(F)utility of preoperative pulmonary function testing in pectus excavatum to assess severity

PURPOSE

The utility of pulmonary function testing (PFT) in pectus excavatum (PE) has been subject to debate. Although some evidence shows improvement from preoperative to postoperative values, the clinical significance is uncertain. A high failure-to-completion rate for operative PFT (48%) was identified in our large institutional cohort. With such a high non-completion rate, we questioned the overall utility of PFT in the preoperative assessment of PE and sought to evaluate if other measures of PE severity or cardiopulmonary function could explain this finding.

METHODS

Demographics, clinical findings, and results from cardiac MRI, PFT (spirometry and plethysmography), and cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) were reviewed in 270 patients with PE evaluated preoperatively between 2015 and 2018. Regression modeling was used to measure associations between PFT completion and cardiopulmonary function.

RESULTS

There were no differences in demographics, symptoms, connective tissue disorders, or multiple indices of pectus severity and cardiac deformation in PFT completers versus non-completers. While regression analysis revealed higher RVEF, LVEF, and LVEF-Z scores, lower RV-ESV/BSA, LV-ESV/BSA, and LV-ESV/BSA-Z scores, and abnormal breathing reserve in PFT completers vs. non-completers, these findings were not consistent across continuous and binary analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that PFT completers were not significantly different from non-completers in most structural and functional measures of pectus deformity and cardiopulmonary function. Inability to complete PFT is not an indicator of pectus severity.

Associations between marital status and weight loss trajectories entering into early adulthood: a Teen-LABS study

BACKGROUND

Among adolescents who underwent metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), it is unclear how relationships and specifically marital status (MS) may be associated with long-term weight loss.

OBJECTIVE

In this analysis, we tested for associations between the MS of adolescents who underwent MBS and the MS of their primary caregiver and weight loss trajectory over 8 years.

SETTING

Teen-LABS participating sites.

METHODS

This sample included 231 participants (75.3% female, 71.4% White, 68.0% Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, 27.7% vertical sleeve gastrectomy, 4.3% laparoscopic adjustable gastric band). A linear mixed model was conducted with the dependent variable percent body mass index (BMI) change from preoperatively through 8 years with between-participant factors (1) participant MS, (2) caregiver MS, and (3) interaction between caregiver and participant MS.

RESULTS

One third of participants and 87% of caregivers were ever married (EM). Compared with never-married (NM) participants and caregivers (-14.6%), EM participants and caregivers (-20.6%), EM participants and NM caregivers (-25.9%), and NM participants and EM caregivers (-19.8%), each had significantly greater BMI loss at 8 years (each P < .05). No other group comparisons achieved statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

NM participants with NM caregivers had less favorable long-term BMI. Additional research is needed to better understand how relationships affect behavior change and weight loss after MBS.

Prognostic factors in resolution of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease post bariatric surgery in adolescents

BACKGROUND

The long-term effect of bariatric surgery on adolescent non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is not clear.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate longitudinal change in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels and to determine the factors independently associated with this change over 2 years after bariatric surgery in adolescents with severe obesity.

SETTING

An observational prospective cohort from the Teen-LABS Consortium.

METHODS

We examined the relationship of longitudinal change in serum ALT (% change and normalization) to change in body mass index (BMI), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), triglycerides (TG), high- (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, A1C and fasting glucose, accounting for age, sex, race-ethnicity, blood pressure, and baseline BMI in 219 adolescents during the first 2 years post-surgery.

RESULTS

Mean BMI declined from a baseline of 52.6 to 37.2 kg/m2 at 2 years (P < .01). Alanine aminotransferase decreased significantly from baseline (36.5 [95% CI: 31.4, 41.7]) to 6 months (30.5 [95% CI: 25.4, 35.6]), and remained stable at 12 and 24 months, all P < .01 versus baseline. After adjustment, improvement in BMI, fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, TG/HDL ratio, and HDL were independently associated with reduced ALT at 6 months. These remained significantly associated with a decline in ALT after adjusting for BMI change. The %participants with elevated ALT decreased from 71% at baseline to 42% and 36% at 1 and 2 years post-surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery resulted in significant and sustained improvement in ALT levels over 2 years. Although associated with weight loss, this decline was also associated with improved metabolic indices, independent of weight loss.

Prevalence and Outcomes of High versus Low Ratio Plasma to Red Blood Cell Resuscitation in a Multi-Institutional Cohort of Severely Injured Children

BACKGROUND

The benefit of targeting high ratio fresh frozen plasma (FFP):red blood cell (RBC) transfusion in pediatric trauma resuscitation is unclear as existing studies are limited to patients who retrospectively met criteria for massive transfusion. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of high ratio FFP:RBC transfusion and the association with outcomes in children presenting in shock.

METHODS

A post-hoc analysis of a 24-institution prospective observational study (4/2018-9/2019) of injured children <18 years with elevated age-adjusted shock index was performed. Patients transfused within 24 hours were stratified into cohorts of low (<1:2) or high (>1:2) ratio FFP:RBC. Nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis and chi-square were used to compare characteristics and mortality. Competing risks analysis was used to compare extended (≥75th percentile) ventilator, intensive care, and hospital days while accounting for early deaths.

RESULTS

Of 135 children with median (IQR) age 10 (5,14) years and weight 40 (20,64) kg, 85 (63%) received low ratio transfusion and 50 (37%) high ratio despite similar activation of institutional massive transfusion protocols (MTP; low-38%, high-46%, p = .34). Most patients sustained blunt injuries (70%). Median injury severity score was greater in high ratio patients (low-25, high-33, p = .01); however, hospital mortality was similar (low-24%, high-20%, p = .65) as was the risk of extended ventilator, ICU, and hospital days (all p > .05).

CONCLUSION

Despite increased injury severity, patients who received a high ratio of FFP:RBC had comparable rates of mortality. These data suggest high ratio FFP:RBC resuscitation is not associated with worst outcomes in children who present in shock. MTP activation was not associated with receipt of high ratio transfusion, suggesting variability in MTP between centers.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prospective cohort study, Level II.

A Prospective Cohort of Alcohol Use and Alcohol-related Problems Before and After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents

OBJECTIVE

To describe alcohol use, alcohol-related harm, and alcohol-related problems preoperatively and up to 8 years following metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) in adolescents.

BACKGROUND

Risk for alcohol use and alcohol use disorders (AUD) increases post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy in adults. However, data are lacking in adolescents who undergo MBS.

METHODS

This study includes 217 adolescents (aged 13-19 y) enrolled in a 5-center prospective cohort study who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (2007-2011) and reported alcohol use preoperatively and annually postoperatively for up to 8 years. Time to elevated Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test-Consumption (AUDIT-C) score, alcohol-related harm, and alcohol-related problems were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier estimates of cumulative incidence.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, the median age was 17 years; the median body mass index was 51 kg/m 2 . Alcohol use frequency and average quantity of drinks per drinking day increased postoperatively (2% consumed alcohol 2-4 times/month 6 months versus 24% 8 years postoperatively, P <0.001; 2% consumed≥3 drinks per drinking day 6 months versus 35% 8 years postoperatively, P <0.001). Cumulative incidence of postoperative onset elevated AUDIT-C score, alcohol-related harm, and alcohol-related problems at year 8 were 45% (95% CI:37-53), 43% (95% CI:36-51), and 47% (95% CI:40-55), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly half of those who underwent MBS as adolescents screened positively for AUD, symptoms of alcohol-related harm, or alcohol-related problems 8 years post-MBS, highlighting the risk for alcohol use and AUD after MBS in adolescents. AUD evaluation and treatment should be integrated into routine long-term care for adolescents undergoing MBS.

Marijuana, e-cigarette, and tobacco product use in young adults who underwent pediatric bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

The postoperative course after pediatric metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) cuts across a developmental phase when substance-use behaviors emerge as significant public health concerns.

OBJECTIVE

We examined use of marijuana, conventional cigarettes, and alternate tobacco products/devices (e.g., e-cigarettes, hookah, smokeless, dissolvable) in young adults (YA) to 6 years postsurgery.

SETTING

Five academic medical centers.

METHODS

In a prospective observational cohort series, 139 surgical (Mage = 16.9, Mbody mass index [BMI] = 51.5, 80% female, 66% white) and 83 nonsurgical comparisons (Mage = 16.1, MBMI = 44.9, 82% female, 54% white) completed assessments at presurgery/baseline and postsurgery years 2, 4, and 6 (year 6 [2014-2018]: surgical n = 123 [89%], Mage = 23.0, MBMI = 39.8; nonsurgical n = 63 [76%], Mage = 22.4, MBMI = 53.6). Lifetime and current (past 30 days) use were reported.

RESULTS

Consistent with national YA trends (2014-2018), the most commonly used were (1) conventional cigarettes (30% surgical, 41% nonsurgical, nonsignificant [ns]); (2) marijuana (25% surgical, 27% nonsurgical, ns); and (3) e-cigarettes (12% surgical, 10% nonsurgical). A sizable minority (26% surgical, 18% nonsurgical) used one or more alternate tobacco product/device. Many YA reported persistent and/or heavy use (e.g., >50% marijuana at year 6 and year 2 or 4; ≈50% ≥.5 pack/d of cigarettes), suggesting more established (versus intermittent) health risk behaviors. For the surgical group at year 6, current tobacco product/device use was associated with lower BMI (P < .001) and greater percent weight loss (P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric MBS demonstrates promise in lowering risks for adult chronic disease, which may be diminished by age-typical health risk behaviors. Developmentally salient and holistic pediatric postoperative care guidelines are needed.

