One-Anastomosis Jejunal Interposition with Gastric Remnant Resection (Branco-Zorron Switch) for Severe Recurrent Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia after Gastric Bypass for Morbid Obesity

Surgical Treatment for Postprandial Hypoglycemia After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Literature Review

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is an effective treatment for severe obesity and obesity-related comorbidities. Postprandial hypoglycemia may occur as a long-term complication after RYGB. This study reviews the literature on surgical treatment for intractable post-RYGB hypoglycemia to provide updated information. A search was performed in Embase and PubMed, and 25 papers were identified. Thirteen papers on reversal were included. Resolution of postprandial hypoglycemic symptoms occurred in 42/48 (88%) patients after reversal. Twelve papers on pancreatectomy were included. Resolution occurred in 27/50 (54%) patients after pancreatectomy. The optimal surgical treatment for intractable post-RYGB hypoglycemia has not been defined, but reversal of RYGB seems to be more effective than other treatments. Further research on etiology and long-term evaluation of surgical outcomes may refine treatment options.

Reversal to Normal Anatomy (With Sleeve Gastrectomy) for Severe Hypoglycemia

Background. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (GBP) is an essential bariatric surgical procedure which is globally performed because of the associated effective weight loss and resolution of metabolic comorbidities, such as diabetes and dyslipidemia. Although some complications may occur, hypoglycemia is a rare complication, which can lead to lethal consequences. We aimed to describe the technical aspects and surgical results after reversal to normal anatomy (RNA). Methods. We conducted a retrospective data analysis including 16 patients who underwent laparoscopic RNA from 2011 to 2018. All data were archived in a prospective database. Previous bariatric surgery and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Results. Sixteen patients underwent RNA, most of them after GBP, and 15 patients required sleeve gastrectomy. Among them, 80% were women; 5 patients presented with postoperative complications, such as colitis with intra-abdominal collection (n = 1), gastric leak (n = 2) treated with an endoprosthesis, mesenteric venous thrombosis (n = 1), and intra-abdominal bleeding (n = 1). Mean length of hospital stay was 5.93 (3-30). All patients recovered from their initial condition although 3 patients presented with mild hypoglycemia during follow-up. Seven patients regained weight (43.75%), and another 4 developed gastroesophageal reflux disease (25%). Conclusions. These laparoscopic RNA results are acceptable, indicating a clinical improvement in the hypoglycemic syndrome in all patients.

Efficacy of Conversion of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass to Roux Jejuno-Duodenostomy for Severe Medically Refractory Postprandial Hypoglycemia

Treatment of medically refractory postprandial hypoglycemia after Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass (RYGB) is often unsuccessful. Various operations have been described with poor results. We describe a novel procedure and retrospective review of 8 patients who underwent Roux jejuno-duodenostomy for postprandial hypoglycemic symptoms refractory to dietary modification and medications. Mean follow-up was 35 months. Complete resolution occurred in two of the patients, marked improvement in four, and no improvement in two. The mean frequency of hypoglycemic symptoms decreased from 30 to 7 episodes per week (p = 0.015). One complication was noted with no mortality. Mean weight decreased postoperatively by 0.8 kg (p = 0.93). Conversion to a Roux jejuno-duodenostomy appears to be a safe and effective treatment with maintenance of post-RYGB weight loss in most such cases.