Circular- vs. linear-stapled gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Linear and circular stapled gastrojejunal anastomoses in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: stomal diameter at onset and at long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

In the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure, the gastrojejunal stoma is constructed with either a circular (CSD) or a linear stapling device (LSD). The diameter of the stoma following stapling with the 21 mm CSD is expected to be approximately 12 mm (diameter of the anvil). Measuring the stoma diameter after linear stapling is a little more complex since the remaining opening in the linear anastomosis is closed by hand. The aim of this prospective randomized study was to follow up on changes in the diameter of gastrojejunal stomata after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass using either a CSD or an LSD between that at construction and at a long-term follow-up of 12-72 months later.

METHODS

Twenty patients were randomly assigned to gastrojejunostomy with either a 21 mm CSD or a 45 mm LSD. Directly after completion of the surgery, the diameter of the gastrojejunal stoma was measured using a Fogarty occlusion catheter and again at follow-up 12-72 months later.

RESULTS

Five patients were lost for follow-up, and 15 patients remained. The mean diameter of the CSD stomata at construction was 19.3 ± 5.3 mm (mean ± SD) and increased to 26.4 ± 6.6 mm at follow-up after a mean of 46 months (P = 0.02). The corresponding figures for the LSD stomata were 26.2 ± 4.1 mm, increasing to 32.7 ± 3.0 mm also after a mean follow-up of 46 months (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

The mean diameter of the circular stapled gastrojejunostomy stomata at construction was 20 mm, that is, considerably larger than the 12 mm expected. After a mean of 5 years, the mean diameter had increased by 37%. The mean diameter of the linear stapled stomata increased by 25%.

Linear Versus Circular Laparoscopic Gastrojejunal Anastomosis of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 22 Comparative Studies

PURPOSE

To compare the rate of complications of linear versus circular gastrojejunal anastomosis of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases was carried out using the terms "laparoscopic," "circular," "linear," "anastomosis," "gastric bypass" in accordance to PRISMA guidelines. Only original articles in English language comparing linear versus circular anastomosis were included. No temporal interval was set. Outcome measures were wound infection, bleeding, marginal ulcer, leak, and stricture. Pooled odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Funnel plots were used to detect publication bias.

RESULTS

Twenty-two articles (7 prospective and 15 retrospective) out of 184 retrieved papers were included in this study. The pooled analysis showed a reduced odd of wound infection and bleeding after linear anastomosis. Likelihood of marginal ulcer, leak, and stricture was similar after the 2 techniques. Wound infection was reported in 15 studies (OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.06-0.45; P=0.0003; I2=91), bleeding in 9 (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.34-0.59; P=0.00001; I2=6) marginal ulcer in 11 (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.26-1.41; P=0.25; I2=65), leaks in 15 (OR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.21-1.67; P=0.34; I2=83) and stricture in 18 (OR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.23-1.00; P=0.05; I2=68).

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic RYGB can be safely performed both with circular and linear staplers. Rates of wound infection and bleeding were significantly lower after linear gastrojejunal anastomosis.

Comparison of Linear versus Circular-Stapled Gastroenterostomy in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study

Background

When performing a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), the gastroenterostomy can be constructed with a circular stapled or linear stapled technique. The size of the gastroenterostomy depends on the stapling method and this may affect weight loss outcomes. The aim of this study was to examine the impact of the stapling technique on weight loss outcomes after RYGB.

Methods

This is a nationwide population-based cohort study of patients that received a RYGB. Data were derived from the Dutch Audit of Treatment of Obesity. Primary outcome was the impact of stapling technique on the rate of non-response defined as significant weight regain (≥20% of a patients’ lost weight) 2–4 years post-surgery, after initial successful weight loss (≥20% total weight loss, TWL). Secondary outcomes were the rate of response, defined as successful weight loss (≥20% TWL) within 1.5 years post-surgery, the incidence of complications and the progression of comorbidities.