Self-worth and developmental outcomes in young adults after pediatric bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVES

Bariatric surgery has emerged as a safe/effective treatment for adolescents with severe obesity; therefore, understanding its impact over the life course is imperative. This study examined self-worth and developmental outcomes during the transition to adulthood (19-24 years old) for youth who underwent surgery as adolescents (13-18 years old) and a nonsurgical group with severe obesity.

METHOD

As part of a prospective and multisite observational study series, adolescents (139 surgical, 83 nonsurgical) were followed for 6 years postsurgery/baseline when they completed height/weight measurements and measures of global self-worth, maturity, and occupational, educational, and social functioning as young adults. Growth curve analysis examined global self-worth change, while regressions were used to compare groups and examine adolescent-reported familial predictors and weight-related correlates for outcomes.

RESULTS

Relative to the nonsurgical group, the surgical group experienced a significant quadratic improvement in self-worth and higher year 6 romantic self-perceptions. For the surgical group only, greater family dysfunction predicted lower young adult self-worth and perceptions of maturity, while higher family connectedness predicted higher self-worth and perceptions of maturity. Greater percent weight loss was associated with higher perceptions of maturity for the surgical group.

CONCLUSIONS

Group difference findings suggest that the impact of surgery was on self-worth and romantic self-perceptions, outcomes linked in the developmental literature to body image. For both groups, functioning appeared similar to population-based findings, suggesting they are meeting "expected" age-salient developmental outcomes. The impact of earlier positive family functioning on self-worth and self-perceptions of maturity may place adolescents on pathways to success. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Analysis of brain and spinal MRI measures in a common domain to investigate directional neurodegeneration in motor neuron disease

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and cervical spinal cord is often performed in diagnostic evaluation of suspected motor neuron disease/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (MND/ALS). Analysis of MRI-derived tissue damage metrics in a common domain facilitates group-level inferences on pathophysiology. This approach was applied to address competing hypotheses of directionality of neurodegeneration, whether anterograde, cranio-caudal dying-forward from precentral gyrus or retrograde, dying-back.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, MRI was performed on 75 MND patients and 13 healthy controls. Precentral gyral thickness was estimated from volumetric T1-weighted images using FreeSurfer, corticospinal tract fractional anisotropy (FA) from diffusion tensor imaging using FSL, and cross-sectional cervical cord area between C1-C8 levels using Spinal Cord Toolbox. To analyse these multimodal data within a common domain, individual parameter estimates representing tissue damage at each corticospinal tract level were first converted to z-scores, referenced to healthy control norms. Mixed-effects linear regression models were then fitted to these z-scores, with gradients hypothesised to represent directionality of neurodegeneration.

RESULTS

At group-level, z-scores did not differ significantly between precentral gyral and intracranial corticospinal tract tissue damage estimates (regression coefficient - 0.24, [95% CI - 0.62, 0.14], p = 0.222), but step-changes were evident between intracranial corticospinal tract and C1 (1.14, [95% CI 0.74, 1.53], p < 0.001), and between C5 and C6 cord levels (0.98, [95% CI 0.58, 1.38], p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Analysis of brain and cervical spinal MRI data in a common domain enabled investigation of pathophysiological hypotheses in vivo. A cranio-caudal step-change in MND patients was observed, and requires further investigation in larger cohorts.

Psychosocial predictors of problematic eating in young adults who underwent adolescent bariatric surgery

Introduction

This study examined problematic eating and eating-related psychopathology among young adults who underwent adolescent bariatric surgery including concurrent and prospective associations with psychosocial factors and weight change.

Methods

VIEW point is a 6-year follow-up study within a prospective observational study series observing adolescents with severe obesity who had bariatric surgery (n = 139) or who presented to nonsurgical lifestyle modification programs (n = 83). Participants completed height/weight measurements, questionnaires, and diagnostic interviews. Regression analyses compared problematic eating across groups and examined Year 6 correlates (i.e., psychosocial factors and weight change) and baseline predictors (i.e., psychosocial factors) of eating-related psychopathology.

Results

Compared to the nonsurgical group, the surgical group reported lower eating-related psychopathology, objective binge eating, and grazing at Year 6. While chewing/spitting out and vomiting for weight/shape-related reasons were very infrequent for the surgical group, self-induced vomiting for other reasons (e.g., avoid plugging) was more common. For the surgical group, lower self-worth, greater internalizing symptoms, and higher weight-related teasing in adolescence predicted increased eating-related psychopathology in young adulthood. Year 6 eating-related psychopathology was concurrently associated with lower percent weight loss for the surgical group and greater percent weight gain for the nonsurgical group.

Conclusion

Undergoing adolescent bariatric surgery appears to afford benefit for problematic eating and eating-related psychopathology. Current findings suggest that the clinical intervention related to problematic eating and associated psychosocial concerns may be needed for young adults with obesity, regardless of surgical status.

Effect of intraoperative fluid type on postoperative systemic inflammatory response and end organ dysfunction following total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation in children

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of intraoperative fluid type [half normal saline (0.45NS) or lactated Ringer's solution (LR)] on the risk of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and acute kidney injury after total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation in children.

METHODS

Retrospective review where demographics, operative details, systemic inflammatory response, and evaluation for end organ dysfunction over the first 5 postoperative days was obtained. Mixed effects Poisson regression compared risk of SIRS and acute kidney injury by intraoperative fluid type.

RESULTS

Forty three patients were included with no difference in demographic characteristics between groups. SIRS was observed in 95, 77, and 71% over post operative days 1, 3, and 5. Intraoperative fluid type was found to not be associated with postoperative SIRS (RR: 0.91, p = 0.23). However, female sex (RR: 1.30, p < 0.01), increased BMI (RR: 1.08, p < 0.01), and longer operative time (RR: 1.07, p < 0.01) were found to be factors that are associated with increased risk of postoperative SIRS. Intraoperative 0.45NS use was associated with increased acute kidney injury compared to LR on postoperative day 1 (52% vs 0%, p < 0.01), but not on postoperative days 3 or 5.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative fluid type (0.45NS vs LR) does not increase the risk of postoperative SIRS in children after TPIAT. Predictive factors that are associated with an increased risk of eliciting postoperative SIRS includes female sex, increased BMI, and longer operative times.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Ventilatory limitations are not associated with dyspnea on exertion or reduced aerobic fitness in pectus excavatum

Exercise intolerance and chest pain are common symptoms in patients with pectus excavatum. To assess if the anatomic extent of pectus deformities determined by the correction index (CI) is associated with a pulmonary impairment at rest and during exercise we performed a retrospective review on pectus patients in our center who completed a symptom questionnaire, cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), pulmonary function tests (PFT), and chest magnetic resonance imaging. Of 259 patients studied, dyspnea on exertion and chest pain was reported in 64% and 41%, respectively. Peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ ) was reduced in 30% and classified as mild in two-thirds. A pulmonary limitation during exercise was identified in less than 3%. Ventilatory limitations on PFT was found in 26% and classified as mild in 85%. Obstruction was the most common abnormal pattern (11%). There were no differences between patients with normal or abnormal PFT patterns for the CI, VO_2, or percentage reporting dyspnea or chest pain. Scatter plots demonstrated significant but weak inverse relationships between the CI and lung volumes at rest and during exercise. Multivariable linear regression modeling evaluating predictors of VO₂ demonstrated positive associations with the forced expiratory volume at one second and a negative association with the CI. We conclude that resting PFT patterns have poor correlation with the anatomic extent of the pectus defect, symptomatology or aerobic fitness. Pulmonary limitations on CPET are uncommon and lung volumes during exercise are only minimally associated with the CI.

The Severity of Pectus Excavatum Defect Is Associated With Impaired Cardiopulmonary Function

BACKGROUND

Repair of pectus excavatum has cosmetic benefits, but the physiologic impact remains controversial. The aim of this study was to characterize the relationship between the degree of pectus excavatum and cardiopulmonary dysfunction seen on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), and pulmonary function testing (PFT).

METHODS

A single-center analysis of CMR, CPET, and PFT was conducted. Regression models evaluated relationships between pectus indices and the clinical end points of cardiopulmonary function.

RESULTS

Data from 345 CMRs, 261 CPETs, and 281 PFTs were analyzed. Patients were a mean age of 15.2 ± 4 years, and 81% were aged <18 years. The right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) was <0.50 in 16% of patients, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was <0.55 in 22%, RVEF Z-score was < -2 in 32%, and the LVEF Z-score was < -2 in 18%. CPET revealed 33% of patients had reduced aerobic fitness. PFT results were abnormal in 23.1% of patients. Adjusted analyses revealed the Haller index had significant (P < .05) inverse associations with RVEF and LVEF.

CONCLUSIONS

The severity of pectus excavatum is associated with ventricular systolic dysfunction. Pectus excavatum impacts right and left ventricular systolic function and can also impact exercise tolerance. The Haller index and correction index may be the most useful predictors of impairment.

Indocyanine green is a sensitive adjunct in the identification and surgical management of local and metastatic hepatoblastoma

Background

Hepatoblastoma is the most common primary pediatric liver malignancy. Indocyanine green (ICG) has been described as an adjunct to resection in small series. Its utility remains undefined in larger cohorts.

