Managing obesity in adults with type 1 diabetes

As the prevalence of obesity has reached epidemic proportions, its prevalence has also increased among adults living with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Unlike the pathophysiologic relationship between obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, the relationship between obesity and type 1 diabetes mellitus, and management of obesity in the setting of type 1 diabetes mellitus, have not been well reviewed. In this article, we discuss the comprehensive management of obesity in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus, focusing on medical nutrition therapy and adjunct therapies such as weight loss-promoting medications and metabolic/bariatric surgery.

The impact of bariatric surgery on pregnancy complication rates

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with multiple pregnancy-related complications. Bariatric surgery is frequently performed in women of childbearing age. While the impact of bariatric surgery on fertility and nutritional complications has been characterized, few studies on effects of bariatric surgery on obesity-related pregnancy complications exist. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of bariatric surgery on pregnancy complications in a US insured population.

METHODS

Pregnancy-related claims from 2011-2019 were obtained from MarketScan commercial claims database for bariatric surgical patients and non-surgical patients with no history of obesity. Claims were grouped into 3 time periods: pre-surgery (time of first claim to date of surgery), peri-surgery (date of surgery to 24 month postoperatively), and post-surgery (> 24 month postoperatively). Peri-surgery period was defined based on the recommendation to avoid pregnancy for the first 12-24 months following surgery. Codes for both maternal and fetal pregnancy-related complications were extracted from the database. Standardized incidence rates in person-months (pms) were calculated and generalized estimating equations with Poisson distribution tested for differences in each category at the three time intervals.

RESULTS

The final cohort included 163612 female bariatric surgery patients. The rate of successful births was 3/1000 pms in the pre-surgery and peri-surgery period and increased to 4/1000 pms in the post-surgery period, compared to a rate of 7/1000 in the control group. The rate of pregnancy complications in the pre-surgery group was 4/1000 pms and dropped to 2/1000 pms in the peri- and post-surgery periods. The complication rate in the control group was 4/1000 pms.

CONCLUSION

After bariatric surgery, the rate of pregnancy complications is lower than non-obese, non-bariatric surgery patients. Compared to before surgery, pregnancy complications decrease by 63% in the peri-surgery period and 57% in the post-surgery period. In the US, bariatric surgery is an important intervention for decreasing pregnancy complications in patients with obesity.

The relation between excess adiposity and breast cancer in women: Clinical implications and management

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women. While the combination of improved screening, earlier detection, and advances in therapeutics has resulted in lower BC mortality, BC survivors are now increasingly dying of cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease in the leading cause of non-cancer related mortality among BC survivors. This situation underscores the critical need to research the role of modifiable cardiometabolic risk factors, such as excess adiposity, that will affect BC remission, long-term survivorship, and overall health and quality of life.

PURPOSE

First, this review summarizes the evidence on the connection between adipose tissue and BC. Then we review the data on weight trends after BC diagnosis with a focus on the effect of weight gain on BC recurrence and BC- and non-BC-related death. Finally, we provide a guide for weight management in BC survivors, considering the available data on the effect of weight loss interventions on BC.

Effect of Banded Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Versus Sleeve Gastrectomy on Diabetes Remission at 5 Years Among Patients With Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes: A Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether silastic ring laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (SR-LRYGB) or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) produces superior diabetes remission at 5 years.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a single-center, double-blind trial, 114 adults with type 2 diabetes and BMI 35-65 kg/m2 were randomly assigned to SR-LRYGB or LSG (1:1; stratified by age-group, BMI group, ethnicity, diabetes duration, and insulin therapy) using a web-based service. Diabetes and other metabolic medications were adjusted according to a prespecified protocol. The primary outcome was diabetes remission assessed at 5 years, defined by HbA1c <6% (42 mmol/mol) without glucose-lowering medications. Secondary outcomes included changes in weight, cardiometabolic risk factors, quality of life, and adverse events.

