An evidence-based algorithm for the management of marginal ulcers following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

ASMBS literature review on the treatment of marginal ulcers after metabolic and bariatric surgery

Marginal ulcers (MUs) encompass a group of mucosal disruptions and subsequent inflammatory changes and their sequala found after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) oneanastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), and, less commonly, after biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS) or single anastomosis duodeno-ileostomy with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S). Prevalence of MU after RYGB ranges from .6%-16%. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the treatment options available for MU after MBS for providers who treat them.

High risk and low incidence diseases: Bariatric surgery complications

INTRODUCTION

Bariatric surgery complications carry a high rate of morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

This review highlights the pearls and pitfalls of bariatric surgery complications, including presentation, diagnosis, and management in the emergency department (ED) based on current evidence.

DISCUSSION

Bariatric surgeries include restrictive procedures (e.g., adjustable gastric banding, endoscopic gastric balloon insertion, and sleeve gastrectomy) and mixed restrictive and malabsorptive procedures (e.g., roux-en-y gastric bypass and duodenal switch-biliopancreatic diversion). Several complications may occur, which may be associated with severe morbidity and mortality. These complications include anastomotic/staple line leaks, small bowel obstruction and internal hernia, marginal ulceration, biliary disease, and device-specific issues. History concerning the type of surgery, when and where it was performed, prior complications, changes in weight, and systemic symptoms is essential. Many signs and symptoms are subtle, but fever, tachycardia, and persistent vomiting are concerning for a severe complication. If there is concern for a complication, emergent consultation with the bariatric surgeon is recommended (preferably the patient's surgeon). Imaging studies can assist in the evaluation, including computed tomography with oral and intravenous contrast. Resuscitation in the ED and early intervention by a bariatric surgeon provide the best opportunity to reduce morbidity and mortality for patients with intra-abdominal pathology.

CONCLUSION

Understanding bariatric surgery complications can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.

The Relevance of Gastroscopy in the Diagnostic Work-up for Marginal Ulceration in Patients Presenting with Abdominal Pain Following Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

It is unknown what the incidence of gastroscopy-diagnosed marginal ulceration is, while gastroscopy is a frequently chosen diagnostic modality in patients presenting with abdominal pain with a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in history. The aim of this study was to examine the incidence and treatment of gastroscopy-diagnosed marginal ulceration in patients presenting with the first episode of abdominal pain after RYGB, in which gastroscopy is chosen as the first step in the diagnostic work-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A post hoc analysis was performed of a prospective cohort of 2273 patients undergoing RYGB between 2014 and 2019 in a large non-academic hospital with a dedicated bariatric unit. All patients presenting with abdominal pain > 30 days postoperatively were included. Primary outcome was gastroscopy identified marginal ulceration and treatment.

RESULTS

One hundred two out of 498 patients presenting with abdominal pain after RYGB (20%) underwent gastroscopy as the first diagnostic step. In 84% of these patients, no marginal ulcer was found. Marginal ulceration was observed in 16/102 patients (16%). All patients underwent optimization of PPI treatment and lifestyle advises. Seven patients underwent revisional surgery, at a median of 163 days (range 80-1287) after diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

In a minority of patients undergoing gastroscopy for abdominal pain post-RYGB, a marginal ulceration is identified. Revisional surgery is rarely needed in all patients undergoing gastroscopy and only performed after several months when complaints persist despite PPI optimization. Only performing gastroscopy when symptoms persist safely reduces the number of gastroscopy for abdominal pain after RYGB.

Late marginal ulcer perforation after Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass - A case report with two-step management

INTRODUCTION

Marginal ulcers are an acid-related complication of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Few cases of acute perforation have been described, and there are few reports on viable surgical management. This case report demonstrates a two-step surgical procedure for treating a perforated late marginal ulcer in a patient with sepsis.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 39-year-old smoker presented to the emergency department six years after undergoing a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Diagnostic findings revealed ascites and changes in intestinal calibre, indicating the need for surgery. Intraoperatively, a perforated marginal ulcer covered by the liver was observed. Given the extent of the perforation and the patient's increased instability, discontinuity resection was performed. After stabilisation and improvement in the nutritional status, the gastrojejunostomy was restored nine weeks later.

