Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Is Associated with Lower 30-Day Morbidity Versus Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass: an Analysis of the American College of Surgeons NSQIP

How reliable is pre-sleeve endoscopy to characterize pathological features?

BACKGROUND

Vertical sleeve gastrectomy is a relatively new bariatric procedure with lower morbidity and mortality than other weight loss surgeries. The predictive values of preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy for detecting histopathological abnormalities prior to sleeve gastrectomy have not been clearly described. This study aimed to determine the negative predictive value of preoperative endoscopic biopsies for detecting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and other pathological findings.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study examined 102 patients who underwent vertical sleeve gastrectomy from January 2023 to November 2023. Preoperative histopathology of esophagogastroduodenoscopy specimens was compared to postoperative ones for H. pylori infection, gastritis, atrophy, and metaplasia. Moreover, gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms were postoperatively followed for 6 months.

RESULTS

The negative predictive value of preoperative esophagogastroduodenoscopy for detecting H. pylori infection, gastritis, metaplasia and atrophy were 95 %, 79 %, 93 %, and 98 %, respectively. In an overall view, for all pathologies, the negative predictive value was 53.4 %. Moderate gastritis and focal metaplasia were significantly underdiagnosed preoperatively (p < 0.001). H. pylori infection and focal metaplasia were significantly more prevalent in females after surgery (p < 0.001). H. pylori infection and gastritis were positively correlated with increased postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative endoscopy has a high negative predictive value for detecting H. pylori infection, atrophy, and metaplasia but has suboptimal values for gastritis.

Cumulative Incidence of Venous Thromboembolic Events In-Hospital, and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 Months After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Systematic Review of 87 Studies and Meta-analysis of 2,731,797 Patients

Systematic review/meta-analysis of cumulative incidences of venous thromboembolic events (VTE) after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). Electronic databases were searched for original studies. Proportional meta-analysis assessed cumulative VTE incidences. (PROSPERO ID:CRD42020184529). A total of 3066 records, and 87 studies were included (N patients = 4,991,683). Pooled in-hospital VTE of mainly laparoscopic studies = 0.15% (95% CI = 0.13-0.18%); pooled cumulative incidence increased to 0.50% (95% CI = 0.33-0.70%); 0.51% (95% CI = 0.38-0.65%); 0.72% (95% CI = 0.13-1.52%); 0.78% (95% CI = 0-3.49%) at 30 days and 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Studies using predominantly open approach exhibited higher incidence than laparoscopic studies. Within the first month, 60% of VTE occurred after discharge. North American and earlier studies had higher incidence than non-North American and more recent studies. This study is the first to generate detailed estimates of the incidence and patterns of VTE after MBS over time. The incidence of VTE after MBS is low. Improved estimates and time variations of VTE require longer-term designs, non-aggregated reporting of characteristics, and must consider many factors and the use of data registries. Extended surveillance of VTE after MBS is required.

Comparison of the postoperative outcome with and without intraoperative leak testing for sleeve gastrectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 469 588 cases

OBJECTIVE

Postoperative staple line leakage (SLL) after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is a rare but serious complication. Many surgeons routinely test anastomosis with an intraoperative leak test (IOLT) as part of the SG procedure. This meta-analysis aims to determine whether an IOLT plays a role in reducing the rate of postoperative staple line related complications in patients who underwent SG.

METHODS

The authors searched the PubMed, Web of science, the Cochrane Library, and Clinical Trials.gov databases for clinical studies assessing the application of IOLT in SG. The primary endpoint was the development of postoperative SLL. Secondary endpoints included the postoperative bleeding, 30 days mortality rates, and 30 days readmission rates.