Results

In a cohort of 12,468 patients, non-response was equally distributed between both groups (circular 18.0% vs. linear 17.6%). No differences in response rate (circular 97.0% vs. linear 96.5%) or %TWL were observed up to 4 years post-surgery. Patients in the circular stapled group experienced more complications, specifically major bleedings (2.4% vs. 1.2%; p=0.002) within 30 days postoperatively. No differences were found in deteriorated comorbidities, neither in de novo developed comorbidities.

Conclusion

When comparing stapling technique in RYGB, weight loss outcomes did not differ during a 4-year follow-up period. The linear stapled gastroenterostomy could pose an advantage due to its lower complication rate.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11695-021-05436-4.

Comparison of gastrojejunostomy techniques and anastomotic complications: a systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

There are several ways to perform the gastrojejunostomy (GJ) anastomosis in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). Surgeons typically use a variation of three techniques: Hand-sewn anastomosis (HSA), Linear stapled (LS) and Circular stapled anastomosis (CSA). The purpose of this literature review is to determine which of the GJ techniques, if any, is superior and results in the least amount of postoperative complications, with a specific focus on rates of marginal ulcers, postoperative bleeding, and strictures.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane electronic databases were consulted for studies on LRYGB procedures utilizing a GJ anastomosis, from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2019. Cochrane and PRISMA screening methods were used to select the studies.

RESULTS

Eleven studies published between 2015 and 2019 were selected and included 135,899 patients that underwent LRYGB with a GJ anastomosis. Sample sizes ranged from 114 to 49,331 patients. Four studies reported that CSA had statistically significant higher rates of marginal ulcers when compared to HSA and LS techniques. Three studies concluded that CSA had statistically significant higher rates of postoperative bleeding when compared to HSA and LS. Five studies observed that CSA had statistically significant higher rates of strictures when compared to HSA and LS techniques. There was no consensus whether HSA or LS was superior in terms of reduced postoperative complications.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed statistically significant increases in rates of postoperative bleeding, marginal ulcer, and strictures with the use of mechanical circular staplers at the GJ anastomosis in LRYGB. Based on our results, avoiding the use of mechanical circular staplers can result in fewer postoperative complications. Nevertheless, there are limitations to retrospective studies which may influence the results and therefore a randomized controlled trial directly comparing HSA, CSA, and LS should be performed to truly determine which technique is superior.

Linear versus Circular Stapler for Gastrojejunal Anastomosis in Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass: An Analysis of 211 Cases

Purpose

Although laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is a frequently performed bariatric procedure, there is still no consensus on its technical implementation.

Methods

211 patients treated with LRYGB in a single institution between March 2011 and October 2016 were analyzed retrospectively. A subgroup analysis for the linear (LSA) versus circular stapler technique (CSA) for gastrojejunal anastomosis (GJA) was performed to evaluate complications and outcomes.

Results

128 (60.6%) patients received GJA with CSA and 83 (39.4%) with LSA. Average weight loss one year after surgery, respectively, BMI after one year of follow-up (kg/m²), showed no significant difference. Median surgery time was significantly shorter in the LSA group. If the procedure was performed with CSA, significantly more wound infections occurred.

Conclusions

Both the circular and the linear stapler techniques for gastrojejunal anastomosis in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are safe methods with comparable outcomes. A disadvantage of CSA is the significantly higher rate of wound infections, a circumstance which requires increased attention.

Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Circular- and Linear-Stapled Gastro-jejunostomy in Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

To compare circular stapler (CS) with linear stapler (LS) in a meta-analysis concerning operative time, anastomotic leaks, wound infections, strictures, and length of stay. Pubmed, Medline, and Scopus were searched for articles published since 2006. Four hundred and five articles were assessed, and 13 articles of which only one was a randomized controlled trial were included in all 49,331 patients from different regions of the world. The pooled analysis shows that operative time was shorter in LS than in CS (weighted mean difference 36.2 min; 95% CI 34.7-37.6.; p < 0.0001). No difference was seen concerning leaks or strictures. The relative risk (RR) of leakage after LS was 80% of the risk after CS; however, the 95% confidence interval (CI) showed overlap (0.58-1.11). The RR of anastomotic stricture after LS was 74% of the risk after CS; however, 95% CI (0.52-1.05) showed overlap. Wound infections were less common after LS than after CS; RR was 27% (95% CI 0.21-0.33). Length of stay (LOS) was 0.65 days shorter after LS than after CS (95% CI 0.51-0.78). LS compared with CS results in shorter operative time, less wound infections, and shorter length of stay, but no difference was seen concerning risks of leaks or strictures.

