Antecolic versus retrocolic alimentary limb in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a comparative study

A Rare Case of a Petersen's Hernia During Pregnancy After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Obesity is an escalating problem worldwide and is associated with increased adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in pregnancy. Bariatric surgery offers women an effective method of sustained weight loss, with patients often less likely to develop obesity-related comorbidities in pregnancy, including hypertension and gestational diabetes. However, despite beneficial effects, previous bariatric surgery can also predispose pregnant patients to developing internal hernias. We present a rare case of a Petersen's hernia diagnosed in a patient with a previous Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure during her third trimester.

American society for metabolic and bariatric surgery: intra-operative care pathway for minimally invasive Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Clinical care pathways help guide and provide structure to clinicians and providers to improve healthcare delivery and quality. The Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee (QIPS) of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) has previously published care pathways for the performance of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and pre-operative care of patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).

OBJECTIVE

This current RYGB care pathway was created to address intraoperative care, defined as care occurring on the day of surgery from the preoperative holding area, through the operating room, and into the postanesthesia care unit (PACU).

METHODS

PubMed queries were performed from January 2001 to December 2019 and reviewed according to Level of Evidence regarding specific key questions developed by the committee.

RESULTS

Evidence-based recommendations are made for care of patients undergoing RYGB including the pre-operative holding area, intra-operative management and performance of RYGB, and concurrent procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

This document may provide guidance based on recent evidence to bariatric surgeons and providers for the intra-operative care for minimally invasive RYGB.

Internal Hernia Post-Single Anastomosis Gastric Bypass: Case Series with Review of Literature

Obesity is an emerging worldwide health care issue. It has a direct and indirect bearing on health-related outcomes. Rates of overweight and obesity have grown manifold in the past few decades globally. Once considered a problem of the affluent societies only, obesity is now dramatically on the rise in low- and middle-income countries also. Single anastomosis gastric bypass (SAGB) is one of the combined bariatric procedures adopted for weight loss in patients failing maximal medical therapy. Internal hernia (IH) after SAGB is a less recognized clinical entity. We hereby report our experience with four such cases under light of current available literature. Bariatric procedures are associated with some short- and long-term limitations. IHs are among one of the dreaded complications associated with some bariatric procedures with rates reaching up to 16% after classic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The incidence of IH post-SAGB is comparatively rare and is very less frequently reported. Symptoms of IH post-SAGB are quite nonspecific and depend on the time and extent of herniation. The symptoms can vary from benign intermittent colicky pain to severe intra-abdominal pain presenting as a surgical emergency. Routine physical examination and biochemical investigations are nonspecific and unreliable in evaluating those patients. Computed tomography (CT) with intravenous and oral contrast is the most common imaging modality used for preoperative evaluation of those symptoms. The CT findings can be unremarkable in patients having intermittent symptoms/herniation. Diagnostic laparoscopy is the cornerstone for diagnosis and management of patients having high suspicion of IH.

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.

Incidence and risk factors of symptomatic Petersen's hernias in bariatric and upper gastrointestinal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the actual incidence of symptomatic Petersen's hernias (PH) as well as identify risk factors for their occurrence.

METHODS

Search was performed in Medline (via PubMed), Web of Science, and Cochrane library, using the keywords "Petersen Or Petersen's AND hernia" and "Internal hernia." Only studies of symptomatic PH were eligible. Fifty-three studies matched our criteria and were included. Risk of bias for each study was independently assessed using the checklist modification by Hoy et al. Analysis was performed using random-effects models, with subsequent subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 81,701 patients were included. Mean time interval from index operation to PH diagnosis was 17.8 months. Total small bowel obstruction (SBO) events at Petersen's site were 737 (0.7%). SBO incidence was significantly higher in patients without defect closure (1.2% vs 0.3%, p < 0.01), but was not significantly affected by anastomosis fashion (retrocolic 0.7% vs antecolic 0.8%, p = 0.99). SBO incidence was also not significantly affected by the surgical approach (laparoscopic = 0.7% vs open = 0.1%, p = 0.18). However, retrocolic anastomosis was found to be associated with marginally, but not significantly, increased SBO rate in patients with Petersen's space closure, compared with the antecolic anastomosis (p = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

PH development may occur after any gastric operation with gastrojejunal anastomosis. Contrary to anastomosis fashion and surgical approach, defect closure was demonstrated to significantly reduce SBO incidence. Limitations of this study may include the high heterogeneity and the possible publication bias across the included studies.