RESULTS

Six studies totaling 469 588 patients met the inclusion criteria. Our review found that the SLL rate was 0.38% (1221/ 324 264) in the IOLT group and 0.31% (453/ 145 324) in the no intraoperative leak test (NIOLT) group. Postoperative SLL decreased in the NIOLT group compared with the IOLT group (OR=1.27; 95% CI: 1.14-1.42, P =0.000). Postoperative bleeding was fewer in the IOLT group than that in the NIOLT group (OR 0.79; 95% CI: 0.72-0.87, P =0.000). There was no significant difference between the IOLT group and the NIOLT group regarding 30 days mortality rates and 30 days readmission rates ( P >0.05).

CONCLUSION

IOLT was correlated with an increase in SLL when included as a part of the SG procedure. However, IOLT was associated with a lower rate of postoperative bleeding. Thus, IOLT should be considered in SG in the situation of suspected postoperative bleeding.

Deep neuromuscular blockade in adults undergoing an abdominal laparoscopic procedure

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic surgery is the preferred option for many procedures. To properly perform laparoscopic surgery, it is essential that sudden movements and abdominal contractions in patients are prevented, as it limits the surgeon's view. There has been a growing interest in the potential beneficial effect of deep neuromuscular blockade (NMB) in laparoscopic surgery. Deep NMB improves the surgical field by preventing abdominal contractions, and it is thought to decrease postoperative pain. However, it is uncertain if deep NMB improves intraoperative safety and thereby improves clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of deep neuromuscular blockade versus no, shallow, or moderate neuromuscular blockade during laparoscopic intra- or transperitoneal procedures in adults.

SEARCH METHODS

We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was 31 July 2023.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised clinical trials (irrespective of language, blinding, or publication status) in adults undergoing laparoscopic intra- or transperitoneal procedures comparing deep NMB to moderate, shallow, or no NMB. We excluded trials that did not report any of the primary or secondary outcomes of our review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were 1. all-cause mortality, 2. health-related quality of life, and 3. proportion of participants with serious adverse events. Our secondary outcomes were 4. proportion of participants with non-serious adverse events, 5. readmissions within three months, 6. short-term pain scores, 7. measurements of postoperative recovery, and 8. operating time. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for each outcome.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 42 randomised clinical trials with 3898 participants. Most trials included participants undergoing intraperitoneal oncological resection surgery. We present the Peto fixed-effect model for most dichotomous outcomes as only sparse events were reported. Comparison 1: deep versus moderate NMB Thirty-eight trials compared deep versus moderate NMB. Deep NMB may have no effect on mortality, but the evidence is very uncertain (Peto odds ratio (OR) 7.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45 to 115.43; 12 trials, 1390 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Deep NMB likely results in little to no difference in health-related quality of life up to four days postoperative (mean difference (MD) 4.53 favouring deep NMB on the Quality of Recovery-40 score, 95% CI 0.96 to 8.09; 5 trials, 440 participants; moderate-certainty evidence; mean difference lower than the mean clinically important difference of 10 points). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of deep NMB on intraoperatively serious adverse events (deep NMB 38/1150 versus moderate NMB 38/1076; Peto OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.59 to 1.52; 21 trials, 2231 participants; very low-certainty evidence), short-term serious adverse events (up to 60 days) (deep NMB 37/912 versus moderate NMB 42/852; Peto OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.42; 16 trials, 1764 participants; very low-certainty evidence), and short-term non-serious adverse events (Peto OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.35; 11 trials, 1232 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Deep NMB likely does not alter the duration of surgery (MD -0.51 minutes, 95% CI -3.35 to 2.32; 34 trials, 3143 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). The evidence is uncertain if deep NMB alters the length of hospital stay (MD -0.22 days, 95% CI -0.49 to 0.06; 19 trials, 2084 participants; low-certainty evidence) or pain scores one hour after surgery (MD -0.31 points on the numeric rating scale, 95% CI -0.59 to -0.03; 22 trials, 1823 participants; very low-certainty evidence; mean clinically important difference 1 point) and 24 hours after surgery (MD -0.60 points on the numeric rating scale, 95% CI -1.05 to -0.15; 16 trials, 1404 participants; very low-certainty evidence; mean clinically important difference 1 point). Comparison 2: deep versus shallow NMB Three trials compared deep versus shallow NMB. The trials did not report on mortality and health-related quality of life. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of deep NMB compared to shallow NMB on the proportion of serious adverse events (RR 1.66, 95% CI 0.50 to 5.57; 2 trials, 158 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Comparison 3: deep versus no NMB One trial compared deep versus no NMB. There was no mortality in this trial, and health-related quality of life was not reported. The proportion of serious adverse events was 0/25 in the deep NMB group and 1/25 in the no NMB group.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There was insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about the effects of deep NMB compared to moderate NMB on all-cause mortality and serious adverse events. Deep NMB likely results in little to no difference in health-related quality of life and duration of surgery compared to moderate NMB, and it may have no effect on the length of hospital stay. Due to the very low-certainty evidence, we do not know what the effect is of deep NMB on non-serious adverse events, pain scores, or readmission rates. Randomised clinical trials with adequate reporting of all adverse events would reduce the current uncertainties. Due to the low number of identified trials and the very low certainty of evidence, we do not know what the effect of deep NMB on serious adverse events is compared to shallow NMB and no NMB. We found no trials evaluating mortality and health-related quality of life.