Is it the technique or wound protection that is key to reducing wound infections in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedures?

INTRODUCTION

An unusually high surgical site infection (SSI) rate after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) was noted on routine outcomes review. Surgeon A, who had a rate of 8.9%, utilized the transoral technique (passage down esophagus into gastric pouch) for anvil insertion for the circular-stapled gastrojejunostomy. By comparison, SSI rate was 0% for Surgeon B, who inserted anvil transabdominally (direct passage into stomach via gastrotomy) and used wound protection (wound protector and plastic drape over stapler). We sought to determine if it was the technique for anvil insertion (transoral or transabdominal) or use of wound protection that could help reduce SSIs.

METHODS

In mid-2017, Surgeon A added wound protection (wound protector and plastic drape over stapler) to the transoral technique to minimize oral flora wound contamination. Surgeon B made no changes. In this study, wound-related outcomes are examined, comparing patients who underwent surgery before (Group 1) versus after (Group 2) this intervention. Statistical analysis performed utilizing t tests and Chi square analysis; p < 0.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Three hundred and thirty-three patients underwent RYGB. Group 1 consisted of 182 patients over 17 months; 151 patients over 13 months were in Group 2. Groups were similar in age, BMI, gender, and prevalence of diabetes. There was a decrease in SSIs between Group 1 and Group 2 (5 vs. 0, p = 0.04). 11 wound complications occurred in Group 1 (5 SSIs, 4 seromas and 2 hematomas); whereas 2 wound complications occurred in Group 2 (1 seroma and 1 hematoma); decrease from 6 to 1.3%, p = 0.03.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that changing technique can lead to best outcomes. There was a dramatic reduction of wound complications and complete elimination of SSIs with a change in operative technique. The higher risk of SSI with the transoral anvil insertion when preforming a circular-stapled anastomosis can be mitigated with use of wound protection.

Dual Ring Wound Protector Reduces Circular Stapler Related Surgical Site Infections in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass

BACKGROUND

While there are various techniques to create the gastrojejunostomy during a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), many surgeons prefer using a circular stapler. One drawback of this method, however, is the higher incidence of surgical site infections (SSIs). To investigate the effect of a dual ring wound protector on SSIs during LRYGB.

METHODS

In April 2016, our bariatric surgical group implemented an intervention whereby a dual ring wound protector in conjunction with a conical EEA stapler introducer was used when creating the gastrojejunostomy. SSIs from pre- and post-intervention were compared using Fisher's exact test. Only LRYGBs performed with a circular stapler were included in our analysis. Student's t test and χ2 were used to compare pre- and post-intervention groups with respect to demographics and co-morbidities.

RESULTS

Between April 2015 and January 31st, 2017, our surgeons performed 158 LRYGBs using a circular stapler for the gastrojejunostomy. There were 84 patients (53%) in the pre-intervention group and 74 (47%) in the post-intervention group. The pre- and post-intervention groups were not statistically different. The SSI rate for the pre-intervention group was 9.5% while the SSI rate was 1.35% in the post-intervention group (p = 0.0371). The use of a dual ring wound protector for LRYGBs with circular stapled gastrojejunostomy was associated with an 86% relative risk reduction in SSIs.

CONCLUSION

Using a dual ring wound protector in conjunction with a conical EEA introducer for LRYGBs with circular stapled gastrojejunostomy significantly decreased SSIs.

Linear stapled gastrojejunostomy results in fewer strictures compared to circular stapled gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery

PURPOSE

Currently, there are two laparoscopic stapling techniques to perform the gastrojejunostomy in gastric bypass surgery: the linear stapling and circular stapling techniques. The aim of the study was to compare the two techniques regarding postoperative morbidity and weight loss at an accredited bariatric reference center in Switzerland.

