lower risk of 30-day interventions (SDD-RYGB: 1.1% vs. In-RYGB: 1.6%; OR: 0.64, p = 0.04) compared to In-RYGB.

Conclusion

Same-day discharge after RYGB seems to be safe and has comparable outcomes to admitted patients. Standardized patient selection criteria and perioperative management protocols are needed to further increase the safety of this practice.

Graphical abstract

Fighting the obesity pandemic during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic created delays in surgical care. The population with obesity has a high risk of death from COVID-19. Prior literature shows the most effective way to combat obesity is by weight loss surgery. At different times throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, elective inpatient surgeries have been halted due to bed availability. Recognizing that major complications following bariatric surgery are extremely low (bleeding 0–4%, anastomotic leaks 0.8%), we felt outpatient bariatric surgery would be safe for low-risk patients. Complications such as DVT, PE, infection, and anastomotic leaks typically present after 7 days postoperatively, well outside the usual length of stay. Bleeding events, severe postoperative nausea, and dehydration typically occur in the first few days postoperatively. We designed a pathway focused on detecting and preventing these early post-op complications to allow safe outpatient bariatric surgery.

Methods

We used a preoperative evaluation tool to risk stratify bariatric patients. During a 16-month period, 89 patients were identified as low risk for outpatient surgery. We designed a postoperative protocol that included IV hydration and PO intake goals to meet a safe discharge. We sent patients home with a pulse oximeter and had them self-monitor their pulse and oxygen saturation. We called all patients at 10 pm for a postoperative assessment and report of their vitals. Patients returned to clinic the following day and were seen by a provider, received IV hydration, and labs were drawn. RESULTS: 80 of 89 patients (89.8%) were successfully discharged on POD 0. 3 patients were readmitted within 30 days. We had zero deaths in our study cohort and no morbidity that would have been prevented with postoperative admission.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that by identifying low-risk patients for outpatient bariatric surgery and by implementing remote monitoring of vitals early outpatient follow-up, we were able to safely perform outpatient bariatric surgery.

Graphical abstract

Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery: an Italian consensus statement

Background

Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery (ERABS) is an approach developed to improve outcomes in obese surgical patients. Unfortunately, it is not evenly implemented in Italy. The Italian Society for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Diseases and the Italian Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia, Resuscitation and Intensive Care joined in drafting an official statement on ERABS.

Methods

To assess the effectiveness and safety of ERABS and to develop evidence-based recommendations with regard to pre-, intra-, and post-operative care for obese patients undergoing ERABS, a 13-member expert task force of surgeons and anesthesiologists from Italian certified IFSO center of excellence in bariatric surgery was established and a review of English-language papers conducted. Oxford 2011 Levels of Evidence and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Grade Definitions were used to grade the level of evidence and the strength of recommendations, respectively. The supporting evidence and recommendations were reviewed and discussed by the entire group at meetings to achieve a final consensus.

Results

Compared to the conventional approach, ERABS reduces the length of hospital stay and does not heighten the risk of major post-operative complications, re-operations, and hospital re-admissions, nor does it increase the overall surgical costs. A total of 25 recommendations were proposed, covering pre-operative evaluation and care (7 items), intra-operative management (1 item, 11 sub-items), and post-operative care and discharge (6 items).

Conclusions

ERABS is an effective and safe approach. The recommendations allow the proper management of obese patients undergoing ERABS for a better outcome.

Postbariatric EArly discharge Controlled by Healthdot (PEACH) trial: study protocol for a preference-based randomized trial

Introduction

Performing bariatric surgery in a daycare setting has a potential reduction in hospital costs and increase in patients’ satisfaction. Although the feasibility and safety of such care pathway has already been proven, its implementation is hampered by concerns about timely detection of short-term complications. This study is designed to evaluate a combined outcome measurement in outpatient bariatric surgery supplemented by a novel wireless remote monitoring system versus current standard of care.

