Bariatric surgery is associated with increased risk of new-onset inflammatory bowel disease: case series and national database study

Severe obesity, a susceptibility factor for developing inflammatory bowel disease: results of a population-based study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) develops in genetically susceptible individuals exposed to certain environmental factors, of which only a few have been established. We aimed to assess whether bariatric surgery (BS) and severe obesity are associated with an increased risk of developing IBD.

METHODS

Adults diagnosed with obesity or severe obesity between 2005 and 2020 were identified from the Catalan Health Surveillance System; those diagnosed with IBD prior to the diagnosis of obesity or severe obesity were excluded. Individuals who had undergone BS and those with a new diagnosis of IBD were identified and their likelihood of developing IBD was analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 93 473 individuals with severe obesity, 1 009 256 with obesity and 14 698 who underwent BS were identified. The incidence rates of IBD among individuals who had undergone BS prior to IBD diagnosis was 0.84 cases per 1000 person-years, 0.90 cases per 1000 person-years among individuals with severe obesity without BS and 0.60 cases per 1000 person-years in individuals with obesity. In the multivariable regression analysis, severe obesity (hazard ratio [HR] 1.46; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 1.31-1.62), BS (HR 1.57; 95%CI 1.25-1.97), and smoking habit (HR 1.57; 95%CI 1.46-1.69) were risk factors for developing IBD (as well as for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis).

CONCLUSIONS

Severe obesity and BS were independent risk factors for the development of IBD. noninvasive screening for IBD seems to be warranted in this population.

Recommendations on the management of severe obesity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease of the Spanish Group on Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis (GETECCU), Spanish Society of Obesity (SEEDO), Spanish Association of Surgery (AEC) and Spanish Society of Digestive Endoscopy (SEED)

Obesity is a multifactorial, chronic, progressive and recurrent disease considered a public health issue worldwide and an important determinant of disability and death. In Spain, its current prevalence in the adult population is about 24% and an estimated prevalence in 2035 of 37%. Obesity increases the probability of several diseases linked to higher mortality such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hyperlipidemia, arterial hypertension, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, several types of cancer, or obstructive sleep apnea. On the other hand, although the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is stabilizing in Western countries, its prevalence already exceeds 0.3%. Paralleling to general population, the current prevalence of obesity in adult patients with IBD is estimated at 15-40%. Obesity in patients with IBD could entail, in addition to its already known impact on disability and mortality, a worse evolution of the IBD itself and a worse response to treatments. The aim of this document, performed in collaboration by four scientific societies involved in the clinical care of severe obesity and IBD, is to establish clear and concise recommendations on the therapeutic possibilities of severe or typeIII obesity in patients with IBD. The document establishes general recommendations on dietary, pharmacological, endoscopic, and surgical treatment of severe obesity in patients with IBD, as well as pre- and post-treatment evaluation.

New Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease Risk Following Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Background: While bariatric surgery may reduce obesity-associated inflammation, alterations in gut microbiome and nutrition could impact inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) risk. This study aimed to investigate the association between bariatric surgery and new onset IBD. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies was conducted from inception to 31 January 2024. Risk estimates were pooled using a DerSimonian and Laird random-effects model, and adjusted hazards ratios (HRs) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported. The modified Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS) was used to examine the risk of bias. Results: Of 98 articles screened, four studies comprising 4,727,600 participants were included in the systematic review and two studies in the meta-analysis. Included studies had high quality and low risk of bias according to NOS. The pooled analysis revealed a significant risk of new onset IBD (HR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.04–1.53, I2 = 74.9%), particularly Crohn’s disease (HR: 1.75, 1.59–1.92, I2 = 0), following bariatric surgery, but no significant risk of ulcerative colitis (HR: 0.93, 0.75–1.11, I2 = 11.5%). Conclusions: This meta-analysis found that bariatric surgery was associated with a higher risk of developing Crohn’s disease. Patients should be counseled on IBD risk pre-surgery, and symptomatic patients should be evaluated post-surgery to enable early diagnosis and management.

Impact of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome on IBD Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The recent surge in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cases has paralleled a significant rise in obesity and metabolic comorbidities rates. In this article, we explore the potential influence of obesity and associated metabolic comorbidities on disease progression, complications, treatment response, surgical outcomes, health economics, and the potential impact of obesity treatment on the course of IBD.