Histopathologic findings in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: is routine full pathologic evaluation indicated?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most commonly performed bariatric surgery. The resected gastric segment is routinely sent for pathology evaluation. No formal national recommendation exists that mandates pathology review. We proposed to study the largest histopathologic series in SG patients yet reported.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of our study was to determine whether a subgroup of patients who underwent bariatric surgery in the northeastern Unites States is more susceptible to having clinically significant pathologic findings that may benefit from routine histopathologic evaluation of the gastric sleeve specimen.

SETTING

University hospital.

METHODS

A retrospective electronic chart review of patients who underwent SG at a single large academic institution was performed. Patient demographics, body mass index, and histopathologic reports of the gastric specimens obtained during SG were analyzed.

RESULTS

The records of 3543 patients were reviewed. A total of 1076 patients had abnormal pathologies, including gastritis (938), follicular gastritis (98), intestinal metaplasia (25), gastrointestinal stromal tumor (12), leiomyoma (1), lymphoma (1), and other malignancy (1). Black and Hispanic patients had a higher incidence of developing gastrointestinal stromal tumor and intestinal metaplasia. A higher incidence of Helicobacter pylori infection among specimens with abnormal pathologies was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study call into question the routine use of pathology workup in gastric specimens after SG. Our data suggest that such analysis may be warranted in certain subtypes of patients such as older Black and Hispanic patients in the northeastern United States.

Gastric Bypass Mortality Trends in Racial Cohorts: Are We Improving?

INTRODUCTION

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) continues to be safely performed in racial cohorts. However, studies continue to report differences in complications, with non-Hispanic black (NHB) patients having a higher rate of adverse outcomes, including mortality. It is unclear how these disparate outcomes have evolved over time. Our objective was to determine RYGB procedure and mortality trends in racial cohorts.

METHODS

Using the 2015 to 2019 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Project (MBSAQIP) database, we identified primary RYGB cases performed laparoscopically or robotically. Non-Hispanic white (NHW) and non-Hispanic black (NHB) patient cohorts were matched based on patient and surgical characteristics. Conditional logistic regression analysis was conducted on the matched pairs. Primary outcomes of interest included year-to-year all-cause and procedure-related mortality. Stata/MP 16.1 was utilized for analysis, and a p-value of < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval that excluded 1 were considered significant.