DISCUSSION

Treatment of Marginal ulcers is controversial, with no clear guidelines. However, severe complications require endoscopic or surgical treatment. The literature considers three main surgical treatment options for perforated marginal ulcers: surgical repair, surgical anastomotic revision, and gastric bypass reversal. Complicated situations, significant intraoperative findings, and unstable patients require tailored approaches.

CONCLUSION

A two-step procedure with discontinuity resection for damage control surgery, patient stabilisation, and improvement of nutritional status, followed by elective continuity restoration with a new gastrojejunostomy, is considered feasible in critically ill patients.

Early Marginal Ulcer After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: MBSAQIP Database Analysis of Trends and Predictive Factors

PURPOSE

Marginal ulcer (MU) is a known complication after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) that carries significant morbidity. First, we aimed to determine the trends and the rates of readmission, reintervention, and reoperation of 30-day MU. Second, we aim to determine the predictive factors associated with this complication.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who had 30-day marginal ulcer (MU) after LRYGB were identified using the 2015-2021 MBSAQIP database. Those who had a 30-day complication other than MU were excluded. Bivariate and logistic regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Among 213,104 patients undergoing laparoscopic RYGB, 638 (0.3%) showed 30-day MU. This group of patients required endoscopic interventions, readmissions, and reoperations at rates of 88%, 72%, and 9%, respectively. Predictive factors for 30-day MU after RYGB were renal insufficiency, history of DVT, previous cardiac stent, African American race, chronic steroid use, COPD, therapeutic anticoagulation, anastomotic leak test, GERD, and operative time > 120 min. Additionally, patients who had 30-day MU showed significantly higher rates of overall complications such as pulmonary, cardiac and renal complications, unplanned ICU admission, blood transfusions, venous thromboembolism (VTE), and non-home discharge (p < 0.05). The MU group showed similar rates of 30-day mortality as those without this complication (0.2% vs 0.1%, p = 0.587).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of 30-day MU following RYGB was 0.3%. Patients with MU required endoscopic interventions, readmissions, and reoperations at rates of 88%, 72%, and 9%, respectively. Some preoperative and intraoperative factors contributed to an increased risk of 30-day MU.

Bariatrisch-metabolische Operationstechniken

Bariatrisch-metabolische Operationen gelten als die effektivste Therapiemöglichkeit der morbiden Adipositas. In Langzeitstudien konnten sehr gute Erfolge bei der Reduktion des Übergewichts und bei der Behandlung Adipositas-assoziierter Komorbiditäten (u. a. arterielle Hypertonie, Diabetes mellitus Typ 2) gezeigt werden. Die bariatrischen Operationstechniken beruhen auf dem Wirkungsprinzip der Restriktion und Malabsorption. Die damit verbundenen metabolischen Effekte, die z. T. unabhängig vom Gewichtsverlust und der Kalorienreduktion schon früh postoperativ einsetzen, werden derzeit intensiv beforscht. Die am häufigsten angewandten restriktiven Verfahren sind Schlauchmagen, Magenband, Magenfaltung und Magenballon. Beim Magenbypass, der biliopankreatischen Diversion (mit und ohne duodenalem Switch) und dem „single anastomosis duodenal-ileal-bypass“ mit Sleeve werden die Wirkprinzipien kombiniert. Die Eingriffe werden üblicherweise laparoskopisch durchgeführt und haben akzeptable Komplikationsraten. Postoperativ sind lebenslange Stoffwechselkontrollen und Substitution mit Vitaminen und Spurenelementen (insbesondere bei malabsorptiven Verfahren) erforderlich, um einer Malnutrition vorzubeugen.

Abdominal Pain After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Review

Importance

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) remains one of the most commonly performed operations for morbid obesity and is associated with significant long-term weight loss and comorbidity remission. However, health care utilization rates following RYGB are high and abdominal pain is reported as the most common presenting symptom for those seeking care.

