Endoscopic dilation of gastrojejunal anastomotic strictures after laparoscopic gastric bypass. Predictors of initial failure

Incidence and risk factors for early gastrojejunostomy anastomotic stricture requiring endoscopic intervention following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a MBSAQIP analysis

BACKGROUND

Gastrojejunostomy (GJ) stricture is one of the most commonly recognized complications following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). The risks involving the formation of early GJ stomal stenosis are largely unknown. The aims of this study are to evaluate the rate and risk factors associated with GJ stricture in patients requiring esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) within 30 days after LRYGB.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of patients who underwent EGD for GJ stricture following LRYGB. Data were retrieved from MBSAQIP database from 2015 to 2018. Descriptive, bivariate, and logistic regression analyses were performed. Those who had reoperation, readmission, and intervention for other indications rather than GJ stricture were excluded from the risk factor analysis.

RESULTS

760,076 patients underwent bariatric surgery. Of these, 184,660 (24.3%) underwent LRYGB and 875 had GJ stricture within 30 days postoperatively. The overall incidence of early GJ stricture after LRYGB was 4.7 per 1000 person-years. The incidence decreased from 6.2 to 3.4 per 1000 person-years during the 4-year period. 85% of patients with GJ stricture required therapeutic intervention. Median (IQR) day to the first endoscopic intervention was 25 (21-28) days. The overall 30-day readmission rate was 40%. 30-day reoperation rate due to GJ stricture was 5.6%. No 30-day mortality occurred. Factors independently associated with an increased risk for early GJ stricture include concurrent hiatal hernia repair (Adjusted Odds Ratio-AOR 1.8, 95% CI 1.5-2.2), revision case (AOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-1.6), African American (AOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-1.7), gastroesophageal reflux disease-GERD (AOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.2-1.5), drain placement (AOR 1.3, 95% CI1.1-1.4), and routine postoperative swallow study (AOR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.50).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of early GJ stricture following LRYGB decreased at MBSAQIP-accredited centers over the review period. Patients having additional manipulation at or around GJ were at risk of developing early GJ stricture after LRYGB.

Clinical symptoms are correlated with gastrojejunal anastomosis complications only during the first year after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

INTRODUCTION

after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) many patients complain of epigastric pain or food intolerance, leading to the performance of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) endoscopy.

OBJECTIVE

this study aims to assess which symptomatology as reported by LRYGBP patients during follow-up suggested correlation with pathological findings of endoscopy, and which factors might play a role, taking the timing of symptom presentation into account.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

a retrospective cohort study was performed identifying LRYGBP patients presenting with food intolerance and/or epigastric pain who had undergone endoscopy. Primary outcomes were endoscopy findings, their association with patient characteristics, and timing of symptom presentation.

RESULTS

of the 514 patients complaining of epigastric pain and/or food intolerance, 81 (15.6 %) underwent endoscopy. A gastrojejunostomy complication was found in 58 % of cases. All patients who complained about food intolerance and epigastric pain presented pathological findings. The only preoperative factor associated with a gastrojejunostomy complication was being a smoker (p = 0.021). Time between surgery and endoscopy was also a predictive factor for endoscopic pathological findings (p = 0.007); in cases of epigastric pain, symptom onset during the first year (median: 10 months) was related to increased risk of gastrojejunal complications (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

endoscopies performed within one year of surgery were significantly more likely to reveal pathological findings than endoscopies performed after the first postoperative year, especially in patients experiencing epigastric pain.

Safety of bariatric surgery in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The efficacy of bariatric surgery in achieving weight loss and preventing long-term comorbidities such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and osteoarthritis is well established. Data regarding safety of bariatric surgery in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is scarce. We attempted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the complications following bariatric surgery in patients with IBD. The primary outcomes evaluated were wound infection, Clavien-Dindo grade > II complications and IBD exacerbation (within 1 year). Secondary outcomes evaluated included overall mortality, stricture, small bowel obstruction, acute kidney injury (AKI) and thromboembolism. Pooled outcomes (event rate) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using random effects model. A total of 14 studies (all observational) with 2608 patients were included. The rates of primary outcomes were: wound infection (4.1%, 95% CI: 0.9-7.2), Clavien-Dindo grade > II complications (2.0%, 95%: CI 0.6-3.5) and IBD exacerbation (4.3%, 95% CI: 0.7-7.9). The pooled rate for other outcomes was: mortality 0.1%, stricture 6.5%, small bowel obstruction 6.7%, AKI 2.2% and thromboembolism 0.1%. Bariatric surgery is relatively safe in patients with IBD and should be pursued to reduce comorbidities associated with obesity. Future comparative studies are needed to further assess the safety of bariatric surgery in population with and without IBD.