Small bowel obstruction following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: is it always necessary to operate? A 5-year, high volume center experience

PURPOSE

This study aims to describe the incidence, associated factors, etiology, and management of small bowel obstructions following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted between January 15 and December 19 using the surgery database of our hospital. Included LRYGB patients were those that evolved with a prolonged length of stay; readmission; emergency room consult; and re-intervention due to small bowel obstruction (SBO) related symptoms with compatible radiological or intraoperative findings. The LRYGB technique implied an antecolic alimentary limb reconstruction and systematic closure of mesenteric defects. Descriptive and analytical statistics were carried out, using a parametric or non-parametric approach as needed.

RESULTS

Nine hundred forty-one LRYGB were performed. 9.9% were revisional surgeries of patients with a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. During the study period, 36 SBOs occurred, representing 3.8% of operated patients, with no mortality. 58.3% had successful non-operative management, while 41.7% required surgical exploration, of which 73.3% were treated laparoscopically and 20% needed conversion to open surgery. Etiologies of SBO were jejuno-jejunostomy (JJO) related stenosis (22, 61.1%), internal hernias (6, 16.7%), adherences (3, 8.3%), and other diagnoses (5, 13.9%). Regarding JJO stenosis and internal hernias, median time to diagnosis was 8 days (IQR 7-11) and 12 months (IQR 8.7-16) respectively. Previous sleeve gastrectomy, age, or sex was not associated to the incidence of small bowel obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

LRYGB is safe when performed by experienced surgeons. SBO due to internal hernias were scarce in this series. JJO stenosis could explain most cases of SBO; under this diagnosis, non-surgical management was successful frequently.

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass: Still the Gold Standard?

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has been considered the gold standard bariatric procedure for decades. The surgical technique for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and perioperative management for patients who undergo the procedure are still being improved for better clinical outcomes, shorter hospitalization, and faster return to normal activity. In the past 15 years there have been similar improvements and further development of novel surgical weight loss procedures. As data on other surgical alternatives emerge, the data need to be compared with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to determine noninferiority. Further long-term investigations are needed to determine superiority of one bariatric procedure over another.

Role of Imaging in Bariatric Surgery: A Review of the Various Surgical Techniques and Their Complications

According to the World Health Organization, obesity has reached epidemic proportions globally, with at least 2.8 million people dying each year as a result of being overweight or obese. Bariatric surgery is being increasingly used as a form of treatment, particularly in those patients where lifestyle modifications are deemed insufficient. With the role of radiologists transitioning from a medical to a surgical evaluation in obesity, it is becoming increasingly important to familiarize oneself with the various imaging techniques used in the preoperative and postsurgical evaluation in such cases. This article aims to review the various surgeries performed, their normal imaging appearance, and the various complications that could be encountered.

Mechanical colon obstruction due to the alimentary limb after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a case report

Background

Small bowel obstruction is a known and potentially lethal complication after gastric bypass surgery, in both the early and the late postoperative course. Colon or large bowel obstruction, on the other hand, seems to be rare after gastric bypass surgery and thus is not routinely considered.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 21-year old morbidly obese caucasian patient who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery and developed an early severe transverse colon obstruction due to compression of the transverse colon by the antecolic alimentary limb. Emergency revisional surgery showed a short and tense alimentary limb mesentery and possibly tight closure of Petersen’s space contributing to the compression. Through opening of Petersen’s space and mobilization of alimentary limb mesentery, decompression was achieved, and the patient fully recovered.

Conclusions

This is a rare case of colon obstruction caused by direct compression of the transverse colon by the antecolic alimentary limb. We propose that a combination of short tense alimentary limb mesentery and perhaps tight closure of Petersen’s space was responsible for the obstruction in this case. Surgeons and treating physicians need to be aware of such rare causes of early postoperative bowel obstruction and take these into consideration when evaluating patients.