Observations

Given the limitations of physical examination in patients with obesity, correct diagnosis of abdominal pain following RYGB depends on a careful history and appropriate use of radiologic, laboratory and endoscopic studies, as well as a clear understanding of post-RYGB anatomy. The most common etiologies of abdominal pain after RYGB are internal hernia, marginal ulcer, biliary disease (eg, cholelithiasis and choledocholithiasis), and jejunojejunal anastomotic issues. Early identification of the etiology of the pain is essential, as some causes, such as internal hernia or perforated gastrojejunal ulcer, may require urgent or emergent intervention to avoid significant morbidity. While laboratory findings and imaging may prove useful, they remain imperfect, and clinical judgment should always be used to determine if surgical exploration is warranted.

Conclusions and Relevance

The etiologies of abdominal pain after RYGB range from the relatively benign to potentially life-threatening. This Review highlights the importance of understanding key anatomical and technical aspects of RYGB to guide appropriate workup, diagnosis, and treatment.

Marginal Ulcers after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management

Marginal ulcer (MU) is a potential complication following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), with a mean prevalence of 4.6%. Early identification and prompt intervention are crucial to mitigating further complications. The pathophysiology of MU is complex and involves multiple factors, including smoking, Helicobacter pylori infection, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use, and larger pouch size. Patients with MU may experience acute or chronic abdominal pain. Rarely, they may present with a complication from the ulceration, such as bleeding, perforation, or strictures. Following diagnosis by endoscopy, management of MU typically involves modification of risk factors and medical therapy focused on proton pump inhibitors. In case of complicated ulcers, surgical intervention is often required for the repair of the perforation or resection of the stricture. For recurrent or recalcitrant ulcers, endoscopic coverage of the ulcer bed, resection of the anastomosis, and abdominal or thoracoscopic truncal vagotomy may be considered. This review aims at providing an overview of the etiology, diagnosis, and management of MU after RYGB.

Perioperative Interventions to Prevent Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Marginal Ulcers After Bariatric Surgery - an International Experts' Survey

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to survey international experts in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) to improve and consolidate perioperative interventions to prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and marginal ulcers (MU) after MBS.

BACKGROUND

Very important long-term complications after MBS include GERD, Barrett's esophagus, and MU. Prevention might be fundamental to reduce the incidence, severe complications, and the increasing number of revisional bariatric surgeries.

METHODS

An international scientific team designed an online confidential questionnaire with 45 multiple-choice questions. The survey was sent to 110 invited experts and 96 of them (from 41 different countries) participated from 21 July 2022 to 4 September 2022.

RESULTS

Most experts (≥ 90%) prescribe postoperative acid suppression agents after MBS. Life-long proton pump inhibitors prophylaxis in smokers with avoidance of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended by most of the experts (66%, 73%) after any type of gastric bypass. Two-thirds of experts (69%) perform Helicobacter pylori eradication prior to MBS. Two-thirds of experts (68%) routinely perform EGD and biopsy before MBS. Follow-up esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and timing threshold for revisional and conversional MBS were variable among experts.

CONCLUSION

This expert survey underlines important perioperative interventions that reached a two-thirds consensus among MBS international experts. Variability in follow-up EGD, approach to complication management, and thresholds for revisional and conversional MBS emphasize the need for further researches and consensus guidelines.

Aspirin Use as a Risk Factor for Marginal Ulceration in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Patients: A Meta-Analysis of 24,770 Patients

BACKGROUND

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a recognized, safe bariatric procedure with minimal complications. Marginal ulceration, however, remains a challenging problem with an incidence of 8-12%. While chronic NSAID use is an established risk factor for ulcer formation, aspirin use itself as a cause for marginal ulceration is still unclear. We aim to compare the rates of marginal ulceration in RYGB with and without aspirin use.

METHODS

PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched for articles between 2008 and 2021 by two independent reviewers using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA). The risk of bias was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using a fixed-effect model.

RESULTS

From 5324 studies screened, we included 3 studies. Two studies had a low risk of bias, and the other one presented a high risk of bias on the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We included 24,770 patients, 1911 with aspirin use and 22,859 without aspirin use. After the meta-analysis, patients who used aspirin had a significantly higher marginal ulceration rate than those who did not (OR = 1.33 [95% CI 1.08 to 1.63], P < .002; I² = 39%).