Endoscopic devices and techniques for the management of bariatric surgical adverse events (with videos)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, increasing numbers of patients undergo bariatric surgery. Management of adverse events of bariatric surgery may be challenging and often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Endoscopic intervention is often the first line of therapy for management of these adverse events. This document reviews technologies and techniques used for endoscopic management of adverse events of bariatric surgery, organized by surgery type.

METHODS

The MEDLINE database was searched through May 2018 for articles related to endoscopic management of adverse events of bariatric interventions by using relevant keywords such as adverse events related to "gastric bypass," "sleeve gastrectomy," "laparoscopic adjustable banding," and "vertical banded sleeve gastroplasty," in addition to "endoscopic treatment" and "endoscopic management," among others. Available data regarding efficacy, safety, and financial considerations are summarized.

RESULTS

Common adverse events of bariatric surgery include anastomotic ulcers, luminal stenoses, fistulae/leaks, and inadequate initial weight loss or weight regain. Devices used for endoscopic management of bariatric surgical adverse events include balloon dilators (hydrostatic, pneumatic), mechanical closure devices (clips, endoscopic suturing system, endoscopic plication platform), luminal stents (covered esophageal stents, lumen-apposing metal stents, plastic stents), and thermal therapy (argon plasma coagulation, needle-knives), among others. Available data, composed mainly of case series and retrospective cohort studies, support the primary role of endoscopic management. Multiple procedures and techniques are often required to achieve clinical success, and existing management algorithms are evolving.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopy is a less invasive alternative for management of adverse events of bariatric surgery and for revisional procedures. Endoscopic procedures are frequently performed in the context of multidisciplinary management with bariatric surgeons and interventional radiologists. Treatment algorithms and standards of practice for endoscopic management will continue to be refined as new dedicated technology and data emerge.

Upper endoscopy after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: diagnostic yield and factors associated with relevant findings

BACKGROUND

After laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass many patients present with complaints for which an upper endoscopy is performed. However, often no abnormalities are found.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the incidence of relevant findings at upper endoscopy and identify patient characteristics associated with a relevant finding.

SETTING

A high-volume bariatric center.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed. All patients presenting with complaints after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass who consequently underwent a diagnostic upper endoscopy were identified from a prospective endoscopic database. Primary outcomes were the number and type of relevant findings at upper endoscopy and its association with patient characteristics. Relevant findings were defined as abnormalities requiring treatment.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight (39.2%) of 250 patients had a relevant finding at upper endoscopy, mostly marginal ulcer and stomal stenosis. Male sex (odds ratio [OR] 3.47 [1.12-10.76]), alcohol consumption (OR 7.27 [1.58-33.36]), dysphagia or suspicion of bleeding as referral reason (OR 3.62 [1.54-8.52] and 39.93 [4.96-321.47], respectively, compared with abdominal pain), an abnormal upper gastrointestinal series (OR 6.81 [2.06-22.48]), and no abdominal ultrasound (OR 7.41 [1.48-37.08] compared with a normal ultrasound) were significantly associated with a relevant finding at upper endoscopy.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study sex, alcohol consumption, referral reason, and prior imaging studies were associated with a relevant finding at upper endoscopy after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Endoscopic treatment of early leaks and strictures after laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass has become a prominent bariatric procedure. Yet, early and late complications, primarily leaks and strictures, are not uncommon. This study summarizes our experience with endoscopic treatment of laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass complications.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of consecutive patients referred to our hospital from 2015 to 2017 with post laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass complications. Therapy was tailored to each case, including fully covered self-expandable metal stents, fibrin glue, septotomy, internal drainage with pigtail stents, through-the-scope and pneumatic dilation. Success was defined as resuming oral nutrition without enteral or parenteral support or further surgical intervention.