Methods

Records for 29 patients diagnosed with hepatoblastoma who received ICG prior to surgical resection from 2017 to 2020 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. The primary outcome was correlation between intraoperative ICG‐avidity and histologic presence of hepatoblastoma. A secondary outcome included the histologic margin designation for resected liver specimens.

Results

ICG sensitivity was 91% for 120 resected thoracic specimens from 21 patients. Specificity was 57%. In 10% of operations, HB‐positive specimens were resected solely on ICG‐avidity. In an additional 40% of cases, ICG assisted in localizing a preoperatively diagnosed lesion. ICG sensitivity during thoracotomy and thoracoscopic surgery was 95 and 74%, respectively; primary and relapsed disease demonstrated sensitivity of 94 and 73%, respectively. Sensitivity was 92% for 25 resected liver specimens from nine patients with all parenchymal margins grossly negative for disease. Four multifocal lesions were identified with two resected solely by ICG‐avidity.

Conclusions

ICG is a sensitive adjunct for identifying local and metastatic hepatoblastoma, including lesions not visualized on preoperative imaging, and delineating margins during liver resection. False positives limit specificity; however, there were no adverse outcomes from additional resections. We noted that thoracoscopic surgery can be completed safely in patients with less significant disease burden, and conversion to thoracotomy, if necessary, is straightforward.

Loss of Control Eating and Health Indicators Over 6 Years in Adolescents Undergoing Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess associations between loss of control (LOC) eating and health outcomes among adolescents undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A total of 234 adolescents were studied before and up to 6 years after surgery in a prospective, observational cohort design. Adolescents provided self-reports of LOC eating, pain severity, sleep quality, polycystic ovary syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and medication usage and objective measures of fasting glucose, serum insulin, glycohemoglobin A1c , cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. χ2 tests, Wilcoxon rank sums, and generalized linear mixed models were used to assess concurrent and prospective associations between LOC eating and health indicators.

RESULTS

LOC eating presented in 32.5% of adolescents before surgery and was positively associated with sleep disturbances and psychiatric medication usage. After surgery, LOC eating presented in 7.9% to 14.6% of participants and was correlated with improved low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and greater back pain. LOC eating was inversely associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol at the next consecutive time point.

CONCLUSIONS

LOC eating was unexpectedly associated with improved low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in adolescents undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery. Deleterious effects of LOC eating on obesity-related health conditions, aside from back pain, were not detected. Metabolic and other weight-independent health benefits of surgery may persist postoperatively despite LOC eating and associated weight regain.

Outcomes of Bariatric Surgery in Older Versus Younger Adolescents

OBJECTIVES

In this report, we compare weight loss, comorbidity resolution, nutritional abnormalities, and quality of life between younger and older adolescents after metabolic and bariatric surgery.

METHODS

From March 2007 to December 2011, 242 adolescents (≤19 years of age) who underwent bariatric surgery at 5 clinical centers in the United States were enrolled in the prospective, multicenter, long-term outcome study Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery. Outcome data from younger (13-15 years; n = 66) and older (16-19 years; n = 162) study participants were compared. Outcomes included percent BMI change, comorbidity outcomes (hypertension, dyslipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus), nutritional abnormalities, and quality of life over 5 years post surgery.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics, except for age, between the 2 cohorts were similar. No significant differences in frequency of remission of hypertension (P = .84) or dyslipidemia (P = .74) were observed between age groups. Remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus was high in both groups, although statistically higher in older adolescents (relative risk 0.86; P = .046). Weight loss and quality of life were similar in the 2 age groups. Younger adolescents were less likely to develop elevated transferrin (prevalence ratio 0.52; P = .048) and low vitamin D levels (prevalence ratio 0.8; P = .034).

CONCLUSIONS

The differences in outcome of metabolic and bariatric surgery between younger and older adolescents were few. These data suggest that younger adolescents with severe obesity should not be denied consideration for surgical therapy on the basis of age alone and that providers should consider adolescents of all ages for surgical therapy for obesity when clinically indicated.

Cigarette Use and Adolescent Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to track conventional cigarette smoking behaviors and associated correlates in adolescents with severe obesity who did or did not undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery to 4 years after surgery/baseline.

METHODS

Utilizing a prospective controlled design, surgical (n = 153; mean BMI = 52) and nonsurgical (n = 70; mean BMI = 47) groups that completed assessments before surgery/at baseline and at Years 2 and 4 post surgery (Year 4: n = 117 surgical [mean BMI = 38]; n = 56 nonsurgical [mean BMI = 48]) were compared. Separate logistic regression models tested correlates of Year 4 current smoking.

RESULTS

More than half of participants (surgical: 55%; nonsurgical: 60%) had ever smoked a cigarette, with current smoking increasing with time. Groups did not differ in Year 4 current smoking (surgical: 23%; nonsurgical: 33%), with ≈ 50% meeting criteria for "heavy" smoking (≥ half pack/day) and ≈ 40% smoking their first cigarette before ninth grade. Factors associated with higher odds of Year 4 current smoking included dysregulation (P < 0.001), internalizing symptoms (P = 0.01), alcohol use (P = 0.04), caregiver smoking (P < 0.001), friend smoking (P = 0.001), and perceiving low harm (P = 0.02), plus greater percent weight loss (P = 0.03) in the surgical group.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking is a clinical health challenge for adolescents and young adults with severe obesity, including those who have undergone metabolic and bariatric surgery. Upstream identification, monitoring, and intervention to prevent smoking uptake and escalation in youth with obesity across settings should be prioritized.

Influence of Weight Loss on Obesity-Associated Complications After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents

OBJECTIVE

Following metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), most adolescents experience weight loss and improvement of many obesity-associated complications (OACs). The relationship between weight loss and remission of OACs after MBS in adolescents has not been well described.

METHODS

The Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS) is a multi-institutional prospective observational study of adolescents who underwent MBS between 2007 and 2012. Lower-weight-loss responders (LWLRs) were defined as having <20% total body weight loss (TBWL) and higher-weight-loss responders (HWLRs) were defined as having ≥20% TBWL at 5 years after MBS. The prevalence of OACs was compared at baseline and 5 years after MBS.

RESULTS

Both LWLRs (n = 114) and HWLRs (n = 78) lost significant weight within the first year following MBS; however, the TBWL at 5 years for the LWLRs was 8.6% ± 9.5% compared with 33.8% ± 9.2% for the HWLRs. Those in the HWLR group were more likely to experience durable remission of composite dyslipidemia at 5 years, whereas there were no differences between groups in remission rates of all other OACs.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater weight loss after MBS in adolescents was associated with greater remission of composite dyslipidemia; however, remission of other OACs was not dependent on major sustained weight loss.

The chest wall gender divide: females have better cardiopulmonary function and exercise tolerance despite worse deformity in pectus excavatum

PURPOSE

Pectus excavatum (PE) is a chest wall deformity of variable severity and symptomatology. Existing female-specific literature highlights breast asymmetry and cosmetic reconstruction. We sought to evaluate gender differences in cardiopulmonary function.

METHODS

Cardiac MRIs, pulmonary function tests (PFTs), and cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPETs) were reviewed in 345 patients undergoing preoperative evaluation for PE. Regression modeling was used to evaluate associations between gender and clinical endpoints of cardiopulmonary function.

RESULTS

Mean age was 15.2 years, 19% were female, 98% were white. Pectus indices included median Haller Index (HI) of 4.8, mean depression index (DI) of 0.63, correction index (CI) of 33.6%, and Cardiac Compression Index (CCI) of 2.79. Cardiac assessment revealed decreased right and left ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF, LVEF) in 16% and 22% of patients, respectively. PFTs and CPETs were abnormal in ~ 30% of patients. While females had deeper PE deformities-represented by higher pectus indices-they had superior function with higher RVEF, LVEF Z-scores, FEV₁, VO₂ max, O₂ pulse, work, and breathing reserve (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Despite worse PE deformity and symptomatology, females had a better cardiopulmonary function and exercise tolerance than males. Further research is needed to assess the precise mechanisms of this phenomenon and postoperative outcomes in this population.

Sterility Cultures Following Pancreatectomy with Islet Autotransplantation in the Pediatric Population: Do They Matter?

BACKGROUND

Pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (IAT) is a treatment option for children with debilitating chronic pancreatitis. Sterility cultures from preservation solutions are often positive, yet their impact has not been well studied in children.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent IAT from 2015 to 2018 at a single institution was performed. Sterility culture data were obtained from both the pancreas transport and islet transplant media. All patients received prophylactic perioperative meropenem and vancomycin for 72 h per our protocol. If cultures resulted positive, antibiotics were extended for a total of 7 days. Primary outcomes were postoperative fever and 30-day infectious complications.

RESULTS

Forty-one patients underwent IAT during the study period. Seventeen (41.5 %) patients had negative cultures of both the transport and transplant media, while 24 (58.5 %) patients had a positive culture from either sample. Of these patients, 13 (31.7 %) were positive in both, 10 (24.4 %) were positive in only the transport media, and 1 (2.4 %) was positive in only the transplant media. Patients with positive transplant media were similar with regard to age, gender, etiology, and disease duration compared to those with negative transplant media (all p > 0.05), but the positive group was more likely to have a pancreatic stent in place at the time of surgery (38.5 % vs. 4.2 %, p = 0.01). The overall postoperative infectious complication rate was 31.2 % (n = 13). No difference was detected between the transplant positive and negative culture groups in postoperative fever or 30-day infectious complications (p > 0.05 for each).