CONCLUSIONS

Aspirin use is associated with increased rates of marginal ulceration after RYGB.

Operative management of recalcitrant marginal ulcers following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity: a systematic review

One of the short- and long-term complications following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for morbid obesity is the development of marginal ulcers (MUs). Although chronic and recalcitrant/recurrent marginal ulcers (rMUs) are common, there is no consensus on their optimal management. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review of the elective operative management of rMUs. A systematic search of the literature was conducted. Relevant databases were searched up to May 16, 2020. Articles were included if they met the following inclusion criteria: (1) bariatric patients were included as the study population, (2) laparoscopic RYGB was performed as the index operation, (3) study patients developed rMUs, and (4) MUs required elective operative (surgical, endoscopic) interventions. Quality of articles was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. The search identified 3470 citations; of these, 16 observational studies were included. Elective management of rMUs consisted of endoscopic (oversewing ± stents) and surgical interventions (gastrojejunostomy revision, vagotomy, conversion to sleeve gastrectomy, subtotal/total gastrectomy, reversal to normal anatomy). Quality of the studies as assessed by the GRADE system was low to very low. Recalcitrant/recurrent MUs are challenging complications both for bariatric patients and for their treating surgeons. There are no established algorithms for the management of rMUs, and the currently available evidence in the literature is limited both in quantity and in quality. Future multicentre, multisurgeon, randomized, controlled trials are needed to address this issue.

Linear or circular: Anastomotic ulcer after gastric bypass surgery

Background

After laparoscopic Gastric Bypass Procedure (GBP), anastomotic ulcers (AU) at the gastrojejunostomy (GJ) occur in up to 16% of the patients. Surgical techniques seem to influence the development of AU, but this is still a matter of discussion. This study aims to compare the incidence of AU in circular-stapled (CS) versus linear-stapled (LS) gastrojejunostomy.

Methods

Single-centre retrospective analysis of 241 (m 77 /f 164) consecutive patients (126 CS, 115 LS) with primary or revisional GBP including Roux-Y-Gastric Bypass (RYGB) and One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) between 01/2014 and 01/2018. Follow-up with oesophagogastroduodenoscopy was only performed in symptomatic patients. Age, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, smoking and medication were analyzed in both groups. The data are reported as total numbers (%) and mean ± standard deviation.

Results

AU occurred significantly more often in the CS group than in the LS group (p = 0.0034). Moreover, refractory AU and the need for revisional surgery were higher in the CS group. Smoking correlates significantly with the development of AU, whereas other risk factors had no impact on its incidence.

Conclusion

Linear-stapled gastrojejunostomy with a long and narrow pouch should be the preferable procedure for reducing AU development risk. Smoking cessation minimizes the risk for AU and is a necessary part of the treatment.

Oral drug dosing following bariatric surgery: General concepts and specific dosing advice

Bariatric or weight‐loss surgery is a popular option for weight reduction. Depending on the surgical procedure, gastric changes like decreased transit time and volume and increased pH, decreased absorption surface in the small intestine, decreased exposure to bile acids and enterohepatic circulation, and decreased gastrointestinal transit time may be expected. In the years after bariatric surgery, patients will also substantially lose weight. As a result of these changes, the absorption, distribution, metabolism and/or elimination of drugs may be altered. The purpose of this article is to report the general influence of bariatric surgery on oral drug absorption, and to provide guidance for dosing of commonly used drugs in this special population. Upon oral drug administration, the time to maximum concentration is often earlier and this concentration may be higher with less consistent effects on trough concentrations and exposure. Additionally, prescription of liquid formulations to bariatric patients is supported by some reports, even though the high sugar load of these suspensions may be of concern. Studies on extended‐release medications result in an unaltered exposure for a substantial number of drugs. Also, studies evaluating the influence of timing after surgery show dynamic absorption profiles. Although for this group specific advice can be proposed for many drugs, we conclude that there is insufficient evidence for general advice for oral drug therapy after bariatric surgery, implying that a risk assessment on a case‐by‐case basis is required for each drug.

Marginal ulcer causing delayed anastomotic perforation following one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB)

BACKGROUND

One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is gaining favor. Anastomotic perforation is a dreaded complication.