RESULTS

Nine patients presented with acute or early leaks: 5 (56%) had staple-line leaks, 3 (33%) had anastomotic leaks and 1 (11%) had both. All were treated with stents. Adjunctive endoscopic drainage was applied in 4 patients (44%). Overall 5 patients (56%) with acute/ early leaks recovered completely, including all 3 patients with anastomotic leak and the patient with both leaks but only 1/5 with staple line leak (20%). Complication rate in the leak group reached 22%. Eight patients presented with strictures, 7 at the anastomosis and one due to remnant stomach misalignment. All anastomotic strictures were dilated successfully. However, the patient with the pouch stricture required conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass after 3 failed attempts of dilation.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopic treatments of laparoscopic one anastomosis gastric bypass complications are relatively effective and safe. Anastomosis-related complications are more amenable to endoscopic treatment compared to staple line leaks.

Anastomotic Strictures After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Cohort Study from the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is the most common bariatric procedure worldwide. Anastomotic stricture is a known complication of RYGB. The aim was to explore the incidence and outcomes of strictures within the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry (SOReg).

METHOD

SOReg included prospective data from 36,362 patients undergoing bariatric surgery in the years 2007-2013. Outcomes were recorded at 30-day and at 1-year follow-up according to the standard SOReg routine. The medical charts of patients suffering from stricture after RYGB were requested and assessed.

SETTING

National bariatric surgery registry RESULTS: Anastomotic stricture within 1 year of surgery was confirmed in 101 patients representing an incidence of 0.3%. Risk factors for stricture were patient age above 60 years (odds ratio (OR), 6.2 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.7-14.3), circular stapled gastrojejunostomy (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.4-5.5), postoperative anastomotic leak (OR 8.9 95%, CI 4.7-17.0), and marginal ulcer (OR 30.0, 95% CI 19.2-47.0). Seventy-five percent of the strictures were diagnosed within 70 days of surgery. Two dilatations or less was sufficient to successfully treat 50% of patients. Ten pecent of patients developed perforation during dilatation, and the risk of perforating at each dilatation was 3.8%. Perforation required surgery in six cases but there was no mortality. Strictures in SOReg may be underreported, which could explain the low incidence in the study.

CONCLUSION

Most strictures present within 2 months and are successfully treated with two dilatations or less. Dilating a strictured gastrojejunostomy entails a risk of perforation (3.8%).

Endoscopic Dilation of Bariatric RNY Anastomotic Strictures: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Gastrojejunostomy anastomotic strictures are a complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery without an established treatment guideline. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine the safety and efficacy of endoscopic dilation in their management. PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central (1994-2017) were searched. Data was analyzed with random effects meta-analysis and mixed effects meta-regression. Twenty-one observational studies (896 patients) were included. The stricture rate for laparoscopic patients was 6% (95% CI, 5-9%). Only 38% (95% CI, 30-47%) required greater than one dilation. Symptom improvement occurred in 97% (95% CI, 94-98%). The complication rate was 4% (95% CI, 3-6%). Endoscopic dilation of GJA strictures is safe, effective, and sustaining. This study can guide endoscopists in the treatment of a common bariatric surgical complication.

Value of robotic-assisted technique in redo gastrojejunostomy for severe stenosis after gastric bypass

