Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy without an over-sewing of the staple line

The Effect of Gluing Versus Suturing of the Stapler Line in Sleeve Gastrectomy on Weight Loss

BACKGROUND

Stapler line reinforcement during sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) was assessed thoroughly in the context of postoperative complications focusing on leakage and bleeding. However, the effect of stapler line reinforcement techniques on the short- and long-term weight loss is still unclear and lacking. We hypothesize that inverting of the stapler line by Lembert suturing could lead to further additional reduction of the remnant gastric volume and accordingly a more significant weight reduction.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients that underwent LSG (2012-2018) from the two university hospitals. The first hospital routinely performed oversewing with inversion of the stapler line (first group, Lembert suture), while the second university hospital performed LSG without stapler line oversewing and inversion, but routinely used VeraSeal glue (second group, non-Lembert); both groups were compared in terms of weight loss and complications.

RESULTS

Four hundred eighty and 550 patients underwent LSG in the first and second hospital, consequently. The mean BMI change and EBWL at 1, 3, and 5 years were better in the first group than in second group. The mean last follow-up BMI was significantly lower in Lembert group (29.8 ± 5.2kg/m2) than in non-Lembert group (32.9 ± 6.7 kg/m2), P = 0.001. The mean EBWL at last follow-up point was significantly better for the Lembert group as compared to non-Lembert group (73.7 ± 26.59 versus 57.12 ± 27.71, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Lembert suture line oversewing and inversion in LSG is associated with noticeable improvement in weight loss outcomes at 1, 3, and 5 years and last follow-up compared to LSG with VeraSeal gluing.

Correct Stapling Technique in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Are We Increasing the Bleeding? A Prospective Cohort Study

Introduction: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become the most common bariatric surgery procedure. Bleeding is the most common complication of this surgery and mostly occurs from the staple line. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether waiting between compression and firing during the stapling phase reduces the postoperative bleeding. Methods: A total of 325 patients who underwent LSG between April and July 2022 were analyzed prospectively. In terms of postoperative bleeding, the two groups, which we waited 30 seconds between staple firings and the no wait group, were compared. Results: The mean age of patients was 37.36 (±11.12) years and mean body mass index was 45.18 (±3.1) kg/m². Eleven patients needed transfusion. The rate of haemorrhagic complications was 3.38% (Group 1% 6.21 and Group 2% 1.11) (P = .012). The duration of surgery was ∼10 minutes longer in the study group, which we waited (P = .0001). Conclusions: During the stapling stage in LSG, waiting between compression and firing can help reduce postoperative bleeding.

Sleeve gastrectomy in the surgical management of obesity in Cameroon (a sub-Saharan country): A single-institute retrospective review of 30-day postoperative morbidity and mortality

BACKGROUND

METHODS

RESULTS

CONCLUSION

•

Sleeve gastrectomy is a safe procedure in a sub-Saharan African low setting.

•

Bleeding is the only intraoperative complication encountered in 14.3% of cases.

•

The prevalence of 30-day postoperative morbidity of sleeve gastrectomy is 38.1%.

•

Postoperative 30-day complications after sleeve gastrectomy are minor.

•

The 30-day postoperative mortality after sleeve gastrectomy is nil.

A Comprehensive Review of Endoscopic Management of Sleeve Gastrectomy Leaks

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery leaks result in significant morbidity and mortality. Experts report variable therapeutic approaches, without uniform guidelines or consensus.

OBJECTIVE

To review the pathogenesis, risk factors, prevention, and treatment of gastric sleeve leaks, with a focus on endoscopic approaches. In addition, the efficacy and success rates of different treatment modalities are assessed.

DESIGN

A comprehensive review was conducted using a thorough literature search of 5 online electronic databases (PubMed, PubMed Central, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Web of Science) from the time of their inception through March 2020. Studies evaluating gastric sleeve leaks were included. MeSH terms related to "endoscopic," "leak," "sleeve," "gastrectomy," "anastomotic," and "bariatric" were applied to a highly sensitive search strategy. The main outcomes were epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Literature search yielded 2418 studies of which 438 were incorporated into the review. Shock and peritonitis necessitate early surgical intervention for leaks. Endoscopic therapies in acute and early leaks involve modalities with a focus on one of: (i) defect closure, (ii) wall diversion, or (iii) wall exclusion. Surgical revision is required if endoscopic therapies fail to control leaks after 6 months. Chronic leaks require one or more endoscopic, radiologic, or surgical approaches for fluid collection drainage to facilitate adequate healing. Success rates depend on provider and center expertise.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic management of leaks post sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally invasive and effective alternative to surgery. Their effect may vary based on clinical presentation, timing or leak morphology, and should be tailored to the appropriate endoscopic modality of treatment.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: To Suture or not to Suture Staple Line?

Objective

To assess the outcome and safety of staple line over-sewing for patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

Study design and location

Retrospective descriptive analysis conducted at Shifa International Hospital Islamabad.

Materials and methods

Consecutive patients undergoing LSG as a treatment for morbid obesity from October 2013 to December 2016 were included in the study after approval from the ethical review board. Patients were divided into two groups: group A who underwent reinforcement using Vicryl 2.0 and group B where no reinforcement was done.

Results

A total of 225 patients underwent LSG between October 2013 and December 2016, including 147 females (65.4%) and 78 males (34.6%). Both groups were comparable in terms of age, body mass index (BMI) and gender distribution (p-value more than 0.05). There was one leak in group A (1.36%), none in group B. The bleeding rate was 4.3% in group A and 2.7% in group B.

Conclusion

This was a retrospective analysis of all the patients who underwent LSG, and it was observed that there was no added benefit of sewing the staple line in terms of rate of bleeding and leak.

Postoperative Bleeding and Leakage After Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Sleeve gastrectomy is being performed increasingly, mainly due to its low morbidity and mortality, but complications do occur. The aim of this study was to evaluate bleeding and leakage rates of primary and revisional sleeve gastrectomy in a personal series of 664 consecutive patients.

METHODS

Medical charts of all patients undergoing a primary or revisional sleeve gastrectomy between August 2008 and December 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Subgroup analysis compared bleeding in patients after reduced port versus multiport technique and primary versus revisional sleeve gastrectomy.

