The New Interest of Bariatric Surgeons in the Old Ligamentum Teres Hepatis

Ligamentum Teres Augmentation for Hiatus Hernia Repair After Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

Hiatal hernia (HH) and symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease are common complications after metabolic bariatric surgery. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of ligamentum teres augmentation (LTA) for HH repair after metabolic and bariatric surgeries (MBS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CENTRAL, Embase, PubMed, and Scopus were searched for articles from their inception to September 2023 by 2 independent reviewers using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis system.

RESULTS

Five studies met the eligibility criteria, with a total of 165 patients undergoing LTA for HH repair after MBS. The distribution of patients based on surgical procedures included 63% undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, 21% Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and 16% having one anastomosis gastric bypass. The pooled proportion of reflux symptoms before LTA was 77% (95% CI: 0.580-0.960; I2 = 89%, n = 106). A pooled proportion of overall postoperative symptoms was 25.6% (95% CI: 0.190-0.321; I2 = 0%, n = 44), consisting of reflux at 14.5% (95% CI: 0.078-0.212; I2 = 0%, n = 15). The pooled proportion of unsuccessful LTA outcomes was 12.5% (95% CI: 0.075-0.175; I2 = 0%, n = 21).

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis demonstrated that LTA appears to be a safe and efficacious procedure in the management of HH after MBS.

Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease after Sleeve Gastrectomy: Effectiveness of Medical, Endoscopic, and Surgical Therapies

Introduction: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has become the most frequently performed bariatric operation in the United States. One of the main disadvantages of this procedure is the risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after the operation. We aimed to analyze different approaches for the treatment of GERD after SG. Methods: A literature review was performed to identify all possible treatment options for post-SG GERD. All the studies were assessed for full eligibility by manual assessment of their aims, methodology, results, and conclusions. Records were individually reviewed by the authors comparing outcomes and complications between procedures. Results: Although some studies have shown improvement or even resolution of GERD symptoms after SG, most patients develop or worsen symptoms. Lifestyle modifications along with medical therapy should be started on patients with GERD after SG. For those who are refractory to medication, endoscopic and surgical therapies can be offered. Conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is consistently effective in treatment of GERD and is the ideal therapy in patients with associated insufficient weight loss. Endoscopic and alternative surgical procedures are also available and have shown acceptable short-term outcomes. Conclusions: Several treatment options exist for the treatment of GERD after SG. Although conversion to RYGB remains the most effective therapy, other emerging endoscopic and surgical procedures could avoid the potential morbidity of this procedure and should be further evaluated. An evidence-based algorithm for the management of GERD after SG is proposed to guide decision making.

Reflux After Sleeve Gastrectomy: Safety and Effectiveness of Laparoscopic Ligamentum Teres Cardiopexy, a Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a well-known risk factor for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Even though symptoms may be mitigated or resolved with the weight loss caused by sleeve gastrectomy (SG), it may be associated with higher incidences of postoperative GERD. Ligamentum teres cardiopexy (LTC) is an alternative to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the gold standard treatment for GERD.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective single-center chart review, all patients in this cohort underwent LTC to treat refractory GERD at our institution. The option for LTC was presented after patients' refusal to undergo RYGB conversion. We collected baseline characteristics, standard demographics, pre-operative tests and imaging, and SG information, as well as intraoperative and perioperative data regarding LTC, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Our cohort included 29 patients; most were Caucasian (44.8%) females (86.2%). The mean weight and BMI before LTC were 216.5 ± 39.3 lb and 36.1 ± 5.4 kg/m2, respectively. Mean total body-weight loss (TBWL) at 12 and 24 months were 28.7% ± 9.5% and 28.4% ± 12.4%, respectively. The mean interval between the index bariatric surgery and LTC was 59.9 ± 34.9 months, mean operative time was 67 ± 18.2 min, and median length of stay (LOS) was 1 day (IQR = 1-2 days). Twelve patients (57.1%) were able to discontinue antisecretory medications, while 9 (42.9%) still required them to remain asymptomatic. Mortality and reoperation rates were 0% and the incidence of complication was 19.4% (n = 6).

CONCLUSIONS

LTC is a safe and effective surgical alternative to treat refractory GERD symptoms after SG.

Ligamentum teres cardiopexy for post vertical sleeve gastrectomy gastroesophageal reflux

PURPOSE

Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) evolved in the early 2000s into the standalone weight loss procedure we see today. While numerous studies highlight VSG's durability for weight loss, and improvements co-morbidities such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have been counseled against VSG due to the concern for worsening reflux symptoms. When considering anti-reflux procedures, VSG patients are unable to undergo traditional fundoplication due to lack of gastric cardia redundancy. Magnetic sphincter augmentation lacks long-term safety data and endoscopic approaches have undetermined longitudinal benefits. Until recently, the only option for patients with a history of VSG with medically refractory GERD has been conversion to roux en Y gastric bypass (RNYGB), however, this poses other risks including marginal ulcers, internal hernias, hypoglycemia, dumping syndrome, and nutritional deficiencies. Given the risks associated with conversion to RNYGB, we have adopted the ligamentum teres cardiopexy as an option for patients with intractable GERD following VSG.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted of patients who had prior laparoscopic or robotic VSG and subsequently GERD symptoms refectory to pharmacological management who underwent ligamentum teres cardiopexy between 2017 and 2022. Pre-operative GERD disease burden, intraoperative cardiopexy characteristics, post-operative GERD symptomatology and changes in H2 blocker or PPI requirements were reviewed.

