Risk Factors for Spontaneously Self-Reported Postprandial Hypoglycemia After Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery and diabetes: Current challenges and perspectives

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity have become public issues of global concern. Bariatric surgery for the treatment of obesity combined with type 2 DM has been shown to be a safe and effective approach; however, there are limited studies that have systematically addressed the challenges of surgical treatment of obesity combined with DM. In this review, we summarize and answer the most pressing questions in the field of surgical treatment of obesity-associated DM. I believe that our insights will be of great help to clinicians in their daily practice.

Postprandial hypoglycemia caused by the combination of clarithromycin and rifampicin in a patient with nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease

Most cases of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) have a progressive clinical course, and initiation of treatment is recommended rather than watchful waiting. The NTM-PD medications are frequently associated with adverse reactions, occasionally serious. Optimization of the methods for monitoring and managing adverse events in NTM-PD treatment is thus an important medical issue. Here we report a first case of postprandial hypoglycemia caused by the combination of clarithromycin (CAM) and rifampicin (RFP) in a patient with NTM-PD. A 73-year-old Japanese woman with NTM-PD was hospitalized for treatment with a combination of oral CAM, RFP, and ethambutol. She took the first doses of antibiotics before breakfast, and 3 h later went into a hypoglycemic state. Postprandial hypoglycemia occurred with high reproducibility and was accompanied by relative insulin excess. Continuous glucose monitoring with or without food and in combination with various patterns of medication revealed that the combination of CAM and RFP specifically induced postprandial hypoglycemia. Shifting the timing of administration of the CAM and RFP combination from morning to before sleep corrected the hypoglycemia and enabled continuation of the antimicrobial treatment. In conclusion, our report suggests the importance of introducing NTM-PD medication under inpatient management in order to closely monitor and early detect postprandial hypoglycemia and other serious adverse events.

Post-Bariatric Hypoglycemia Is Associated with Endothelial Dysfunction and Increased Oxidative Stress

Post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH) is a potentially serious complication that may occur after bariatric surgery. Recurrent hypoglycemia may exert detrimental effects on vascular function. The aim of the present study was to evaluate endothelial function and oxygen reactive compounds in patients who experience PBH compared with controls. We performed a cross-sectional study on subjects with PBH (HYPO) and those without (NO-HYPO), detected by seven-day continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) performed at least twelve months after bariatric surgery. We enrolled 28 post-bariatric subjects (17.9% males, mean age 40.6 ± 10.7 years), with 18 in the HYPO group and 10 in the NO-HYPO group. In the two groups, we measured brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (FMD), oxidized low-density lipoproteins (oxLDL) and reactive oxygen metabolites (D-ROMs). The HYPO group had significantly lower FMD values than the NO-HYPO group (3.8% ± 3.0 vs. 10.5% ± 2.0, p < 0.001). A significant correlation was found between FMD and the time spent in hypoglycemia (rho = −0.648, p < 0.001), the number of hypoglycemic events (rho = −0.664, p < 0.001) and the mean glucose nadir (rho = 0.532, p = 0.004). The HYPO group showed significantly higher levels of D-ROMs (416.2 ± 88.7 UCARR vs. 305.5 ± 56.3 UCARR, p < 0.001) and oxLDLs (770.5 ± 49.7 µEq/L vs. 725.1 ± 51.6 µEq/L, p = 0.035) compared to the NO-HYPO group. In the multiple linear regression analysis, hypoglycemia independently predicted FMD values (β = −0.781, p < 0.001), D-ROMs (β = 0.548, p = 0.023) and oxLDL levels (β = 0.409, p = 0.031). PBH is associated with impaired endothelial function accompanied by increased oxidative stress.

Postbariatric hypoglycemia: symptom patterns and associated risk factors in the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery study

BACKGROUND

Postbariatric hypoglycemia (PBH) can be a devastating complication for which current therapies are often incompletely effective. More information is needed regarding frequency, incidence, and risk factors for PBH.

OBJECTIVES

To examine hypoglycemia symptoms following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and baseline and in-study risk factors.