RESULTS

A total of 148,829 RYGB cases in NHW (82.8%) and Black (17.2%) patients were analyzed. RYGB trends remain similar for NHB and NHW patients over 5 years. In matched cohorts, all-cause mortality (OR 2.23; 95% CI: 1.16-4.29), aggregate related readmission (OR 1.39; 95% CI: 1.27-1.51), related reintervention (OR 1.36; 95% CI: 1.19-1.56), and VTE (OR 1.86; 95% CI: 1.40-2.45) were more likely in NHB patients. During the study period, year-to-year mortality was higher in NHB patients compared to NHW patients.

CONCLUSION

Over a 5-year period, year-to-year mortality remains higher in NHB patients after RYGB. While bariatric outcomes continue to improve, outcome gaps between racial cohorts seem to persist.

Difference in 30-Day Readmission Rates After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Versus Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass: a Propensity Score Matched Study Using ACS NSQIP Data (2015-2019)

PURPOSE

There are very few studies that have compared the short-term outcomes of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Among short-term outcomes, hospital readmission after these procedures is an area for quality enhancement and cost reduction. In this study, we compared 30-day readmission rates after LSG and LRYGB through analyzing a nationalized dataset. In addition, we identified the reasons of readmission.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The current study was a retrospective analysis of data from National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) All adult patients, ≥ 18 years of age and who had LSG or LRYGB during 2014 to 2019 were included. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes were used to identify the procedures. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to calculate propensity score adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for all cause 30-day re-admissions.

RESULTS

There were 109,900 patients who underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgeries (67.5% LSG and 32.5% LRYGB). Readmissions were reported in 4168 (3.8%) of the patients and were more common among RYGB recipients compared to LSG (5.6% versus 2.9%, P < 0.001). The odds of 30-day readmissions were significantly higher among LRYGB group compared to LSG group (AOR, 2.20; 95% CI; 1.83, 2.64). In addition, variables such as age, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, bleeding disorders, blood urea nitrogen, SGOT, alkaline phosphatase, hematocrit, and operation time were significantly predicting readmission rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Readmission rates were significantly higher among those receiving LRYGB, compared to LSG. Readmission was also affected by many patient factors. The factors could help patients and providers to make informed decisions for selecting appropriate procedures.

Risk Factors for Early and Late Complications after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in One-Year Observation

BACKGROUND

Although laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is considered a safe bariatric procedure in the treatment of obesity, it still involves a risk of developing postoperative complications. Knowledge of risk factors for possible complications would allow appropriate preoperative planning, optimization of postoperative care, as well as early diagnosis and treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate risk factors for complications after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 610 patients who underwent LSG at a tertiary institution were included in the study through retrospective analysis of the medical data. Complications were categorized as early (<30 days) and late (≥30 days) and evaluated according to the Clavien-Dindo Classification.

RESULTS

Early complications were observed in 35 patients (5.74%) and late complications occurred in 10 patients (1.64%). Independent risk factors of early complications after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy included hypercholesterolemia (OR 3.73; p-value = 0.023) and smoking (OR = 274.66, p-value < 0.001). Other factors that may influence the postoperative course are length of hospital stay and operation time. Smoking, peptic ulcer diseases and co-existence of hiatal hernia were found to be an independent predictors of late complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking is associated with the higher risk of both, early and late complications, while hypercholesterolemia with only <30 days complications after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Extensively Drug-Resistant Carbapenemase-Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Medical Tourism from the United States to Mexico, 2018-2019

Carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA) producing the Verona integron‒encoded metallo-β-lactamase (VIM) are highly antimicrobial drug-resistant pathogens that are uncommon in the United States. We investigated the source of VIM-CRPA among US medical tourists who underwent bariatric surgery in Tijuana, Mexico. Cases were defined as isolation of VIM-CRPA or CRPA from a patient who had an elective invasive medical procedure in Mexico during January 2018‒December 2019 and within 45 days before specimen collection. Whole-genome sequencing of isolates was performed. Thirty-eight case-patients were identified in 18 states; 31 were operated on by surgeon 1, most frequently at facility A (27/31 patients). Whole-genome sequencing identified isolates linked to surgeon 1 were closely related and distinct from isolates linked to other surgeons in Tijuana. Facility A closed in March 2019. US patients and providers should acknowledge the risk for colonization or infection after medical tourism with highly drug-resistant pathogens uncommon in the United States.