RESULTS

Of the study's 60 patients the median age was 50 years old, and 86% were female. All patients had a diagnosis of GERD through pre-operative assessments and were taking antisecretory medication. Of the 36 patients who have completed their one year follow up, 81% of patients had either a decrease in dosage or cessation of the antisecretory medication at one year following ligamentum teres cardiopexy.

CONCLUSION

Ligamentum teres cardiopexy is a viable alternative to RNYGB in patients with a prior vertical sleeve gastrectomy with medical refractory GERD.

Obesity, sleeve gastrectomy and gastro-esophageal reflux disease

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most frequently performed operation for morbid obesity in the world. In spite of its demonstrated efficacy, the Achilles' Heel of this procedure seems to be either pre-existing or de novo gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) with its potential complications such as peptic esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus and, in the long-term, esophageal adenocarcinoma. According to factual literature, it appears clear that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is the preferred choice in case of pre-existing GERD or hiatal hernia discovered during preoperative workup for bariatric surgery. Nonetheless, certain authors propose performance of SG with an associated antireflux procedure such as Nissen fundoplication. Strict endoscopic surveillance is recommended after bariatric surgery. Revisional surgery (conversion of SG into Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB)) is the treatment of choice for patients who develop GERD after SG when conservative treatment (modified lifestyle and proton pump inhibitors) has failed. Lastly, with regard to the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma after SG, large scale studies with adequate follow-up are necessary to come to factual conclusions. In all cases, the management of this conundrum remains a major technical challenge that has to be taken in consideration in future years, especially because of the current expansion of bariatric surgery.

Surgical Management Algorithm for Intrathoracic Sleeve Migration: A Retrospective Series and Literature Review

Background: With the increase in utilization of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), intrathoracic sleeve migration (ITSM) has introduced a novel challenge for bariatric surgeons. Despite being an underreported complication, effective and safe solutions for ITSM are being sought. The aim of this study is to present our center's experience as well as a comprehensive review of the literature on ITSM. Accordingly, we propose an algorithm for the surgical management of ITSM. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of 4000 patients who underwent LSG at our center. ITSM was clinically suspected with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms and/or epigastric pain resistant to proton pump inhibitors. Diagnosis of ITSM was confirmed in all patients by three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) volumetry. Several corrective procedures were offered based on the findings of the 3D-CT volumetry, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, and the diaphragmatic pillars' condition: cruroplasty with gastropexy, one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) with or without re-sleeve gastrectomy, omentopexy, or ligamentum teres augmentation. We conducted a literature review of ITSM using several databases. Results: Fifteen patients were diagnosed with postoperative ITSM. The most common presenting complaint was severely worsened GERD symptoms not responding to medical treatment. The mean time interval between the primary operation and diagnosis of ITSM was 38.8 ± 29.1 months. Three patients had re-sleeve gastrectomy and gastropexy, 5 patients had OAGB, and 7 patients had RYGB. The mean postoperative body mass index was 31.2 ± 4.9 kg/m². No case of recurrent ITSM was detected during follow-up. Our electronic database search yielded 19 studies to be included in our review, which included 201 patients. Conclusion: A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose ITSM. CT volumetry with 3D reconstruction may be the most sensitive diagnostic modality. ITSM management should depend on the results of the diagnostic workup and the condition of the diaphragmatic pillars during surgery.

Pathways of the preperitoneal plane: from the “fatty triangle” in Rives to the “fatty trident" in extended retromuscular abdominal wall reconstruction. A tribute to Prof. Schumpelick

PURPOSE

Extended retromuscular dissection performed for abdominal wall reconstruction in complex abdominal wall repair has progressively exposed the anatomy between the peritoneal layer and abdominal wall muscles. This study aimed to assess the morphology and distribution of preperitoneal fat in a cadaveric model and its influence in retromuscular preperitoneal dissections.

METHODS

Thirty frozen cadaver torsos were dissected by posterior component separation. The shape of the preperitoneal fat was identified, and the dimensions and more significant distances were calculated.

RESULTS

The results showed that the preperitoneal fat resembles a trident, exists along the midline under the linea alba, and expands in the epigastric area into a rhomboid shape. The fatty triangle was found to be a part of this rhomboid. Caudally, the midline preperitoneal fat widened under the arcuate line to reach the Retzius space. Laterally, the Bogros space communicated the root of the trident with the paracolic gutters, Toldt's fascia, and pararenal fats, forming the lateral prong of the trident. The peritoneum not covered by the preperitoneal fatty trident was easy to break. Three pathways could be tracked following the distribution of this fat that facilitated the dissection of the preperitoneal space to prepare the landing zone of the meshes in hernia repair.