RESULTS

Diabetes remission after SR-LRYGB versus LSG occurred in 25 (47%) of 53 vs. 18 (33%) of 55 patients (adjusted odds ratios 4.5 [95% CI 1.6, 15.5; P = 0.009] and 4.2 [1.3, 13.4; P = 0.015] in the intention-to-treat analysis). Percent body weight loss was greater after SR-LRYGB than after LSG (absolute difference 10.7%; 95% CI 7.3, 14.0; P < 0.001). Improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors were similar, but HDL cholesterol increased more after SR-LRYGB. Early and late complications were similar in both groups. General health and physical functioning improved after both types of surgery, with greater improvement in physical functioning after SR-LRYGB. People of Māori or Pacific ethnicity (26%) had lower incidence of diabetes remission than those of New Zealand European or other ethnicities (2 of 25 vs. 41 of 83; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

SR-LRYGB provided superior diabetes remission and weight loss compared with LSG at 5 years, with similar low risks of complications.

The influence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome on anthropometric parameters at 12 months after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) on the change in anthropometric parameters and body composition, in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). This prospective study included patients undergoing LSG who had pre-operative polysomnography data and were also evaluated at six and 12 months after surgery. All patients included also had whole body composition analysis data before surgery and at six and 12 months after surgery. The results are presented in comparison between patients with and without OSAS. We included 73 patients in the analysis with a mean ± SD age and body mass index (BMI) of 40.3 ± 10.9 years and 45.4 ± 6.3 kg/m², respectively. As compared to the baseline levels, at 6 months there was a significant decrease in BMI, weight, waist circumference, serum glucose and HbA1c. At 12 months there was no further decrease as compared to the 6 months levels, irrespective of OSAS status. We observed a significant decrease at 6 months in percentage of fat, in both types of patients. However, as compared to the 6 months levels, at 12 months the percent fat had a significant decrease only in patients without OSAS (− 4.6%, 95% CI − 7.6 to − 1.7%) and not in those with OSAS (− 2.2%, 95% CI − 4.5 to 0.2%). In our study, patients with OSAS showed a similar decrease in different anthropometric parameters as those without OSAS after LSG. However, at 12 months of follow-up there was a significant decrease in the percent fat only in patients without OSAS.

Role of Gastrointestinal Hormones as a Predictive Factor for Long-Term Diabetes Remission: Randomized Trial Comparing Metabolic Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Greater Curvature Plication

PURPOSE

Long-term studies comparing the mechanisms of different bariatric techniques for T2DM remission are scarce. We aimed to compare type 2 diabetes (T2DM) remission after a gastric bypass with a 200-cm biliopancreatic limb (mRYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and greater curvature plication (GCP), and to assess if the initial secretion of gastrointestinal hormones may predict metabolic outcomes at 5 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Forty-five patients with mean BMI of 39.4(1.9)kg/m² and T2DM with HbA_1c of 7.7(1.9)% were randomized to mRYGB, SG, or GCP. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, fasting concentrations of PYY, ghrelin, glucagon, and AUC of GLP-1 after SMT were determined prior to and at months 1 and 12 after surgery. At 5-year follow-up, anthropometrical and biochemical parameters were determined.

RESULTS

Total weight loss percentage (TWL%) at year 1 and GLP-1 AUC at months 1 and 12 were higher in the mRYGB than in the SG and GCP. TWL% remained greater at 5 years in mRYGB group - 27.32 (7.8) vs. SG - 18.00 (10.6) and GCP - 14.83 (7.8), p = 0.001. At 5 years, complete T2DM remission was observed in 46.7% after mRYGB vs. 20.0% after SG and 6.6% after GCP, p < 0.001. In the multivariate analysis, shorter T2DM duration (OR 0.186), p = 0.008, and the GLP-1 AUC at 1 month (OR 7.229), p = 0.023, were prognostic factors for complete T2DM remission at 5-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term T2DM remission is mostly achieved with hypoabsortive techniques such as mRYGB. Increased secretion of GLP-1 after surgery and shorter disease duration were the main predictors of T2DM remission at 5 years.

Two-year outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy versus gastric bypass: first report based on Tehran obesity treatment study (TOTS)

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity and its associated comorbidities. This is the first comprehensive report of a prospective cohort study, comparing sleeve gastrectomy (SG) with gastric bypass (GB) regarding their effectiveness and safety.

METHODS

The prospectively collected data of patients, who presented to a specialized bariatric center and underwent a primary bariatric procedure, were compared in terms of weight loss, remission of obesity-associated comorbidities, complication rate, and quality of life improvement at 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-ups.