METHODS

We compared two consecutive cohorts at a single institution between November 2012 and June 2014 undergoing laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery. The frequency of complications and weight loss at 1 year was assessed in 109 patients with the 21-mm circular stapling technique (CSA) and 134 patients with the linear stapling technique (LSA).

RESULTS

Postoperative complications were more frequent in the CSA group with 23.9 versus 4.5% in the LSA group (p = <0.0001). The main difference was the frequency of strictures, which occurred in 15.6% in the CSA group versus 0% in the LSA group. As a result, endoscopic dilation was required at least once in 15 patients. There was no statistically significant difference in percentage of excessive weight loss (EWL) in both groups; EWL was 74% in the CSA group and 73% in the LSA group (p = 0.68).

CONCLUSION

Linear stapled laparoscopic gastric bypass had fewer stenotic strictures with similar weight loss at 1 year compared to circular stapling technique.

Early and Late Complications in Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass: Comparative Study between Manual and Stapled Anastomosis

The aim of this study is to evaluate the early and late complications of laparoscopic gastric bypass (GBP) with manual versus stapled gastrojejunal anastomosis. Eighty-two patients with morbid obesity and body mass index (35–56 kg/m2) who underwent GBP were divided into two groups: manual gastrojejunal anastomosis (Group 1) and stapled anastomosis (Group 2). Early and late complications were evaluated. No differences were found between both groups in age, sex, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesia classification, and comorbidity. The mean operative time was 184.8 minutes [standard deviation (SD) = 61]; 203.5 minutes (SD = 51.9) in Group 1 and 167.4 minutes (SD = 64.2) in Group 2 (P = 0.001). The average length of stay was 5.9 days (SD = 3.9) in Group 1 and 5 days (SD = 2.1) in Group 2 (P = 0.039). Early complications were recorded in 9.7 per cent of the cases, without any differences between the two groups: 12.2 per cent in Group 1 and 7.3 per cent in Group 2 (P > 0.05). Late complication rate was 8.5 per cent, significantly higher in Group 1 (14.6%) than in Group 2 (2.4%; P < 0.05). However, in the logistic regression analysis these differences were not statistically significant (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.03–8.37; P = 0.61). In our series, the GBP with stapled gastrojejunal anastomosis has shown lower hospital length of stay and operative time than the hand-sewn anastomosis. We have not found significant differences between both groups in early complications or in the need for reoperation. Fewer late complications were found in the group of stapled anastomosis; however, this has not been confirmed in the logistic regression analysis.

Application of side-to-side anastomosis of the lesser curvature of stomach and jejunum in gastric bypass

AIM

To evaluate the feasibility of side-to-side anastomosis of the lesser curvature of stomach and jejunum in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).

METHODS

Seventy-seven patients received side-to-side anastomosis of the lesser curvature of stomach and jejunum by utilization of linear stapler in LRYGB from April 2012 to July 2015 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

All patients were successfully completed laparoscopic gastric bypass with the side-to-side anastomosis of the lesser curvature of stomach and jejunum. No patient was switched to laparotomy during operation. No early complications including gastrointestinal anastomotic bleeding, fistula, obstruction, deep vein thrombosis, incision infections, intra-abdominal hernia complications were found. One patient complicated with stricture of gastrojejunal anastomosis (1.3%) and six patients complicated with incomplete intestinal obstruction (7.8%). BMI and HbA1c determined at 3, 6, 12, 24 mo during follow up period were significantly reduced compared with preoperative baselines respectively. The percentage of patients who maintain HbA1c (%) < 6.5% without taking antidiabetic drugs reached to 61.0%, 63.6%, 75.0%, and 63.6% respectively. The outcome parameters of concomitant diseases were significantly improved too.

CONCLUSION

Present surgery is a safety and feasibility procedure. It is effective to lighten the body weight of patients and improve type 2 diabetes and related complications.