Development of gastrojejunal stricture following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) leads to an increase in morbidity and adverse effects, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, aspiration pneumonia, and malnutrition. Up to 38.5% of patients will require revisional surgery for late anastomotic strictures despite conservative treatment. However, no previous studies focused on revisional robotic bariatric surgery due to strictures after RYGB have been reported. To evaluate our outcomes and assess the advantages of the robotic platform with regard to laparoscopic and open revisional procedures. University Hospital. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent laparoscopic robotic-assisted redo gastrojejunostomy from 2016 to 2018. Demographics, surgical data, medical treatments, postoperative outcomes, and adverse effects were collected. Nine patients with symptomatic anastomotic strictures after primary RYGB underwent robotic revisional surgery. All patients received medical therapy as a first approach, and five patients (55.5%) underwent endoscopic balloon dilation. All procedures were successfully completed with robotic assistance, with a mean (standard deviation) operative time of 184.5 (49.1) min, and no intraoperative adverse effects were registered. Median (range) hospital stay was 2 (1-4) days. One patient presented with a postoperative intra-abdominal abscess and was treated with intravenous antibiotics and image-guided drainage. No anastomotic leak, hemorrhage, or mortality were reported. Robotic assistance seems to be safe and effective for redo gastrojejunostomy secondary to stricture. Even though the sample size is small, we believe that the application of robotic techniques may provide advantages and improve the outcomes in these complex revisional procedures.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Without Division of the Mesentery Reduces the Risk of Postoperative Complications

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic complications after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) including leaks, ulceration, and stenosis remain a significant cause of post-operative morbidity and mortality. Our objective was to compare two different surgical techniques regarding short-term anastomotic complications.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all patients operated with a primary LRYGB from 2006 to June 2015 in one institution, where prospectively collected data from an internal quality registry and medical journals were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 2420 patients were included in the analysis. 1016 were operated with a technique where the mesentery was divided during the creation of the Roux-limb (DM-LRYGB) and 1404 were operated with a method where the mesentery was left intact (IM-LRYGB). Leakage in the first 30 days [2.6% vs. 1.1% (p < 0.05)], and ulceration or stenosis occurring during the first 6 months after surgery [5.6% vs. 0.1% (p < 0.05)] was significantly higher in the DM-LRYGB group. Adjusted odds ratio for anastomotic leak was 0.46 (95% CI 0.24-0.87) and for stenosis/ulceration 0.01 (95% CI 0.002-0.09).

CONCLUSION

IM-LRYGB seems to reduce the risk of complications at the anastomosis. A plausible explanation for this is that the blood supply to the anastomosis is compromised when the mesentery is divided.

A nutrition problem solved by a two-step endoscopic removal of a non-adjustable gastric band

Bariatric surgery is an effective approach for weight loss and short-term improvement in metabolic disorders. Stenosis is a common complication of gastric banding. Balloon dilatation or gastrotomy has been employed in this setting. Few studies have indicated endoscopic removal of the band a feasible procedure. We present a 60-year-old female who underwent gastric banding in 1985 and suffered from late stenosis and malnutrition. Endoscopy revealed a severe stenosis. A two-step procedure was performed. Initially a coated stent was placed into the stenosis to achieve pressure necrosis. Two weeks later, the stent was removed and the band was removed endoscopically. The procedure was performed without any complications. The patient was discharged the next day. A follow-up after 2 months revealed no problems with stenosis or malnutrition. The procedure was a safe, efficient and convenient way of handling late stenosis after gastric banding.

Endoluminal solutions to bariatric surgery complications: A review with a focus on technical aspects and results

Obesity is a growing problem in developed countries, and surgery is the most effective treatment in terms of weight loss and improving medical comorbidity in a high proportion of obese patients. Despite the advances in surgical techniques, some patients still develop acute and late postoperative complications, and an endoscopic evaluation is often required for diagnosis. Moreover, the high morbidity related to surgical reintervention, the important enhancement of endoscopic procedures and technological innovations introduced in endoscopic equipment have made the endoscopic approach a minimally-invasive alternative to surgery, and, in many cases, a suitable first-line treatment of bariatric surgery complications. There is now evidence in the literature supporting endoscopic management for some of these complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, stomal and marginal ulcers, stomal stenosis, leaks and fistulas or pancreatobiliary disorders. However, endoscopic treatment in this setting is not standardized, and there is no consensus on its optimal timing. In this article, we aim to analyze the secondary complications of the most expanded techniques of bariatric surgery with special emphasis on those where more solid evidence exists in favor of the endoscopic treatment. Based on a thorough review of the literature, we evaluated the performance and safety of different endoscopic options for every type of complication, highlighting the most recent innovations and including comparative data with surgical alternatives whenever feasible.