Methods and analysis

A total of 200 patients with multidisciplinary team approval for primary bariatric surgery will be assigned based on their preference to one of two postoperative trajectories: (1) standard of in-hospital care with discharge on the first postoperative day or (2) same day discharge with ongoing telemonitoring up to 7 days after surgery. The device (Healthdot R Philips) transfers heart rate, respiration rate, activity, and body posture of the patient continuously by LoRaWan network to our hospital’s dashboard (Philips Guardian). The primary outcome is a composite outcome measure within 30 days postoperative based on mortality, mild and severe complications, readmission, and prolonged length-of-stay. Secondary outcomes include patients’ satisfaction and data handling dimensions.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04754893, Registered on 12 February 2021.

Risk Factors for Readmission After Same-Day Discharge Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Database Analysis

Background

Same-day discharge after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is gaining popularity. We aimed to determine risk factors associated with readmission in patients who underwent same-day discharge SG.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database for the period 2015–2018. Patients who underwent SG and were discharged the same day of the operation were included in the analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine risk factors for readmission.

Results

A total of 466,270 SG were performed during the study period; 14,624 (3.1%) patients were discharged the same day and were included in the analysis. Mean age was 43.4 (14.7–80) years and 11,718 (80.1%) were female. Mean preoperative BMI was 43.7 ± 7.4 kg/m². Mean operative time was 58.3 ± 32.4 min. Thirty-day reoperation, reintervention, and mortality rates were 0.7%, 0.7%, and 0.1%, respectively. Readmission rates were similar in same-day discharge and inpatient SG (2.9% vs. 3%, p = 0.5). Female sex (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.15–2.00), preoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.08–1.64), renal insufficiency (OR 3.06, 95% CI 1.01–9.32), and intraoperative drain placement (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.37–2.31) were independent risk factors for readmission following same-day discharge SG.

Conclusions

Same-day discharge SG appears to be safe and is associated with low readmission rates. However, the identification of preoperative and intraoperative variables associated with higher risk of readmission might help defining safer and more effective same-day discharge protocols.

Graphical abstract

Quality of recovery assessment of day case and multiday stay patients undergoing elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Objectives

Many laparoscopic cholecystectomy operations are performed with at least overnight admission. Current research shows that laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe and feasible to do as a day case. Patient centred outcomes are less well understood.

Material and Methods

Elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients at a single metropolitan hospital in Melbourne, Australia were surveyed 24 hours after surgery using the 15-question Quality of Recovery (QoR-15) survey. A comparison was made between day case surgeries and multi-day surgeries.

Results

One hundred and eight patients were recruited consisting of 34 day case and 74 multi-day patients. Patient groups did not differ in terms of age, sex or postoperative morbidity. The multi-day group had a higher proportion of comorbid patients (p-value = 0.03). There was no significant dif- ference in overall QoR-15 score between the two groups, although there was an observed trend towards a higher score in the day case group (132.0 vs 127.9, p= 0.147). QoR-15 individual question results showed that day cases rated significantly better for sleep quality and for less feelings of anxiety or worry. The differences narrowed when comparing patient groups as they were booked (intention-to-treat). There were no identified sub-groups that had a significantly higher score if admitted multi-day.

Conclusion

Quality of recovery following day case laparoscopic cholecystectomy is just as good, if not better, than multi-day cases. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a day case is both safe and economically superior to multi-day management. This gives further weight to current recommendations suggesting that the majority of laparoscopic cholecystectomy operations could be performed as day cases.

The Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty as an Alternative to Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a therapeutic endoscopic technique for reducing the size of the gastric reservoir in obese patients, using a full-thickness endoscopic suturing device. The effectiveness of ESG in weight loss is significantly greater than that of high-intensity diet and lifestyle therapy and lower than that of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The efficacy at 12 months after ESG in terms of percentage of total body weight loss and excess body weight loss was approximately 16% and 60%, respectively. The well-known predictive factors for increased weight loss by ESG are good compliance with regular monitoring and post-procedure care involving a multidisciplinary team approach. Although the underlying mechanism of weight loss induced by ESG is debatable, delayed gastric emptying and early satiation are some of the proposed mechanisms. The pooled rate of adverse events after ESG reported in several meta-analysis studies ranged from 1.5% to 2.3% and the incidence of new-onset gastroesophageal reflux disease after ESG was negligible, indicating that ESG has a superior safety profile to LSG. Moreover, ESG reduced the risk of obesity-related metabolic comorbidities, evidenced by the reduction in HbA1c level, systolic blood pressure, triglyceride level, and risk of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis; it even improved the quality of life. ESG could be considered safe and qualify as an alternative treatment to LSG.