SETTING

Multicenter, at 10 US hospitals in 6 geographically diverse clinical centers.

METHODS

A prospective, longitudinal cohort study of adults undergoing RYGB or LAGB as part of clinical care between 2006 and 2009 were recruited and followed until January 31, 2015, with baseline and annual postoperative research assessments. We analyzed baseline prevalence and post-operative incidence and frequency of self-reported hypoglycemia symptoms as well as potential preoperative risk factors.

RESULTS

In all groups, postoperative prevalence of hypoglycemia symptoms was 38.5%. Symptom prevalence increased postoperatively from 2.8%-36.4% after RYGB in patients without preoperative diabetes (T2D), with similar patterns in prediabetes (4.9%-29.1%). Individuals with T2D had higher baseline hypoglycemia symptoms (28.9%), increasing after RYGB (57.9%). Hypoglycemia symptoms were lower after LAGB, with 39.1% reported hypoglycemia symptoms at only 1 postoperative visit with few (4.0%) having persistent symptoms at 6 or more annual visits. Timing of symptoms was not restricted to the postprandial state. Symptoms of severe hypoglycemia were reported in 2.6-3.6% after RYGB. The dominant risk factor for postoperative symptoms was preoperative symptoms; additionally, baseline selective serotonin (SSRI) and serotonin-norepinephrine (SNRI) reuptake inhibitor use was also associated with increased risk in multivariable analysis. Weight loss and regain were not related to hypoglycemia symptom reporting.

CONCLUSION

Hypoglycemia symptoms increase over time after RYGB, particularly in patients without diabetes. In a small percentage, symptoms can be persistent or severe and require hospitalization. Preoperative hypoglycemia symptoms and SSRI/SNRI use in RYGB patients without diabetes is associated with increased risk of symptoms.

Long-term incidence of hypoglycaemia-related events after bariatric surgery or usual care in the Swedish Obese Subjects study: A register-based analysis

AIMS

To examine the incidence of hypoglycaemia-related events over a period of up to 31 years in patients treated with bariatric surgery in the prospective, controlled Swedish Obese Subjects (SOS) study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The SOS study (n = 4047) is a prospective controlled intervention study. The present analysis included 1989 patients treated with bariatric surgery and 2027 control patients with obesity who received usual care. Diagnosed hypoglycaemia and events commonly attributed to hypoglycaemia (confusion, syncope, epilepsy and seizures), requiring hospital or specialist outpatient treatment, were identified by searching the National Patient Register. Analyses were stratified by baseline glycaemic status. Hazard ratios were adjusted for inclusion year, age, sex, smoking, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level and body mass index at baseline. At the time of analysis (December 31, 2018), the median follow-up was 22 years.

RESULTS

Compared with usual care, bariatric surgery was associated with increased incidence of hypoglycaemia-related events in patients without baseline diabetes (168 and 219 events, respectively; log-rank P = .011), with a more pronounced risk during the first years of follow-up (test of time-treatment interaction P = .010). Multivariate analyses in patients without baseline diabetes indicated that male sex (P < .001), older age (P = .001) and higher HbA1c levels (P = .006) were associated with hypoglycaemia-related events. No association was found between risk of hypoglycaemia-related events and bariatric surgery in patients with baseline diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery is associated with an increased incidence of hypoglycaemia-related events in patients without baseline diabetes, especially during the first years after treatment.

Glycemic Patterns Are Distinct in Post-Bariatric Hypoglycemia After Gastric Bypass (PBH-RYGB)

CONTEXT

Severe hypoglycemia with neuroglycopenia, termed post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH). typically occurs postprandially, but it is also reported after activity or mid-nocturnally.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify glycemia, glycemic variability, and magnitude/duration of low sensor glucose (SG) values in patients with PBH after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (PBH-RYGB).