Gastric bypass in modern bariatric surgery

The Roux-en-Y Gastric bypass surgery has long been considered as the gold standard method for the surgical treatment of obesity and its complications. But at present, this position is disputed by supporters of one-anastomotic gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. The decrease in the share of gastric bypass in the structure of bariatric operations is explained by technical complexity, surgical and malabsorption complications. This review reflects the main role of gastric bypass as a bariatric surgery in the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome, and discloses various options for the technical implementation of gastric bypass surgery according to Roux-en-Y and alternative one-anastomotic gastric bypass surgery. The advantages and disadvantages of the stapler-use and stapleless method for performing bariatric operations are shown. In our opinion, one of the promising alternative concepts for the surgical treatment of obesity is stapleless one-anastomotic direction in gastric bypass surgery, but the known stapleless methods are imperfect and unsafe. Thus, based on the presented literature review, we can conclude that the imperfection of not only the stapler gastric bypass methods, but also the stapleless method. Therefore, a further research is needed for alternative surgical methods that would reduce the likelihood of surgical complications, reduce the cost of bariatric surgery and increase the accessibility of surgical treatment of obesity for the population.

Internal hernias in pregnant females with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review

Improved fertility following a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) can lead to pregnancy and increase the risk of internal herniation. A developing fetus and symptoms of pregnancy can mask the diagnosis and delay intervention, leading to deleterious maternal and fetal consequences. The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the literature regarding internal hernias during pregnancy, their management, and patient outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was undertaken on PubMed and Google Scholar to identify cases of internal hernias presenting during pregnancy after RYGB. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were used for eligibility and inclusion of articles. Twenty-seven articles, with a total of 59 patients, regarding internal herniation during pregnancy after RYGB were identified. Epigastric pain and nausea and vomiting was the most common presentation. Regardless of orientation of the Roux limb and despite previous closure of mesenteric defects, internal herniation can still occur. A triad of epigastric pain, pregnancy, and a history of RYGB should be a red flag for clinicians to consider internal hernias as a top differential diagnosis. Prompt bariatric consultation and rapid intervention will improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Internal Hernia in Pregnant Woman after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has become the most common obesity surgery procedure worldwide over the last two decades. Many patients undergoing the procedure are women of reproductive age. This carries a risk for developing gastric bypass-related complications during pregnancy. One of the potentially serious risks is an internal hernia. We present a patient in the third trimester of pregnancy with an internal hernia following a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity. We discuss the importance of computed tomography (CT) in the diagnosis of an internal hernia and review key CT findings including compression of the superior mesenteric vein, which proved to be crucial in diagnosing the internal hernia in this patient.

Internal Herniation After Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery: Pitfalls in Diagnosing and the Introduction of the AMSTERDAM Classification

INTRODUCTION

Internal herniation (IH) probably is the most elusive complication of laparoscopic Roux- en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) surgery. This study provides a definition for IH, a diagnosing algorithm, and information on several factors influencing IH formation.

METHOD

Baseline characteristics, laboratory findings, imaging studies, operative findings, and follow up data of 1583 patients that underwent LRYGB at our bariatric facility between 2007 and 2013 were recorded. Follow up varied between 3 and 76 months, and 85 % of the data was available for analysis at 12 months. Our surgical technique was standardized. Intermesenteric spaces were not closed until July 2012, where after they were closed. To facilitate comparison, IH cases were matched with controls.

RESULTS

Forty patients (2.5 %) had an IH during re-laparoscopy. The modal clinical presentation is acute onset epigastric discomfort, often crampy/colicky in nature. Additional examinations included laboratory testing, abdominal X-ray, abdominal ultrasound, and abdominal CT scanning. Patients who developed an IH lost a significantly higher percentage of their total body weight than their matched controls at every time point. IH incidence was higher in the non-closure group than the closure group.

CONCLUSION

The large variation in reported IH incidence is due to the large variation in IH definition. To gain more uniformity in reporting IH prevalence, we propose the use of the AMSTERDAM classification. Post-LRYGB patients with acute onset crampy/colicky epigastric pain should undergo abdominal ultrasound to rule out gallbladder pathology and offered re-laparoscopy with a low threshold. IH incidence is highest among patients with rapid weight loss and non-closure of intermesenteric defects.