RESULTS

A total of 664 sleeve gastrectomies (489 women and 175 men) were performed. Mean age and body mass index were 36.03 ± 11.4 years and 42.9 ± 8.3 kg/m², respectively. Mean operative time was 58.5 ± 20.0 min, with a 0.15 % conversion rate. Mean hospital stay was 2.1 ± 0.3 days. The overall 30-day complication rate was 7.5 %. Thirteen patients sustained postoperative bleeding (2 %), three of whom required reoperation (0.5 %). Staple line leakage and mortality were both nil in this series. No difference in postoperative complications was found between the subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this single-surgeon, single-center experience, sleeve gastrectomy was a safe and effective bariatric procedure with a low complication rate. Staple line reinforcement by oversewing was associated with low bleeding complications and no leakage. The majority of patients with postoperative bleeding could be managed conservatively. In our experience, reduced port technique and revisional sleeve gastrectomy had similar complication rates compared to multiport and primary sleeve gastrectomy.

Staple Line Reinforcement Methods in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Comparison of Burst Pressures and Leaks

Background and Objectives:

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a technically simple and popular bariatric operation with acceptable results. However, leaks can occur in long staple lines, for which various reinforcement methods are used. We compared nonreinforced stapling in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with 3 staple line reinforcement methods: suturing, absorbable buttressing material, and fibrin glue.

Methods:

From March 1 until September 30, 2014, 118 patients with body mass index >40 kg/m² underwent sleeve gastrectomy and were enrolled in 4 groups, depending on the type of reinforcement used. The resected stomach specimens were treated with the same methods of reinforcement as used in the surgeries in the corresponding patients and then insufflated until a burst occurred. The burst pressures of the resected stomach specimens and adverse postoperative events were recorded.

Results:

Five postoperative leaks occurred in the reinforcement groups (fibrin glue, 2; absorbable buttresses, 2; sutures, 1); no leaks were evident in the no-reinforcement group. Suturing afforded the highest burst pressure and took the longest to perform of the methods. There was no correlation between the leaks and burst pressures. All of the leaks occurred in the proximal fundus in the resected stomach specimens and in the affected patients.

Discussion:

Although most surgeons use additional reinforcement on long staple lines in sleeve gastrectomy, there is no consensus about its necessity. We did not show any benefit of such reinforcement methods over proper stapling technique alone.

Conclusion:

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy without staple line reinforcement is safe and avoids additional costs for reinforcement materials.

Fifth International Consensus Conference: current status of sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

For the purpose of building best practice guidelines, an international expert panel was surveyed in 2014 and compared with the 2011 Sleeve Gastrectomy Consensus and with survey data culled from a general surgeon audience.

OBJECTIVES

To measure advancement on aspects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and identify current best practices.

SETTING

International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) 2014, Fifth International Summit for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, Montréal, Canada.

METHODS

In August 2014, expert surgeons (based on having performed>1000 cases) completed an online anonymous survey. Identical survey questions were then administered to general surgeon attendees.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty bariatric surgeons completed the expert survey, along with 103 bariatric surgeons from IFSO 2014 general surgeon audience. The following indications were endorsed: as a stand-alone procedure (97.5%); in high-risk patients (92.4%); in kidney and liver transplant candidates (91.6%); in patients with metabolic syndrome (83.8%); body mass index 30-35 with associated co-morbidities (79.8%); in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (87.4%); and in the elderly (89.1%). Significant differences existed between the expert and general surgeons groups in endorsing several contraindications: Barrett's esophagus (80.0% versus 31.3% [P<.001]), gastroesophageal reflux disease (23.3% versus 52.5% [P<.001]), hiatal hernias (11.7% versus 54.0% [P<.001]), and body mass index>60 kg/m(2) (5.0% versus 28.0% [P<.001]). Average reported weight loss outcomes 5 years postoperative were significantly higher for the expert surgeons group (P = .005), as were reported stricture (P = .001) and leakage (P = .005) rates. The following significant differences exist between 2014 and 2011 expert surgeons: Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease should have pH and manometry study pre-laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (32.8% versus 50.0%; P = .033); it is important to take down the vessels before resection (88.1% versus 81.8%; P = .025); it is acceptable to buttress (81.4% versus 77.3%; P<.001); the smaller the bougie size and tighter the sleeve, the higher the incidence of leaks (78.8% versus 65.2%; P = .006).

CONCLUSION

This study highlights areas of new and improved best practices on various aspects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy performance among experts from 2011 and 2014 and among the current general surgeon population.

The efficacy of staple line reinforcement during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This study was performed to evaluate the effects of staple line reinforcement during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

METHODS

Relevant articles published in English (up to July 25, 2015) were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Web of Knowledge. The outcomes of staple line hemorrhage and leakage, overall complications, operative time were pooled. Data synthesis and statistical analysis were performed using Stata 13.1 software.

RESULTS

Eight randomized controlled trials involving 791 patients (453 cases and 338 controls) were analyzed. Compared to performing no reinforcement, staple line reinforcement was associated with a lower risk of staple line hemorrhage (RR = 0.609, 95%CI = 0.439-0.846, P = 0.003) and overall complications (RR = 0.673, 95%CI = 0.507-0.892, P = 0.006). No significant difference was observed regarding postoperative leakage (RR = 0.654, 95%CI = 0.275-1.555, P = 0.337). Oversewing of the staple line took longer operative time (WMD = 13.211, 95%CI = 6.192-20.229, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSION

Staple line reinforcement using buttressing or roofing materials could reduce staple line hemorrhage and overall complications. No obvious advantages of oversewing the staple line were found and it took longer operative time. No significant reduction in leak rate was evidenced after reinforcement.

Transluminal or Percutaneous Endoscopic Drainage and Debridement of Abscesses After Bariatric Surgery: a Case Series

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Since redo surgery is associated with a high risk of morbidity and mortality after bariatric surgery in case of leakage, we sought to evaluate whether endoscopic drainage and debridement of collections following bariatric surgery is an efficient step-up approach to the management of these complications.

METHODS

From 2007 to 2011, we retrospectively studied our cohort of nine cases treated by endoscopic drainage and debridement of abdominal abscesses secondary to postbariatric surgery leaks performed via the transluminal or percutaneous route.