CONCLUSION

An existing pancreatic stent at the time of pancreatectomy with IAT is a risk factor for positive sterility cultures. However, positive islet transplant media culture was not associated with increased risk of post-IAT infection or morbidity in the setting of an empiric antibiotic protocol. Future work is necessary to study the optimal perioperative antibiotic regimen in pediatric IAT.

Excess skin problems among adolescents after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery results in significant and durable weight loss and improved health in severely obese adolescents. An important adverse consequence of the massive weight loss after bariatric surgery is excess skin and soft tissue. The prevalence and clinical characteristics of excess skin-related symptoms have been described in adults undergoing bariatric surgery but not in adolescents. Although the higher skin elasticity of adolescents may result in fewer excess skin problems compared with adults, this hypothesis remains untested.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the present study was to describe the natural history of excess skin and its associated complications among severely obese adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery.

SETTING

University Hospitals, United States.

METHODS

We evaluated data from the Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery cohort, a prospective, multiinstitutional study of adolescents (13-19 yr) undergoing bariatric surgery. Abdominal pannus severity (graded 0-5) and excess skin symptoms were evaluated preoperatively and for the first 5 years after bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

Among the 217 study participants, 198 (90%) had an abdominal pannus and 16 (7%) reported pannus-related symptoms at the time of bariatric surgery. Preoperative symptoms included intertriginous infections (n = 12, 75%), recurrent cellulitis (n = 5, 31%), and superficial cutaneous ulcerations (n = 1, 6%). Participants with a higher pannus grade preoperatively experienced both a greater reduction in pannus severity (P < .0001) and a higher incidence of pannus-related symptoms (P = .002) postoperatively. Changes in pannus severity occurred during the first 24 months after bariatric surgery; mean pannus severity remained unchanged beyond 24 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Severely obese adolescents who undergo bariatric surgery often present with an abdominal pannus at the time of surgery with associated symptoms. Higher preoperative pannus grade is associated with more pannus related symptoms after surgery. Counseling about need for body contouring surgery should be considered in this group.

The international European Academy of Neurology survey on neurological symptoms in patients with COVID-19 infection

Background and purpose

Although the main clinical features of COVID‐19 infection are pulmonary, several associated neurological signs, symptoms and diseases are emerging. The incidence and characteristics of neurological complications are unclear. For this reason, the European Academy of Neurology (EAN) core COVID‐19 Task Force initiated a survey on neurological symptoms observed in patients with COVID‐19 infection.

Methods

A 17‐question online survey was made available on the EAN website and distributed to EAN members and other worldwide physicians starting on 9 April 2020.

Results

By 27 April 2020, proper data were collected from 2343 responders (out of 4199), of whom 82.0% were neurologists, mostly from Europe. Most responders (74.7%) consulted patients with COVID‐19 mainly in emergency rooms and in COVID‐19 units. The majority (67.0%) had evaluated fewer than 10 patients with neurological manifestations of COVID‐19 (neuro COVID‐19). The most frequently reported neurological findings were headache (61.9%), myalgia (50.4%), anosmia (49.2%), ageusia (39.8%), impaired consciousness (29.3%) and psychomotor agitation (26.7%). Encephalopathy and acute cerebrovascular disorders were reported at 21.0%. Neurological manifestations were generally interpreted as being possibly related to COVID‐19; they were most commonly recognized in patients with multiple general symptoms and occurred at any time during infection.

Conclusion

Neurologists are currently and actively involved in the management of neurological issues related to the COVID‐19 pandemic. This survey justifies setting up a prospective registry to better capture the prevalence of patients with neuro COVID‐19, neurological disease characteristics and the contribution of neurological manifestations to outcome.

Natural Course of Pediatric Portal Hypertension

The etiology of portal hypertension (pHTN) in children differs from that of adults and may require different management strategies. We set out to review the etiology, management, and natural history of pHTN at a pediatric liver center. From 2008 to 2018, 151 children and adolescents with pHTN were identified at a free‐standing children’s hospital. Patients were stratified by etiology of pHTN (intrahepatic disease [IH], defined as cholestatic disease and fibrotic or hepatocellular disease; extrahepatic disease [EH], defined as hepatic vein obstruction and prehepatic pHTN). Patients with EH were more likely to undergo an esophagoduodenscopy for a suspected gastrointestinal bleed (77% vs. 41%; P < 0.01). Surgical interventions differed based on etiology (P < 0.01), with IH more likely resulting in a transplant only (65%) and EH more likely to result in a shunt only (43%); 30% of patients with IH and 47% of patients with EH did not undergo an intervention for pHTN. Kaplan‐Meier analysis revealed a significant increase in mortality in the group that received no intervention compared to shunt, transplant, or both and lower mortality in patients with prehepatic pHTN compared to other etiologies (P < 0.01 each). Multivariate analysis revealed increased odds of mortality in patients with refractory ascites (odds ratio [OR], 4.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00, 18.88; P = 0.05) and growth failure (OR, 13.49; 95% CI, 3.07, 58.99; P < 0.01). Conclusion: In this single institution study, patients with prehepatic pHTN had better survival and those who received no intervention had higher mortality than those who received an intervention. Early referral to specialized centers with experience managing these complex disease processes may allow for improved risk stratification and early intervention to improve outcomes.

A Bivariate Mixed Model Approach in Characterizing the Evolution of Longitudinal Body Mass Index and Quality of Life Processes in Adolescents with Severe Obesity Following Bariatric Surgery: A 5-year follow-up of the TeenLABS cohort

Obesity is identified as a major global health problem. Along with measuring body mass index (BMI), the most common metric for defining weight status, health related quality of life (HRQol) has been accepted as a routine method to evaluate how body weight may be impacted by psychosocial factors. The objective of the current study is to characterize the joint association of change in longitudinal BMI and HRQol following metabolic and bariatric surgery and to examine the correlation between these two outcomes measured concurrently over time. We identified the optimal modeling strategy by comparing four models, all of which involved the covariance structures appropriate for correlated outcomes, BMI and HRQol in a repeated measures analysis. The bivariate random effects models performed better than the univariate random effects models. Moreover, bivariate models with composite covariate structures had better model fit compared to the bivariate random slope models. The bivariate models with composite covariate structures reflected that changes in HRQol (and BMI) were most significant during the first 6 months, a clinically useful window to monitor changes in post-operative HRQol and BMI, and if there might need to be additional interventions or at least, closer monitoring.

Thirty-Year Risk of Cardiovascular Disease Events in Adolescents with Severe Obesity

OBJECTIVE

Quantifying risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events among adolescents is difficult owing to the long latent period between risk factor development and disease outcomes. This study examined the 30-year CVD event risk among adolescents with severe obesity treated with and without metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), compared with youths with moderate obesity, overweight, or normal weight.

METHODS

Cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons of five frequency-matched (age and diabetes status) groups were performed: normal weight (n = 247), overweight (n = 54), obesity (n = 131), severe obesity without MBS (n = 302), and severe obesity undergoing MBS (n = 215). A 30-year CVD event score developed by the Framingham Heart Study was the primary outcome. Data are mean (SD) with differences between time points for MBS examined using linear mixed models.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, the likelihood of CVD events was higher among adolescents undergoing MBS (7.9% [6.7%]) compared with adolescents with severe obesity not referred for MBS (5.5% [4.0%]), obesity (3.9% [3.0%]), overweight (3.1% [2.4%]), and normal weight (1.8% [0.8%]; all P < 0.001). At 1 year after MBS, event risk was significantly reduced (7.9% [6.7%] to 4.0% [3.4%], P < 0.0001) and was sustained for up to 5 years after MBS (P < 0.0001, all years vs. baseline).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents with severe obesity are at elevated risk for future CVD events. Following MBS, the predicted risk of CVD events was substantially and sustainably reduced.

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Extant literature warns of elevated suicide risks in adults postbariatric surgery, making understanding risks for adolescent patients imperative.

OBJECTIVES

To examine prevalence and predictors/correlates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs) in adolescents with severe obesity who did/did not undergo bariatric surgery from presurgery/baseline to 4 years postsurgery.

SETTING

Five academic medical centers.

METHODS

Using a prospective observational design, surgical adolescents (n = 153; 79% female, 65% white, mean [M]_age = 17 yr, M_{body mass index[BMI]} = 52 kg/m²) and nonsurgical comparators (n = 70; 80% female, 54% white, M_age = 16 yr, M_BMI = 47 kg/m²) completed psychometrically sound assessments at presurgery/baseline and postsurgery years 2 and 4 (year 4: n = 117 surgical [M_BMI = 38 kg/m²], n = 56 nonsurgical [M_BMI = 48 kg/m²]).

RESULTS

For the surgical group, rates of STBs were low (year 2 [1.3%-4.6%]; year 4 [2.6%-7.9%], similar to national base rates. Groups did not differ on a year 4 postsurgical STBs (post-STBs) composite (post-STBs: ideation/plan/attempt; n = 18 surgical [16%], n = 10 nonsurgical [18%]; odds ratio = .95, P = .90). For the surgical group, predictors/correlates identified within the broader suicide literature (e.g., psychopathology [P < .01], victimization [P < .05], dysregulation [P < .001], drug use [P < .05], and knowing an attemptor/completer [P < .001]) were significantly associated with post-STBs. Surgery-specific factors (e.g., percent weight loss, weight satisfaction) were nonsignificant. Of those reporting a lifetime attempt history at year 4, only a minority (4/13 surgical, 3/9 nonsurgical) reported a first attempt during the study period. Of 3 decedents (2 surgical, 1 nonsurgical), none were confirmed suicides.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that undergoing bariatric surgery in adolescence does not heighten (or lower) risk of STB engagement across the initial 4 years after surgery. Suicide risks present before surgery persisted, and also newly emerged in a subgroup with poorer psychosocial health.