FINDINGS

Contrary to visceral adiposity, obesity does not consistently result in an increased risk of IBD-related complications. Patients with IBD have a higher risk of acute arterial events, likely linked to systemic inflammation. Substantial evidence suggests that obesity has a negative impact on the response to IBD treatment, with this effect being most thoroughly studied in biologics and immunomodulators. The rates of overall complications and post-operative infections are higher in patients who are obese. There are limited but promising data regarding the impact of weight loss techniques, including exercise, medications, and bariatric interventions, on the outcomes in IBD. Both obesity and diabetes have adverse effects on the overall quality of life and place an increased financial burden on the IBD population. A growing body of evidence indicates a connection between obesity and associated metabolic comorbidities and negative outcomes in IBD, yet further efforts are required to fully understand this relationship.

Impact of RYGB surgery on plasma immunoglobulins: association between blood pressure and glucose levels six months after surgery

We aimed to study levels of natural antibodies in plasma, and their associations to clinical and fecal biomarkers, before and 6 months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Thirty individuals with obesity [16 type 2 diabetic, 14 non-diabetic (ND)] had RYGB surgery. Total plasma IgA, IgG and IgM antibody levels and specific antibodies to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL), malondialdehyde-acetaldehyde adducts, Porphyromonas gingivalis gingipain A hemagglutinin domain (Rgp44), and phosphocholine were measured using chemiluminescence immunoassay. Associations between plasma and fecal antibodies as well as clinical markers were analyzed. RYGB surgery reduced blood pressure, and the glycemic state was improved. A higher level of diastolic blood pressure was associated with lower plasma antibodies to oxLDL after surgery. Also, lower level of glucose markers associated with lower level of plasma antibodies to bacterial virulence factors. Antibodies to oxLDL decreased after surgery, and positive association between active serum lipopolysaccharide and specific oxLDL antibodies was detected. Total IgG levels decreased after surgery, but only in ND individuals. Reduced level of total plasma IgG, improved state of hypertension and hyperglycemia and their associations with decreased levels of specific antibodies in plasma, suggest an improved state of systemic inflammation after RYGB surgery.

The Risk of Colorectal Polyps after Weight Loss Therapy Versus Obesity: A Propensity-Matched Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

A fundamental understanding of the impact of bariatric surgery (BRS) on mechanisms of colorectal carcinogenesis is limited. For instance, studies report a reduced risk of colorectal cancer in females but not in males after BRS. We examined whether this sex-specific difference existed at the earlier polyp development stage.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 281,417 adults from the 2012-2020 MarketScan database. We compared polyps rates on colonoscopy in four groups: post- vs. pre-BRS (treatment) to post- vs. pre-severe obesity (SO) diagnosis (control). We focused our main analysis on a propensity-matched sample that yielded a balanced distribution of covariates in our four groups (n = 9680 adults, 21.9% males). We also adjusted for important covariates.

RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome parameters improved after bariatric surgery and worsened after severe obesity diagnosis (p < 0.05). The rate of polyps was 46.7% at a median of 0.5 years pre-BRS and 47.9% at a median of 0.6 years pre-SO diagnosis. The polyps rate was 45.4% at a median (range) of 3.2 (1.0-8.5) years post-BRS. Conversely, 53.8% of adults had polyps at 3.0 (1.0-8.6) years post-SO. There was no change in the risk of colorectal polyps in males or females post- vs. pre-BRS. However, the risk of polyps was higher in males (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.02-1.70) and females (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.13-1.47) post- vs. pre-SO. When compared to the control group (SO), the odds ratios for colorectal polyps were lower for males and females after bariatric surgery (OR = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.44-0.90, and OR = 0.79, 95% CI: 0.66-0.96, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colorectal polyps, an effect that is ameliorated after bariatric surgery. These data are relevant for studies investigating colorectal carcinogenesis mechanisms.