Comparison of gastrojejunal anastomosis techniques in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: gastrojejunal stricture rate and effect on subsequent weight loss

BACKGROUND

Different gastrojejunal anastomotic (GJA) techniques have been described in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). There is conflicting data on whether one technique is superior to the other. We aimed to compare hand-sewn (HSA), circular-stapled (CSA) and linear-stapled (LSA) anastomotic techniques in terms of stricture rates and their impact on subsequent weight loss.

METHODS

A prospectively collected database was used to identify patients undergoing LRYGB surgery between March 2005 and May 2012. Anastomotic technique (HSA, CSA, LSA) was performed according to individual surgeon preference. The database recorded patient demographics, relevant comorbidities and the type of GJA performed. Serial weight measurements and percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) were available at defined follow-up intervals.

RESULTS

Included in the data were 426 patients, divided between HSA (n = 174, 40.8%), CSA (n = 110, 25.8%) and LSA (n = 142, 33.3%). There was no significant difference in the stricture rates (HSA n = 17, 9.72%; CSA n = 9, 8.18%; LSA n = 8, 5.63%; p = 0.4006). Weight loss was similar between the three techniques (HSA, CSA and LSA) at 3 months (40.6% ± 16.2% vs 35.92% ± 21.42% vs 48.21 % ± 14.79%; p = 0.0821), 6 months (61.48% ± 23.94% vs 58.16 % ± 27.31% vs 60.18% ± 22.26%; p = 0.2296), 12 months (72.94% ± 19.93% vs 69.72 ± 21.42% vs 66.05% ± 17.75%; p = 0.0617) and 24 months (73.29% ± 22.31% vs 68.75 % ± 24.71% vs 69.40% ± 23.10%; p = 0.7242), respectively. The stricture group lost significantly greater weight (%EWL) within the first 3 months compared to the non-stricture group (45.39% ± 16.82 % vs 39.22 % ± 21.93%; p = 0.0340); however, this difference had resolved at 6 months (61.29% ± 18.50 % vs 59.79% ± 23.03%; p = 0.8802) and 12 months (71.59 % ± 18.67 % vs 68.69 % ± 22.19 %; p = 0.5970).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in the rate of strictures between the three techniques, although the linear technique appears to have the lowest requirement for post-operative dilatation. The re-intervention rate will, in part, be dictated by the threshold for endoscopy, which will vary between units. Weight loss was similar between the three anastomotic techniques. Surgeons should use techniques that they are most familiar with, as stricture and weight loss rates are not significantly different.

Differences in early complications between circular and linear stapled gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGBP) is the most common bariatric procedure worldwide. The gastrojejunostomy can be stapled with a circular or linear stapler, each with their own specific advantages. We have evaluated differences in postoperative complications between the two techniques.

METHODS

We studied operative data and postoperative complications in 560 patients (79.8 % females, median age 42, BMI 42.5) operated with LGBP between 2008 and 2012 at our center. The gastrojejunostomy was initially performed using a circular stapler (CS) in 288 patients and later by linear stapler (LS) in 272. Complications, operative time, and length of stay were retrieved from our database. The risk of developing a port site infection was evaluated with multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Port site infections were more common with CS than LS, 5.2 and 0.4 %, respectively (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated CS to be an independent risk factor for port site infections (OR 16.3 (2.09-126), p < 0.01), as well as for stomal ulcers (OR 10.1, 1.15-89, p = 0.04). Major postoperative complications remained unchanged (anastomotic leak 1.0 vs. 1.1 %, abscess 0.7 vs. 0.4 %), while operative time and length of stay were found to be shorter using the LS (122 vs. 83 min, p < 0.001 and 4 vs. 3 days, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The linear stapled technique yielded lower incidence of port site infections, probably by avoiding the passage of a contaminated circular stapler through the abdominal wall. No difference in major complications was seen, but operative time was shorter using a linear stapler instead of a circular stapler.

Weight loss and weight regain-5-year follow-up for circular- vs. linear-stapled gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Weight regain (WR) occurs in some patients after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP). Loss of restriction due to dilation of the gastrojejunostomy (GJS) or the gastric pouch might be the main cause for WR. With different techniques available for the establishment of the GJS, the surgical technique might influence long-term success.