METHODS

This retrospective analysis of data from an academic medical center included individuals with PBH-RYGB (n = 40), reactive hypoglycemia without gastrointestinal surgery (Non-Surg Hypo, n = 20), prediabetes (Pre-DM, n = 14), newly diagnosed T2D (n = 5), and healthy controls (HC, n = 38). Masked continuous glucose monitoring (Dexcom G4) was used to assess patterns over 24 hours, daytime (6 am-midnight) and nighttime (midnight-6 am). Prespecified measures included mean and median SG, variability, and percent time at thresholds of sensor glucose.

RESULTS

Mean and median SG were similar for PBH-RYGB and HC (mean: 99.8 ± 18.6 vs 96.9 ± 10.2 mg/dL; median: 93.0 ± 14.8 vs 94.5 ± 7.4 mg/dL). PBH-RYGB had a higher coefficient of variation (27.3 ± 6.8 vs 17.9 ± 2.4%, P < 0.0001) and range (154.5 ± 50.4 vs 112.0 ± 26.7 mg/dL, P < 0.0001). Nadir was lowest in PBH-RYGB (42.5 ± 3.7 vs HC 49.0 ± 11.9 mg/dL, P = 0.0046), with >2-fold greater time with SG < 70 mg/dL vs HC (7.7 ± 8.4 vs 3.2 ± 4.1%, P = 0.0013); these differences were greater at night (12.6 ± 16.9 vs 1.0 ± 1.5%, P < 0.0001). Non-Surg Hypo also had 4-fold greater time with SG < 70 at night vs HC (SG < 70: 4.0 ± 5.9% vs 1.0 ± 1.5%), but glycemic variability was not increased.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PBH-RYGB experience higher glycemic variability and frequency of SG < 70 compared to HC, especially at night. These data suggest that additional pathophysiologic mechanisms beyond prandial changes contribute to PBH.

Impact of Postprandial Hypoglycemia on Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Postprandial hypoglycemia (PPHG) is a well-known complication after bariatric surgery (BS). However, it is not known whether PPHG affects weight loss after BS.

AIMS

To assess the impact of PPHG on weight loss after BS in subjects without and with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D).

METHODS

Data from 338 subjects who had undergone gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and were followed up for at least 2 years were analyzed. At each follow-up visit, the patient's anthropometric and biochemical characteristics were recorded and the Edinburgh Questionnaire was performed to evaluate the presence of PPHG symptoms.

RESULTS

Before surgery: younger age and lower BMI predicted PPHG after BS (p = 0.02 and p = 0.0008, respectively). Also, the baseline OGTT indicated that subjects who developed PPHG had an earlier glucose peak and more often had low glucose levels at 2 h compared with the no-PPHG group (p = 0.03 and p = 0.004, respectively). After surgery: Mild-to-moderate PPHG occurred equally after RYGB and LSG (38% vs 25%, p = ns when accounting for confounders), and in T2D who achieved remission and those who did not (29.5% vs 28.6%, ns). At the 2-year follow-up, occurrence of PPHG was independently associated with smaller weight loss (p = 0.0006).

CONCLUSIONS

Mild-to-moderate PPHG is a frequent complication after bariatric surgery and results in smaller weight loss after 2 years. Age, baseline BMI, and an earlier glucose peak during OGTT predict PPHG after bariatric surgery.

Patient involvement to inform the design of a clinical trial in postbariatric hypoglycaemia

Background

Bariatric surgery may lead to symptomatic postprandial hypoglycaemia as a major side effect without established therapy so far. We aimed to develop an evidence-based study design of a clinical trial that tests treatment options and can provide useful patient-relevant evidence.

Methods

We searched systematically for guidance of core outcome sets to determine the most relevant types of outcomes and duration of such a trial. Our search comprised literature databases, a database of core outcome sets and self-help organizations. We then developed a simple online questionnaire based on interviews with German-speaking patients with postprandial hypoglycaemia after bariatric surgery. We recruited participants by reaching out to all German speaking endocrinologists in Switzerland and large Swiss bariatric centres. We asked for preferences regarding outcome types and acceptable duration of being included in a corresponding clinical trial.