Systematic review: Outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with inflammatory bowel disease and de-novo IBD development after bariatric surgery

A large proportion of patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease are obese. Outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with IBD and on IBD disease course itself is not clear. Furthermore, there is some evidence that bariatric surgery can precipitate the development of de-novo IBD. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to summarise the evidence from the literature surrounding these questions. A comprehensive literature review was conducted based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis guidelines (PRISMA). PUBMED, and MEDLINE databases was searched using a combination of keywords and MeSH terms including "gastric bypass", "sleeve gastrectomy", "Roux-en-Y", "Duodenal switch", "RYGB", "bariatric surgery" and "inflammatory bowel disease", "Crohn's disease" ,"Ulcerative colitis". Studies published up to March 2020 were included in this analysis. 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies revealed that bariatric surgery is safe and effective for patients with IBD and resulted in significant weight loss at both the 6-month and 12-month time points. Furthermore, multiple studies reported de-novo IBD development following bariatric surgery in a selection of patients.

Outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with inflammatory bowel disease from a French nationwide database

BACKGROUND

The outcomes of bariatric surgery (BS) in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remain rarely described. We aimed to evaluate the 90-day morbidity and mortality rates, and the risk of IBD complications 2 years after BS.

METHOD

Patients from the French Programme de Médicalisation des Systèmes d'Information (PMSI) database who underwent a primary BS between 2016 and 2018 were included. We identified patients with a previous diagnosis of IBD. Postoperative 90-day (POD90) morbidity and mortality rates were compared between the two groups. The evolution of IBD was followed 2 years after BS.

RESULTS

Between 2016 and 2018, 138 980 patients underwent primary BS, including 587 patients with IBD: 326 (55.5 per cent) with Crohn's disease (CD) and 261 (44.5 per cent) with ulcerative colitis (UC). The preferred surgical technique was sleeve gastrectomy, especially in the IBD group (81.1 per cent), followed by gastric bypass (14.6 per cent). Patients with IBD had more comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index of 1 or more, hypertension, and diabetes; P < 0.001) than those without IBD. The POD90 mortality rate did not differ between the two groups (0.049 per cent in the IBD group versus 0 per cent in the non-IBD group), but more unscheduled rehospitalizations at POD90 were observed in patients with IBD (6.0 per cent versus 3.7 per cent; P = 0.004). Two years after BS, 86 patients (14.6 per cent) in the IBD group had at least one unplanned readmission for the management of their IBD; 15 patients stayed for 3 or more days. After multivariable analysis, patients with CD had an independent elevated risk of IBD-related unplanned readmissions 2 years after BS versus UC (adjusted odds ratio 1.90, 95 per cent c.i. 1.22 to 2.97; P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

In a highly selected cohort of patients with well-controlled IBD, BS did not result in added mortality or morbidity. A point of vigilance must be underlined regarding BS in patients with CD.

De novo ulcerative colitis and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy following sleeve gastrectomy

The increasing prevalence of severe obesity is a major public health concern. Bariatric surgery is an important treatment option for severe obesity due to its long-term sustained result. Multiple studies have shown that patients have an increased risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease following bariatric surgery. Takotsubo syndrome usually presents as acute left ventricular systolic dysfunction without corresponding obstructive coronary artery disease after an acute stress episode. We describe a unique case of a patient who developed de novo ulcerative colitis and takotsubo cardiomyopathy shortly after sleeve gastrectomy. The patient made a successful recovery due to prompt recognition and appropriate treatment.

De Novo Inflammatory Bowel Disease Following Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The incidence of both obesity and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is rising globally. The influence of bariatric metabolic surgery (BMS) upon IBD development is largely unknown. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the relationship between BMS and the risk of de novo IBD development following surgery. A systematic literature search and meta-analysis were performed using PubMed and Scopus databases. Inclusion criteria were any study reporting risk of de novo IBD development following BMS relative to an appropriate control cohort. Pooled odds ratios (POR) were calculated. A total of 31 articles were identified by the literature search. Four studies including 149,385 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Pooled estimation of a meta-analysis of risk ratios studies demonstrated a POR for the development of IBD following BMS of 1.17 (95% CI, 1.06-1.29). This indicates a 17% increase in relative risk of de novo IBD development for those patients receiving BMS compared to those treated by non-surgical methods. Based on the present data, there appears to be an association between BMS and risk of de novo IBD. Compared to the proven benefits of BMS on other aspects of patient health, this potential risk remains proportionally low but may be an important consideration for patients both pre- and post-operatively.