OBJECTIVES

To describe a series of patients presenting with delayed (> 90 days) perforation of a marginal ulcer (MU) following OAGB.

SETTING

Two university hospitals, Israel.

METHODS

A retrospective query identifying patients after OAGB admitted with delayed MU perforation. Demographic characteristics, time between OAGB to presentation, clinical, laboratory and imaging at presentation and management data were collected.

RESULTS

Between 1/2017-1/2020, 7 patients were identified. Mean body mass index (BMI) and time difference between OAGB and perforation were 14 kg/m² (range 7-23) and 13 months (range 4-23), respectively. All presented with upper abdominal pain, 4 had concomitant nausea and vomiting. One patient displayed tachycardia, none had fever and 3 exhibited leukocyte abnormalities. C-reactive protein ranged widely (2-311 mg/L). Mean albumin level was 2.9 g/dL (range 1.9-4). Pneumoperitoneum was demonstrated in half of plain abdominal films and all computed tomography (CT) scans. Management was tailored to clinical status. Four patients underwent laparoscopic primary repair with omentopexy. Two patients were initially managed nonoperatively, one eventually requiring conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) while the other recovered without further intervention. One patient underwent exploratory laparotomy and "damage control" management with pouch gastrostomy and double-barrel jejunostomy. Risk factors for MU were present in 4 cases. Mean length of hospital stay was 18 days (range 3-79 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Perforation of MU may occur months to years after OAGB even without risk factors. Laboratory results are unreliable. The CT scan is diagnostic. A tailored approach can achieve good outcomes.

A Spanish Society joint SECO and SEEDO approach to the Post-operative management of the patients undergoing surgery for obesity

PURPOSE

Bariatric surgery is the method of choice for the management or treatment of obesity. Bariatric surgery brings about several physiological changes in the body and is associated with set of complications. The aim of this study is to provide guidelines on post bariatric surgery management based on consensus by the Spanish society for Obesity Surgery (Sociedad Española de Cirugía de la Obesidad) (SECO) and the Spanish Society for the Study of Obesity (Sociedad Española para el Estudio de la Obesidad) (SEEDO).

METHOD

The boards proposed seven experts from each society. The experts provided the evidence and a grade of recommendation on the selected topics based on systematic reviews/meta-analysis. A list of clinical practical recommendations levels of evidence and grades of these recommendations was derived from the consensus statements from the members of these societies.

RESULTS

Seventeen topics related to post-operative management were reviewed after bariatric surgery. The experts came with 47 recommendations and statements. The mean number of persons voting at each statement was 54 (range 36-76).

CONCLUSION

In this consensus, we have designed a set of guidelines to be followed while managing patients after bariatric surgery. Expertise and knowledge of the clinicians are required to convey suitable considerations to the post-bariatric patients. There should also be extensive follow-up plans for the bariatric surgery patients.

Care for patients who have undergone one anastomosis gastric bypass surgery

Thousands of bariatric surgery procedures are performed in the UK each year, including gastric bypass surgery. The one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is increasingly performed in the UK, and nurses may find themselves providing care for patients who have undergone this procedure. This article outlines the anatomical and physiological changes associated with OAGB, routine care of these patients in the short and long term, and the identification and management of complications.

Complications of Bariatric Surgery: What You Can Expect to See in Your GI Practice

Obesity is one of the most significant health problems worldwide. Bariatric surgery has become one of the fastest growing operative procedures and has gained acceptance as the leading option for weight-loss. Despite improvement in the performance of bariatric surgical procedures, complications are not uncommon. There are a number of unique complications that arise in this patient population and require specific knowledge for proper management. Furthermore, conditions unrelated to the altered anatomy typically require a different management strategy. As such, a basic understanding of surgical anatomy, potential complications, and endoscopic tools and techniques for optimal management is essential for the practicing gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists should be familiar with these procedures and complication management strategies. This review will cover these topics and focus on major complications that gastroenterologists will be most likely to see in their practice.