Endoscopic Approach for Major Complications of Bariatric Surgery

As lifestyle and diet patterns have become westernized in East Asia, the prevalence of obesity has rapidly increased. Bariatric surgeries, such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), are considered the first-line treatment option in patients with severe obesity. However, postoperative complications have increased and the proper management of these complications, including the use of endoscopic procedures, has become important. The most serious complications, such as leaks and fistulas, can be treated with endoscopic stent placement and injection of fibrin glue, and a novel full-thickness closure over-the-scope clip (OTSC) has been used for treatment of postoperative leaks. Stricture at the gastrojejunal (GJ) anastomosis site after RYGB or incisura angularis in SG can be managed using stents or endoscopic balloon dilation. Dilation of the GJ anastomosis or gastric pouch may lead to failure of weight loss, and the use of endoscopic sclerotherapy, novel endoscopic suturing devices, and OTSCs have been attempted. Intragastric migration of the gastric band can be successfully treated using various endoscopic tools. Endoscopy plays a pivotal role in the management of post-bariatric complications, and close cooperation between endoscopists and bariatric surgeons may further increase the success rate of endoscopic procedures.

Role of the gastroenterologist in the management of the obese patient

Obesity is a highly prevalent disease worldwide, and one in which gastroenterologists can play an important role. Some digestive diseases are more common in obese patients, and preoperative evaluation may be required in some cases. Additionally, bariatric surgery can lead to digestive complications in the short and long term that require intervention, and endoscopic treatment can be an important factor in weight loss. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of the gastroenterologist in the management of obese patients who are either scheduled for or have undergone surgical or endoscopic treatment for obesity.

Factors associated with complications or failure of endoscopic balloon dilation of anastomotic stricture secondary to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery

INTRODUCTION

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a commonly used technique of bariatric surgery. One of the most important complications is gastrojejunal anastomotic stricture. Endoscopic balloon dilation appears to be well tolerated and effective, but well-designed randomized, controlled trials have not yet been conducted.

OBJECTIVE

Identify factors associated with complications or failure of endoscopic balloon dilation of anastomotic stricture secondary to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery.

SETTING

Gastrointestinal endoscopy service, university hospital, Brazil.

METHODS

The records of 64 patients with anastomotic stricture submitted to endoscopic dilation with hydrostatic balloon dilation were reviewed. Information was collected on gastric pouch length, anastomosis diameter before dilation, number of dilation sessions, balloon diameter at each session, anastomosis diameter after the last dilation session, presence of postsurgical complications, endoscopic complications, and outcome of dilation. Comparisons were made among postsurgical and endoscopic complications; number of dilations, balloon diameter; anastomosis diameter before dilation; and dilation outcome.

RESULTS

Success of dilation treatment was 95%. Perforation was positively and significantly associated with the number of dilation sessions (P = .03). Highly significant associations were found between ischemic segment and perforation (P<.001) and between ischemic segment and bleeding (P = .047). Ischemic segment (P = .02) and fistula (P = .032) were also associated with dilation failure.

CONCLUSION

Ischemic segment and fistula were found to be important risk factors for balloon dilation failure. The greater the number of dilation sessions, the greater the number of endoscopic complications.

Post Roux-en-Y gastric bypass complications: A comparative study assessing the clinical effectiveness of oesophagogastroduodenoscopy and oral-contrast swallow

INTRODUCTION

Anastomotic strictures at the gastrojejunal anastomosis have been reported to occur in 3-20% of patients following a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Patients commonly present with dysphagia, vomiting and post-prandial pain. Clearly using the appropriate investigations to diagnose the potential complications have both clinical and economical benefits. The reported study compared whether Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD) or oral-contrast swallow should be employed in patient presenting with post-operative complications following RYGB.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 112 patients between 2008 and 2012; at a level 4 bariatric surgery hospital. Patients who had ≥1 OGD to investigate a post-operative complication were included for analysis. Oral-contrast swallow radiology reports performed <28 days prior to an OGD were included for analysis. Patient demographics, OGD, oral-contrast swallow and additional interventions reports were collated from electronic records, pathology and radiology results.