Exploring the Relationship Between Bariatric Surgery and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review

Background

Obesity affects over 40% of Americans. Bariatric surgery is an increasingly popular and well-studied method to achieve weight loss, improve metabolic homeostasis, and resolve obesity-related comorbid conditions. While the impact of bariatric surgery on weight loss and metabolic health has been extensively studied, there is an increasing body of literature characterizing the impact of bariatric surgery on gastrointestinal health and inflammation. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) leads to inflammation in both the small and large intestine, and leads to significant patient morbidity. Similar to obesity, the incidence of IBD is also rising. Patients with IBD and obesity may seek bariatric surgery. The impact of bariatric surgery on IBD is not well understood, but critical to understand for optimal patient care. Herein, we review the currently available literature on the impact of bariatric surgery on IBD including common trends, discrepancies in findings, and remaining knowledge gaps in need of further study.

Methods

A systematic review of the PubMed/MEDLINE database using PRISMA guidelines was performed.

Results

We identified 12 manuscripts discussing de novo IBD after bariatric surgery and 16 studying bariatric surgery in patients with pre-existing IBD. Overall, bariatric surgery appears to be safe in patients with pre-existing IBD but may increase the risk of developing de novo IBD.

Conclusions

Further research into optimal surgical approaches, patient selection, and mechanisms on how bariatric surgery impacts IBD is needed.

Bariatric Surgery and Risk of New-onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The aim of this study was to examine the risk of new-onset inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] following bariatric surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide population-based prospective cohort study of the entire Danish population 18 to 60 years of age, alive, and residing in Denmark, from 1996 to 2018. Bariatric surgery was included as a time-dependent variable, and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios [HRs] of IBD. We used a model adjusting for age, sex, and birth cohort and a multifactor-adjusted model additionally including educational status and number of obesity-related comorbidities.

RESULTS

We followed 3 917 843 individuals of whom 15 347 had a bariatric surgery, for development of new-onset IBD. During 106 420 person-years following bariatric surgery, 100 IBD events occurred [incidence rate 0.940/1000 person-years]. During 55 553 785 person-years without bariatric surgery, 35 294 events of IBD occurred [incidence rate 0.635/1000 person-years]. This corresponded to a multifactor-adjusted hazard ratio [HR] of 1.15 (95% confidence interval[CI], 0.94-1.40) for IBD. Multifactor-adjusted HRs of Crohn's disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis [UC] were 1.85 [95% CI, 1.40-2.44] and 0.81 [95% CI, 0.61-1.08], respectively. Among women, the multifactor-adjusted HR for CD was 2.18 [95% CI, 1.64-2.90]. When limiting the study population to individuals with a diagnosis of overweight/obesity, bariatric surgery remained associated with increased risk of CD, multifactor-adjusted HR 1.59 [95% CI, 1.18-2.13].

CONCLUSIONS

This nationwide cohort study shows that bariatric surgery is associated with increased risk of development of new-onset CD, but not of UC. The underlying mechanisms remain elusive.

Gastrointestinal manifestations after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery is an effective treatment for obesity, which improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of premature mortality. However, some reports have suggested that RYGB may predispose patients to adverse health outcomes, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and colorectal cancer.

OBJECTIVES

The present prospective study aimed to evaluate the impact of RYGB surgery on cardiovascular risk factors and gastrointestinal inflammation in individuals with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D).

SETTING

University hospital setting in Finland.

METHODS

Blood and fecal samples were collected at baseline and 6 months after surgery from 30 individuals, of which 16 had T2D and 14 were nondiabetics. There were also single study visits for 6 healthy reference patients. Changes in cardiovascular risk factors, serum cholesterol, and triglycerides were investigated before and after surgery. Fecal samples were analyzed for calprotectin, anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae immunoglobulin A antibodies (ASCA), active lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentration, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), intestinal alkaline phosphatase activity, and methylglyoxal-hydro-imidazolone (MG-H1) protein adducts formation.

RESULTS

After RYGB, weight decreased on average -21.6% (-27.2 ± 7.8 kg), excess weight loss averaged 51%, and there were improvements in cardiovascular risk factors. Fecal calprotectin levels (P < .001), active LPS concentration (P < .002), ASCA (P < .02), and MG-H1 (P < .02) values increased significantly, whereas fecal SCFAs, especially acetate (P < .002) and butyrate (P < .03) levels, were significantly lowered.

CONCLUSION

The intestinal homeostasis is altered after RYGB, with several fecal markers suggesting increased inflammation; however, clinical significance of the detected changes is currently uncertain. As chronic inflammation may predispose patients to adverse health effects, our findings may have relevance for the suggested association between RYGB and increased risks of incident IBD and colorectal cancer.