Results

The literature search did not identify evidence-based guidance for informing our study design. Experience of clinical and research routine as well as patient interviews helped in identifying potential outcomes and the design of an online questionnaire. Therein, a total of 29 persons started the questionnaire and 22 answered questions related to the primary outcome. Of these, 17 (77.3%) deemed quality of life more relevant as primary outcome than the rate of hypoglycaemic episodes. A trial length of four weeks or longer was regarded as acceptable for 19 of 21 respondents to this question (91.4%) and of six months or longer for 12 respondents (56%).

Conclusions

In situations with no other guidance, a simple questionnaire may help to inform trial design decisions. This study identifies a patient preference for “quality of life” as a primary outcome and supports the evidence-based conception of a patient-centred clinical trial in postbariatric hypoglycaemia.

Supplementary Information

Supplementary information accompanies this paper at 10.1186/s12874-020-01171-z.

Postprandial Hypoglycemia in Patients after Gastric Bypass Surgery Is Mediated by Glucose-Induced IL-1β

Postprandial hypoglycemia is a disabling complication of the treatment of obesity by gastric bypass surgery. So far, no therapy exists, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we hypothesized that glucose-induced IL-1β leads to an exaggerated insulin response in this condition. Therefore, we conducted a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind, crossover study with the SGLT2-inhibitor empagliflozin and the IL-1 receptor antagonist anakinra (clinicaltrials.govNCT03200782; n = 12). Both drugs reduced postprandial insulin release and prevented hypoglycemia (symptomatic events requiring rescue glucose: placebo = 7/12, empagliflozin = 2/12, and anakinra = 2/12, pval_{likelihood ratio test (LRT)} = 0.013; nadir blood glucose for placebo = 2.4 mmol/L, 95% CI 2.18-2.62, empagliflozin = 2.69 mmol/L, 95% CI 2.31-3.08, and anakinra = 2.99 mmol/L, 95% CI 2.43-3.55, pval_LRT = 0.048). Moreover, analysis of monocytes ex vivo revealed a hyper-reactive inflammatory state that has features of an exaggerated response to a meal. Our study proposes a role for glucose-induced IL-1β in postprandial hypoglycemia after gastric bypass surgery and suggests that SGLT2-inhibitors and IL-1 antagonism may improve this condition.

Safety of Blood Glucose Response Following Exercise Training After Bariatric Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Safety of exercise training in relationship with the risk of hypoglycemia post-bariatric surgery is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and magnitude of changes in blood glucose levels during exercise training following bariatric surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-nine severely obese patients undergoing either sleeve gastrectomy (SG) (n = 16) or biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) (n = 13) were prospectively enrolled. Three months after surgery, patients participated in a 12-week supervised exercise training program, (35-min aerobic training with a 25-min resistance exercises) three times a week. Capillary blood glucose (CBG) levels were measured immediately before and after each exercise session.

RESULTS

Seven patients (24%) had type 2 diabetes before surgery (mean duration: 10 years); four patients still have type 2 diabetes 3 months post-bariatric surgery. A total of 577 exercise training sessions with CBG monitoring were recorded. Only seven sessions (1.2%) were associated with an episode of asymptomatic hypoglycemia (CBG ≤ 3.9 mmol/L). Patients with type 2 diabetes at baseline showed a larger decrease in CBG with pre-exercise CBG being between 6.1 and 8.0 mmol/L (- 1.6 ± 1.2 vs. - 1.1 ± 0.9 mmol/L, p = 0.02). BPD-DS patients with CBG ≥ 6.1 mmol/L showed higher reduction in CBG following exercise vs. SG patients (- 1.7 ± 1.0 vs. - 1.1 ± 1.1 mmol/L; p < 0.001 and - 4.3 ± 1.0 vs. - 2.2 ± 1.4 mmol/L, p < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Three months after bariatric surgery, exercise training program in patients without and with type 2 diabetes is safe, and is associated with a desirable glycemic profile, with few episodes of asymptomatic hypoglycemia.

The Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Islet Function, Insulin Secretion, and Glucose Control

Although bariatric surgery was developed primarily to treat morbid obesity, evidence from the earliest clinical observations to the most recent clinical trials consistently demonstrates that these procedures have substantial effects on glucose metabolism. A large base of research indicates that bariatric surgeries such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) improve diabetes in most patients, with effects frequently evident prior to substantial weight reduction. There is now unequivocal evidence from randomized controlled trials that the efficacy of surgery is superior to intensive life-style/medical management. Despite advances in the clinical understanding and application of bariatric surgery, there remains only limited knowledge of the mechanisms by which these procedures confer such large changes to metabolic physiology. The improvement of insulin sensitivity that occurs with weight loss (e.g., the result of diet, illness, physical training) also accompanies bariatric surgery. However, there is evidence to support specific effects of surgery on insulin clearance, hepatic glucose production, and islet function. Understanding the mechanisms by which surgery affects these parameters of glucose regulation has the potential to identify new targets for therapeutic discovery. Studies to distinguish among bariatric surgeries on key parameters of glucose metabolism are limited but would be of considerable value to assist clinicians in selecting specific procedures and investigators in delineating the resulting physiology. This review is based on literature related to factors governing glucose metabolism and insulin secretion after the commonly used RYGB and VSG, and the less frequently used BPD and adjustable gastric banding.

Postprandial hypoglycaemia after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in individuals with type 2 diabetes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Postprandial hypoglycaemia (PPHG) is a complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery in normoglycaemic individuals. In type 2 diabetes, RYGB improves glucose metabolism, but whether this improvement is related to the later development of PPHG is not known. We investigated the presence and mechanisms of PPHG in individuals with type 2 diabetes undergoing RYGB.

METHODS

A total of 35 obese individuals with type 2 diabetes underwent an OGTT before and 24 months after surgery. PPHG was defined as a plasma glucose level of ≤3.3 mmol/l when not taking glucose-lowering agents. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by oral glucose insulin sensitivity index and beta-cell function by mathematical modelling of the plasma glucose, insulin and C-peptide concentrations.

RESULTS

After surgery, PPHG occurred in 11 of 35 individuals who underwent RYGB. Before surgery, BMI was lower, glycaemic control less good and time of glucose peak earlier in the PPHG vs No PPHG group, and the duration of diabetes was shorter with PPHG (all p ≤ 0.05). In addition, insulin sensitivity was greater in the PPHG than No PPHG group (p = 0.03). After surgery, BMI and fasting glucose and insulin levels decreased similarly in the two groups; insulin secretion during the first hour of the OGTT increased more in the PPHG than No PPHG group (p = 0.04). Beta-cell glucose sensitivity increased more in individuals with PPHG than those without (p = 0.002). Over the same time interval, the glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) response was lower in individuals with PPHG before surgery (p = 0.05), and increased more after surgery. At 2 h after glucose ingestion in the OGTT, postsurgery plasma glucagon level was significantly lower in the PPHG than No PPHG group.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

In morbidly obese individuals with type 2 diabetes, spontaneous PPHG may occur after bariatric surgery independently of a remission of diabetes. Before surgery, individuals had a shorter duration and were more insulin sensitive. Two years after surgery, these individuals developed greater beta-cell glucose sensitivity, and showed greater insulin and GLP-1 release early in the OGTT.

Hypoglycemia After Gastric Bypass Surgery: Current Concepts and Controversies

CONTEXT

Hypoglycemia, occurring after bariatric and other forms of upper gastrointestinal surgery, is increasingly encountered by clinical endocrinologists. The true frequency of this condition remains uncertain, due, in part, to differences in the diagnostic criteria and in the affected populations, as well as relative lack of patient and physician awareness and understanding of this condition. Postbariatric hypoglycemia can be severe and disabling for some patients, with neuroglycopenia (altered cognition, seizures, and loss of consciousness) leading to falls, motor vehicle accidents, and job and income loss. Moreover, repeated episodes of hypoglycemia can result in hypoglycemia unawareness, further impairing safety and requiring the assistance of others to treat hypoglycemia.