Predictors of 30-day follow-up visit completion after primary bariatric surgery: an analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program data registry

BACKGROUND

Adherence to follow-up visits is often unsatisfactory after bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVES

To identify predictors, including surgery type and preoperative demographics, body mass index (BMI), medical conditions, and smoking status, of 30-day follow-up visit completion.

SETTING

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program participating centers (2015-2018).

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy were included in this analysis. Data were analyzed using weighted logistic regression. Subanalyses included stratification of the sample by sex and age (<45, 45-60, and >60 years).

RESULTS

Patients (n = 566,774) were predominantly female (79.6%), White (72.4%), non-Hispanic (77.9%), and middle-aged (44.5 ± 11.9 years), with a mean BMI of 45.3 ± 7.8 kg/m². More than 95% of patients completed the 30-day visits. In the whole-sample analysis, older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.02) and the presence of non-insulin-dependent diabetes (OR, 1.04), hypertension (OR, 1.03), hyperlipidemia (OR, 1.10), obstructive sleep apnea (OR, 1.15), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (OR, 1.16) were positive predictors of the 30-day visit completion (P_s < .01). Conversely, sleeve gastrectomy procedure (OR, .86), Black race (OR, .87), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, .94), and the presence of insulin-dependent diabetes (OR, .96) and smoking (OR, .83) were negative predictors (P_s < .01). Several differences emerged in subanalyses. For example, in sex stratification, Hispanic ethnicity lost its significance in men. In age stratification, BMI and male sex emerged as positive predictors in the age groups of <45 and 45-60 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although challenged by small effect sizes, this analysis identified subgroups at a higher risk of being lost to follow-up after bariatric surgery.

Long-term nutritional deficiencies following sleeve gastrectomy: a 6-year single-centre retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is associated with short-term nutritional deficiencies postoperatively. This study evaluates the long-term percentage of excess weight loss (% EWL), and nutritional deficiencies in a single-centre cohort undergoing SG as a primary procedure, with a 6-year follow-up.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From January 2005 to December 2010 the records of 209 patients who underwent laparoscopic SG were retrieved from a computer database for analysis. Sixty out of the 209 paients completed follow-ups for 6 years.

RESULTS

Median % EWL at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 years postoperatively was 80.9%, 79.1%, 73.8%, 71.8%, 71.5%, and 64.9%, respectively. Prior to surgery, 17.2% had anaemia. Deficiencies of iron, ferritin, folic acid, vitamin B₁₂, magnesium, and phosphorus were 22%, 5.3%, 1.4%, 3.8%, 29.7%, and 5.3%, respectively. Six years post-surgery, deficiencies of haemoglobin, ferritin, and B₁₂ worsened (36.7%, 43.3%, and 11.7%, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.019, respectively), whereas there was no significant difference in deficiencies of iron, folic acid, magnesium, and phosphorus (25%, 1.7%, 20%, and 3%, p = 0.625, p = 0.896, p = 0.139, p = 0.539, respectively). There was elevated PTH before and 6 years after surgery (2.9% and 1.7%, p = 0.606).

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study shows that laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy had a considerable effect on specific nutritional deficiencies in our patients at 6 years post-surgery. Knowledge of micronutrient deficiencies in these patients is beneficial for both prevention and management of nutritional complications associated with SG with the administration of oral nutritional supplementation according to the patient's needs.