Musculoskeletal Pain, Physical Function, and Quality of Life After Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the longitudinal effects of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) on the prevalence of musculoskeletal and lower extremity (LE) pain, physical function, and health-related quality of life.

METHODS

The Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery study (NCT00474318) prospectively collected data on 242 adolescents undergoing MBS at 5 centers over a 3-year follow-up. Joint pain and physical function outcomes were assessed by using the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, Impact of Weight on Quality of Life - Kids, and the Short Form 36 Health Survey. Adolescents with Blount disease (n = 9) were excluded.

RESULTS

Prevalent musculoskeletal and LE pain were reduced by 40% within 12 months and persisted over 3 years. Adjusted models revealed a 6% lower odds of having musculoskeletal pain (odds ratio = 0.94, 95% confidence interval: 0.92-0.99) and a 10% lower odds of having LE pain (odds ratio = 0.90, 95% confidence interval: 0.86-0.95) per 10% reduction of BMI. The prevalence of poor physical function (Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index score >0) declined from 49% to <20% at 6 months (P < .05), Physical comfort and the physical component scores, measured by the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life - Kids and the Short Form 36 Health Survey, improved at 6 months postsurgery and beyond (P < .01). Poor physical function predicted persistent joint pain after MBS.

CONCLUSIONS

Joint pain, impaired physical function, and impaired health-related quality of life significantly improve after MBS. These benefits in patient-reported outcomes support the use of MBS in adolescents with severe obesity and musculoskeletal pain and suggest that MBS in adolescence may reverse and reduce multiple risk factors for future joint disease.

Body contouring in adolescents after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery leads to sustained weight loss and resolution of obesity-associated co-morbidities in severely obese adolescents. However, one consequence of massive weight loss is excess skin and soft tissue. Many details regarding the timing, outcomes, and barriers associated with body contouring surgery (BCS) in youth who have undergone bariatric surgery are unknown.

OBJECTIVES

Describe the incidence and effect of BCS following bariatric surgery among adolescents.

SETTING

University Hospitals.

METHODS

Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery is a prospective multi-institutional study of 242 adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery from 2007 to 2012. Utilization of BCS was analyzed in this population with comparison of anthropometrics and excess skin-related symptoms between those who did and those who did not undergo BCS.

RESULTS

Among the 198 study participants with BCS data available, 25 (12.6%) underwent 41 body contouring procedures after bariatric surgery. The most common BCS was panniculectomy (n = 23). Presence of pannus-related symptoms at baseline and the magnitude of weight loss within the first year after bariatric surgery were independently associated with subsequent panniculectomy (P = .04 and P = .03, respectively). All adolescents who underwent panniculectomy experienced resolution of pannus-related symptoms. At 5 years after bariatric surgery, 74% of those who did not undergo panniculectomy reported an interest in the procedure, and 58% indicated that cost/insurance coverage was the barrier to obtaining BCS.

CONCLUSION

Few adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery later underwent BCS procedures. Panniculectomy effectively treated pannus-related symptoms. Disparities in access to surgical care for adolescents who desire BCS warrants further investigation.

Implications of transfer status on bowel loss in children undergoing emergency surgery for malrotation

OBJECTIVE

Malrotation with midgut volvulus is a time-sensitive pediatric surgical disease that requires emergent operative exploration to avoid bowel loss; however, it also requires specialized pediatric care. The purpose of this study was to identify disparities in bowel resection in children who underwent emergency surgery for malrotation; particularly the role of transfer status.

METHODS

The Pediatric Health Information System was used to identify a multicenter cohort of patients who underwent emergency surgical intervention for malrotation. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to determine factors associated with the primary outcome of bowel resection; secondary outcomes included surgical complications, prolonged length of stay, TPN dependence, and death.

RESULTS

Of 3373 patients with malrotation included, 44.8% were transferred in. Younger age, prematurity and other comorbidity, nonwhite race, and public insurance were associated with transfer. Transferred patients were more likely to undergo bowel resection on univariate (30.7 vs 16.4%, p < .001) and multivariable analysis (RR =1.38, p < .010). After adjusting for bowel resection, only patient factors including age and comorbidity were associated with surgical complications, TPN dependence, and death.

CONCLUSION

Patients who require hospital-to-hospital transfer for emergent surgical management of malrotation are more likely to require bowel resection which is in turn associated with greater morbidity. Further work is needed to optimize access to prompt surgical care for this condition especially given race and insurance disparities in transfer status.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, prognostic study.

Change, predictors and correlates of weight- and health-related quality of life in adolescents 2-years following bariatric surgery

Background/Objectives:

Weight-related quality of life (WRQOL) and generic health-related quality of life (HRQOL) have been identified as important patient reported outcomes for obesity treatment and outcome research. This study evaluated patterns of WRQOL and HRQOL outcomes for adolescents at 24-months post-bariatric surgery relative to a non-surgical comparator sample of youth with severe obesity, and examined potential weight-based (e.g., BMI, weight dissatisfaction) and psychosocial predictors and correlates of these outcomes.

Subjects/Methods:

Multi-site data from 139 adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery (M_age=16.9; 79.9% female, 66.2% White; M_{Body Mass Index [BMI]=} 51.5kg/m²) and 83 comparators (M_age=16.1; 81.9 % female, 54.2% White; M_BMI= 46.9kg/m²) were collected at pre-surgery/baseline, 6-, 12-, and 24-months post-surgery/baseline with high participation rates across time points (>85%). Self-reports with standardized measures of WRQOL/HRQOL as well as predictors/covariates (e.g., weight dissatisfaction, social support, peer victimization, family dysfunction, loss of control eating, self-worth, and internalizing symptoms) were obtained. Growth curve models using structural equation modeling examined WRQOL/HRQOL over time and linear regressions examined predictors and correlates of WRQOL/HRQOL outcomes.

Results:

Significant improvement in WRQOL and Physical HRQOL, particularly in the first post-operative year with a leveling off subsequently, was found for the surgical group relative to comparators, but with no significant Mental HRQOL change. At 24 months, the surgical group had signficantly greater WRQOL/HRQOL across most subscales. Within the surgical group at 24 months, weight-based variables were signficantly associated with WRQOL and Physical HRQOL, but not Mental HRQOL. Mental HRQOL was associated with greater internalizing symptoms and loss of control eating.

Conclusions:

For adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery, most clinically meaningful changes in WRQOL and Physical HRQOL occurred early post-operatively, with weight-based variables as the primary drivers of 24-month levels. In contrast, expectations for Mental HRQOL improvement following surgery should be tempered, with 24-month levels significantly associated with psychosocial rather than weight-based correlates.

Physical Activity Improves Lipid and Weight-Loss Outcomes After Metabolic Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents with Severe Obesity

OBJECTIVE

This study tested the hypothesis that physical activity improves cardiovascular disease-related lipids beyond that associated with weight loss in adolescents with severe obesity after metabolic/bariatric surgery (MBS).

METHODS

Objective activity monitor data from 108 participants of the Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS) study from baseline to 3 years post MBS were used. Primary outcomes included absolute change in LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and non-HDL cholesterol (non-HDL-C) from baseline. Baseline measurement, visit, surgical procedure, and percent change in iliac waist circumference or BMI from baseline in linear regression models were adjusted for use of generalized estimating equations. PROC TRAJ in SAS generated optimal activity trajectories based on individual step count.

RESULTS

Despite low step counts and slow cadence, differences by activity trajectory were found. Greater absolute decreases in LDL-C and non-HDL-C (-15 mg/dL [95% CI: -28 to -2], P  = 0.026; and -15 mg/dL [95% CI: -28 to -1], P  = 0.035), respectively, were associated with more activity. More activity was associated with greater resolution of triglycerides, LDL-C, and non-HDL-C dyslipidemia and with greater weight loss 3 years post MBS.

CONCLUSIONS

More activity in adolescents was associated with improvements in cardiovascular disease-related lipid measures and weight loss after MBS.

Change in gastrointestinal symptoms over the first 5 years after bariatric surgery in a multicenter cohort of adolescents

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) are effective for weight loss in adolescents with severe obesity. However, little is known about adverse gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) following these operations in adolescents. The objective was to examine GIS over 5 years after surgery and differences by surgery type.

METHODS

We prospectively studied 228 adolescents (161 RYGB, 67 VSG) undergoing bariatric surgery. Gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed before surgery, at 6-months, and yearly to 5 years after surgery. Symptom severity was dichotomized for analysis. Analysis of post-surgery symptoms involved linear models adjusting for baseline symptoms, BMI, early post-operative complication, sex, and race.