METHODS

We present a 5-year follow-up for weight loss and WR of a matched-pair study comparing circular stapled (CSA) to linear stapled (LSA) GJS in a series of 150 patients who underwent primary antecolic antegastric LRYGBP. Complete 5-year follow-up was obtained for 79 % of the patients.

RESULTS

Excess BMI loss (EBL) at 3 months was better with the CSA (p = 0.02) and comparable thereafter. The 5-year %EBL was 67.3 ± 23.2 vs. 73.3 ± 24.3 % (CSA vs. LSA, p = 0.19) WR of > 10 kg from nadir was found in 24 patients (16 %) with higher incidence in CSA than in LSA patients (20 % vs. 12 %). The %WR was comparable for both groups, 16 ± 13 vs. 15 ± 19 % (CSA vs. LSA, p = 0.345). Eleven patients underwent surgical re-intervention for WR by placement of a non-adjustable band (n = 2), adjustable band (n = 7) and conversion to distal gastric bypass (n = 2).

CONCLUSIONS

CSA and LSA lead to comparable weight loss in this 5-year follow-up. More patients in the CSA group had WR. Weight regain of more than 10 kg was found in one out of seven patients within 5 years postoperatively.

Gastric bypass leads to improvement of diabetic neuropathy independent of glucose normalization--results of a prospective cohort study (DiaSurg 1 study)

OBJECTIVE

Surprisingly, 40% to 95% of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) show early remission of hyperglycemia after obesity surgery. It is unknown to what extent other diabetes-associated comorbidities such as distal peripheral neuropathy (DPN) might be influenced by obesity surgery. This pilot study aimed at providing further evidence for the impact of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on both glycemic control and DPN in non-severely obese patients with insulin-dependent T2DM.

METHODS

In the present prospective cohort study, 20 patients with long-standing, insulin-dependent T2DM and a body mass index (BMI) between 25 and 35 kg/m underwent laparoscopic RYGB. Body mass index, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and DPN [quantified by the Neuropathy Symptom Score (NSS) and the Neuropathy Deficit Score (NDS)] were investigated.

RESULTS

Six months after surgery, the preoperative BMI of 32.8 ± 2.1 kg/m (mean ± standard deviation) dropped to 25.6 ± 2.5 kg/m (P < 0.001). Preoperative HbA1c levels decreased from 8.5 ± 1.2% to 7.1 ± 1.2% (P < 0.001), with 15% of patients having a normalized HbA1c level lower than 6.2%. Of 12 patients with documented DPN, the median NSS was 8 (range, 0-10) preoperatively and 0 (range, 0-9) postoperatively (P = 0.004), with 8 patients scoring an NSS of 0. The median NDS was 6 (range, 2-8) preoperatively and 4 (range, 0-8) postoperatively (P = 0.027), with 1 patient scoring an NDS of 0. All patients had an improvement or normalization in either 1 or both scores.

CONCLUSIONS

As expected, BMI and HbA1c levels improved significantly after RYGB. More interestingly, neuropathy scores, such as NSS and NDS, improved significantly early after surgery. Symptomatic neuropathy was completely reversible in 67% of the patients. These findings add further evidence to the fact that RYGB might be a valuable treatment option not only for improving glycemic control but also for reducing diabetes-associated comorbidities, such as DPN. This points to a complex metabolic effect of RYGB that exceeds glucose normalization. However, the results still need to be confirmed in controlled trials.

Endoscopic dilation of gastrojejunal anastomosis after gastric bypass

INTRODUCTION

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass may result in stenosis of the gastrojejunal anastomosis. There is currently no well-defined management protocol for this complication.

AIM

Through systematic review, to analyze the results of endoscopic dilation in patients with stenosis, including complication and success rates.

METHODS

The PubMed database was searched for relevant studies published each year from 1988 to 2010, and 23 studies were identified for analysis. Only papers describing the treatment of anastomotic stricture after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass were included, and case reports featuring less than three patients were excluded.