Secondary causes of inflammatory bowel diseases

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), conventionally consist of Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis. They occur in individuals with high risk genotype for the disease in the setting of appropriate environmental factors. The pathogenesis of IBD involves a dysregulated autoimmune response to gut dysbiosis, which in turn is triggered due to exposure to various inciting environmental factors. But there is no clearly defined etiology of IBD and this type of disease is termed as “idiopathic IBD”, “classic IBD”, or “primary IBD”. We reviewed the current medical literature and found that certain etiological factors may be responsible for the development of IBD or IBD-like conditions, and we consider this form of de novo IBD as “secondary IBD”. Currently known factors that are potentially responsible for giving rise to secondary IBD are medications; bowel altering surgeries and transplantation of organs, stem cells or fecal microbiome. Medications associated with the development of secondary IBD include; immunomodulators, anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha agents, anti-interleukin agents, interferons, immune stimulating agents and checkpoint inhibitors. Colectomy can in some cases give rise to de novo CD, pouchitis of the ileal pouch, or postcolectomy enteritis syndrome. After solid organ transplantation or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the recipient may develop de novo IBD or IBD flare. Fecal microbiota transplantation has been widely used to treat patients suffering from recurrent Clostridium difficile infection but can also causes IBD flares.

Bariatric Surgery and Its Complications in Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients

Recent data have suggested that bariatric procedures, especially laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG), are safe and effective weight loss measures in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). But most of the studies have looked at short-term outcomes, and there is a general lack of awareness of underlying disease processes and baseline comorbidities in IBD patients undergoing bariatric procedures. Postbariatric issues in IBD patients including diarrhea from dumping syndrome, choleretic diarrhea, a high prevalence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett's esophagus, stomal ulcerations, stenosis, and renal and gallstones can complicate the natural history of IBD. This could lead to unnecessary hospitalizations, change of medical therapy, and poor surgical and quality of life outcomes. In this review, we will discuss major complications after common bariatric procedures (SG, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and gastric banding) and suggest possible management strategies.

Risk of de-novo inflammatory bowel disease among obese patients treated with bariatric surgery or weight loss medications

BACKGROUND

An association between bariatric surgery and development of de-novo inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been observed.

AIM

To evaluate further the association among bariatric surgery, weight loss medications, obesity and new-onset IBD.

METHODS

Using Explorys, a population-based Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliant database, we estimated the prevalence of de-novo IBD among patients treated with bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or gastric banding) (n = 60 870) or weight loss medications (orlistat, phentermine/topiramate, lorcaserin, bupropion/naltrexone and liraglutide) (n = 193 790) compared with obese controls (n = 5 021 210), between 1999 and 2018.

RESULTS

The prevalence of de-novo IBD was lower among obese patients exposed to bariatric surgery (7.72 per 1000 patients) or weight loss medications (7.22 per 1000 patients) compared with patients with persistent obesity not exposed to these interventions (11.66 per 1000 patients, P < 0.0001). The risk reduction for de-novo IBD was consistent across bariatric surgeries and weight loss medications with the exception of orlistat which was not associated with a reduction in risk for de-novo IBD compared with the persistent obese control cohort.

CONCLUSION

Obese patients undergoing treatment with bariatric surgery or weight loss medications are at a lower risk for developing de-novo IBD compared with persistently obese controls not exposed to these interventions. These data suggest that obesity and ineffective management of obesity are risk factors for de-novo IBD. Further research is needed to confirm these observations and understand potential mechanisms.

TGR5 Protects Against Colitis in Mice, but Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Increases Colitis Severity

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Bariatric surgery, such as vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), is the most effective long-term treatment for obesity. However, there are conflicting reports on the effect of bariatric surgery on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Bariatric surgery increases bile acid concentrations, which can decrease inflammation by signaling through the bile acid receptor, TGR5. TGR5 signaling protects against chemically induced colitis in mice. VSG increases circulating bile acid concentrations to increase TGR5 signaling, which contributes to improved metabolic regulation after VSG. Therefore, we investigated the effect of VSG on chemically induced colitis development and the role of TGR5 in this context.