OBJECTIVE

In this review, we summarize and integrate data from studies of patients affected by hypoglycemia after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery, obtained from PubMed searches (1990 to 2017) and reference searches of relevant retrieved articles. Whereas hypoglycemia can also be observed after sleeve gastrectomy and fundoplication, this review is focused on post-RYGB, given the greater body of published clinical studies at present.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Data addressing specific aspects of diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment were reviewed by the authors; when not available, the authors have provided opinions based on clinical experience with this challenging condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoglycemia, occurring after gastric bypass surgery, is challenging for patients and physicians alike. This review provides a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment based on the underlying pathophysiology.

Evaluation of postprandial hypoglycemia in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by oral glucose tolerance testing and continuous glucose monitoring

OBJECTIVE

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is often associated with insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. Postprandial hypoglycemia frequently occurs in NAFLD patients; however, the details remain unclear.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (75gOGTT) in 502 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in 20 patients were performed, and the characteristics and causes of postprandial hypoglycemia were investigated.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients in the Hypo subgroup [plasma glucose (PG) at 180 min<fasting-PG (FPG)] among patients with normal glucose tolerance was significantly higher than that with diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose. FPG and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were lower, and area under the curve of total insulin secretion within 120 min (<120 min) was higher in Hypo than Hyper in overall patients. Although FPG and PG at 30 min were higher in Hypo than Hyper, HOMA-IR and the insulinogenic index were not different in normal glucose tolerance and impaired glucose tolerance or impaired fasting glucose. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, low HbA1c, low fasting immunoreactive insulin, and high area under the curve of total insulin secretion (<120 min) were found to be independent factors associated with hypoglycemia. CGM showed postprandial hypoglycemia until lunch in 70% of NAFLD patients. However, no remarkable relationship in terms of hypoglycemia was identified between the 75gOGTT and CGM.

CONCLUSION

Postprandial hypoglycemia was identified in many NAFLD patients detected by 75gOGTT and CGM. It was clarified that important causes of postprandial hypoglycemia were related to low HbA1c, an early elevation of PG, low fasting and relatively low early insulin secretion, and delayed hyperinsulinemia.

Optimisation of follow-up after metabolic surgery

Bariatric surgery has many benefits beyond weight loss, including improved control of glycaemia, blood pressure, and dyslipidaemia; hence, such surgery has been rebranded as metabolic surgery. The operations are, unfortunately, also associated with major surgical and medical complications. The medical complications include gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, malnutrition, and metabolic complications deriving from vitamin and mineral malabsorption. The benefits of surgery can be optimised by implementing specific protocols before and after surgery. In this Review, we discuss the assessment of the risk of major cardiac complications and severe obstructive sleep apnoea before surgery, and the provision of adequate lifelong postsurgery nutritional, vitamin, and mineral supplementation to reduce complications. Additionally, we examine the best antidiabetic medications to reduce the risk of hypoglycaemia after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, and the strategies to improve weight loss or reduce weight regain. Although optimising clinical pathways is possible to maximise metabolic benefits and reduce the risks of complications and micronutrient deficiencies, evolution of these strategies can further improve the risk-to-benefit ratio of metabolic surgery.

Hypoglycemia Following Bariatric Surgery: Our 31-Year Experience

PURPOSE

The purposes of this study are to identify the cumulative incidence of post-bariatric surgery hypoglycemia (PBSH), describe its symptomatology, and characterize treatment patterns at a large academic institution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All patients who underwent bariatric surgery at a single institution from 1985 to 2015 were identified using a clinical database, administrative billing data identified patients who were treated for hypoglycemia, and chart reviews were performed to make a diagnosis of PBSH based on Whipple's triad. PBSH cases were reviewed including patient diabetes history, symptomatology, and treatment measures. Univariate analyses were performed to identify correlations based on symptomatology, laboratory values, and treatments utilized.

RESULTS

Ninety (2.6%) of 3487 patients were diagnosed with PBSH with preoperative median age of 43 years, mean BMI of 50.0 kg/m², and median glycated hemoglobin of 6.0%. Median time-to-first hypoglycemic event was 40.6 months. No factors were identified which predict symptom severity or resolution. The 24 (27%) patients who received pharmacotherapy to treat hypoglycemia were younger, had lower nadir blood glucose levels, and more frequent symptoms. Sixty-nine (79%) cases eventually resolved.