RESULTS

The mean age of the trial populations was 42.3 years and mean preoperative body mass index was 48.8 kg/m². A total of 1,298 procedures were undertaken in 760 patients (81% female), performing 1.7 dilations per patient. Through-the-scope balloons were used in 16 studies (69.5%) and Savary-Gilliard bougies in four. Only 2% of patients required surgical revision after dilation; the reported complication rate was 2.5% (n=19). Annual success rate was greater than 98% each year from 1992 to 2010, except for a 73% success rate in 2004. Seven studies reported complications, being perforation the most common, reported in 14 patients (1.82%) and requiring immediate operation in two patients. Other complications were also reported: one esophageal hematoma, one Mallory-Weiss tear, one case of severe nausea and vomiting, and two cases of severe abdominal pain.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic treatment of stenosis is safe and effective; however, further high-quality randomized controlled trials should be conducted to confirm these findings.

Linear-stapled versus circular-stapled laparoscopic gastrojejunal anastomosis in morbid obesity: meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The study aims to provide a pooled analysis of individual small trials comparing linear-stapled versus circular-stapled laparoscopic gastrojejunal (GJ) anastomosis in morbid obesity surgery.

METHODS

A systematic literature search of Medline, Embase, and Cochrane library databases was performed. Primary outcomes were GJ leak and stricture. Secondary outcomes were operative time, length of hospital stay, postoperative bleeding, wound infection, marginal ulcers, and estimated weight loss. Pooled odds ratios were calculated for categorical outcomes and weighted mean differences for continuous outcomes.

RESULTS

Nine trials were included comprising 9374 patients (2946 linear vs. 6428 circular). Primary outcome analysis revealed a statistically significant increase in the rate of GJ stricture associated with circular-stapled anastomosis. A significantly reduced rate of wound infection, bleeding, and operative time associated with linear stapling was also found. No significant differences appeared for the other outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This pooled analysis recommends the preferential use of the linear stapling technique over circular stapling.

Linear stapler technique may be safer than circular in gastrojejunal anastomosis for laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a meta-analysis of comparative studies

The technique of choice for gastrojejunostomy (GJ) during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) for morbid obesity is controversial. We performed a meta-analysis comparing linear versus circular stapler technique to evaluate this issue. A systematic literature search was performed. Primary outcomes were gastrojejunal leak and stricture. Secondary outcomes were operative time, length of hospital stay, post-operative bleeding, wound infection, marginal ulcers and estimated weight loss. Eight studies involving 1,321 patients were retrieved and included in the present study. A significantly decreased risk of GJ stricture was observed after using linear versus circular stapler (RR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.12-0.93; p = 0.04). Wound infection risk (RR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.22-0.67; p = 0.0008) and operative time (MD, -24.18; 95% CI, -35.31, -13.05; p < 0.0001) were significantly reduced by using linear stapling. No significant differences were observed in the other outcome end-points. The use of the linear stapler compared with circular stapler for GJ during LRYGB for morbid obesity may be associated with a reduced risk of anastomosis stricture and wound infection, as well as with a shorter operative time.

Comparison of hand-sewn, linear-stapled, and circular-stapled gastrojejunostomy in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

There is no consensus on the ideal gastrojejunostomy anastomosis (GJA) technique in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). We reviewed our experience with three GJA techniques (hand-sewn (HSA), linear-stapled (LSA), and 25-mm circular-stapled (CSA)) to determine which anastomosis technique is associated with the lowest early (60-day) anastomotic complication rates.

METHODS

From November 2004 through December 2009, 882 consecutive patients underwent LRYGB using three GJA techniques: HSA, LSA, and CSA. All patients had a minimum of 2 months follow-up. Records were reviewed for postoperative gastrojejunostomy leak, stricture, and marginal ulcer, and these early complications were classified according to anastomosis technique. Multivariate analysis was performed to determine associations between complications and anastomosis technique.