RESULTS

112 patients underwent 1 or more OGD. 75% (n = 67) of patients were diagnosed with a post-operative complication with the most common, 51% (n = 57) being a gastrojejunal anastomotic stricture. 82% (n = 47) of patients presented with dysphagia + - vomiting prior to the diagnosis of gastrojejunal anastomotic strictures. 96% (n = 55) of patients with gastrojejunal anastomotic strictures were successfully treated with balloon dilation. 48% (n = 54) of patients had an oral-contrast swallow as a first line investigation for post-operative symptoms prior to the OGD. 15% (n = 8) of oral-contrast swallow were reported with a significant pathology, with only 1 stricture identified. 70% (n = 38) of oral-contrast swallows reported as normal had a pathology identified at OGD, including 28 strictures.

CONCLUSION

We recommend that an OGD should be performed in patients presenting with symptoms consistent with a stricture following RYGB. The urgency of the OGD will be dictated by clinical correlation. The use of a water-soluble contrast swallow should be reserved for a suspected anastomotic leak.

Major complications of bariatric surgery: endoscopy as first-line treatment

Leaks are the most frequent early postoperative complication in the two most popular bariatric procedures, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Multimodal therapy based on self-expandable stent insertion 'to cover' the defect is the most widely documented technique to date with a reported success rate >80%. Additional experimental techniques 'to close' the defect or 'to drain' the paradigestive cavity have been reported with encouraging results. The role of endoscopy in early postoperative bleeding is limited to management of bleeds arising from fresh sutures and the diagnosis of chronic sources of bleeding such as marginal ulcer after RYGB. Post-RYGB stricture is a more delayed complication than leaks and the role of endoscopic dilation as a first-line treatment in this indication is well documented. Ring and band placement are outdated procedures for obesity treatment, but might still be an indication for endoscopic removal, a technique which does not compromise further surgery, if needed.

The Effect of Route of Anvil Insertion on Stricture Rates with Circular Stapled Gastrojejunostomy During Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

BACKGROUND

A higher incidence of gastrojejunal (GJ) anastomotic strictures has been reported following laparoscopic gastric bypass (LRYGB) with the 21 mm compared to 25 mm circular stapler. We hypothesized that the rate of stricture formation is affected by route of anvil insertion and its position relative to the gastric pouch staple line [trans-gastric above staple line (trans-gastric) vs. trans-oral through staple line (trans-oral)] following LRYGB.

METHODS

Retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent LRYGB with circular stapled GJ studied in four groups: trans-gastric-21 mm, trans-gastric-25 mm, trans-oral-21 mm, and trans-oral-25 mm. Primary outcome studied was GJ stricture; secondary outcomes were results with endoscopic therapy and weight loss at 12 months. Predictors studied were age, gender, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, and operative technical factors including anvil size and insertion route. Regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of GJ stricture.

RESULTS

Eight hundred seventy-six patients underwent LRYGB. Seventy-six (8.7 %) developed a GJ stricture. The highest stricture rate occurred in the trans-gastric-21 mm group (17 %, p < .01 for all comparisons). Stricture rates were similar for trans-gastric-25 mm (8.4 %), trans-oral-21 mm (5.2 %), and trans-oral-25 mm (1.6 %) groups. Independent predictors of stricture were: trans-gastric-21 mm (OR 10.9, 95%CI 1.4-85.1; p = .022) and age (OR 0.97, 95%CI 0.95-0.99; p = .002). Endoscopic dilation relieved symptoms in all patients. There was no difference in %EWL at 12 months in patients with and without a stricture.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the trans-oral-21 mm anvil is associated with a low stricture rate. With the advantage of smaller abdominal wall wound, trans-oral-21 mm may be the preferred size and route of anvil insertion.

Gastrojejunostomy stricture rate: comparison between antecolic and retrocolic laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure is an effective treatment for morbid obesity. One of the most frequent complications after this operation is the appearance of a gastrojejunal anastomotic stricture. Mechanisms underlying the development of such complication are unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present retrospective study was to compare the rates of gastrojejunostomy stricture between the antecolic and retrocolic technique in a large cohort of patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity, with the same gastrojejunal anastomotic technique.