The Application of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) for Patients Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

To systematically evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway in bariatric surgery. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, OVID, World Health Organization International Trial Register, and Cochrane Library identifying all eligible studies comparing ERAS protocols with standard care (SC) in bariatric surgery through May 2020. Relevant perioperative parameters were extracted from the resulting studies for meta-analysis. The primary outcome was the length of hospital stay, and secondary outcomes included operation time, postoperative nausea, and vomiting (PONV), postoperative complications, readmission, reoperation, and subsequent emergency room visits. Postoperative complications were categorized according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. Final analysis included five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and twelve observational studies which included 4964 patients in the ERAS group and 3218 patients in the SC group. The length of the hospital stay was significantly decreased (p < 0.01) after ERAS protocol management, as did the incidence of POVN (p < 0.01). No significant differences were observed between the ERAS group and SC group in terms of operation time (p = 0.37), postoperative complications (p = 0.18), readmission (p = 0.17), reoperation (p = 0.34), or emergency room visits (p = 0.65). The application of ERAS protocols in bariatric surgery is safe and feasible, effectively shortening the length of a hospital stay without compromising morbidity, and accelerating patient recovery.

Finding the body mass index cutoff for hospital readmission after ambulatory hernia surgery

BACKGROUND

The suitability of ambulatory surgery in obese patients remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the "cutoff" value of body mass index (BMI) associated with increased likelihood of hospital readmissions within the first 24 hours of surgery in patients undergoing ambulatory hernia repair.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study used data from the 2012-2016 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement (ACS-NSQIP). Cochran Armitage trend tests were conducted to assess progression in rates hospital readmissions across categories of patient BMI. The minimum p-value method, Kolmogorov-Smirnov goodness of fit tests, logistic regression, and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were used to investigate the cutoff of patient BMI indicative of increased likelihood of readmissions.

RESULTS

A total of 214,125 ambulatory hernia repair cases were identified. Of those, 908 patients (0.42%) had an unexpected hospital admission within the first 24 hours after surgery. The readmission rates did not significantly increase across the categories of BMI. However, some of the reasons for readmission significantly differed by BMI category. Logistic regression analysis revealed no statistically significant association between BMI and hospital readmissions (odds ratio [95% Cl], 0.96 [0.91-1.02] P = .179). An optimal BMI threshold predictive of an increased likelihood of hospital readmissions was not identifiable by any of the statistical methods used.

CONCLUSIONS

Although reasons for readmission differed by BMI category, there is no clear cutoff value of BMI associated with increased hospital readmission within the first 24 hours after surgery.

Maximization of Non-Opioid Multimodal Analgesia in Ambulatory Surgery Centers

Ambulatory surgery centers aid the healthcare system by not only providing a cost-effective option for delivery of care but also by helping to reduce overwhelming case volumes at inpatient facilities. While outpatient protocols have been designed for an increasing number of surgical procedures, the inpatient to outpatient transition of surgery remains limited by both procedure type and patient comorbidities. This limitation stems in part from the heavy emphasis on accelerated discharge following outpatient procedures, given that prolonged recovery time is associated with delayed turnover and increased nursing care demands. Since its inception, enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) has aimed to primarily reduce the disruption of physiologic homeostasis that occurs secondary to surgery. More recently, the aim of ERAS has evolved to help transition inpatient procedures to outpatient settings and may even be useful in more emergent cases. It should be noted, however, that outpatient surgery even in combination with ERAS is not the best option for all patients, and the use of ERAS protocols should be complemented with predictive assessments of patient risk. Beyond augmenting the efficiency of outpatient surgery, ERAS protocols, when used in eligible patients and especially when combined with regional anesthetic techniques, are effective in delivering opioid-sparing pain management while increasing overall outcomes and patient satisfaction rates.