Feasibility and Short-Term Outcomes of One-Step and Two-Step Sleeve Gastrectomy as Revision Procedures for Failed Adjustable Gastric Banding Compared With Those After Primary Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background: The practice of bariatric surgery was studied using the German Bariatric Surgery Registry (GBSR). The focus of the study was to evaluate whether revision surgery One-Step (OS) or Two-Step (TS) sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has a large benefit in terms of perioperative risk in patients after failed Adjustable Gastric Banding (AGB). Methods: The data collection includes patients who underwent One-Step SG (OS-SG) or Two-Step SG (TS-SG) as revision surgery after AGB and primary SG (P-SG) between 2005 and 2019. Outcome criteria were perioperative complications, comorbidities, 30-day mortality, and operating time. Results: The study analyzed data from 27,346 patients after P-SG, 320 after OS-SG, and 168 after TS-SG. Regarding the intraoperative complication, there was a significant difference in favor of P-SG and TS-SG compared to OS-SG (p < 0.001). The incidence of pulmonary complications was significantly higher in the OS-SG (p < 0.001). There was also a significant difference in occurrence of staple line stenosis in favor of TS-SG (p = 0.005) and the occurrence of sepsis (p = 0.008). The mean operating time was statistically longer in the TS-SG group than in the OS-SG group (p < 0.001). The 30-day mortality was not significantly different between the three groups (p = 0.727). Conclusion: In general, our study shows that converting a gastric band to a SG is safe and feasible. However, lower complications were obtained with TS-SG compared to OS-SG. Despite acceptable complication and mortality rates of both procedures, we cannot recommend any surgical method as a standard procedure. Proper patient selection is crucial to avoid possible adverse effects.

Effects of different intraabdominal pressures on internal jugular vein, liver and kidney functions in obese patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether there was a difference in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) performed with either 10 mmHg or 13 mmHg intraabdominal pressures. Effects of these pressures on the internal jugular vein (IJV) diameter and flow along with the liver and kidney function tests were evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The patients were divided into two groups with respect to the intraabdominal pressure performed during LSG (either 10 or 13 mmHg). The patients' age, comorbidities, surgical history, height, weight, body mass index, family history, duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, serum liver and kidney function tests (Urea, creatinine, Aspartate transaminase, Alanine transaminase, Gamma-glutamyltransferase, Alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin) and the right IJV diameter and flow measured by Duplex ultrasound before intubation (t1), 10 min after insufflation (t2), and at the end of insufflation (t3) were recorded.

RESULTS

Preoperative and postoperative kidney and liver function values of the patients in both groups were within the reference range. In both groups, there was a significant decrease in the IJV diameter and flow measurement values at t2 compared to t1, and a significant increase was observed at t3 compared to t2 (p < 0.05). The mean IJV diameter and flow were significantly higher in the 10 mmHg pressure group compared to the 13 mmHg group (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Neither of the peak pressures performed intraabdominal during LSG caused an adverse effect on liver or kidney functions. Our study emphasizes that low insufflation pressure does not have an advantage in terms of liver and kidney functions. But laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with low intra-abdominal pressure may be beneficial especially in patients who require central vein catheterization during the operation. We consider that LSG performed with CO₂ pneumoperitoneum at 10 mmHg is a safe, effective and feasible method that can facilitate the insertion of the intraoperative central venous catheter due to lesser charges in the IJV diameter and flow compared to the standard technique.

Safety and feasibility of revisional bariatric surgery following Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band - Outcomes from a large UK private practice

BACKGROUND

Revisional bariatric surgery is unavoidable in a proportion of patients. Despite its need, the development of this speciality has been hampered by its complexity and preferred delivery in institutional set ups. Although primary bariatric surgery can be delivered in the private sector; safety and feasibility of revisional bariatric surgery remains unexplored in this setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients undergoing revisional bariatric surgery following previous Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) between 2008 and 2019 at a single private bariatric unit with a minimum follow up of at least 6 months were included. The primary aim was safety outcomes and 30-day morbidity.