RESULTS

Of 3287 patients (78.6% female) analyzed, 67% (n = 2202) and 33% (n = 1085) underwent SG and GB, respectively. Effective outcomes were reported in both groups regarding the body composition indices. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remission rate at the end of follow-up was 53.3% and 63.8% in the SG and GB groups, respectively. Following the propensity score-adjusted analysis, the T2DM remission rate was not significantly different between the groups. Conversely, the remission rate of hypertension in the 24-month follow-up (39.1% vs. 54.7%) and the remission rate of dyslipidemia in all follow-ups were lower in the SG group, compared to the GB group. Moreover, both procedures caused substantial improvements in various domains of quality of life. The surgery duration, early complication rate, and nutritional deficiencies were lower in the SG group, compared to the GB group.

CONCLUSION

Both surgical procedures were effective in the control of obesity and remission of its comorbidities. However, since SG was associated with a lower rate of complications, it seems that SG should be considered as a suitable procedure for obese patients, especially those with a healthier metabolic profile.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Is More Effective than Sleeve Gastrectomy in Improving Postprandial Glycaemia and Lipaemia in Non-diabetic Morbidly Obese Patients: a Short-term Follow-up Analysis

PURPOSE

We aimed to compare the effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on postprandial glucose and lipid metabolism in addition to weight loss and fasting metabolic profile, in non-diabetic patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Seventy-one patients were consecutively recruited and studied preoperatively, 3 and 6 months after surgery. Of these, 28 underwent RYGB (7 males, age 38 ± 9 years, BMI 46.9 ± 5.0 kg/m²), and 43 SG (9 males, age 38 ± 9 years, BMI 50.2 ± 7.0 kg/m²). A semi-liquid mixed meal was consumed, and blood samples were taken before, and every 30 min after meal ingestion up to 180 min postprandially, for measurement of glucose, insulin, and lipids. The overall postprandial response was assessed as area under the concentration-time curve (AUC).

RESULTS

Baseline metabolic parameters were similar between RYGB and SG. Both groups experienced comparable weight loss, and a similar improvement in fasting glucose, insulin, and insulin resistance. Total and LDL cholesterol levels were lower at 6 months after RYGB compared to SG, while there was no difference in HDL cholesterol or triglycerides. Glucose AUC was lower after RYGB compared to SG at both 3 (p = 0.008) and 6 months (p = 0.016), without any difference in postprandial insulin response. Triglyceride AUC was also lower in RYGB vs. SG at 3 and 6 months (p ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB is superior to SG in improving postprandial glycaemia and lipaemia and cholesterol profile 6 months postoperatively in non-diabetic, severely obese patients. These findings imply procedure-specific effects, such as the malabsorptive nature of RYGB, and less likely a different incretin postoperative response.

Risk factors for early postoperative complications after bariatric surgery

Purpose

Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are currently the most common bariatric procedures. Although the safety of these operations has markedly improved, there continues to be a certain rate of complications. Such adverse events can have a significant deleterious effect on the outcome of these procedures and represent a costly burden on patients and society at large. A better understanding of these complications and their predictive factors may help ameliorate and optimize outcomes.

Methods

Seven hundred seventy-two consecutive patients who underwent SG or RYGB for morbid obesity between January 2011 and October 2015, in the Division of Bariatric Surgery at a tertiary institution, were included through retrospective review of the medical database. The complications were categorized and evaluated according to severity using the Clavien-Dindo classification system. Significant risk factors were evaluated by binary logistic regression to identify independent predictors and analyzed to identify their relationship with the type of complication.

Results

Independent predictors of severe complication after these procedures included male gender, open and revisional surgery, hypertension, and hypoalbuminemia. Hypoalbuminemia had significant associations with occurrence of deep surgical site infection and leak. Open surgery had significant associations with occurrence of superficial and deep surgical site infection and respiratory complications. Independent predictors of severe complication after laparoscopic primary RYGB included previous abdominal surgery. Previous abdominal surgery had significant associations with deep surgical site infection and leak.

Conclusion

Recognition and optimization of these risk factors would be valuable in operative risk prediction before bariatric surgery.

A Multimodal Analgesic Protocol Reduces Opioid-Related Adverse Events and Improves Patient Outcomes in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is one of the most commonly performed procedures for the treatment of obesity. Patients with obesity are more prone to experience opioid-related adverse events (ORAE).

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study is to determine if a multimodal analgesia protocol (MAP) reduces ORAE and provides effective pain relief for patients after LSG.