METHODS

VSG or sham surgery was performed in high fat diet-fed male Tgr5^+/+ and Tgr5^-/- littermates. Sham-operated mice were food restricted to match their body weight to VSG-operated mice. Colitis was induced with 2.5% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) in water post-operatively. Body weight, energy intake, fecal scoring, colon histopathology, colonic markers of inflammation, goblet cell counts, and colonic microRNA-21 levels were assessed.

RESULTS

VSG decreased body weight independently of genotype. Consistent with previous work, genetic ablation of TGR5 increased the severity of DSS-induced colitis. Notably, despite the effect of VSG to decrease body weight and increase TGR5 signaling, VSG increased the severity of DSS-induced colitis. VSG-induced increases in colitis were associated with increased colonic expression of TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, and microRNA-21.

CONCLUSIONS

While our data demonstrate that TGR5 protects against colitis, they also demonstrate that VSG potentiates chemically induced colitis in mice. These data suggest that individuals undergoing VSG may be at increased risk for developing colitis; however, further study is needed.

Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Perioperative Nutrition, Metabolic, and Nonsurgical Support of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Procedures - 2019 Update: Cosponsored by American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology, The Obesity Society, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Obesity Medicine Association, and American Society of Anesthesiologists

OBJECTIVE

The development of these updated clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) was commissioned by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), The Obesity Society (TOS), American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), Obesity Medicine Association (OMA), and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Boards of Directors in adherence with the AACE 2017 protocol for standardized production of CPGs, algorithms, and checklists.

METHODS

Each recommendation was evaluated and updated based on new evidence from 2013 to the present and subjective factors provided by experts.

RESULTS

New or updated topics in this CPG include: contextualization in an adiposity-based chronic disease complications-centric model, nuance-based and algorithm/checklist-assisted clinical decision-making about procedure selection, novel bariatric procedures, enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery protocols, and logistical concerns (including cost factors) in the current health care arena. There are 85 numbered recommendations that have updated supporting evidence, of which 61 are revised and 12 are new. Noting that there can be multiple recommendation statements within a single numbered recommendation, there are 31 (13%) Grade A, 42 (17%) Grade B, 72 (29%) Grade C, and 101 (41%) Grade D recommendations. There are 858 citations, of which 81 (9.4%) are evidence level (EL) 1 (highest), 562 (65.5%) are EL 2, 72 (8.4%) are EL 3, and 143 (16.7%) are EL 4 (lowest).

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric procedures remain a safe and effective intervention for higher-risk patients with obesity. Clinical decision-making should be evidence based within the context of a chronic disease. A team approach to perioperative care is mandatory, with special attention to nutritional and metabolic issues.

Obesity and Weight Gain Since Early Adulthood Are Associated With a Lower Risk of Microscopic Colitis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Obesity promotes intestinal inflammation and might contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. We examined the association between obesity and risk of microscopic colitis in a prospective cohort study.

METHODS

We collected data from 192,101 women enrolled in the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) (from 1986 through 2014) or the NHSII (from 1991 through 2015). Anthropomorphic and lifestyle information were self-reported biennially. Obesity was defined using body mass index (BMI). Microscopic colitis was confirmed by review of medical records. We used Cox proportional hazard models to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

Among the participants in the NHS and NHSII, we confirmed 244 cases of microscopic colitis during 4,223,868 person-years of follow-up evaluation. Higher BMI was associated inversely with risk of microscopic colitis (Ptrend < .001). Compared with women with BMIs ranging from 18.5 to 20.9 kg/m², the aHRs were 0.61 (95% CI, 0.41-0.91) for overweight women (BMI, 25-29.9 kg/m²) and 0.50 (95% CI, 0.32-0.79) for obese women (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²). The aHR for each 5-kg/m² increase in BMI was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.69-0.90). Weight gain since early adulthood (age, 18 y) also was associated inversely with risk of microscopic colitis (Ptrend = .001). The aHR for each 10-kg weight gain since early adulthood was 0.85 (95% CI, 0.77-0.94). The associations were not modified by age, cohort, physical activity, or smoking status (all Pinteraction ≥ .26).

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike many other immune- and metabolic-related disorders, obesity and weight gain since early adulthood were associated with a lower risk of microscopic colitis, based on an analysis of participants in the NHS and NHSII.