Internal hernia after proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition

Although internal hernia (IH) has been reported after laparoscopic distal or total gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction, there are few reports of IH after proximal gastrectomy with jejunal interposition (PG-JI). The aim of this study was to analyze the incidence and clinical features of IH after PG-JI. This study retrospectively reviewed 71 patients who underwent PG-JI for gastric cancer at a single institution between July 2007 and December 2016. The median follow-up period after PG-JI was 50 months. Four patients (5.6%) developed IH. IH occurred in 3 of 38 patients after open PG (7.9%) and 1 of 33 after laparoscopic PG (3.1%; p = 0.38). The site of IH was Petersen in all cases, where the Petersen defect was not closed. All patients had abdominal pain at onset, and the CT revealed a whirl sign. Bowel resection was required in three patients (75%). There was no morbidity. IH after PG-JI occurred regardless of operative approach (open or laparoscopic). A high degree of suspicion for IH should be maintained in patients after gastrectomy with abdominal pain and a whirl sign on CT. Closure of the mesenteric defects should be considered to reduce the incidence of IH after surgery.

The Impact of Upper Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy Following a Gastric Bypass

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to describe the risk of internal herniation (IH) and the obstetric outcome in pregnant women with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and episodes of upper abdominal pain.

METHODS

The cohort included 133 women with RYGB: 94 with 113 pregnancies, from the local area referred for routine antenatal care (local cohort) and 39 with 40 pregnancies referred from other hospitals for specialist consultation due to RYGB. RYGB was mainly performed without closure of the mesenteric defects. Data collected from medical records were episodes of upper abdominal pain, pregestational and gestational abdominal surgery and pregnancy outcome. The risk of upper abdominal pain was estimated in the local cohort. Surgical intervention, IH and obstetric outcome according to pain were evaluated for 139 pregnancies with delivery of a singleton after 24 weeks of gestation (birth cohort).

RESULTS

Upper abdominal pain complicated 42/113 (37.2 %) pregnancies in the local cohort and 11 women (9.7 %) had IH. In the birth cohort, upper abdominal pain complicated 64/139 (46.0 %) pregnancies; surgery was performed in 30/64 (46.9 %), and IH diagnosed in 21/64 (32.8 %). The median gestational age at onset of pain was 25 + 3 weeks. Women reporting abdominal pain had a higher risk of preterm birth (n = 14/64 vs. 1/75, p < 0.005), lower median gestational length (269 vs. 278 days, p < 0.005) and lower median birth weight (3018 vs. 3281 g, p = 0.002) compared to women without abdominal pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Upper abdominal pain during pregnancy is frequent among women with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is often due to IH and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome.

Distinct patterns in the gut microbiota after surgical or medical therapy in obese patients

Bariatric surgery is highly successful in improving health compared to conventional dietary treatments. It has been suggested that the gut microbiota is a relevant factor in weight loss after bariatric surgery. Considering that bariatric procedures cause different rearrangements of the digestive tract, they probably have different effects on the gut microbiota. In this study, we compared the impact of medical treatment, sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on the gut microbiota from obese subjects. Anthropometric and clinical parameters were registered before, 6 and 12 months after treatment. Fecal samples were collected and microbiota composition was studied before and six months post treatment using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and qPCR. In comparison to dietary treatment, changes in intestinal microbiota were more pronounced in patients subjected to surgery, observing a bloom in Proteobacteria. Interestingly, Bacteroidetes abundance was largely different after six months of each surgical procedure. Furthermore, changes in weight and BMI, or glucose metabolism, correlated positively with changes in these two phyla in these surgical procedures. These results indicate that distinct surgical procedures alter the gut microbiota differently, and changes in gut microbiota might contribute to health improvement. This study contributes to our understanding of the impact of weight loss surgery on the gut microbiota, and could be used to replicate this effect using targeted therapies.

Cross-sectional imaging, with surgical correlation, of patients presenting with complications after remote bariatric surgery without bowel obstruction

Both restrictive and malabsorptive types of bariatric surgery may be associated with short- and long-term complications. The lack of small bowel obstruction is not necessarily indicative of a normal study, as a variety of non-obstructed complications exist. These include stenosis at the gastrojejunostomy, leaks, abscesses, hemorrhage, internal hernias, and gastric band erosions. Radiologists should be familiar with these complications for early diagnosis and intervention before symptoms become life threatening. An understanding of the intraoperative appearances of these complications may improve imaging descriptions and add value to radiological consults for surgeons. This review provides surgical correlations to the imaging features of post-bariatric complications without obstruction of the bowel.