RESULTS

Three patients were treated by percutaneous endoscopic debridement of abscesses knowing that their leak was already closed by other endoscopic means and that their collection did not improve despite external drain in place. Six patients were treated by transluminal endoscopic drainage to perform necrosectomy as a first-line option or after failure of improvement after endoscopic treatment. The number of sessions required ranged from 1 to 3. Most severe patients had rapid improvement of their hemodynamic and respiratory conditions. In eight of the nine patients, we were able to close the fistula by stent, fistula plugs, or a macroclip. Resolution of collections was seen in seven out of nine patients, but two required further surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic necrosectomy via the transluminal or percutaneous route is a feasible option in postbariatric surgery patients with necrotic abscesses not adequately managed by the classical combination of percutaneous drainage and stenting. Further wide-scale studies are needed to compare this non-surgical method with surgical necrosectomy in postbariatric surgery patients.

The effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on morbid obesity and obesity-related comorbidities: A cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Bariatric surgery with multidisciplinary management is a more effective method to treat morbid obesity and obesity-related comorbidities compared with nonsurgical treatments. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) was initially performed as the first stage of biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch in the super-obese population. In the past few years, however, LSG has been performed as a definitive procedure because of its promising early and midterm results. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of our initial LSG series of 73 patients on excess weight loss (EWL) and resolution of obesity-related comorbidities in short-term follow-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From March 2013 to May 2014, 78 morbid obese patients with an average body mass index (BMI) of 46.3 kg/m(2) underwent LSG. There is a 9-month follow-up period on average. Five patients were excluded from the study, because they could not be contacted. Comorbidities, preintervention BMI, glucose, HbA1c, and lipid profiles were recorded at 1, 6, and 12 months postintervention.

RESULTS

After the surgery, the percent EWL was 58%. The mean serum glucose level, HbA1c level, LDL-cholesterol level, triglyceride level, insulin, and insulin resistance decreased significantly and the mean HDL-cholesterol level increased.

CONCLUSION

For the resolution of comorbidities, LSG may be used as an effective bariatric and metabolic surgery.

Gastric sleeve fixation strategy in laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

Initially conceived as the first of two stages in operations such as gastric bypass or duodenal switch in high-risk patients, laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy has increasingly become the definitive procedure for treating obesity and its comorbidities. Although it is associated with excellent results and postoperative quality of life, a number of complications related to improper position and/or gastric tube deformities, resulting from loss of natural fixation, may be associated to symptoms of persistent food intolerance and/or gastroesophageal reflux.

AIM

To present the gastric fixation strategy in vertical sleeve gastrectomy for the treatment of obesity and related diseases.

TECHNIQUE

The gastric suture line along the "new greater curvature" is divided into two parts. Using non-absorbable 2.0 polyester thread, a continuous suture fixation is made in the proximal part attaching it to the free edge of the gastrocolic ligament with invagination. Separate sutures were applied to the distal part, including the transverse mesocolon near the lower edge of the pancreas.

CONCLUSION

The stomach fixation strategy is easy to use, safe and can reduce complications arising from improper positioning and gastric tube alterations in laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy, particularly symptoms related to food intolerance and gastroesophageal reflux.

Gastric leaks post sleeve gastrectomy: Review of its prevention and management

Gastric sleeve gastrectomy has become a frequent bariatric procedure. Its apparent simplicity hides a number of serious, sometimes fatal, complications. This is more important in the absence of an internationally adopted algorithm for the management of the leaks complicating this operation. The debates exist even regarding the definition of a leak, with several classification systems that can be used to predict the cause of the leak, and also to determine the treatment plan. Causes of leak are classified as mechanical, technical and ischemic causes. After defining the possible causes, authors went into suggesting a number of preventive measures to decrease the leak rate, including gentle handling of tissues, staple line reinforcement, larger bougie size and routine use of methylene blue test per operatively. In our review, we noticed that the most important clinical sign or symptom in patients with gastric leaks are fever and tachycardia, which mandate the use of an abdominal computed tomography, associated with an upper gastrointrstinal series and/or gastroscopy if no leak was detected. After diagnosis, the management of leak depends mainly on the clinical condition of the patient and the onset time of leak. It varies between prompt surgical intervention in unstable patients and conservative management in stable ones in whom leaks present lately. The management options include also endoscopic interventions with closure techniques or more commonly exclusion techniques with an endoprosthesis. The aim of this review was to highlight the causes and thus the prevention modalities and find a standardized algorithm to deal with gastric leaks post sleeve gastrectomy.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy - 7 years of own experience

Introduction

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a procedure frequently chosen by patients and surgeons that carries the risk of serious complications that are difficult to treat.

Aim

To describe the operations performed by us, considering complications and their management.

Material and methods

We performed 565 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies. Standard surgical technique was used. A 34 Fr calibration tube was used. An additional reinforcing suture was applied over the staple line.

Results

There was no need for conversion. In 7.79% of patients, infarcts of the posterior pole of the spleen were observed, whereas 8 patients (1.42%) developed gastric fistulas in the His angle region. In 3 cases, it led to development of an abscess in the posterior splenic pole region and 2 of these developed secondary gastric fistulas of typical location. In total, there were 5 deaths among the patients who had been operated on – 3 due to septic complications in the course of fistula, 1 due to encephalopathy and 1 as a result of myocardial infarction.

Conclusions

Sleeve gastrectomy is an effective and safe method of obesity treatment. The causes of the most severe complication – gastric fistula – cannot be established unequivocally. Infarcts of the posterior pole of the spleen, as a potential cause of fistulas, deserve particular attention. In our opinion, primary closure of the fistula by suturing is an inappropriate method of management, whereas the best results are obtained with temporary gastrointestinal tract prosthesis.

Survey on laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) at the Fourth International Consensus Summit on Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

LSG has been increasingly performed. Long-term follow-up is necessary.

METHODS

During the Fourth International Consensus Summit on LSG in New York Dec. 2012, an online questionnaire (SurveyMonkey®) was filled out by 130 surgeons experienced in LSG. The survey was submitted directly to the statisticians.