Clinical practice guidelines for the perioperative nutrition, metabolic, and nonsurgical support of patients undergoing bariatric procedures - 2019 update: cosponsored by American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology, The Obesity Society, American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, Obesity Medicine Association, and American Society of Anesthesiologists

OBJECTIVE

The development of these updated clinical practice guidelines (CPG) was commissioned by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, The Obesity Society, the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, the Obesity Medicine Association, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists boards of directors in adherence to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 2017 protocol for standardized production of CPG, algorithms, and checklists.

METHODS

Each recommendation was evaluated and updated based on new evidence from 2013 to the present and subjective factors provided by experts.

RESULTS

New or updated topics in this CPG include contextualization in an adiposity-based, chronic disease complications-centric model, nuance-based, and algorithm/checklist-assisted clinical decision-making about procedure selection, novel bariatric procedures, enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery protocols, and logistical concerns (including cost factors) in the current healthcare arena. There are 85 numbered recommendations that have updated supporting evidence, of which 61 are revised and 12 are new. Noting that there can be multiple recommendation statements within a single numbered recommendation, there are 31 (13%) Grade A, 42 (17%) Grade B, 72 (29%) Grade C, and 101 (41%) Grade D recommendations. There are 858 citations, of which 81 (9.4%) are evidence level (EL) 1 (highest), 562 (65.5%) are EL 2, 72 (8.4%) are EL 3, and 143 (16.7%) are EL 4 (lowest).

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric procedures remain a safe and effective intervention for higher-risk patients with obesity. Clinical decision-making should be evidence-based within the context of a chronic disease. A team approach to perioperative care is mandatory with special attention to nutritional and metabolic issues.

Bariatric Surgery Is a Safe and Effective Option for Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Case Series and Systematic Review of the Literature

Background

Questions remain regarding both the safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including the effects of bariatric surgery on the course of disease. We report a case series from a tertiary care IBD referral center and review the existing literature regarding the safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in IBD patients.

Objectives

Examine the safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in IBD patients. Explore possible effects of weight loss on postoperative IBD course.

Method

We performed a retrospective review of patients at our center undergoing bariatric surgery with a concurrent IBD diagnosis, collecting baseline characteristics, surgery type, and postoperative course (including IBD outcomes and weight loss). Data from these patients were combined with available data from the existing literature to calculate standardized means with standard error, variance, and confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Data from 13 patients who had undergone bariatric surgery at our facility were combined with data from 8 other studies to create a study population of 101 patients. Of these, 61 had Crohn's disease, 37 ulcerative colitis, and 3 IBD-unspecified, with a mean preoperative BMI of 44.2 (95% CI 42.9-45.7). Following surgery, a mean excess weight loss of 68.4% was demonstrated (95% CI, 65.7-71.2). Of the 101 patients, 22 experienced early and 20 experienced late postoperative complications. Postoperatively, 10 patients experienced a flare of IBD, 20 remained in remission, and 7 patients were able to discontinue immunosuppressive therapy.

Conclusions

Based on available studies, bariatric surgery appears to be both an effective and safe option for weight loss in patients with IBD.

Review article: the relationship between obesity, bariatric surgery, and inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

The convoluted relationship between obesity, bariatric surgery and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is of increasing interest.

AIM

To analyse evidence regarding the role of bariatric surgery in the development of de novo IBD and its impact on clinical outcomes and safety in patients with established IBD.

METHODS

A PubMed/Medline search was performed to identify studies reporting the development of IBD after bariatric surgery and the outcomes of IBD patients after bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

Eighty patients were reported to have developed de novo IBD after bariatric surgery (21% ulcerative colitis [UC], 75% Crohn's disease [CD]), mostly females. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was the most frequent bariatric technique (80%). Symptoms related to IBD occurred within 1 month and 16 years after surgery. Regarding patients with known IBD undergoing bariatric surgery, 60 patients (35 CD, 24 UC, and 1 unclassified colitis) have been reported. Sleeve gastrectomy was the most frequent bariatric procedure, particularly in CD patients. Acute flares after surgery were observed in only four UC patients. In addition, two retrospective population-based studies described perioperative outcomes of bariatric surgery on IBD patients, demonstrating only a significant increase in small bowel obstruction in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery in carefully selected patients with established IBD is technically feasible and probably safe. Development of de novo IBD should be taken into account in individuals with previous bariatric surgery who develop diarrhoea, anaemia or excessive weight loss.