High frequency of internal hernias after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Internal hernias (IH) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are a serious concern among surgeons and are often under-diagnosed due to heterogeneity of clinical manifestations. Our aim is to assess the frequency of IH after a RYGB in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of our bariatric surgery unit's database between 2001 and 2013 is obtained. Patients are surgically explored after RYGB due to acute bowel obstruction (ABO), intermittent abdominal pain (IAP), or being asymptomatic (during an elective cholecystectomy) in whom anatomical presence of IH was established. Also, we compared patients with retrocolic and antecolic technique. Statistical analysis with non-parametric tests and chi-square are used.

RESULTS

Of the patients, 3,656 submitted to RYGB during this period, 81.9% (2,993) by laparoscopy and 26.3% (963) with retrocolic technique. Of the patients, 130 (3.5%) were surgically explored due to ABO, 27 patients (0.7%) due to IAP, and 93 patients (2.5%) submitted to an elective cholecystectomy with exploration for IH. IH was present in 75% of the obstructed patients, and in 69%, it was the cause of obstruction. Patients with IAP showed 59% of IH, but only 15% have herniated bowel. In asymptomatic patients, 25% showed IH and none of them have herniated bowel. Retrocolic technique showed a higher risk of whole causes of ABO and IH than the antecolic technique, with a relative risk of 1.53 (1.07-2.17) and 1.62 (1.06-2.47), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A high frequency of IH exists in all operated patients of this series. All members of the bariatric team should be aware of the symptoms related to IH and actively pursue it during follow-up.

Primary non-closure of mesenteric defects in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: reoperations and intraoperative findings in 146 patients

BACKGROUND

Internal hernias (IH) after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) have been reported with an incidence of 11 %. IH can lead to bowel incarceration and potentially bowel necrosis. The aim of this study was to analyze reoperations and intraoperative findings in a cohort of patients with unclosed mesenteric defects.

METHODS

From a prospective database of patients with LRYGB, we selected as primary cohort patients with non-closure of mesenteric defects and abdominal reoperation for analysis. The data included pre-, intra- and post-operative findings, computed tomogram results and laboratory test results. This group underwent a very very long limb LRYGB, at that time the institutional standard technique. Additionally, a more recently operated cohort with primary closure of mesenteric defects was also analyzed.

RESULTS

We identified 146 patients with primary non-closure and reoperation, mean age of 43.8 years. The main indication for reoperation was unclear abdominal pain in 119 patients with 27 patients undergoing a reoperation for other reasons (weight regain, prophylactic surgical inspection of mesenteric defects). Median time and mean excess weight loss from RYGB to reoperation were 41.1 months and 62.7 %, respectively. The incidence of IH was 14.4 %, with all patients with an IH being symptomatic. Conversion rate from laparoscopic to open surgery was 5.5 %, mortality 0.7 % and morbidity 3.4 %. Thirty-one patients underwent a second re-look laparoscopy. Eleven patients had recurrent open mesenteric defects. Three hundred and sixteen patients who underwent primary closure of the mesenteric defects had a reoperation rate of 13.6 % and an IH rate of 0.6 %.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of IH in patients without closure of mesenteric defects and reoperation is high and substantially higher compared to patients with primary closure of mesenteric defects. Patients with or without closure of mesenteric defects following LRYGB with acute, chronic or recurrent pain should be referred to a bariatric surgeon for diagnostic laparoscopy.

Operative complications during pregnancy after gastric bypass--a register-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Late complications to bariatric surgery during pregnancy have become an area of concern. Expansion of the uterus and the following displacement of the small intestine may increase the risk of internal herniation. We wanted to estimate the risk and consequences of surgical complications during pregnancy in a national cohort of women with a history of gastric bypass surgery.

METHODS

A national, register-based cohort study of all Danish women with a history of gastric bypass surgery who had given birth from 2004 to 2010 was conducted. Surgical codes registered during pregnancy and until 120 days postpartum were identified in national registers, and the individual charts were reviewed in relevant cases.