RESULTS

The 130 surgeons performed 354.9 ± SD 453 LSGs/surgeon (median 175), for a total of 46,133 LSGs. The LSGs had been performed over 4.9 ± 2.7 year (range 1-10). Of the 46,133 LSGs, 0.2 ± 1.0 % (median 0, range 0-10 %) were converted to an open operation. LSG was intended as the sole operation in 93.1 ± 14.8 %; in 3.0 ± 6.3 %, a second stage became necessary. Of the 130 surgeons, 40 (32 %) use a 36F bougie, which was most common (range 32-50F). Staple-line is reinforced by 79 %; of these, 57 % use a buttress and 43 % over-sew. Mean %EWL at year 1 was 59.3 %; year 2, 59.0 %; year 3, 54.7 %; year 4, 52.3 %; year 5, 52.4 %; and year 6, 50.6 %. If a second-stage operation becomes necessary, preference was: RYGB 46 %, duodenal switch 24 %, re-sleeve 20 %, single-anastomosis duodenoileal bypass 3 %, sleeve plication 3 %, minigastric bypass 3 %, non-adjustable band 2 %, and side-to-side jejunoileal anastomosis 1 %. Complications were: high leak 1.1 %, hemorrhage 1.8 %, and stenosis at lower sleeve 0.9 %. Postoperative gastroesophageal reflux occurred in 7.9 ± 8.2 % but was variable (0-30 %). Mortality was 0.33 ± 1.6 %, which translates to ≈ 152 deaths. Eighty-nine percent order multivitamins (including vitamin D, calcium, and iron) and 72 % order B12. A PPI is ordered by 29 % for 1 month, 29 % for 3 months, and others for 1-12 months depending on the case.

CONCLUSIONS

LSG was relatively safe. Further long-term surveillance is necessary.

Is routine postoperative gastrografin study needed after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy? Experience of 712 cases

BACKGROUND

The current standard of care is to perform a postoperative gastrografin study following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) to detect leakage or obstruction. This study evaluated the usefulness of this routine procedure.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed in December 2012. All patients had routine intraoperative methylene blue testing to check for possible leakage from the staple line, and any leaking points were oversewn. We also performed postoperative contrast study (gastrografin) routinely in the first 24-48 h for all patients.

RESULTS

From June 2007 to December 2012, 712 cases underwent LSG during the study period. Patients included in this study were 556 women (78.1%) and 156 men (21.9%). The mean age was 35 years. The mean BMI was 48 kg/m2. The operative time was 107 ± 29 min, and there were no conversions to open surgery. Intraoperative methylene blue test detected leakage in 28 cases (3.93%). Postoperative contrast study (gastrografin) was negative for leakage in all cases. Computed tomography (CT) scan with oral contrast study detected leakage in 1.4% (ten cases); none of these cases were detected by regular contrast study.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that intraoperative methylene blue test for leakage is a very sensitive and effective method for detecting leakage during sleeve gastrectomy and should be done routinely in all cases. Routine postoperative contrast study is not needed to detect leakage unless clinically indicated in selected cases, and in such cases contrast-enhanced CT scans are the modality of choice.

The effects of bougie caliber on leaks and excess weight loss following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Is there an ideal bougie size?

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become a common surgical procedure, yet there is no consensus on what bougie size is best for LSG. We reviewed the literature and assessed the relationship between the size of bougie used and the incidence of leak as well as weight loss parameters. We wanted to determine if there is an ideal bougie size for LSG. A search of the medical literature was undertaken. We limited the search to articles published in the last 5 years written in English and investigating humans. We analyzed 32 publications comprising 4,999 patients. We determined the frequency of staple line leaks as well as weight loss parameters in relation to bougie size. This study was exempt from our institutional review board. The use of bougies of 40 French (F) and larger was associated with a leak rate of 0.92% as opposed to 2.67% for smaller bougies (p < 0.05). Weight loss in percent of extra weight loss (%EWL) was 69.2% when a bougie of 40 F and larger was used, as opposed to 60.7% of EWL when smaller bougies were used (p = 0.29). LSG is becoming an important and common procedure. Larger sizing bougies are associated with a significant decrease in incidence of leak with no change in weight loss. Further studies are needed before an unequivocal decision on the optimal bougie size is made. A recommendation to use the smallest bougie possible should be avoided because the risks may outweigh the benefits.

Long term predictors of success after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

To evaluate early, mid and long term efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a definitive management of morbid obesity and to study factors that may predict its success.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the database of patients who underwent LSG as a definitive bariatric procedure, from April 2005 to March 2013. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed.

RESULTS

1395 patients were included in this study. Mean age was 33 years and women:men ratio was 74:26. The mean preoperative BMI was 46 kg/m(2). Operative time was 113 ± 29 min. Reinforcement of staple line was done only in 447 (32%) cases. 11 (0.79%) cases developed postoperative leak, with total number of complications 72 (5.1%) and 0% mortality. Percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) was 42%, 53%, 61%, 73%, 67%, 61%, 59% and 57% at 6 months, 1-7 years. Remission of diabetes (DM), hypertension (HTN) and hyperlipidaemia (HLP) occurred 69%, 54% and 43% respectively. 56 (4%) patients underwent revision surgery, for insufficient weight loss (n = 37) and severe reflux symptoms (n = 19). Mean follow up was 76 ± 19 (range: 6-103) months. Smaller bougie size and leaving smaller antrum were associated with significant %EWL. Bougie ≤36F remained significant in multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

This study supports safety, effectiveness and durability of LSG as a sole definitive bariatric procedure. Smaller bougie size and shorter distance from pylorus were associated with significant %EWL.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy without over-sewing of the staple line is effective and safe

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a bariatric procedure with very good long-term weight-reducing and metabolic effects.

AIM

Here we report 6 years' experience with LSG performed in morbidly obese patients by one surgical team focusing on the impact of the degree of sleeve restriction and safety of the procedure without over-sewing the staple line.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From 2006 to 2012, 207 morbid obese patients with average age of 43.4 years and average body mass index 44.9 kg/m(2) underwent LSG without over-sewing the staple line. The complete 5- and 3-year follow-up is recorded in 59 and 117 patients with prospective data collection at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 42 and 60 months after LSG. Group 1 patients operated in 2006-2008 had smaller sleeve restriction. Group 2 patients operated in 2009-2012 had major sleeve restriction. All procedures were performed without over-sewing of the staple line.