CONCLUSIONS

PBSH onset and severity are highly variable. Successful management of these patients can prove difficult and should include dietary therapy, the selective use of pharmacotherapy and surgery, and the use of a multidisciplinary team including bariatric surgeons and endocrinologists.

Incidence and Predictors of Hypoglycemia 1 Year After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

Hypoglycemia is a known adverse event following gastric bypass. The incidence of hypoglycemia after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is still under investigation. The aim of our study was to verify the presence of oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)-related hypoglycemia after LSG and to identify any baseline predictors of its occurrence.

METHODS

We analyzed 197 consecutive non-diabetic morbid obese patients that underwent LSG. All patients were studied before and 12 months after LSG. Evaluation included anthropometric parameters, 3-h OGTT for blood glucose (BG), insulin and c-peptide, lipid profile, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and leptin. Hypoglycemia was defined as BG ≤ 2.7 mmol/l.

RESULTS

After surgery, 180 patients completed the OGTT. Eleven patients did not complete the test for gastric intolerance, and in six patients, the test was stopped earlier for the onset of severe symptomatic hypoglycemia. Of the patients, 61/186 (32.8%) had at least one OGTT-related hypoglycemia. The highest frequency of hypoglycemic events occurred 150' after glucose load (20.2%). At baseline, patients with hypoglycemic events after surgery (Hypo) were younger (40 ± 11 vs 46 ± 10 years; p < 0.001), less obese (BMI 46 ± 5.7 vs 48.4 ± 7.9 kg/m²; p < 0.05), and had a worse lipid profile as compared to patients without hypoglycemic events (N-Hypo). Moreover, after LSG, Hypo patients compared with N-Hypo presented a higher weight loss (%EBMIL 80 ± 20 vs 62 ± 21%; p < 0.001). Low age, low fasting glucose, and high triglyceride levels before LSG were independent predictors of hypoglycemia development after surgery (r ² = 0.131).

CONCLUSION

These findings confirm the high incidence of post-prandial hypoglycemia 1 year after LSG. Hypoglycemia is more frequent in younger patients with lower fasting glucose and higher triglyceride levels before surgery.

Roux en Y gastric bypass hypoglycemia resolves with gastric feeding or reversal: Confirming a non-pancreatic etiology

OBJECTIVE

Postprandial hypoglycemia is an infrequent but disabling complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Controversy still exists as to whether the postprandial hyperinsulinemia observed is due to inherent changes in pancreatic β-cell mass or function or to reversible alterations caused by RYGB anatomy. We aimed to determine if gastric feeding or reversal of RYGB would normalize postprandial glucose and hormone excursions in patients with symptomatic hypoglycemia.

METHODS

We completed a prospective study of six patients with severe symptomatic RYGB hypoglycemia who underwent RYGB reversal. An additional subject without hypoglycemia who underwent RYGB reversal was also studied prospectively. Mixed meal tolerance testing (MTT) was done orally (RYGB anatomy), via gastrostomy tube in the excluded stomach in the setting of RYGB, and several months after RYGB reversal.

RESULTS

All subjects reported symptomatic improvement of hypoglycemia after reversal of RYGB. Weight gain after reversal was moderate and variable. Postprandial glucose, insulin, and GLP-1 excursions were significantly diminished with gastric feeding and after reversal. Insulin secretion changed proportional to glucose levels and insulin clearance increased after reversal. Glucagon/insulin ratios were similar throughout study. We further compared the impact of modified sleeve gastrectomy reversal surgery to those with restoration of complete stomach and found no significant differences in weight regain or in postprandial glucose or hormone levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Reversal of RYGB is an effective treatment option for severe postprandial hypoglycemia. The pathophysiology of this disorder is primarily due to RYGB anatomy resulting in altered glucose, gut, and pancreatic hormone levels and decreased insulin clearance, rather than inherent β-cell hyperplasia or hyperfunction.