SETTING

This study was conducted at University Hospital, Singapore.

METHODS

The MAP consists of mandatory pre-operative etoricoxib, intra-operative acetaminophen, and post-operative acetaminophen with optional post-operative tramadol. We identified and collected data for patients who underwent LSG between May 2010 and November 2015 and compared patients before and after the implementation of the MAP.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-eight patients were included and 68 patients were treated with the MAP. There were no differences in age, gender, body mass index, ethnicity, or comorbidities between the two groups except for the incidence of hypertension (p = 0.015). There was a significant reduction in the incidence of ORAE from 33.3 to 8.8% (p < 0.001) after the implementation of the MAP. There was also a significant reduction in the use of opioids intra-operatively from 58.2 to 43.6 mg (p < 0.001) and post-operatively from 23.7 to 0.7 mg (p < 0.001). Pain scores were similar at 1, 6, and 48 post-operatively, while pain scores were significantly reduced at 12 (p = 0.033) and 24 h (p = 0.02) post-operatively. Multivariate analysis showed that these results remained significant.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that a MAP reduces ORAE and provides effective pain relief for patients undergoing LSG.

Predictive Value of Gut Peptides in T2D Remission: Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Metabolic Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Greater Curvature Plication

BACKGROUND

Our aim was to determine the predictive value of gut hormone changes for the improvement of type 2 diabetes (T2D) following metabolic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (mRYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and greater curvature plication (GCP) in a randomized controlled trial. Contradictory results have been obtained regarding the role of gastrointestinal hormones (in particular GLP-1) in beneficial metabolic bariatric surgery outcomes.

METHODS

Forty-five patients with T2D (mean BMI 39.4 ± 1.9 kg/m²) were randomly assigned to mRYGB, SG, or GCP. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, fasting concentrations of PYY, ghrelin, glucagon, and area under the curve (AUC) of GLP-1 after a standard meal test were determined prior to and at months 1 and 12 after surgery.

RESULTS

Twelve months after surgery, total weight loss percentage was higher and HbA1c lower in the mRYGB group than in the SG and GCP groups (-35.2 ± 8.1 and 5.1 ± 0.6% vs. -27.8 ± 5.4 and 6.2 ± 0.8% vs. -20.5 ± 6.8 and 6.6 ± 1.3%; p = 0.007 and p < 0.001, respectively). Moreover, GLP-1 AUC at months 1 and 12 was greater and T2D remission was higher in mRYGB (80 vs. 53.3 vs. 20%, p < 0.001). Insulin treatment (odds ratio (OR) 0.025, p = 0.018) and the increase in GLP-1 AUC from baseline to month 1 (OR 1.021, p = 0.013) were associated with T2D remission.

CONCLUSIONS

mRYGB achieves a superior rate of weight loss and T2D remission at month 12. Enhanced GLP-1 secretion 1 month after surgery was a determinant of glucose metabolism improvement. Registration number ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov ): NCT14104758.

Antral resection versus antral preservation during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for severe obesity: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Although laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is an established operation for severe obesity, there is controversy regarding the extent to which the antrum is excised. The objective of this systematic review was to investigate the effect on perioperative complications and medium-term outcomes of antral resecting versus antral preserving sleeve gastrectomy. MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched from 1946 to April 2017. Eligible studies compared antral resection (staple line commencing 2-3 cm from pylorus) with antral preservation (>5 cm from pylorus) in patients undergoing primary sleeve gastrectomy for obesity. Meta-analyses were performed with a random-effects model, and risk of bias within and across studies was assessed using validated scoring systems. Eight studies (619 participants) were included: 6 randomized controlled trials and 2 cohort studies. Overall follow-up was 94% for the specified outcomes of each study. Mean percentage excess weight loss was 62% at 12 months (7 studies; 574 patients) and 67% at 24 months (4 studies; 412 patients). Antral resection was associated with significant improvement in percentage excess weight loss at 24-month follow-up (mean 70% versus 61%; standardized mean difference .95; confidence interval .35-1.58, P<.005), an effect that remained significant when cohort studies were excluded. There was no difference in incidence of perioperative bleeding, leak, or de novo gastroesophageal reflux disease. According to the available evidence, antral resection is associated with better medium-term weight loss compared with antral preservation, without increased risk of surgical complications. Further randomized clinical trials are indicated to confirm this finding.