RESULTS

Of 286 women giving birth, fourteen women underwent procedures that might be related to the earlier gastric bypass surgery. Three women were operated on suspicion of internal herniation. In all three cases, mesenteric defects were found, and herniation was still present in two women, one of which died postoperatively. Five women were investigated by gastroscopy or sigmoidoscopy either during or after the delivery, and in six women cholecystectomy was performed during the puerperium.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of internal herniation during pregnancy was 1 % in our study. Internal herniation may be a serious complication in pregnant women, and both the diagnosis and treatment requires handling by experienced obstetrical, radiological, and surgical staff.

Bridging the gap between gastric pouch and jejunum: a bariatric nightmare

Background

Even in a large volume bariatric centre, bariatric surgeons are sometimes confronted with intraoperative anatomical challenges which force even the most experienced surgeon into a pioneering position. In this video we present how a large gap of approximately 8 cm is bridged by applying several techniques that are not part of our standardized surgical procedure.

Case presentation

After creation of a 20 mL gastric pouch we discovered that the alimentary limb could not be advanced further cranially due to a very short a thick jejunal mesentery in a 49 year old male patient during laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) surgery. By dissecting the gastro-oesophageal junction form the crus, stretching the gastric pouch, transecting the jejunal mesentery, using a retrocolic/retrogastric route, and creating a fully hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy we were able to safely complete the LRYGB. Drains were left near the gastrojejunostomy and the patient was kept nil by mouth for 5 days. On the 5th postoperative day radiographic swallow series were obtained which revealed no sign of leakage. The patient was discharged in good clinical condition on the 6th postoperative day. To date, no complications have occurred. Weight loss results are −31.5 % of the preoperative total body weight.

Conclusions

When confronted with a large distance between the gastric pouch and the alimentary limb, several techniques presented in this video may be of aid to the bariatric surgeon. We stress that only experienced bariatric surgeon should embark on these techniques. Inspecting the alimentary limb before the creation of the gastric pouch may prevent the need for such complex techniques.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12893-015-0043-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Meta-analysis of internal herniation after gastric bypass surgery

Background

The aim of this study was to provide a systematic and quantitative summary of the association between laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and the reported incidence of internal herniation (IH). The route of the Roux limb and closure of mesenteric and/or mesocolonic defects are described as factors of influence.

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science were searched for relevant literature, references and citations according to the PRISMA statement. Two independent reviewers selected studies that evaluated incidence of IH after LRYGB and possible techniques for prevention. Data were pooled by route of the Roux limb and closure/non-closure of the mesenteric and/or mesocolonic defects.

Results

Forty-five articles included data on 31 320 patients. Lowest IH incidence was in the antecolic group, with closure of all defects (1 per cent; P &lt; 0·001), followed by the antecolic group, with all defects left open and the retrocolic group with closure of the mesenteric and mesocolonic defect (both 2 per cent; P &lt; 0·001). The incidence of IH was highest in the antecolic group, with closure of the jejunal defect, and in the retrocolic group, with closure of all defects (both 3 per cent).

Conclusion

The present systematic review includes a random-effects meta-analysis. The antecolic procedure, with closure of both the mesenteric and Petersen defects, has the lowest internal herniation incidence following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Does the closure of mesenteric defects during laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery cause complications?

BACKGROUND

A well-known complication of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (LRYGB) is bowel obstruction due to internal herniation (IH). Evidence suggests that mesenteric defects should be closed during LRYGB to reduce the risk of IH. Therefore, surgeons are now closing mesenteric defects during LRYGB using sutures, clips, or fibrin glue. However, it has been reported that complications may arise due to the closure of mesenteric defects. The aim of this review was to summarize the reported possible complications associated with the closure of mesenteric defects during LRYGB.

METHODS

A literature search of PubMed and EMBASE was performed to identify studies related to the closure of mesenteric defects during LRYGB. The studies were screened for the listing of possible complications associated with the closure of mesenteric defects. This systematic review was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis recommendations.