Weight Management in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes and Obesity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are typically viewed as lean individuals. However, recent reports showed that their obesity rate surpassed that of the general population. Patients with T1D who show clinical signs of type 2 diabetes such as obesity and insulin resistance are considered to have "double diabetes." This review explains the mechanisms of weight gain in patients with T1D and how to manage it.

RECENT FINDINGS

Weight management in T1D can be successfully achieved in real-world clinical practice. Nutrition therapy includes reducing energy intake and providing a structured nutrition plan that is lower in carbohydrates and glycemic index and higher in fiber and lean protein. The exercise plan should include combination stretching as well as aerobic and resistance exercises to maintain muscle mass. Dynamic adjustment of insulin doses is necessary during weight management. Addition of anti-obesity medications may be considered. If medical weight reduction is not achieved, bariatric surgery may also be considered.

Medical nutrition therapy for post-bariatric hypoglycemia: practical insights

Hypoglycemia is increasingly recognized as a complication of bariatric surgery. Although medications are often required, medical nutrition therapy remains the key cornerstone for successful prevention of hypoglycemia in patients with post-bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH). We provide suggested approaches to the dietary management of PBH, incorporating data from both the medical literature and extensive clinical experience in an academic referral center for PBH. The overall goal of medical nutrition therapy for PBH is to reduce postprandial surges in glucose, which often trigger surges in insulin secretion and promote subsequent hypoglycemia. Thus, strategies focus on controlled portions of low glycemic index carbohydrates, avoidance of rapidly-absorbed carbohydrates, adjustment of timing of meals and snacks, and attention to personal and cultural barriers to implementation.

Practical Recommendations of the Obesity Management Task Force of the European Association for the Study of Obesity for the Post-Bariatric Surgery Medical Management

Bariatric surgery is today the most effective long-term therapy for the management of patients with severe obesity, and its use is recommended by the relevant guidelines of the management of obesity in adults. Bariatric surgery is in general safe and effective, but it can cause new clinical problems and is associated with specific diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic needs. For clinicians, the acquisition of special knowledge and skills is required in order to deliver appropriate and effective care to the post-bariatric patient. In the present recommendations, the basic notions needed to provide first-level adequate medical care to post-bariatric patients are summarised. Basic information about nutrition, management of co-morbidities, pregnancy, psychological issues as well as weight regain prevention and management is derived from current evidences and existing guidelines. A short list of clinical practical recommendations is included for each item. It remains clear that referral to a bariatric multidisciplinary centre, preferably the one performing the original procedure, should be considered in case of more complex clinical situations.

Spontaneous Hypoglycemia After Islet Transplantation: The Case For Using Non-Hepatic Sites

This Perspective provides a brief history of intrahepatic alloislet and autoislet transplantation in humans and an update of the recent success rates. It also examines the important role that hypoglycemia plays in clinical outcomes. On the one hand, recurrent serious hypoglycemic episodes related to insulin therapy are a major criterion for alloislet transplantation. On the other hand, spontaneous clinical hypoglycemia, perhaps related to the accompanying Roux-en-Y procedure for total pancreatectomy, is a complication of autoislet transplantation. Complex alterations in glucagon secretion compromise counter-regulation of hypoglycemia in both situations. The glucagon response to hypoglycemia is intrinsically defective in type 1 diabetes before transplant because of the absence of physiological regulation of α-cell secretion by neighboring β-cells. Glucagon secretion from intrahepatic islets during systemic hypoglycemia is also defective, although β-cells in the graft are normally regulated by glucose and arginine. My personal perspective is that the latter is caused by intrahepatic glycogenolysis stimulated by systemic hypoglycemia with consequent increases in intrahepatic glucose flux, which incorrectly signals intrahepatic α-cells to be quiescent. This defect is liver-specific, which strongly suggests modifying the current approach to islet transplantation by placing a portion of allo- and autoislets in nonhepatic sites in addition to hepatic sites to ensure physiological glucagon secretion as a strategy to ameliorate post-transplant hypoglycemia.