RESULTS

The average %EBMIL (excess body mass index loss) in group 1 patients with minor sleeve restriction reached 54.1% and average %EWL (excess weight loss) was 50.8% while in group 2 with major sleeve restriction the average %EBMIL reached 69.7% and average %EWL was 66.8%. Final weight reduction was significantly higher in group 2 patients compared to group 1 patients with smaller sleeve restriction. Out of 49 patients with preoperatively diagnosed T2DM (type 2 diabetes mellitus) was completely resolved in 70.8%. Pre-operatively diagnosed hypertension normalized in 64.2%, improved in 23.2%, and remained unchanged in 12.6% of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Carefully performed LSG without over-sewing the staple line is feasible and safe. A better weight-reducing effect was present in patients with major sleeve restriction.

Is nasogastric decompression useful in prevention of leaks after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy? A randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Although its excellent results, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) presents major complications ranging from 0% to 29%. Among them, the staple line leak presents an incidence varying from 0% to 7%. Many trials debated about different solutions in order to reduce leaks' incidence. No author has investigated the role of gastric decompression in the prevention of this complication. Aim of our work is to evaluate if this procedure can play a role in avoiding the occurrence of staple line leaks after LSG.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between January 2008 and November 2012, 145 patients were prospectively and randomly included in the study. Seventy patients composed the group A, whose operations were completed with placement of nasogastric tube; the other 75 patients were included in the group B, in which no nasogastric tube was placed.

RESULTS

No statistical differences were observed between group A and group B regarding gender distribution, age, weight, and BMI. No intraoperative complications and no conversion occurred in both groups. Intraoperative blood loss (50.1 ± 42.3 vs. 52.5 ± 37.6 ml, respectively) and operative time (65.4 ± 25.5 vs. 62.6 ± 27.8 min, respectively) were comparable between the two groups (p: NS). One staple line leak (1.4%) occurred on 6th postoperative day in group A patients. No leak was observed in group B patients. Postoperative hospital stay was significantly longer in group A vs. group B patients (7.6 ± 3.4 vs. 6.2 ± 3.1 days, respectively, p: 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Routine placement of nasogastric tube in patients operated of LSG seems not useful in reducing leaks' incidence.

Comparison of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy leak rates in four staple-line reinforcement options: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

The study compared laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) staple-line leak rates of 4 prevalent surgical options: no reinforcement, oversewing, nonabsorbable bovine pericardial strips (BPS), and absorbable polymer membrane (APM).

BACKGROUND

LSG is a multipurpose bariatric/metabolic procedure with effectiveness proven through the intermediate term. Staple-line leak is a severe complication of LSG for which no definitive method of prevention has been identified.

METHODS

The systematic review study design was employed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement screening guidelines. Inclusion criteria centered on variables potentially relevant to LSG leak: leak rate, age, gender, calibrating bougie size, distance between pylorus and gastric transection line, overall complication rate, and mortality. Analysis of variance models were used to explore differences in select demographic and surgical technique variables characterizing each reinforcement group. An omnibus χ(2) test followed by independent Fisher's exact tests were used to compare leak rates.

RESULTS

There were 659 articles identified; 41 duplicates removed. Of 618 remaining articles, 324 did not meet inclusion criteria. Of the 294 remaining articles, 206 were eliminated (kin studies, those not reporting staple-line or leak incidence, those reporting discontinued products). There were 88 papers included in the analysis. Statistically significant differences were found between groups across demographic and surgical variables studied (p<0.001). There were 191 leaks in 8,920 patients; overall leak rate 2.1%. Leak rates ranged from 1.09% (APM) to 3.3% (BPS); APM leak rate was significantly lower than other groups (p< 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Systematic review of 88 included studies representing 8,920 patients found that the leak rate in LSG was significantly lower using APM staple-line reinforcement than oversewing, BPS reinforcement, or no reinforcement.

Gastric leak after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: early covered self-expandable stent reduces healing time

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has become a very frequent procedure in bariatric surgery due to its efficacy and simplicity compared to gastric bypass. Gastric staple line leak (1 to 7 % of cases) is a severe complication with a long nonstandardized treatment. The aim of this retrospective study was to examine the success and tolerance of covered stents in its management.

METHODS

From January 2009 to December 2011, nine patients with gastric staple line leaks after sleeve gastrectomy were treated with covered stents in our department (seven referred from other institutions). The leaks were diagnosed by CT scan and visualized during the endoscopy. Among the studied variables were operative technique, post-operative fistula diagnosis delay, stent treatment delay, and stent tolerance. In our institution, Hanarostent® (length 17 cm, diameter 18 mm; M.I. Tech, Seoul, Korea) was used and inserted under direct endoscopic control.

RESULTS

Stent treatment was successful in seven cases (78 %). Two other cases had total gastrectomy (405 and 185 days after leak diagnosis). Early stent removal (due to migration or poor tolerance) was necessary in three cases. The average stent treatment duration was of 6.4 weeks, and the average healing time was 141 days. The five patients with an early stent treatment (≤ 3 weeks after leak diagnosis) had an average healing time of 99 days versus 224 for the four others.

CONCLUSIONS

Covered self-expandable stent is an effective treatment of gastric leaks after sleeve gastrectomy. Early stent treatment seems to be associated with shorter healing time.

Robotic sleeve gastrectomy: experience of 134 cases and comparison with a systematic review of the laparoscopic approach

BACKGROUND

Robotic technology has recently emerged in different surgical specialties, but the experience with robotic sleeve gastrectomy (RSG) is scarce in the literature. The purpose of this study is to compare our preliminary experience with RSG versus the descriptive results of a systematic review of the laparoscopic approach.

METHODS

Data from our RSG experience were retrospectively collected. Two surgeons performed all the cases in one single surgery center. Such information was compared with a systematic review of 22 selected studies that included 3,148 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) cases. RSG were performed using the daVinci Surgical System.

RESULTS

This study included 134 RSG vs. 3,148 LSG. Mean age and mean BMI was 43 ± 12.6 vs. 40.7 ± 11.6 (p = 0.022), and 45 ± 7.1 vs. 43.6 ± 8.1 (p = 0.043), respectively. Leaks were found in 0 RSG vs. 1.97% LSG (p = 0.101); strictures in 0 vs. 0.43% (p = 0.447); bleeding in 0.7 vs. 1.21% (p = 0.594); and mortality in 0 vs. 0.1% (p = 0.714), respectively. Mean surgical time was calculated in 106.6 ± 48.8 vs. 94.5 ± 39.9 min (p = 0.006); and mean hospital length of stay was 2.2 ± 0.6 vs. 3.3 ± 1.7 days (p = <0.005), respectively. Four (2.9%) complications were found in our robotic series.