RESULTS

Participants at surgery were 17 ± 1.6 years with preoperative BMI 53 ± 9.4 kg/m². From 6 months to 5 years, gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERS), nausea, bloating, and diarrhea increased. Crude prevalence rates of GERS increased from 4% (1% RYGB, 11% VSG) at 6-months post-surgery to 14% (10% RYGB, 26% VSG) at 5-years. In adjusted analyses, the VSG group experienced 4-fold (4.85 95% CI 2.63, 8.91, p < 0.0001) greater odds of GERS compared to RYGB.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents who underwent VSG experienced greater risk of GERS compared to those undergoing RYGB. Adolescents undergoing VSG should be counseled preoperatively about GERS and objectively monitored postoperatively for gastroesophageal reflux when indicated.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT00474318, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00474318?term=Teen-LABS&rank=1.

TYPE OF STUDY

Treatment Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II.

Five-Year Outcomes of Gastric Bypass in Adolescents as Compared with Adults

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery results in weight loss and health improvements in adults and adolescents. However, whether outcomes differ according to the age of the patient at the time of surgery is unclear.

METHODS

We evaluated the health effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in a cohort of adolescents (161 patients enrolled from 2006 through 2012) and a cohort of adults (396 patients enrolled from 2006 through 2009). The two cohorts were participants in two related but independent studies. Linear mixed and Poisson mixed models were used to compare outcomes with regard to weight and coexisting conditions between the cohorts 5 years after surgery. The rates of death and subsequent abdominal operations and selected micronutrient levels (up to 2 years after surgery) were also compared between the cohorts.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in percent weight change between adolescents (-26%; 95% confidence interval [CI], -29 to -23) and adults (-29%; 95% CI, -31 to -27) 5 years after surgery (P = 0.08). After surgery, adolescents were significantly more likely than adults to have remission of type 2 diabetes (86% vs. 53%; risk ratio, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.03 to 1.57) and of hypertension (68% vs. 41%; risk ratio, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.21 to 1.88). Three adolescents (1.9%) and seven adults (1.8%) died in the 5 years after surgery. The rate of abdominal reoperations was significantly higher among adolescents than among adults (19 vs. 10 reoperations per 500 person-years, P = 0.003). More adolescents than adults had low ferritin levels (72 of 132 patients [48%] vs. 54 of 179 patients [29%], P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents and adults who underwent gastric bypass had marked weight loss that was similar in magnitude 5 years after surgery. Adolescents had remission of diabetes and hypertension more often than adults. (Funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00474318.).

Surgical resection of infantile hemangiomas following medical treatment with propranolol versus corticosteroids

PURPOSE

There has been a paradigm shift from corticosteroid to propranolol treatment for infantile hemangiomas (IHs), with surgical resection reserved for complicated or persistent IHs. The purpose of this study was to determine if propranolol treatment was associated with decreased utilization of surgical resection compared to corticosteroids.

METHODS

A single center retrospective chart review of all corticosteroid or propranolol treated IHs between 2005 and 2014 was performed. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed with the primary outcome of requiring surgical intervention.

RESULTS

Of 652 patients with IH, 52 were treated with oral corticosteroids and 195 with propranolol only. Surgical intervention was required in 14 (27%) of steroid patients vs 18 (9%) of propranolol patients (p < .001). On multivariable analysis patients treated with steroids had 3.3 the odds of requiring surgery when compared to propranolol patients (p = .001). Prematurity (<37 weeks) was also associated with increased odds of surgery (OR = 2.8, p = .003).

CONCLUSION

Patients treated with propranolol required significantly fewer surgical interventions than those treated with corticosteroids suggesting a more efficacious treatment paradigm. Prematurity increases the need for surgical intervention regardless of the modality of medical treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, treatment study.

Heterogeneity in Response to Treatment of Adolescents with Severe Obesity: The Need for Precision Obesity Medicine

OBJECTIVE

Treating pediatric severe obesity is challenging because of the complex biological, behavioral, and environmental factors that underpin the disease. The multifactorial etiology of obesity combined with the physiologic complexity of the energy regulatory system contributes to treatment variability. The goal of this secondary analysis of pooled data was to describe the degree of individual variation in response to various interventions among adolescents with severe obesity.

METHODS

Data from three centers across the United States conducting either lifestyle (n = 53), pharmacotherapy (n = 40), or metabolic and bariatric surgery (n = 78) interventions were pooled. Inclusion criteria were severe obesity at baseline and at least one follow-up visit > 30 days after treatment start.

RESULTS

Change in BMI following intervention ranged from -50.2% to +12.9%, with each intervention (lifestyle [range: -25.4% to 5.0%], pharmacotherapy [range: -10.8% to 12.9%], and metabolic and bariatric surgery [range: -50.2% to -13.3%]) exhibiting wide individual variation in response. Changes in cardiometabolic risk factors demonstrated similarly high variability.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents with severe obesity demonstrated a high degree of heterogeneity in terms of BMI reduction and cardiometabolic risk factor response across treatment modalities. Reporting individual response data in trials and identifying factors driving variability in response will be vital for advancing precision medicine approaches to address obesity.

A Multisite 2-Year Follow Up of Psychopathology Prevalence, Predictors, and Correlates Among Adolescents Who Did or Did Not Undergo Weight Loss Surgery

PURPOSE

We aimed to characterize prevalence, change, predictors, and correlates of psychopathology and associations with weight loss in adolescents with severe obesity 24 months after weight loss surgery (WLS) utilizing a controlled multisite sample design.

METHODS

Adolescents undergoing WLS (n = 139) and nonsurgical comparisons with severe obesity (NSComp; n = 83) completed validated questionnaires assessing psychopathology and potential predictors and correlates at presurgery/baseline and 24 months postoperatively/follow-up.

RESULTS

At 24 months, 34.7% of WLS and 37.7% of nonsurgical comparisons were categorized as "symptomatic" (Youth Self-Report ≥ borderline on at least one DSM scale). The majority maintained their symptomatic or nonsymptomatic status from baseline to 24 months postbaseline. Remission of symptoms was more common than the development of new symptomatology at 24 months. Beyond demographics, separate models of baseline predictors and concurrent correlates of 24-month psychopathology identified baseline psychopathology and loss of control (LOC) eating as significant. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and LOC eating emerged as correlates in the concurrent model. For the WLS group, preoperative, postoperative, and change in symptomatology were not related to 24-month percent weight loss.

CONCLUSIONS

At 2 years, approximately one in three adolescents were symptomatic with psychopathology. Maintenance of symptomatic/nonsymptomatic status over time or remission was more common than new incidence. Although symptomatology was not predictive of surgical weight loss outcomes at 2 years, preoperative psychopathology and several other predictors (LOC eating) and correlates (LOC eating, AUD) emerged as signals for persistent mental health risks, underscoring the importance of pre- and postoperative psychosocial monitoring and the availability of adjunctive intervention resources.

Structural cortical network reorganization associated with early conversion to multiple sclerosis

Brain structural covariance networks (SCNs) based on pairwise statistical associations of cortical thickness data across brain areas reflect underlying physical and functional connections between them. SCNs capture the complexity of human brain cortex structure and are disrupted in neurodegenerative conditions. However, the longitudinal assessment of SCN dynamics has not yet been explored, despite its potential to unveil mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration. Here, we evaluated the changes of SCNs over 12 months in patients with a first inflammatory-demyelinating attack of the Central Nervous System and assessed their clinical relevance by comparing SCN dynamics of patients with and without conversion to multiple sclerosis (MS) over one year. All subjects underwent clinical and brain MRI assessments over one year. Brain cortical thicknesses for each subject and time point were used to obtain group-level between-area correlation matrices from which nodal connectivity metrics were obtained. Robust bootstrap-based statistical approaches (allowing sampling with replacement) assessed the significance of longitudinal changes. Patients who converted to MS exhibited significantly greater network connectivity at baseline than non-converters (p = 0.02) and a subsequent connectivity loss over time (p = 0.001-0.02), not observed in non-converters' network. These findings suggest SCN analysis is sensitive to brain tissue changes in early MS, reflecting clinically relevant aspects of the condition. However, this is preliminary work, indicated by the low sample sizes, and its results and conclusions should be treated with caution and confirmed with larger cohorts.

Comparison of Surgical and Medical Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes in Severely Obese Adolescents

IMPORTANCE

Because of the substantial increase in the occurrence of type 2 diabetes in the pediatric population and the medical complications of this condition, therapies are urgently needed that will achieve better glycemic control than standard medical management.

OBJECTIVE

To compare glycemic control in cohorts of severely obese adolescents with type 2 diabetes undergoing medical and surgical interventions.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A secondary analysis of data collected by the Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS) and Treatment Options of Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY) consortia was performed. Teen-LABS enrolled 242 adolescents (≤19 years of age) from March 1, 2007, through December 31, 2011. TODAY randomized 699 participants (aged 10-17 years) from July 24, 2004, through February 25, 2009. Data analysis was performed from July 6, 2015, to June 24, 2017. Anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data from adolescents with severe obesity and type 2 diabetes who underwent treatment with metabolic or bariatric surgery in the Teen-LABS study or medical therapy in the TODAY study were compared.

INTERVENTIONS

Teen-LABS participants underwent a primary bariatric surgical procedure; TODAY participants were randomized to receive metformin therapy alone or in combination with rosiglitazone or an intensive lifestyle intervention; insulin therapy was given in cases of progression of disease.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Glycemic control, body mass index, prevalence of elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, abnormal kidney function, and clinical adverse events were measured.