Marginal ulcer perforation: a single center experience

PURPOSE

Marginal ulcer (MU) is defined as ulcer on the jejunal side of the gastrojejunostomy (GJ) anastomosis. Most MUs are managed medically but those with complications like bleeding or perforation require intervention. It is recommended that GJ anastomosis be revised in patients with MU perforation (MUP). The aim of this case series is to study the clinical presentation and management of MUP.

METHODS

Three hundred and thirty-two patients who underwent emergency surgery for perforated peptic ulcer at a single center were studied over a period of 5 years.

RESULTS

Nine patients (2.7 %) presented with MUP. GJ was previously done for either complicated peptic ulcer (n = 4) or for suspected gastric malignancy (n = 5). Two patients had previously completed H. pylori therapy. None of the patients presented with septic shock. MU was on the jejunal side of GJ in all patients. The median MUP size was 10 mm. Four patients (44.4 %) had omental patch repair, three (33.3 %) had primary closure, and one each had revision of GJ and jejunal serosal patch repair. There were no leaks, intra-abdominal abscess or reoperation and no malignancies.

CONCLUSION

MUP patients do not present with septic shock. Omental patch repair or primary closure is sufficient enough. Revision of Billroth-II-GJ into Roux-en-Y-GJ is not mandatory.

Marginal ulcers after one anastomosis (mini) gastric bypass: a survey of surgeons

Many surgeons believe that one anastomosis (mini) gastric bypass (OAGB/MGB) is associated with a high marginal ulcer (MU) rate and that this is associated with complications in a significant number of patients. The purpose of this survey was to find out the participant-reported incidence of MU after OAGB/MGB and its complications. We also aimed to understand practices in this cohort concerning prophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment and management of complications. Bariatric surgeons who perform OAGB/MGB procedures were invited to participate in a confidential, online survey using SurveyMonkey®. A total of 86 surgeons performing OAGB/MGB procedures participated in the survey. The total number of OAGB/MGB procedures reported was 27 672, revealing 622 MU, giving an MU rate of 2.24 %. Most participants (69/84, 82.4%) routinely use proton pump inhibitor (PPI) prophylaxis, but there was variation in drugs, dosages and duration. The majority (49/85, 57.6%) of participants 'always' use endoscopy for diagnosis, and 48.1% (39/81) 'always' perform an endoscopy to ensure healing. Most (49/55) perforated ulcers were treated with laparoscopic repair +/- omentoplasty +/- drainage. Most (55/59, 93.0%) of the bleeding ulcers were managed with PPI +/- blood transfusions +/- endoscopic intervention (23/59, 39.0%). Non-healing ulcers were treated by conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in 46.5% of patients (n = 20/43). The participants did not report any MU-related mortality but described a number of risk factors for it. This survey is the first detailed attempt to understand the incidence of MU following OAGB/MGB; its complications; and practices concerning prophylaxis, diagnosis, treatment and management of complications.

Mini Gastric Bypass: first report of 125 consecutive cases from United Kingdom

Mini Gastric Bypass is a promising bariatric procedure with multiple apparent benefits. Ours is the first unit within the National Health Service of the United Kingdom to be routinely performing this procedure. This retrospective cohort study reports our experience with first 125 procedures. Data were retrospectively analysed from a prospective database. Information was further supplemented by interviewing team members, contacting patients' general practitioners and telephonic follow-up. The mean follow-up was 11.4 months. There were 86 (68.8%) females and the mean age was 45 (range 20-70) years. Mean weight and body mass index was 135.8 (range 85-244) kilograms and 48.1 (range 34.5-73.8) kg m(-2) , respectively. The mean operating time was 92.4 (range 45-150) minutes and the mean post-operative hospital stay was 2.2 (range 2-17) days. There was no leak, one 30-day reoperation and no mortality in this study. Three patients required late reoperations and four patients developed marginal ulcers. At 6 months follow-up (n = 114), 27.5 (range 11.4-47.4) % total body weight loss and 60.1 (range 23.2-117.5) % excess body weight loss was seen. The figures at 12 months follow-up (n = 65) were 36.8 (range 23.7-55.4) % and 79.5 (range 44.9-138.3) %, respectively. This study demonstrates early safety and efficacy of Mini Gastric Bypass in a carefully selected British obese population in a high-volume centre.