CONCLUSIONS

Our series shows that RSG is a safe alternative when used in bariatric surgery, showing similar results as the laparoscopic approach. Surgical time is longer in the robotic approach, while hospital length of stay is lower. No leaks or strictures were found in the robotic cases. However, further studies with larger sample size and randomization are warranted.

Radical resection of the pyloric antrum and its effect on gastric emptying after sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

The surgical technique of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has not been fully standardized yet and there is the unresolved question of what is the optimum size of retained pyloric antrum. The aim of our research was to prove that even after a radical resection of the pyloric antrum the physiological stomach evacuation function can still be preserved.

METHODS

Our study was based on 12 patients, who were randomly divided into two groups. Patients undergoing radical antrum resection (RA group) underwent gastric emptying scintigraphy to determine the evacuation half-time (T1/2) and food retention in the 90th minute of the test (%GE) both before the operation and 3 months afterward. Patients in whom the antrum was preserved (PA group) served as a control group for comparison of postoperative weight loss (in kilogram), decrease in body mass index (BMI), and decline in excess weight (%EWL). The resulting changes were statistically processed.

RESULTS

In the RA group, the average time T1/2 declined from 57.5 to 32.25 min (p = 0.016) and average retention %GE dropped from 20.5 to 9.5% (p = 0.073). Differences in the average values of weight, BMI, or %EWL between both groups were of no statistical significance (p > 0.8).

CONCLUSIONS

In the RA group, an increase in gastric emptying postoperatively was noted. Complications such as failure of stomach evacuation were not observed in the RA group. Our results suggest that even more radical resection of the pyloric antrum performed by LSG is possible without concerns of postoperative disorder of the stomach evacuation function.

The impact of bariatric surgery on obstructive sleep apnea: a systematic review

There is a strong relationship between obesity and the development of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Respectively, bariatric surgery is often touted as the most effective option for treating obesity and its comorbidities, including OSA. Nevertheless, there remains paucity of data in the literature of the comparison of all the specific types of bariatric surgery themselves. In an effort to answer this question, a systematic review was performed, to determine, of the available bariatric procedures [Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, or biliopancreatic diversion (BPD)], which procedures were the most efficacious in the treatment of OSA. A total of 69 studies with 13,900 patients were included. All the procedures achieved profound effects on OSA, as over 75 % of patients saw at least an improvement in their sleep apnea. BPD was the most successful procedure in improving or resolving OSA, with laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding being the least. In conclusion, bariatric surgery is a definitive treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, regardless of the specific type.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a stand-alone procedure for morbid obesity: report of 1,000 cases and 3-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is an emerging surgical technique with encouraging results. The objective of this study is to report surgical results after 1,000 consecutive LSG cases as a stand-alone procedure for morbid obesity during a 3-year follow-up.

METHODS

Data were obtained by review of our prospectively maintained database, patients' clinical charts, and phone interview of all patients who underwent LSG in our institution from December 2005 to February 2010.

RESULTS

There were 773 (77.3%) women whose preoperative age and BMI was 36.9 ± 11.5 years and 37.4 ± 4.0 kg/m(2), respectively. The most common co-morbid conditions were insulin resistance 55.1%, dyslipidemia 45.5%, arterial hypertension 23.1%, hypothyroidism 15.4% and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease 12%. Excess weight loss was as follows: 1 year 86.6%, 2 years 84.1%, and 3 years 84.5%. Early and late complications occurred in 34 (3.4%) and 20 (2.0%) patients, respectively. Reoperation was required in seven (0.7%) patients. There was no mortality during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LSG seems to be a safe and effective surgical technique for morbid obesity as a stand-alone procedure.

The impact of sleeve gastrectomy on hypertension: a systematic review

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a relatively new bariatric surgical procedure associated with an acceptable weight loss and a relatively low morbidity. There is existing evidence suggesting bariatric surgery resolves or improves hypertension. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the effect of LSG on hypertension. An electronic search method was primarily used for identification of the studies. We performed a comprehensive search of all electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Dare, Clinical Evidence, BIOSIS, Previews, TRIP, Web of Science, Health Technology Database, Conference abstracts, clinical trials, and the Cochrane Library database) using broad search terms. All human studies from August 2000 to September 2011 were included. After an initial screening, a total of 326 studies were identified. After assessment of these studies based on our exclusion criteria, 222 studies were considered for the abstract review. A total of 33 studies were identified after a careful screening, involving a total of 3,997 patients. The mean pre-operative body mass index (BMI) was 49.1 ± 7.5 kg/m(2) (range 37-68). The average follow-up time was 16.9 ± 9.8 months (range 12-48). The mean post-operative BMI was 36 ± 7.0 kg/m(2) (range 25.6-54). LSG resulted in resolution of hypertension in 58% of patients. On average, 75% of patients experienced resolution or improvement of their hypertension. Based on our systematic review, LSG has a significant effect on hypertension, inducing resolution or improvement in the majority of cases. Therefore, LSG remains a viable surgical option in obese patients with hypertension.

Excessive weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

The clinical significance of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) as a primary bariatric intervention is still under debate. This article aims to systematically analyze excessive weight loss (EWL) in patients after SG.

METHODS

A systematic literature search on SG from the period January 2003 to December 2010 was performed. Data described from systematic reviews dealing with gastric bypass procedures was used as comparator.

RESULTS

The final study included 123 papers describing 12,129 patients. Most of the papers describe EWL at 12 months (43.9% of all papers). For SG, the maximum EWL occurred 24 and 36 months postoperatively with a mean EWL of 64.3% (minimum 46.1%, maximum 75.0%) and 66.0% (minimum 60.0%, maximum 77.5%), respectively. At 12 months, the mean EWL in patients receiving SG was significantly lower when compared to patients who underwent gastric bypass (SG 56.1%, gastric bypass 68.3%; p < 0.01, two-sided Wilcoxon test). Although patients with gastric bypass still had higher EWL rates at 24 months compared to patients after SG, these differences were not significant (SG 61.3%, gastric bypass 69.6%; p = 0.09, two-sided Wilcoxon rank-sum test). Reoperations after SG are necessary in 6.8% (range 0.7-25%) of cases with patients receiving SG as a stand alone procedure and in 9.6-28.5% of cases with patients undergoing SG as a planned first stage procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

SG is an effective bariatric procedure with a lasting effect on EWL. Compared with gastric bypasses, there is no difference in EWL at the time point of 24 months.