RESULTS

Thirty studies complied with the inclusion criteria for our analysis, which included 21,789 patients. Reported complications related to closure of the mesenteric defects were: small bowel obstruction because of IH, kinking, and adhesions. IH occurred because of incomplete closure of the mesenteric defects in 1.4% of all patients, 1.2% by the antecolic approach, and 1.9% by the retrocolic approach, respectively. Kinking of the small bowel occurred in .2% of 1630 patients after closure of the mesenteric defects with clips and adhesion formation was found among 4.6% of 152 patients after closure of the mesenteric defects with nonabsorbable sutures.

CONCLUSIONS

The reported risk of complications caused by closure of the mesenteric defects during LRYGB seems low.

Imaging of complications of common bariatric surgical procedures

Several techniques for the surgical management of obesity are available to bariatric surgeons. These interventions are performed more frequently with worsening of the obesity epidemic. Radiologists should be familiar with the surgical techniques, normal postoperative appearances, and potential complications for which imaging may be employed to establish a diagnosis to optimize patient care.

Laparoscopy for primary and secondary bariatric procedures

Recently obesity has been defined as a disease and has turned bariatric surgery into a part of a chronic illness management. Obesity induces several comorbidities leading to cardiovascular disease and mortality. The effects of bariatric surgery on these comorbidities used to be classified as weight-loss induced. However bariatric surgery has recently been termed metabolic surgery because of the suspected direct, weight loss independent effect of bariatric procedures on the physiopathological mechanisms causing excess fat storage and insulin resistance. This review describes the standard procedures commonly performed and their specific outcomes on metabolic diseases in order to work towards more patient tailored treatment of obesity and to reduce side effects. Furthermore this review focuses on gaps in understanding the pathogenesis of obesity and its treatment with bariatric surgery. Surgery failures as well as new techniques are discussed and evaluated.

Feeding and bone turnover in gastric bypass

CONTEXT

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is associated with high bone turnover. In healthy subjects, feeding causes acute reduction of bone resorption, which is regulated by several intestinal and pancreatic peptides.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to assess bone turnover after feeding in patients with RYGB.

DESIGN AND SETTING

This was a cross-sectional case-control study at a university hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifteen postmenopausal women who underwent RYGB 7.4 ± 4.1 years previously were matched by age and body mass index with 15 nonoperated women (controls).

MAIN OUTCOMES

Serum PTH, calcium, phosphorus, insulin, carboxy telopeptide (CTX), procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (P1NP), and glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) were measured while fasting and after a standard meal (SM).

RESULTS

The fasting calcium, phosphorus, and PTH were similar in both groups and exhibited similar decreases after an SM. The fasting CTX level was higher in the RYGB than in the control group (0.589 ± 0.18 vs 0.382 ± 0.11 ng/mL; P < .05) and fell to a nadir of 42.2% of the basal value in the RYGB and 53.9% in controls (P < .05). The fasting and postprandial P1NP levels were similar in both groups and fell to a nadir of 85.8% in the RYGB and 89.3% in controls. Insulin and GLP-2 levels were similar during fasting in both groups. RYGB patients had exaggerated postprandial insulin and GLP-2 response compared with the controls with the insulin and GLP-2 area under the curve being significantly higher in the RYGB group. There was a significant negative correlation between the peak of insulin levels and the CTX changes.

CONCLUSION

The acute reduction in bone resorption after feeding is preserved in RYGB and is even higher than in nonoperated subjects. This phenomenon is related to the increase of postprandial levels of insulin. These findings suggest a bone-protecting mechanism in RYGB that may counteract the elevated bone resorption that occurs during fasting.

Internal hernia after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

The goal of this study was to determine the impact of mesenteric defect closure and Roux limb position on the rate of internal hernia after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of all LRYGB patients from 2001 to 2011 who had all internal hernia (IH) defects closed (DC) or all defects not closed (DnC).

RESULTS

Of 914 patients, 663 (72.5 %) had DC vs. 251 (27.5 %) with DnC, and 679 (74.3 %) had an ante-colic vs. 235 (25.7 %) with a retro-colic Roux limb. Forty-six patients (5 %) developed a symptomatic IH. Of these, 25 (3.8 %) were in the DC vs. 21 (8.4 %) in the DnC group (p = 0.005), and 26 (3.8 %) were in the ante-colic vs. 20 (8.5 %) in the retro-colic Roux limb position (p = 0.005). Data from 45 patients were available for further analysis. The most common symptom was chronic postprandial abdominal pain (53.4 %). All patients underwent CT scan consistent with IH in 26 patients (57.5 %), suggestive in 7 (15.6 %), showing small bowel obstruction in 4 (8.9 %), and negative in 8 (17.8 %).