RESULTS

Preoperative demographics, length of hospital stay, and postoperative follow-up did not differ between the three groups. The majority of patients underwent LSA (n = 514, 61.6%) followed by HSA (n = 180, 21.6%) and CSA (n = 140, 16.8%). Using multivariate analysis, there were no statistically significant differences in the rates of leak (LSA 1.0%, HSA 1.1%, CSA 0.0%, p = 0.480), stricture (LSA 6.0%, HSA 6.1%, CSA 4.3%, p = 0.657), or marginal ulcer (LSA 8.0%, HSA 7.7%, CSA 3.6%, p = 0.180).

CONCLUSIONS

The three techniques can be used safely with a low complication rate. Our data do not identify a superior anastomosis technique.

Revisionary bariatric surgery: indications and outcome of 100 consecutive operations at a single center

BACKGROUND

A growing number of revisionary and secondary bariatric operations have been performed in recent years, with the number of operations doubling each year at the authors' center. Diagnostics, indications, and most revisionary operations should be performed by an experienced bariatric surgeon. This study was undertaken to evaluate indications and outcomes of revisionary bariatric operations at a specialized center.

METHODS

At the Centre of Obesity and Metabolic Surgery (University of Freiburg, Germany), 100 consecutive revisionary bariatric operations performed between March 2007 and September 2009 were analyzed concerning indications and outcomes.

RESULTS

Only 9 of the 100 revisions were due to early complications (<30 days after the primary operation). The indication for most revisions was poor weight loss (n = 55). A mean body mass index reduction of 10 points could be achieved in 1 year, which equals a 56% excess weight loss (EWL). No significant difference in weight reduction between restrictive and malabsorptive revisions was observed. Revisions due to implant-related problems also were frequent (n = 25). Laparoscopic revision was possible in 95% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Insufficient weight loss is the most frequent indication for revisionary bariatric surgery. The surgery can be performed laparoscopically in most cases, and a significant EWL (> 50%) can be achieved in 1 year if the right revisionary procedure is chosen.

Laparoscopic resectional gastric bypass in patients with morbid obesity: experience on 112 consecutive patients

INTRODUCTION

Gastric bypass, without gastric resection of the distal excluded stomach, is the surgical treatment more frequently performed for morbid obesity. Several postoperative complications related to the “in situ” distal stomach have been described, and few cases of undetected gastric carcinoma located in this segment of stomach have been published. In this paper, we present our early postoperative results in patients submitted to laparoscopic gastric bypass with resection of distal stomach in patients with morbid obesity.

METHODS

One hundred twelve consecutive patients were included in this study. The mean body weight was 112.15±5.1 (range 78–145), and BMI was 40.5±6.9 kg/m2 (32.9–50.3). Patients were submitted to resectional gastric bypass by laparoscopic approach. The operative time was 133.7±29.1 min (range 120–240).

RESULTS

Postoperative complications occurred in 12 patients (10.7%) without any mortality. Early complications were observed in 11 patients while one patient presented a late complication, four patients were re-hospitalized, three of them without operation and other four of them were re-operated due to early (three patients) or late complication (one patient). One hundred patients (89.2%) were discharged at fourth postoperative day, seven patients remained in hospital between 5 and 10 days, and four patients after the tenth day due to complications. Leaks were observed in three patients. The histological study of the resected specimen was normal in only 8.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic resectional gastric bypass presents very similar results compared to classic gastric bypass, without significant increase of morbidity, mortality, early and late postoperative results, and therefore, it is an option for the surgical treatment of morbid obesity in countries with high risk of gastric carcinoma.

[Anastomoses in the upper gastrointestinal tract]

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leaks are the major postoperative complications mainly due to technical difficulties. The aim was to review anastomotic techniques and risk factors for leak development.

METHODS

A Pubmed search was performed using the terms esophagogastric/esophagojejunal anastomosis, gastrojejunostomy, gastric bypass, esophagectomy, anastomotic leak/risk factors, gastrectomy, TEA, fluid management, early enteral feeding and reinforcement. English and German literature sources were included with the accent on recent prospective randomized controlled trials (pRCT) with high numbers of cases as well as meta-analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

There is not enough evidence to recommend either hand sewn or mechanical anastomoses. Surgical skills and routine as well as precise work are necessary to reduce complications. Although stapling leads to uniformity of anastomoses it cannot compensate for surgical deficits.