Relationship Between Vitamin D Deficiency and the Components of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Morbid Obesity, Before and 1 Year After Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS). After bariatric surgery (BS), high rates of VDD often persist and some patients are refractory to the resolution of comorbidities. The aim of the present study is to analyse the relationship between the levels of vitamin D and the persistence of MS components at 12 months after BS, according to the surgical technique used.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of 46 patients undergoing BS: 23 underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) and 23 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). These patients had an average BMI of 45 kg/m² (34-63). Levels of vitamin D were classified as deficient (<20 ng/dl), insufficient (20-30 ng/dl) or normal (>30 ng/dl) and analysed in relation to the components of MS (high blood pressure (HBP), dyslipidaemia (DL) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) preoperatively and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

VDD was observed in 77% of the patients prior to surgery. There were no significant associations between predisposing factors and baseline vitamin D. After surgery, plasma levels of vitamin D increased in both groups, but only 18% of the patients achieved normal values. Both groups had achieved significant improvements in MS components. Thus, 63% of all the patients achieved complete resolution of HBP, 54% that of DL and 77% that of T2DM. Moreover, MS was present in 11% of the patients, compared to 63% at baseline, and the MS resolution rate was 83%, with no significant differences between LRYGBP and LSG.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a relationship between VDD and persistence of MS, and particularly so with T2DM. VDD could represent a predictor of MS persistence at 12 months after surgery.

Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy-5-Year Follow-Up Study in an Eastern European Emerging Bariatric Center

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has gained ground in Eastern Europe in the decade but fewer reports of large series with medium-term follow-up exist. We describe a single-surgeon experience in LSG (the first 101 consecutive cases) in a Balkan emerging bariatric center.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database of the initial 101 consecutive patients submitted to LSG in our clinic between October 2010 and February 2016 was reviewed.

RESULTS

The percentages of mean excess weight loss (%EWL) in the 101 patients (mean age of 42 ± 10.6 years, 77 % female, median preoperative body mass index (BMI) of 44.5 kg/m²) were 51.3 (n = 82 followed-up patients) at 6 months postoperatively, 78.2 (n = 69) at 1 year, and 75.8 (n = 39), 77.1 (n = 20), 67.5 (n = 17), and 52.9 (n = 7) at 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively. One year after LSG, all comorbidities showed remission or significant improvement in all 69 followed-up patients; the highest resolution was seen with hypertension (73.3 %). We noted a negative correlation between a decrease in %EWL and both the age of the patient and the initial state weight and BMI. The mortality in our group was nil; we had three cases (2.9 %) of bleeding and no leaks.

CONCLUSIONS

LSG is a safe procedure, with low postoperative morbidity rates and excellent short-term %EWL results up to 3 years after surgery, including resolution or improvement of the main obesity-related comorbidities. The results were superior in the category of younger and lower initial BMI obese patients.

THE ROLE OF THE SLEEVE GASTRECTOMY AND THE MANAGEMENT OF TYPE 2 DIABETES

BACKGROUND

Currently, bariatric surgery has promoted weight loss and improved glycemic control in obese patients through different techniques, including vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

AIM

Present and update the different vertical sleeve gastrectomy ways of action, both in the treatment of obesity and diabetes, approaching its potential effect on gastrointestinal physiology, as well as the benefits achieved by this manipulation.

METHODS

Pubmed database search was used crossing the headings: obesity, type 2 diabetes and sleeve gastrectomy.

RESULTS

Published data have shown that short-term weight loss tends to be higher in patients undergoing vertical sleeve gastrectomy compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. In relation to glycemic control, the procedure demonstrated remission of diabetes in up to 60% after one year of surgery. After three years, however, differences in remission rate between surgical and clinical group was not observed, questioning the durability of the technical in a long-term.

CONCLUSION

Despite showing good results, both in the weight loss and co-morbidities, conflicting results reinforce the need for more studies to prove the efficiency of the vertical sleeve gastrectomy as well as to understand its action about the molecular mechanisms involved in the disease.

Postoperative Early Major and Minor Complications in Laparoscopic Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (LVSG) Versus Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (LRYGB) Procedures: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy (LVSG) have been proposed as cost-effective strategies to manage obesity-related chronic disease. The aim of this meta-analysis and systematic review was to compare the "early postoperative complication rate i.e. within 30-days" reported from randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing these two procedures.