RESULTS

Data from 30 participants from Teen-LABS (mean [SD] age at baseline, 16.9 [1.3] years; 21 [70%] female; 18 [66%] white) and 63 from TODAY (mean [SD] age at baseline, 15.3 [1.3] years; 28 [44%] female; 45 [71%] white) were analyzed. During 2 years, mean hemoglobin A1c concentration decreased from 6.8% (95% CI, 6.4%-7.3%) to 5.5% (95% CI, 4.7% -6.3%) in Teen-LABS and increased from 6.4% (95% CI, 6.1%-6.7%) to 7.8% (95% CI, 7.2%-8.3%) in TODAY. Compared with baseline, the body mass index decreased by 29% (95% CI, 24%-34%) in Teen-LABS and increased by 3.7% (95% CI, 0.8%-6.7%) in TODAY. Twenty-three percent of Teen-LABS participants required a subsequent operation during the 2-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Compared with medical therapy, surgical treatment of severely obese adolescents with type 2 diabetes was associated with better glycemic control, reduced weight, and improvement of other comorbidities. These data support the need for a well-designed, prospective controlled study to define the role of surgery for adolescents with type 2 diabetes, including health and surgical outcomes.

Changes in Dietary Intake and Eating Behavior in Adolescents After Bariatric Surgery: an Ancillary Study to the Teen-LABS Consortium

BACKGROUND

A growing number of studies suggest that bariatric surgery is safe and effective for adolescents with severe obesity. However, surprisingly little is known about changes in dietary intake and eating behavior of adolescents who undergo bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVE

Investigate changes in dietary intake and eating behavior of adolescents with obesity who underwent bariatric surgery (n = 119) or lifestyle modification (LM) (n = 169).

SETTING

University-based health systems METHODS: A prospective investigation of 288 participants (219 female and 69 male) prior to bariatric surgery or LM and again 6, 12, and 24 months (surgery patients only) after treatment. Measures included changes in weight, macronutrient intake, eating behavior, and relevant demographic and physiological variables.

RESULTS

Adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery experienced significantly greater weight loss than those who received LM. The two groups differed in self-reported intake of a number of macronutrients at 6 and 12 months from baseline, but not total caloric intake. Patients treated with surgery, compared to those treated with LM, also reported significantly greater reductions in a number of disordered eating symptoms. After bariatric surgery, greater weight loss from postoperative month 6 to 12 was associated with self-reported weight consciousness, craving for sweets, and consumption of zinc.

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery, compared to those who received LM, reported significantly greater reductions in weight after 1 year. They also reported greater reductions in disordered eating symptoms. These findings provide new information on changes in dietary intake and eating behavior among adolescents who undergo bariatric surgery.

Recurrent rhabdomyolysis caused by carnitine palmitoyltransferase II deficiency, common but under-recognised: Lessons to be learnt

We discuss two adult siblings who presented with symptoms of myalgia and rhabdomyolysis following exercise with myoglobinuria; genetic testing confirmed carnitine palmitoyltransferase II deficiency and resulted in institution of appropriate crisis management and dietary advice. We explore the phenotypic variability of this commonest fatty oxidation defect that remains under-diagnosed in the adult population and provide clues for early recognition and diagnosis.

•

CPT II deficiency should be considered as an important differential diagnosis in individuals presenting with recurrent or even single attacks of muscle weakness.

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If the clinical history includes ‘unexplained’ rhabdomyolysis, clinicians should have a low threshold to perform plasma acylcarnitine analysis as a first line investigation, especially in the context of elevated CK.

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Confirmatory diagnosis is by identification of disease-causing variants in CPT2 through targeted testing.

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It is important that these individuals have specialist dietary advice and annual monitoring.

Cardiovascular Risk Factors After Adolescent Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Severely obese adolescents harbor numerous cardiovascular disease risk factors (CVD-RFs), which improve after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). However, predictors of change in CVD-RFs among adolescents have not yet been reported.

METHODS

The Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery study (NCT00474318) prospectively collected anthropometric and health status data on 242 adolescents undergoing MBS at 5 centers. Predictors of change in CVD-RFs (blood pressure, lipids, glucose homeostasis, and inflammation) 3 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy were examined.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) age of participants at baseline was 17 ± 1.6 years; 76% were girls, and 72% were white, with a median BMI of 51. Participants underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 161), vertical sleeve gastrectomy (n = 67), or adjustable gastric banding (n = 14). Increasing weight loss was an independent predictor of normalization in dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure (EBP), hyperinsulinemia, diabetes, and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Older participants at time of surgery were less likely to resolve dyslipidemia compared with younger participants, whereas girls were more likely than boys to demonstrate improvements in EBP. Even those participants without frank dyslipidemia or EBP at baseline showed significant improvements in lipid and blood pressure values over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Numerous CVD-RFs improve among adolescents undergoing MBS. Increased weight loss, female sex, and younger age predict a higher probability of resolution of specific CVD-RFs. The elucidation of predictors of change in CVD-RFs may lead to refinements in patient selection and optimal timing of adolescent bariatric surgery designed to improve clinical outcomes.

Prospective evaluation of urinary incontinence in severely obese adolescents presenting for weight loss surgery

BACKGROUND

Obesity has been associated with daytime urinary incontinence (UI), likely due to increased intra-abdominal pressure.

OBJECTIVES

To assess incontinence symptoms in severely obese adolescents before and 3 years after bariatric surgery.

SETTING

Tertiary care pediatric hospitals in the United States.

METHODS

The Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery is a prospective, multicenter study designed to evaluate efficacy and safety of bariatric surgery in adolescents. Patients<19 years of age undergoing bariatric surgery at 5 centers between 2007 and 2012 were enrolled. Trained study staff collected baseline and postoperative anthropometric and clinical data. Presence and severity of UI were determined by standardized interview.

RESULTS

A total of 242 patients (76% female) were evaluated at baseline. The mean age was 17.1 years at baseline, and 72% were of white race. The preoperative median body mass index was 50.5 kg/m2. At baseline, 18% of females and 7% of males reported UI. Prediction analysis at baseline indicated that females, white race, and increasing body mass index had greater odds for UI. UI prevalence in females and males decreased to 7% and 0%, respectively, at 6 months after surgery (P<.01) and remained stable out to 36 months postoperatively. Furthermore, older patients were less likely to achieve 3-year UI remission or improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

In adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery, UI was more common in females than in males. Incontinence status significantly improved by 6 months and was durable to 3 years after surgery, suggesting that bariatric surgery favorably affects anatomic or physiologic mechanisms of bladder control in both males and females.

Adolescent Loss-of-Control Eating and Weight Loss Maintenance After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Loss-of-control (LOC) eating is common in adults undergoing bariatric surgery and is associated with poorer weight outcomes. Its long-term course in adolescent bariatric surgery patients and associations with weight outcomes are unclear.

METHODS

Adolescents (n = 234; age range = 13-19 years) undergoing bariatric surgery across 5 US sites were assessed for postsurgery follow-up at 6 months and 1, 2, 3, and 4 years. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear mixed models were used to describe the prevalence of LOC eating episodes involving objectively large amounts of food and continuous eating, respectively. Generalized linear mixed models investigated the association of any LOC eating with short- and long-term BMI changes.

RESULTS

At baseline, objectively large LOC eating was reported by 15.4% of adolescents, and continuous LOC eating by 27.8% of adolescents. Both forms of LOC eating were significantly lower at all postsurgical time points relative to presurgery (range = 0.5%-14.5%; Ps < .05). However, both behaviors gradually increased from 6-month to 4-year follow-up (Ps < .05). Presurgical LOC eating was not related to percent BMI change over follow-up (P = .79). However, LOC eating at 1-, 2-, and 3-year follow-up was associated with lower percent BMI change from baseline at the next consecutive assessment (Ps < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Although presurgical LOC eating was not related to relative weight loss after surgery, postoperative LOC eating may adversely affect long-term weight outcomes. Rates of LOC eating decreased from presurgery to 6-months postsurgery but increased thereafter. Therefore, this behavior may warrant additional empirical and clinical attention.

Peer Victimization in Adolescents With Severe Obesity: The Roles of Self-Worth and Social Support in Associations With Psychosocial Adjustment

Objective

To examine the associations of peer victimization with internalizing symptoms, externalizing symptoms, social competence, and academic performance in a clinical sample of adolescents with severe obesity, and whether self-worth and social support affect these associations.

Methods

Multisite cross-sectional data from 139 adolescents before weight loss surgery ( M age = 16.9; 79.9% female, 66.2% White; M Body Mass Index [BMI] = 51.5 kg/m 2 ) and 83 nonsurgical comparisons ( M age = 16.1; 81.9% female, 54.2% White; M BMI = 46.9 kg/m 2 ) were collected using self-reports with standardized measures.

Results

As a group, participants did not report high levels of victimization. Self-worth mediated the effects of victimization on a majority of measures of adjustment, and further analyses provided evidence of the buffering effect of social support for some mediational models.

Conclusions

Self-worth and social support are important targets for prevention and intervention for both victimization and poor adjustment in adolescent severe obesity.