Safety of same-day discharge after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: propensity score-matched analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Registry

BACKGROUND

Information on the safety of outpatient sleeve gastrectomy is sparse.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the safety of sleeve gastrectomy as a day case surgery.

SETTING

University health network, United States.

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary sleeve gastrectomy were identified in the 2015-2017 MBSAQIP database. Day case surgery procedure was defined as having a hospital length of stay of 0 days. Day case surgery patients were matched with inpatient controls using propensity score matching. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 271,658 sleeve gastrectomy patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, only 7825 (2.88 %) were day case surgery procedures. There was no mortality in the group. Day case surgery, compared with inpatient sleeve gastrectomy, was associated with a similar risk of a leak (.56% versus .40%; relative risk [RR], 1.419; 95% CI, .896-2.245; P = .133), bleeding (.38% versus .31%; RR, 1.250; 95% CI, .731-2.138; P = .414), 30-day reoperation (.81% versus .56%; RR, 1.432; 95% CI, .975-2.104; P = .066), and 30-day morbidity (1.15% versus 1.01%; RR, 1.139; 95% CI, .842-1.541; P = .397). Outpatients' SG increased the risk for 30-day readmission (3.35% versus 2.79%; RR, 1.202; 95% CI, 1.009-1.432; P = .039).

CONCLUSIONS

Sleeve gastrectomy in the outpatient setting as a day case surgery was associated with no mortality and no statistically significant risk of reoperation, leakage, or bleeding compared with patients admitted to inpatient units. The readmission rate was higher in the day case surgery group.

Does ERAS impact outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in adolescents?

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols have been successfully implemented in several surgical fields; however, the application of ERAS in the pediatric population is still limited.

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to determine if implementation of an ERAS protocol can improve outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in adolescents.

SETTING

University Hospital, United States.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 112 adolescent patients who underwent LSG from February 2011 to July 2019 was conducted. An ERAS protocol was instituted in June 2016. Conventional care patients (n = 51) were compared with ERAS patients (n = 61). Comparisons were made using Χ² tests or Fisher's exact for categoric data and Wilcoxon-rank sum tests for continuous data. Multiple linear regression was used to adjust length of stay for patient characteristics.

RESULTS

The 2 cohorts were similar in age, sex, race, number of co-morbidities, and preoperative body mass index. The volume of intraoperative fluid, intraoperative and postoperative opioids were significantly reduced in the ERAS group (P < .0001). The number of ERAS elements received per patient increased from a median of 9 to 15 (P < .0001). ERAS group had more discharges on postoperative day 1 (48% versus 6 %, respectively). Length of stay was significantly lower in the ERAS group (2.34 versus 2.04 median d, respectively). Difference was still significant after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, payor status, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, preoperative body mass index, and the duration of surgery (P < .0001). There were no differences in postoperative complications and 30-day readmissions.

CONCLUSIONS

An LSG ERAS protocol is associated with significant reduction in perioperative opioid use and length of stay with no increase in complications or readmission rates.

Comparison of safety and utilization outcomes in inpatient versus outpatient laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a retrospective, cohort study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most common type of bariatric surgery performed in the United States and may be performed on an outpatient basis. Limited literature exists comparing outcomes of outpatient and inpatient LSG, and study results are conflicting.

OBJECTIVES

To compare safety and utilization outcomes of outpatient versus inpatient LSG.

SETTINGS

Retrospective, multihospital database study (Optum Pan-Therapeutics Database).