RESULTS

178 patients with BMI of 45.6 ± 8.2 kg/m² underwent revisional bariatric surgery. One stage conversion was performed for 86.5% of the cases. At 9.5 ± 5.3 months follow up, BMI and percentage excess BMI loss were 31.8 ± 6.2 kg/m² and 62.6 ± 40% respectively. There was no mortality, and the major complication rate was 2.8%. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of complications based on one-stage vs. two-stage conversion (p = 0.52). There were no differences in weight loss outcomes post-revisional surgery according to the indication for revision (p = 0.446) or weight loss following primary surgery (p = 0.12).

CONCLUSION

Revisional bariatric surgery can be delivered safely in the private sector with good outcomes. One-stage conversions are feasible and do not detrimentally affect the morbidity of the procedure or the weight loss outcomes. More importantly, success following revisional surgery is independent of the indication for revision and weight loss outcomes following primary surgery.

Development of the "OS-SEV90 Score" to Predict Severe Postoperative Complications at 90 Days Following Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery may be associated with severe postoperative complications (SPC). Factors associated with the risk of SPC have not been fully investigated.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to identify preoperative risk factors of SPC within 90 days and to develop a risk prediction model based on these factors.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective single-center cohort study based on a prospectively maintained database of obese patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery from October 2005 to May 2019. All SPC occurring up to the 90th postoperative day were recorded according to the Dindo-Clavien classification. Associations between potential risk factors and SPC were analyzed using a logistic regression model, and the risk prediction ("OS-SEV90 score") was computed. Based on the OS-SEV90 score, the patients were grouped into 3 categories of risk: low, intermediate, and high.

RESULTS

Among 1963 consecutive patients, no patient died and 82 (4.2%) experienced SPC within 90 days. History of gastric or esophageal surgery (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.040, 95% confidence interval; CI 1.78-5.20, p< 0.0001), past of thromboembolic event aOR 2.26, 95%; CI 1.12-4.55, p = 0.0225), and surgery performed by a junior surgeon (aOR 1.99, 95%; CI 1.26-3.13, p = 0.003) were all independently associated with risk for SPC, adjusting for ASA physical status system (ASA) score ≥ 3, severe OSA, psychiatric disease, asthma, a history of abdominal surgery, alcohol, cardiac disease, and dyslipidemia. "the OS-SEV90 score" based on these factors was constructed to classify patients into 3 risk groups: low (≤2), intermediate (3-4), and high (≥5). According to "the OS-SEV90 score," SPC increased significantly from 2.9% in the low-risk group, 7.7% in the intermediate-risk group, and 23.3% in the high-risk group.

CONCLUSIONS

A predictive model of SPC within 90 days "the OS-SEV90 score" has been developed using 9 baseline risk factors. The use of the OS-SEV90 score may help the multidisciplinary team to identify the specific risk of each patient and inform them about and optimize the comorbidities before the surgery. Further studies are warranted to validate this score in a new independent cohort before using it in clinical practice.

In-hospital outcomes after bariatric surgery in patients with heart failure

Based on the largest publicly available all-payer inpatient database in the United States, this study sought to evaluate real-world outcomes after bariatric surgery among patients with heart failure.

The role of extended antral resection on weight loss and metabolic response after sleeve gastrectomy: A retrospective cohort study

Objective:

The impact of extended antral resection (AR) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on clinical results is still not clearly elucidated with conflicting results. Our study aimed to determine whether AR is superior to antral preservation (AP) regarding clinical results.

Methods:

Patients were divided into two groups according to the distance of gastric division as AR group (2cm from pylorus) and AP group (6cm from pylorus). Postoperative excess weight loss percentile (%EWL) and total body weight loss percentiles (%TBWL) at the end of first, 6^th and 12 months were compared. Secondly, metabolic parameters and complications were compared.

Results:

The first 68 patients underwent AP, and the following 43 patients underwent AR. Although statistically not significant, AR achieve more %EWL and %TBWL at the end of the first year, (P>0.05). On the other hand, metabolic parameters were similar at the end of the first year, (P>0.05). Resolution of comorbidities were statistically not different, (P>0.05). Staple line leak occurred in two patients of the AR group (4.7%) and two patients of the AP group (2.9%), (P>0.05).