Is there a place for pigtail drains in the management of gastric leaks after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has a specific morbidity profile in which gastric leak (GL) is the main complication. With a view to defining a standardized protocol for GL management, the present retrospective study sought to describe the clinical patterns of post-LSG GL and treatment of the latter in our university medical center. From July 2004 to December 2010, 25 patients were included. GL was described in terms of clinical presentation, time to onset, and location in the staple line. Treatment of GL with pharmacologic, radiologic, endoscopic, and/or surgical procedures was always validated by a multidisciplinary care team. "Treatment success" was defined as the absence of contrast agent leakage on CT and endoscopy after removal of covered metallic stent or pigtail drains. Systemic inflammation and peritonitis were the main signs for early-onset GL (56%), whereas pulmonary symptoms and intra-abdominal abscesses revealed delayed-onset GL (44%). Surgery was always performed for early-onset GL. In the total study population, the median number of endoscopic procedures was five (range, 1-11) per patient, of covered SEMS was three (range, 1-8), and of pigtail drains was three (range, 1-4). Nine (36%) patients presented endoscopic-related complications. Four (16%) patients with treatment failure underwent radical surgery. The mortality rate was 4% (n = 1). The management of post-LSG GL is challenging. Surgery was always performed for early-onset GL, whereas treatment of delayed-onset GL was based on endoscopy. Pigtail drains required fewer procedures per patient, were better tolerated, and had lower morbidity-mortality than covered SEMS.

Reinforcing the staple line during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: prospective randomized clinical study comparing two different techniques. Preliminary results

BACKGROUND

Sleeve gastrectomy involves the creation of small gastric reservoir based on lesser curvature of the stomach, which is fashioned by a longitudinal gastrectomy that preserves the antrum and pylorus together with its vagal innervation. The main complications in the early postoperative course are bleeding and gastric leak. In order to reduce these complications the staple line can be reinforced in many different ways. The purpose of this study was to randomly compare two different techniques in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG): buttressing the staple line at the gastroesophageal junction (angle of Hiss) with Gore Seamguard and staple-line suturing with PDS 2.0.

METHODS

Between July 2009 and July 2010, 90 patients were prospectively and randomly enrolled in the two different techniques of handling the staple line during LSG. Forty-eight of these patients belonged in group A (application of Gore Seamguard) and 42 in group B (application of a continuous suture). Operative and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Postoperative leak affected two patients in group A (4.2%) and bleeding occurred in one patient of group A (2%). Total complication rate was 6.2% for group A. No major surgical complication occurred in group B. The differences between the two groups did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

No significant difference is evidenced in terms of bleeding and postoperative leak between the two techniques of enhancing the staple line in LSG. Suturing of the staple line may be more time consuming but costs are considerably less.

Staple-line reinforcement during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy using three different techniques: a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

The main drawback of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the severity of postoperative complications. Staple line reinforcement (SLR) is strongly advocated. The purpose of this study was to compare prospectively and randomly three different techniques of SLR during LSG.

METHODS

From April 2010 to April 2011, patients submitted to LSG were randomly selected for the following three different techniques of SLR: oversewing (group A); buttressed transection with a polyglycolide acid and trimethylene carbonate (group B); and staple-line roofing with a gelatin fibrin matrix (group C). Primary endpoints were reinforcement operative time, incidence of postoperative staple-line bleeding, and leaks. Operative time was calculated as follows: oversewing time in group A; positioning of polyglycolide acid and trimethylene carbonate over the stapler in group B; and roofing of the entire staple line in group C.

RESULTS

A total of 120 patients were enrolled in the study (82 women and 38 men). Mean age was 44.6 ± 9.2 (range, 28-64) years. Mean preoperative body mass index was 47.2 ± 6.6 (range, 40-66) kg/m². Mean time for SLR was longer in group A (14.2 ± 4.2 (range, 8-18) minutes) compared with group B (2.4 ± 1.8 (range, 1-4) minutes) and group C (4.4 ± 1.6 (range, 3-6) minutes; P < 0.01). Four major complications were observed (3.3 %): one leak and one bleeding in group A; one bleeding in group B; and one leak in group C, with no significant differences between the groups. No mortality was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

SLR with either polyglycolide acid with trimethylene carbonate or gelatin fibrin matrix is faster compared with oversewing. No significant differences were observed regarding postoperative staple-line complications.

Sleeve gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was originally performed as the restrictive component of the duodenal switch procedure. This partial vertical gastrectomy served to reduce gastric capacity and initiate short-term weight loss while the malabsorptive component of the operation (biliopancreatic diversion) provided the long-term weight loss. Some patients, however, could not undergo the intestinal bypass, and early investigations found that substantial weight loss occurred with the SG alone. The sleeve then developed into a risk management strategy for very large or high-risk patients who would not tolerate a longer or higher-risk procedure.

Sleeve gastrectomy and the risk of leak: a systematic analysis of 4,888 patients

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy has become a popular stand-alone bariatric procedure with comparable weight loss and resolution of comorbidities to that of laparoscopic gastric bypass. The simplicity of the procedure and the decreased long-term risk profile make this surgery more appealing. Nonetheless, the ever present risk of a staple-line leak is still of great concern and needs further investigation.

METHODS

An electronic literature search of MEDLINE database plus manual reference checks of articles published on laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for morbid obesity and its complications was completed. Keywords used in the search were "sleeve gastrectomy" OR "gastric sleeve" AND "leak." We analyzed 29 publications, including 4,888 patients. We analyzed the frequency of leak after sleeve gastrectomy and its associated risks of causation.

RESULTS

The risk of leak after sleeve gastrectomy in all comers was 2.4%. This risk was 2.9% in the super-obese [body mass index (BMI) > 50 kg/m(2)] and 2.2% for BMI < 50 kg/m(2). Staple height and use of buttressing material did not affect leak rate. The use of a size 40-Fr or greater bougie was associated with a leak rate of 0.6% compared with those who used smaller sizes whose leak rate was 2.8%. Leaks were found at the proximal third of the stomach in 89% of cases. Most leaks were diagnosed after discharge. Endoscopic management is a viable option for leaks and was documented in 11% of cases as successful.