METHODS

Patients 18 years of age and older who underwent LSG between October 1, 2015, and December 31, 2018, were identified from the Optum Pan-Therapeutics Database and classified as having undergone outpatient or inpatient surgery. Nearest neighbor propensity score matching and generalized estimating equations accounting for procedural physician-level clustering were used to compare the following outcomes between outpatient and inpatient LSG: all-cause 30-day patient morbidity, hospital readmission, readmission length of stay, bariatric reoperation. and mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 22,945 patients (outpatient: 1542; inpatient: 21,403) meeting the study inclusion criteria. After propensity score matching, the inpatient and outpatient groups contained 1542 and 13,903 patients, respectively. Bariatric reoperation (n = 13) and mortality (n = 5) were rare events occurring in <.1% of all cases. Compared with the inpatient group, the outpatient group had a statistically significant lower readmission length of stay (4.63 versus 3.23 days; P = .0057). Otherwise, there was no significant association between procedure setting and 30-day overall morbidity (4.8% versus 5.3%; P = .5775) or hospital readmission (2.6% versus 2.1%; P = .1841).

CONCLUSIONS

Safety and utilization outcomes were similar between outpatient and inpatient LSG, and outpatient LSG was associated with shorter hospital readmission length of stay.

Ambulatory bariatric surgery: does it really lead to higher rates of adverse events?

BACKGROUND

Correlating patient outcomes with length of stay (LoS) is an important consideration in metabolic and bariatric surgery. At present, conflicting data exists regarding patient safety for ambulatory (AMB) metabolic and bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVE

Outcomes for AMB-metabolic and bariatric surgery patients (LoS <1 d) undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) were compared with matched patients with LoS ≥1 day (non-AMB) using the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) registry.

SETTING

MBSAQIP national database.

METHODS

The MBSAQIP registry was queried for patients undergoing SG or RYGB (2015-2017) and patients grouped as AMB/non-AMB. Exclusion criteria included LoS >4 days, age <18 or >75 years, revision surgery, gastric banding, body mass index <35 kg/m², and day of surgery mortality. Variables were combined into major/minor complications and 30-day mortality. Analysis was performed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression and propensity matching.

RESULTS

After exclusions were applied 408,895 patients remained (9973 AMB). Overall, 111,279 patients underwent RYGB (1032 AMB) and 297,616 underwent SG (8941 AMB), with similar demographic characteristics and co-morbidities between groups. For AMB patients, there was no increase in 30-day mortality, reoperation, or readmission, and fewer drains were placed versus matched non-AMB patients. In AMB-SG patients more surgical site infections were reported versus non-AMB-SG, although AMB-SG patients had fewer intensive care unit admissions. For AMB-RYGB, no differences in complications were detected versus non-AMB-RYGB.

CONCLUSION

Based on our analysis of the MBSAQIP database, patients undergoing laparoscopic RYGB or SG procedures can be safely discharged on the day of their procedure without increased incidence of mortality, reoperation, or readmission.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as day-case surgery: a review of the literature

Day-case surgery (DCS) in digestive surgery is a hot topic, and new indications for DCS in the field of gastrointestinal surgery have recently been described. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become a popular bariatric procedure in recent years. LSG is a reproducible, standardized procedure with a short operating time and possibly simple perioperative management. It therefore meets the criteria to be performed as a DCS procedure. Recently published series of LSG as DCS have demonstrated its feasibility. In this review on LSG performed as DCS, we focused on the management of risks associated with DCS and the results of such type of management. A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Embase databases. Six studies were selected, comprising a total of 6227 patients. Most published series were retrospective single-center studies. Inclusion criteria were similar between most studies (primary sleeve gastrectomy for most series, patients with a body mass index ≥40 kg/m² or a body mass index ≥35 kg/m² in the presence of co-morbidities), while exclusion criteria were based on literature data for some studies (using series on risk factors for morbidity and mortality after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) and personal experience for other series. The mortality rate of LSG as DCS ranges 0%-.08%, while the overall complication rate ranges 0%-10%. The unplanned overnight admission rate after LSG ranges .8%-8%. The unscheduled hospitalization rates range 2.1%-8.5%. LSG performed as DCS is feasible with good results, but cannot be proposed for all patients. Good selection is necessary in others to avoid increased risk of morbidity and mortality.