METHODS

RCTs comparing the early complication rates following LVSG and LRYGB between 2000 and 2015 were selected from PubMed, Medline, Embase, Science Citation Index, Current Contents, and the Cochrane database. The outcome variables analyzed included 30-day mortality, major and minor complications and interventions required for their management, length of hospital stay, readmission rates, operating time, and conversions from laparoscopic to open procedures.

RESULTS

Six RCTs involving a total of 695 patients (LVSG n = 347, LRYGB n = 348) reported on early major complications. A statistically significant reduction in relative odds of early major complications favoring the LVSG procedure was noted (p = 0.05). Five RCTs representing 633 patients (LVSG n = 317, LRYGB n = 316) reported early minor complications. A non-statically significant reduction in relative odds of 29 % favoring the LVSG procedure was observed for early minor complications (p = 0.4). However, other outcomes directly related to complications which included reoperation rates, readmission rate, and 30-day mortality rate showed comparable effect size for both surgical procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis and systematic review of RCTs suggests that fewer early major and minor complications are associated with LVSG compared with LRYGB procedure. However, this does not translate into higher readmission rate, reoperation rate, or 30-day mortality for either procedure.

Treatment of Obesity: Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery

This review focuses on the mechanisms underlying, and indications for, bariatric surgery in the reduction of cardiovascular disease (CVD), as well as other expected benefits of this intervention. The fundamental basis for bariatric surgery for the purpose of accomplishing weight loss is the determination that severe obesity is a disease associated with multiple adverse effects on health, which can be reversed or improved by successful weight loss in patients who have been unable to sustain weight loss by nonsurgical means. An explanation of possible indications for weight loss surgery as well as specific bariatric surgical procedures is presented, along with review of the safety literature of such procedures. Procedures that are less invasive or those that involve less gastrointestinal rearrangement accomplish considerably less weight loss but have substantially lower perioperative and longer-term risk. The ultimate benefit of weight reduction relates to the reduction of the comorbidities, quality of life, and all-cause mortality. With weight loss being the underlying justification for bariatric surgery in ameliorating CVD risk, current evidence-based research is discussed concerning body fat distribution, dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, inflammation, obstructive sleep apnea, and others. The rationale for bariatric surgery reducing CVD events is discussed and juxtaposed with impacts on all-cause mortalities. Given the improvement of established obesity-related CVD risk factors after weight loss, it is reasonable to expect a reduction of CVD events and related mortality after weight loss in populations with obesity. The quality of the current evidence is reviewed, and future research opportunities and summaries are stated.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as first-line surgical treatment for morbid obesity among adolescents

BACKGROUND

The increasing prevalence of obesity has necessitated the increasing use of bariatric surgery in the adolescent population. Outcomes following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) among adolescents, however, have not been well-studied. We report outcomes following LSG as a first-line surgical therapy in patients under 21years of age.

METHODS

All patients who underwent LSG as a primary surgical option for morbid obesity were identified at the University of Illinois at Chicago between 2006 and 2014. Standard clinicopathologic and outcomes data were recorded.

RESULTS

We identified 18 patients (13 females, 5 males) who underwent LSG. Mean patient age was 17.8±1.7years. Mean BMI among all patients was 48.6±7.2kg/m² and did not differ by gender (P=0.68). One patient (5.6%) experienced a 30-day perioperative complication (pulmonary embolism). Median LOS following LSG was 3days (IQR: 2, 3). 2 patients (11.1%) were readmitted within 30-days because of feeding intolerance that resolved without invasive intervention. At a median follow-up of 10.6 (range: 0-38) months, percent excess weight loss (%EWL) among all patients was 35.6%. Among patients with at least 2years follow-up (n=3), %EWL was 50.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in morbidly obese adolescents is a safe and feasible option. Short- and long-term weight loss appears to be successful following LSG. As such, LSG should be strongly considered as a primary surgical treatment option for all morbidly obese adolescents.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV.

Bariatric surgery in managing diabetes mellitus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic, having profound effects on Western populations. Bariatric surgery has long been employed to treat obesity and its related comorbidities. Over time, researchers have amassed significant data to support bariatric surgery in the pursuit of treating diabetes mellitus. This review serves to introduce the most recent findings and their relation to the various bariatric surgical options as bariatric surgery will continue to cement itself in the treatment paradigm of diabetes mellitus.