CONCLUSIONS

Sleeve gastrectomy has become an important surgical option for the treatment of the ever growing morbidly obese population. The risk of leak is low at 2.4%. Attention to detail specifically at the esophagogastric junction cannot be stressed enough. Careful patient selection (BMI < 50 kg/m(2)) and adopting the use of a 40-Fr or larger bougie may decrease the risk of leak. Vigilant follow-up during the first 30 days is critical to avoid catastrophe, because most leaks will happen after patient discharge.

International Sleeve Gastrectomy Expert Panel Consensus Statement: best practice guidelines based on experience of >12,000 cases

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is an emerging surgical approach, but 1 that has seen a surge in popularity because of its perceived technical simplicity, feasibility, and good outcomes. An international expert panel was convened in Coral Gables, Florida on March 25 and 26, 2011, with the purpose of providing best practice guidelines through consensus regarding the performance of LSG. The panel comprised 24 centers and represented 11 countries, spanning all major regions of the world and all 6 populated continents, with a collective experience of >12,000 cases. It was thought prudent to hold an expert consensus meeting of some of the surgeons across the globe who have performed the largest volume of cases to discuss and provide consensus on the indications, contraindications, and procedural aspects of LSG. The panel undertook this consensus effort to help the surgical community improve the efficacy, lower the complication rates, and move toward adoption of standardized techniques and measures. The meeting took place at on-site meeting facilities, Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, Florida.

METHODS

Expert panelists were invited to participate according to their publications, knowledge and experience, and identification as surgeons who had performed >500 cases. The topics for consensus encompassed patient selection, contraindications, surgical technique, and the prevention and management of complications. The responses were calculated and defined as achieving consensus (≥70% agreement) or no consensus (<70% agreement).

RESULTS

Full consensus was obtained for the essential aspects of the indications and contraindications, surgical technique, management, and prevention of complications. Consensus was achieved for 69 key questions.

CONCLUSION

The present consensus report represents the best practice guidelines for the performance of LSG, with recommendations in the 3 aforementioned areas. This report and its findings support a first effort toward the standardization of techniques and adoption of working recommendations formulated according to expert experience.

Laparoscopic reinforced sleeve gastrectomy: early results and complications

BACKGROUND

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) was pioneered as a two-stage intervention for super and super-super obesity to minimize morbidity and mortality; it is employed increasingly as a primary procedure. Early outcomes and integrity of laparoscopic SG (LSG) against leak using a technique incorporating gastric transection-line reinforcement were studied.

METHODS

Between 2003 and 2009, 121 patients underwent LSG (16, two-stage; 105, primary). Of the patients, 66% were women, mean age 38.8 ± 10.9 (15.0-64.0), and body mass index (BMI, kg/m(2)) 48.7 ± 9.3 (33.7-74.8). Bovine pericardium (Peri-Strips Dry [PSD]) was used to reinforce the staple line. Parametric and nonparametric tests were used, as appropriate. The paired t test was used to assess change from baseline; bivariate analyses and logistic regression were used to identify preoperative patient characteristics predictive of suboptimal weight loss.

RESULTS

Mean operative time was 105 min (95-180), and mean hospitalization was 5.6 days (1-14). There was no mortality. There were 6 (5.0%) complications: 1 intraoperative leak, 1 stricture, 1 trocar-site bleed, 1 renal failure, and 2 wound infections. There were no postoperative staple-line leaks. Following 15 concomitant hiatal hernia operations, 3 (20%) recurred: 1 revised to RYGB and 2 in standby. Two post-LSG hiatal hernias of the two-stage series required revisions because of symptoms. BMI decreased 24.7% at 6 months (n = 55) to 37.5 ± 9.3 (22.2-58.1); %EWL was 48.1 ± 19.3 (15.5-98.9). Twelve-month BMI (n = 41) was 38.4 ± 10.5 (19.3-62.3); %EWL was 51.7 ± 25.0 (8.9-123.3). Forty-eight-month BMI (n = 13) was 35.6 ± 6.8 (24.9-47.5); %EWL was 61.1 ± 12.2 (43.9-82.1) (p < 0.001). Preoperative BMI was predictive of >70% of patients who experienced <50% EWL at 6 months. At 2 weeks, 100% of type 2 diabetes patients (n = 23) were off medication (mean HbA(1C), 5.9 ± 0.5%; glycemia, 90.0 ± 19.9 mg/dL (p < 0.01) at 3 months).

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic PSD-reinforced LSG as a staged or definitive procedure is safe and effective in the short term and provides rapid type 2 diabetes mellitus reduction with a very low rate of complications.

Impact of bariatric surgery on comorbidities

Published data show that bariatric surgery not only leads to significant and sustained weight loss but also resolves or improves multiple comorbidities associated with morbid obesity. Evidence suggests that the earlier the intervention the better the resolution of comorbidities. Patients with metabolic syndrome and comorbidities associated with morbid obesity should be promptly referred for consideration for bariatric surgery earlier in the disease process.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: our first 100 patients

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy appears to be a safe, reproducible method to manage morbidly obese patients.

Background:

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is becoming a popular procedure for the morbidly obese patient. Its utilization as a standalone procedure has good results with weight loss in short- and midterm reports. The aim of this study was to assess our technique and whether it warranted any modifications in the early postoperative period.

Methods:

Our first 100 consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were retrospectively reviewed. Data analysis was conducted at 3 and 6 months to assess the percentage of excess body weight loss and comorbidity status change.

Results:

The percentage of excess body weight loss at the 3- and 6-month marks was 34.2% and 49.1%, respectively. Comorbidities were also improved at the 3- and 6-month marks. Hypertension resolved in 38%, hyperlipidemia resolved in 19%, and diabetes in 46%. Complication rate during the first 6 months was 10%. Major complications included 2 patients with postoperative bleeding, 2 patients with acute renal failure from dehydration, and 1 postoperative bleeding patient who developed a gastric fistula. No surgical reintervention was required for any complication.

Conclusion:

Our technique is a safe method that is easily reproducible and does not require any modification. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is an excellent surgical option with a low complication rate.