Conclusion:

Both AR and AP seem to be equally effective in resolution of metabolic response. Although statistically not significant- AR provided more %EWL and %TBWL at the end of 12 months.

Low Postoperative Levels of C-Reactive Protein Are an Early Predictor for an Uncomplicated Course After Bariatric Surgery: A Retrospective, Validated Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery is popularly used to treat or prevent morbidity in severely obese patients. Severe complications are rare, but their early detection has a significant impact on clinical outcomes. We aimed to determine whether blood tests in the first few postoperative days are reliable predictors for complications.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 1073 patients who underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery between 2009 and 2018 at our center. Clinical outcome was correlated with postoperative serum C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count, and vital signs, analyzed using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. A total of 570 procedures between 2009 and 2015 were used to calculate the best cutoff values (calculation group), which were validated with 330 different patients operated upon between 2016 and 2018 (validation group).

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients (4.2%) developed anastomotic or staple-line leakages in the calculation group. The ROC curve showed a good reliability for CRP levels on day 2 (area under the ROC curve=0.86); the highest Youden index existed for a cutoff of 119 mg/L. White blood cell count and heart rate were poor predictors. Even though several characteristics differed in the validation cohort, test quality of the cutoff was high (sensitivity, 71.4%; specificity, 94.9%; positive predictive value, 23.8%; negative predictive value, 99.3%). The prediction was excellent especially for leakages appearing on days 2 to 9 (sensitivity 100.0%, negative predictive value 100%). Leakages from day 10 were rare and prediction poor (sensitivity 0%).

CONCLUSIONS

A CRP level on day 2 <120 mg/L is a good predictor of a postoperative course without leakage, even though the predictive value goes down for late-appearing events. An earlier CRP measurement added no predictive benefit. The cutoff value was validated in an internal cohort and could be applied to different populations.

Venous thromboembolism risk for the contemporary bariatric surgeon

BACKGROUND

Postoperative venous thromboembolism (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality after bariatric surgery. Although several studies have examined VTE, few have examined risk factors separately for DVT and PE after contemporary bariatric surgery, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Our objective was to define risk factors for DVT and PE independently for both LSG and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) patients using the largest validated bariatric surgery database.

METHODS

The metabolic and bariatric surgery accreditation and quality improvement program (MBSAQIP) database was queried to identify patients who underwent LSG or LRYGB between January 2015 and December 2017. Perioperative data were compared using bivariate analysis. Risk of DVT and PE after LSG or LRYGB was determined using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

During the study period, 369,032 bariatric cases (72% LSG, 28% LRYGB) were performed. The incidence of DVT was similar between LSG and LRYGB (0.2% vs. 0.2%, p = 0.96), while the incidence of PE was decreased for LSG compared to LRYGB (0.1% vs. 0.2%, p < 0.001). Operative length was associated with increased risk of postoperative DVT (OR 1.1, CI 1.01-1.30, p = 0.04) and postoperative PE (OR 1.4, CI 1.16-1.64, p < 0.001) after surgery. The largest independent risk factors for DVT were history of DVT (OR 6.2, CI 4.44-8.45, p < 0.001) and transfusion (OR 4.2, CI 2.48-6.63, p < 0.001). The largest independent risk factors for PE were transfusion (OR 5.0, CI 2.69-8.36, p < 0.001) and history of DVT (OR 2.8, CI 1.67-4.58, p < 0.001). LSG was associated with a decreased risk of PE compared to LRYGB (OR 0.7 CI 0.55-0.91, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Prolonged operative length is associated with a higher risk of DVT and PE after either LSG or LRYGB. Transfusion and history of DVT are the largest risk factors for developing DVT and PE. There is a decreased risk of PE after LSG compared to LRYGB.