RECENT FINDINGS

Numerous studies performed in the past 10 years have demonstrated the improvement or cessation of diabetes with bariatric surgical intervention. In comparing the vertical sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, data demonstrate a more beneficial response of diabetes to the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and an even further exaggerated response with the biliopancreatic diversion/duodenal switch. The benefit has long been established, but what causes the improvement in diabetes mellitus after bariatric surgery? Recent data suggest a decrease in circulating bile salts as well as changes to inflammatory markers and circulating cytokines. Furthermore, tailoring of existing surgical procedures has led to the development of the SIPS procedure, and its benefit is demonstrated in bypassing a large portion of intestine while eliminating an enteroenterostomy, helping to reduce short gut syndrome and resultant diarrhea.

SUMMARY

The surgical climate within the bariatric field is changing and will continue to do so in the future. As the understanding of the causes or mechanisms in which bariatric surgery improves metabolic disorders becomes more evident, the process of individualizing care for specific patients will become more prevalent.

Diabetes improvement and resolution following laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy (LVSG) versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) procedures: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is growing in both developed and developing countries and is strongly linked with the prevalence of obesity. Bariatric surgical procedures such as laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy (LVSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) are increasingly being utilized to manage related comorbid chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was undertaken using the PRISMA guidelines to investigate the postoperative impact on diabetes resolution following LVSG versus LRYGB.

RESULTS

Seven RCTs involving a total of 732 patients (LVSG n = 365, LRYGB n = 367) met inclusion criteria. Significant diabetes resolution or improvement was reported with both procedures across all time points. Similarly, measures of glycemic control (HbA1C and fasting blood glucose levels) improved with both procedures, with earlier improvements noted in LRYGB that stabilized and did not differ from LVSG at 12 months postoperatively. Early improvements in measures of insulin resistance in both procedures were also noted in the studies that investigated this.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review of RCTs suggests that both LVSG and LRYGB are effective in resolving or improving preoperative type 2 diabetes in obese patients during the reported 3- to 5-year follow-up periods. However, further studies are required before longer-term outcomes can be elucidated. Areas identified that need to be addressed for future studies on this topic include longer follow-up periods, standardized definitions and time point for reporting, and financial analysis of outcomes obtained between surgical procedures to better inform procedure selection.

Preoperative endoscopy may reduce the need for revisional surgery for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a safe and effective bariatric operation, but postoperative reflux symptoms can sometimes necessitate revisional surgery. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is the preferred operation in morbidly obese patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. In 2011, we introduced preoperative endoscopy to assess for hiatus hernia or evidence of oesophagitis in conjunction with an assessment of gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms for all patients undergoing bariatric surgery with a view to avoid sleeve gastrectomy for these patients. A prospectively maintained database was used to identify patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy before and after we changed the unit policy. The need for revisional surgery in patients with troublesome gastro-oesophageal reflux disease was examined. Prior to 2011, 130 patients underwent sleeve gastrectomy, and 11 (8.5%) of them required conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for symptomatic reflux disease. Following the policy change, 284 patients underwent sleeve gastrectomy, and to date, only five (1.8%) have required revisional surgery (p = 0.001). Baseline demographics were comparable between the groups, and average follow-up period was 47 and 33 months, respectively, for each group. Preoperative endoscopy and a detailed clinical history regarding gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms may improve patient selection for sleeve gastrectomy. Avoiding sleeve gastrectomy in patients with reflux disease and/or hiatus hernia may reduce the incidence of revisional surgery.

Metabolic Surgery in Type 2 Diabetes: Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy as Procedure of Choice?

In recent years, a marked increase in the relative use of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has occurred. However, long-term head-to-head comparison of the impact of this bariatric surgery (BS) procedure with the still considered "gold standard" Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (GBP) in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is surprisingly low. The aim of this review manuscript is to appraise current evidence on the potential of GBP and SG as long-term therapeutic tool for subjects with T2DM. In our opinion, unfortunately, review of current literature does not allow to properly answer which of the two surgeries would be better as procedure of choice for subjects with T2DM. Arguably, the apparent superiority of GBP over SG could be overcome by the addition of a malabsortive component to SG in a staged approach restricted to those failing to achieve the desired metabolic outcomes. Nonetheless, whether this serves as basis for the election of SG as primary strategy for those with T2DM is questionable.