Factors associated with long-term weight-loss maintenance following bariatric surgery in adolescents with severe obesity

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Bariatric surgery produces robust weight loss, however, factors associated with long-term weight-loss maintenance among adolescents undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery are unknown.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Fifty adolescents (mean±s.d. age and body mass index (BMI)=17.1±1.7 years and 59±11 kg m^-2) underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, had follow-up visits at 1 year and at a visit between 5 and 12 years following surgery (Follow-up of Adolescent Bariatric Surgery at 5 Plus years (FABS-5+) visit; mean±s.d. 8.1±1.6 years). A non-surgical comparison group (n=30; mean±s.d. age and BMI=15.3±1.7 years and BMI=52±8 kg m^-2) was recruited to compare weight trajectories over time. Questionnaires (health-related and eating behaviors, health responsibility, impact of weight on quality of life (QOL), international physical activity questionnaire and dietary habits via surgery guidelines) were administered at the FABS-5+ visit. Post hoc, participants were split into two groups: long-term weight-loss maintainers (n=23; baseline BMI=58.2 kg m^-2; 1-year BMI=35.8 kg m^-2; FABS-5+ BMI=34.9 kg m^-2) and re-gainers (n=27; baseline BMI=59.8 kg m^-2; 1-year BMI=36.8 kg m^-2; FABS-5+ BMI=48.0 kg m^-2) to compare factors which might contribute to differences. Data were analyzed using generalized estimating equations adjusted for age, sex, baseline BMI, baseline diabetes status and length of follow-up.

RESULTS

The BMI of the surgical group declined from baseline to 1 year (-38.5±6.9%), which, despite some regain, was largely maintained until FABS-5+ (-29.6±13.9% change). The BMI of the comparison group increased from baseline to the FABS-5+ visit (+10.3±20.6%). When the surgical group was split into maintainers and re-gainers, no differences in weight-related and eating behaviors, health responsibility, physical activity/inactivity, or dietary habits were observed between groups. However, at FABS-5+, maintainers had greater overall QOL scores than re-gainers (87.5±10.5 vs 65.4±20.2, P<0.001) and in each QOL sub-domain (P<0.01 all).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term weight outcomes for those who underwent weight-loss surgery were superior to those who did not undergo surgical treatment. While no behavioral factors were identified as predictors of success in long-term weight-loss maintenance, greater QOL was strongly associated with maintenance of weight loss among adolescents who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery surgery.

From adolescence to young adulthood: trajectories of psychosocial health following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in adolescence results in substantial bodyweight reduction and cardiometabolic benefits into young adulthood. Knowledge gaps remain in understanding psychosocial health.

OBJECTIVE

Describe trajectories of weight and psychosocial health in adolescents who underwent RYGB into young adulthood.

SETTING

Academic Pediatric Medical Center.

METHODS

Fourteen adolescents (presurgery: mean body mass index = 59.2±8.9; mean age = 16.0±1.3 yr; 64.3% female) participated in 2 sequential observational studies. Height and weight were measured, and participants completed measures of weight-related quality of life (WRQOL), mental health, and adaptive functioning at presurgery and 6, 12, 18, 24, and 72+months postsurgery. Substance use behaviors were assessed at 72+months.

RESULTS

Modeling demonstrated rapid improvement in body mass index and WROQL across postoperative year 1, followed by stabilization and modest weight regain/WRQOL decline (P<.001), with 50% remaining severely obese. Presurgery, 11 adolescents presented with symptoms outside of the normal range for≥1 mental health domain. Postoperative profiles indicated either remittance (n = 5) or persistent symptomatology (n = 6: anxious/depressed, withdrawn/depressed, and/or thought problems) in young adulthood. No new incidence of mental health vulnerability occurred in young adults not already identified preoperatively. Adaptive functioning and substance use were within normal range.

CONCLUSIONS

Although adolescent RYGB resulted in improvement in weight and WRQOL into young adulthood, mental health trajectories were more variable, with some experiencing positive change while others experienced persistent mental health vulnerability. Research focused on larger contemporary samples using a controlled design is critical to inform targets for prevention and intervention to optimize both physical and psychosocial health outcomes in this younger patient population.

Long-term outcomes of bariatric surgery in adolescents with severe obesity (FABS-5+): a prospective follow-up analysis

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the long-term outcomes of bariatric surgery for severe adolescent obesity, raising questions about the durability of early responses to surgery. We aimed to analyse long-term (>5 years) outcomes of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in a cohort of young adults who had undergone the operation during adolescence, in the Follow-up of Adolescent Bariatric Surgery at 5 Plus Years (FABS-5+) extension study.

METHODS

A cohort of young people aged 13-21 years underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for clinically severe obesity at a paediatric academic medical centre in the USA. We did a prospective follow-up analysis of these patients' outcomes 5-12 years after surgery. Outcomes assessed included BMI, comorbidities, micronutrient status, safety, and other risks. The FABS study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00776776.

FINDINGS

Between May, 2001, and February, 2007, 74 young people underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in the FABS study. Of these, 58 individuals were eligible for the FABS-5+ study, could be located, and agreed to follow-up assessment. At baseline, the mean age of the cohort was 17·1 years (SD 1·7) and mean BMI was 58·5 kg/m² (10·5). At mean follow-up of 8·0 years (SD 1·6; range 5·4-12·5), the mean age of the cohort was 25·1 years (2·4) and mean BMI was 41·7 kg/m² (12·0; mean change in BMI -29·2% [13·7]). From baseline to long-term follow-up, significant declines were recorded in the prevalence of elevated blood pressure (27/57 [47%] vs 9/55 [16%]; p=0·001), dyslipidaemia (48/56 [86%] vs 21/55 [38%]; p<0·0001), and type 2 diabetes (9/56 [16%] vs 1/55 [2%]; p=0·03). At follow-up, 25 (46%) of 58 patients had mild anaemia (ie, not requiring intervention), 22 (45%) had hyperparathyroidism, and eight (16%) had low amounts of vitamin B12 (ie, below the normal cutpoint).

INTERPRETATION

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery resulted in substantial and durable bodyweight reduction and cardiometabolic benefits for young adults. Long-term health maintenance after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass should focus on adherence to dietary supplements and screening and management of micronutrient deficiencies.

FUNDING

Ethicon Endosurgery, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (US National Institutes of Health).

Loss of control eating and eating disorders in adolescents before bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed loss of control (LOC) eating and eating disorders (EDs) in adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery for severe obesity.

METHOD

Preoperative baseline data from the Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS) multisite observational study (n = 242; median BMI = 51 kg/m² ; mean age= 17; 76% female adolescents; 72% Caucasian) included anthropometric and self-report questionnaires, including the Questionnaire of Eating and Weight Patterns-Revised (QEWP-R), the Night Eating Questionnaire (NEQ), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II), and the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Kids (IWQOL-Kids) RESULTS: LOC eating (27%) was common and ED diagnoses included binge-eating disorder (7%), night eating syndrome (5%), and bulimia nervosa (1%). Compared to those without LOC eating, those with LOC eating reported greater depressive symptomatology and greater impairment in weight-related quality of life.

DISCUSSION

Before undergoing bariatric surgery, adolescents with severe obesity present with problematic disordered eating behaviors and meet diagnostic criteria for EDs. LOC eating, in particular, was associated with several negative psychosocial factors. Findings highlight targets for assessment and intervention in adolescents before bariatric surgery. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.(Int J Eat Disord 2016; 49:947-952).

Changes in Functional Mobility and Musculoskeletal Pain After Bariatric Surgery in Teens With Severe Obesity: Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (LABS) Study

IMPORTANCE

Severe obesity is associated with mobility limitations and higher incidence of multijoint musculoskeletal pain. It is unknown whether substantial weight loss improves these important outcomes in adolescents with severe obesity.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association of bariatric surgery with functional mobility and musculoskeletal pain in adolescents with severe obesity up to 2 years after surgery.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

The Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery Study is a prospective, multicenter, observational study, which enrolled 242 adolescents (≤19 years of age) who were undergoing bariatric surgery from March 2007 through February 2012 at 5 US adolescent bariatric surgery centers. This analysis was conducted in November 2015.

INTERVENTIONS

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 161), sleeve gastrectomy (n = 67), or laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (n = 14).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Participants completed a 400-m walk test prior to bariatric surgery (n = 206) and at 6 months (n = 195), 12 months (n = 176), and 24 months (n = 149) after surgery. Time to completion, resting heart rate (HR), immediate posttest HR, and HR difference (resting HR minus posttest HR) were measured and musculoskeletal pain concerns, during and after the test, were documented. Data were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, baseline body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), and surgical center (posttest HR and HR difference were further adjusted for changes in time to completion).

RESULTS

Of the 206 adolescents with severe obesity included in the study, 156 were female (75.7%), the mean (SD) age was 17.1 (1.6) years, and the mean (SD) body mass index was 51.7 (8.5). Compared with baseline, significant improvements were observed at 6 months for the walk test time to completion (mean, 376 seconds; 95% CI, 365-388 to 347 seconds; 95% CI, 340-358; P < .01), resting HR (mean, 84 beats per minute [bpm]; 95% CI, 82-86 to 74 bpm; 95% CI, 72-76), posttest HR (mean, 128 bpm; 95% CI, 125-131 to 113 bpm; 95% CI, 110-116), and HR difference (mean, 40 bpm; 95% CI, 36-42 to 34 bpm; 95% CI, 31-37). These changes in time to completion, resting HR, and HR difference persisted at 12 months and 24 months. Posttest HR further improved from 6 months to 12 months (mean, 113 bpm; 95% CI, 110-116 to 108 bpm; 95% CI, 105-111). There were statistically significant reductions in musculoskeletal pain concerns at all points.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These data provide evidence that bariatric surgery in adolescents with severe obesity is associated with significant improvement in functional mobility and in the reduction of walking-related musculoskeletal pain up to 2 years after surgery.