SETTING

University Hospital, France.

METHODS

From November 2000 to March 2012, 1500 patients underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The antecolic and the retrocolic technique were used in respectively 572 and 928 consecutive patients. All procedures were performed using a circular stapled gastrojejunostomy and absorbable sutures.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference with respect to gender, age, body mass index, and obesity related co-morbidities between both groups. Patients were followed for 24-146 months (mean 67.5 mo). Fifty-one patients developed a gastrojejunal stricture (3.4%), 37 in the antecolic group (6.5%) and 14 in the retrocolic group (1.5%). The difference was significant (P< .0001). The mean time to onset of gastrojejunal stricture symptoms after surgery was 1 month, ranging from 1 to 3 months. All patients were successfully treated using Savary-Gilliard dilatators. All patients with a gastrojejunal stricture were followed up for a minimum of 36 months. No recurrence was observed and no revisional surgery was needed. Weight loss was similar in patients who developed an anastomotic stricture compared with those without stricture. In the antecolic group internal hernia occurred in 12 of the 110 with no closure of mesenteric defects and in 8 of the 462 (1.7%) with defects closed. In the retrocolic group, 11 patients (1.2%) developed an internal hernia.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant lower gastrojejunal stricture rate was observed in the retrocolic group, with no increased risk of internal hernia, when mesenteric defects were closed. The antecolic technique seems to be a risk factor for gastrojejunal stricture development after laparoscopic gastric bypass.

The hidden endoscopic burden of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Complication rates of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) vary from centre to centre, but anastomotic stricture is the commonest, and is managed in the majority by endoscopic pneumatic dilatation. The aim of this study was to assess the endoscopic burden of RYGB surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients undergoing RYGB surgery over a 29-month period were included and were followed-up retrospectively and prospectively for a minimum of 180 days to monitor for endoscopic procedures performed in relation to the RYGB at Walsall Manor Hospital, UK. Five hundred and fifty-three patients underwent RYGB surgery during the study period.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirteen patients had 147 endoscopic procedures, including 65 pneumatic dilatations, at a cost to the NHS of £58 077 over a 29-month study period, with an average cost of £2003 a month. or £105 per RYGB operation performed. The anastomotic stricture rate for the group was 11.39%. The complication rate for dilatation of anastomotic strictures was 0%.

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB anastomotic strictures can be safely managed by dilatation. If bariatric surgery is performed locally, then endoscopy departments must expect to factor in, not only the burden of dealing with actual complications, but also the burden of investigating for potential complications.

Complications of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are two of the most common bariatric procedures performed in 2011. Although the complication rates associated with these procedures are low, the consequences of these complications are significant and can be associated with high morbidity and mortality. Timely diagnosis and proper management of these complications are extremely important. The most commonly used radiologic studies in bariatric surgery are the upper GI contrast study and the CT scan, which are used to rule out leak, obstruction, perforation, anastomotic stricture, or pouch dilatation. As with all imaging studies, a negative result should not override strong clinical suspicion of a complication.

Stenosis in gastric bypass: Endoscopic management

Gastric bypass is a treatment option for morbid obesity. Stenosis of the gastrojejunal anastomosis is a recognized complication. The pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the formation of stenosis are not well known. Gastrojejunal strictures can be classified based on time of onset, mechanism of formation, and endoscopic aspect. Diagnosis is usually obtained by endoscopy. The two main treatment alternatives for stomal stricture are: endoscopic dilatation (balloon or bouginage) and surgical revision (open or laparoscopic). Both techniques of dilation [through-the-scope (TTS) balloon dilators, Bougienage dilators] are considered safe, effective, and do not require hospitalization. The optimal technique for dilation of stomal strictures remains to be determined, but many authors prefer the use of TTS balloon catheters. Most patients can be successfully treated with 1 or 2 sessions. The need for reconstructive surgery of a stomal stricture is extremely rare.