CONCLUSION

The concept of preperitoneal fatty trident may be of practical assistance to perform various hernia procedures, from the simple ventral hernia repair to the more complex preperitoneal ventral repair or posterior component separation techniques. The consistency of this layer allows us to follow three specific pathways to find our plane between the peritoneum and muscle layers to extend the preperitoneal dissection.

Ligamentum teres augmentation (LTA) for hiatal hernia repair after minimally invasive esophageal resection: a new use for an old structure

PURPOSE

Hiatal hernias with intrathoracic migration of the intestines are serious complications after minimally invasive esophageal resection with gastric sleeve conduit. High recurrence rates have been reported for standard suture hiatoplasties. Additional mesh reinforcement is not generally recommended due to the serious risk of endangering the gastric sleeve. We propose a safe, simple, and effective method to close the hiatal defect with the ligamentum teres.

METHODS

After laparoscopic repositioning the migrated intestines, the ligamentum teres is dissected from the ligamentum falciforme and the anterior abdominal wall. It is then positioned behind the left lobe of the liver and swung toward the hiatal orifice. Across the anterior aspect of the hiatal defect it is semi-circularly fixated with non-absorbable sutures. Care should be taken not to endanger the blood supply of the gastric sleeve.

RESULTS

We have used this technique for a total of 6 patients with hiatal hernias after hybrid minimally invasive esophageal resection in the elective (n = 4) and emergency setting (n = 2). No intraoperative or postoperative complications have been observed. No recurrence has been reported for 3 patients after 3 months.

CONCLUSION

Primary suture hiatoplasties for hiatal hernias after minimally invasive esophageal resection can be technically challenging, and high postoperative recurrence rates are reported. An alternative, safe method is needed to close the hiatal defect. Our promising preliminary experience should stimulate further studies regarding the durability and efficacy of using the ligamentum teres hepatis to cover the hiatal defect.

Applications of hepatic round ligament/falciform ligament flap and graft in abdominal surgery-a review of their utility and efficacy

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Despite their ubiquitous presence, easy availability and diverse possibilities, falciform ligament and hepatic round ligament have been used less frequently than their potential dictates. This article aims to comprehensively review the applications of hepatic round ligament/falciform ligament flap and graft in abdominal surgery and assess their utility and efficacy.

METHODS

Medical literature/indexing databases were searched, using internet search engines, for pertinent articles and analysed.

RESULTS

The studied flap and graft have found utility predominantly in the management of diaphragmatic hernias, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, peptic perforations, biliary reconstruction, venous reconstruction, post-operative pancreatic fistula, post-pancreatectomy haemorrhage, hepatic cyst cavity obliteration, liver bleed, sternal dehiscence, splenectomy, reinforcement of aortic stump, feeding access, diagnostic/therapeutic access into portal system, composite tissue allo-transplant and ventriculo-peritoneal shunting where they have exhibited the desired efficacy.

CONCLUSIONS

Hepatic round ligament/falciform ligament flap and graft are versatile and have multifarious applications in abdominal surgery with some novel and unique uses in hepatopancreaticobiliary surgery including liver transplantation. Their evident efficacy needs wider adoption to realise their true potential.

Augmentation of Hiatal Repair with the Ligamentum Teres Hepatis for Intrathoracic Gastric Migration After Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE

The augmentation of hiatoplasty (HP) with the ligamentum teres hepatis (LTA) is a new concept for intrathoracic migration of a gastric sleeve or pouch (ITGM). We retrospectively analyzed all cases of hiatal hernia repair in a single center between 2015 and 2019.

METHODS

A total of 171 patients underwent 307 hiatal hernia repairs after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) (n = 79), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (n = 129), and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) (n = 99). Each hiatal hernia repair was defined as a "case" and assigned to the LTA group or the non-LTA group. The primary outcome was the recurrence of ITGM as detected by endoscopy or CT.

RESULTS

The basic characteristics in the LTA group (78 cases) and the non-LTA group (229 cases) were comparable with the exception of the rate of revisional HP (72% vs. 21%), the rate of prior conversion to RYGB (33% vs. 17%), the initial BMI (45.9 ± 8.2 kg/m² vs. 49.0 ± 8.8 kg/m²), and the follow-up (7 months (1-16) vs. 8 months (1-54)). The ITGM recurrence rate was 15% in the LTA group and 72% in non-LTA group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that the length of ITGM and the type of surgical repair were independent risk factors. The addition of LTA to HP lowered the probability of ITGM recurrence by a factor of 0.35 (p = 0.015), but the conversion from SG or OAGB to RYGB did not reduce the risk.

CONCLUSIONS

LTA reduces the risk of early ITGM recurrence. The long-term durability, however, needs to be further investigated.