CONCLUSIONS

Closure of mesenteric defects and ante-colic Roux limb position result in a significantly lower IH rate. Furthermore, a high index of suspicion must be maintained since symptoms may be nonspecific and imaging may be negative in nearly 20 % of patients.

Impact of complete mesenteric closure on small bowel obstruction and internal mesenteric hernia after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Although it is generally accepted that closure of mesenteric defects after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) reduces the incidence of small bowel obstruction (SBO), data supporting this belief are inconsistent. After a spike in acute SBO cases in our LRYGB patients, we changed our technique of mesenteric closure. The objective of this study was to determine whether modification of our technique of mesenteric closure would decrease the incidence of SBO and internal hernia after LRYGB.

METHODS

The records of 872 consecutive patients who had antecolic LRYGB by 1 surgeon over a 9-year interval were reviewed for acute SBO. The first 654 patients, mean follow up = 100±12 months, had incomplete mesenteric closure versus complete closure in 218 remaining patients, mean follow up = 40±14 months. Minimum follow up was 1 year.

RESULTS

Total incidence of acute SBO was 4.0% (35/872), including 4.4% (29/654) in the incomplete closure group versus 2.8% (6/218) in the complete closure patients. Seventeen (2.6%) of the incomplete closure patients with acute SBO had internal hernias versus 1 (.5%) in the complete closure group. Twenty-six patients with incomplete closure developed symptoms of SBO and subsequently had elective repair of mesenteric hernias versus none in complete closure group (P<.02). Postoperative morbidity and mortality rates after surgery for SBO were 30% and 7.4% in incomplete group versus zero in patients with complete closure.

CONCLUSION

Complete closure of mesenteric defects in antecolic LRYGB resulted in a significant reduction in internal mesenteric hernias. Complications were also reduced after operations for SBO in patients who had complete mesenteric closure.

Laparoscopic technique for hernia reduction and mesenteric defect closure in patients with internal hernia as a postoperative complication of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Internal hernia is a relatively common complication of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Laparoscopic treatment may be a challenge for nonbariatric surgeons if small-bowel obstruction is present. The aim of this paper is to present a systematic laparoscopic technique for hernia reduction and mesenteric defect closure in patients with small-bowel obstruction due to an internal hernia as a postoperative complication of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. From February 2007 to May 2011, this technique was used in 41 consecutive patients. One case was converted to an open approach due to extensive bowel necrosis. There were no complications related to the technique but 2 patients suffered pulmonary aspiration during anesthesia. After the internal hernia repair patients reported no further abdominal symptoms. Treatment of small-bowel obstruction due to an internal hernia should be attempted by laparoscopy except in the setting of bowel necrosis. The technique presented in this article represents a safe and effective option for the management of this complication.

Omental patch repair effectively treats perforated marginal ulcer following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Marginal ulcer formation remains a significant complication of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Up to 1 % of all RYGB patients will develop free perforation of a marginal ulcer. Classically, this complication has required anastomotic revision; however, this approach is associated with significant morbidity. Several small series have suggested that omental patch repair may be effective. The aim of this study was to examine the management of perforated marginal ulcers following RYGB.

METHODS

All patients who underwent operative intervention for perforated ulcers between 2003 and 2011 were reviewed. Those with a history of RYGB with perforation of a marginal ulcer were included in the analysis. Data collected included operative approach, operative time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, complications, smoking history, and steroid or NSAID use.

RESULTS

From January 2003 to December 2011, a total of 1,760 patients underwent RYGB at our institution. Eighteen (0.85 %) developed perforation of a marginal ulcer. Three patients' original procedure was performed at another institution. Eight patients (44 %) had at least one risk factor for ulcer formation. Treatment included omental patch repair (laparoscopic, n = 7; open, n = 9) or anastomotic revision (n = 2). Compared to anastomotic revision, omental patch repair had shorter OR time (101 ± 57 vs. 138 ± 2 min), decreased estimated blood loss (70 ± 72 vs. 250 ± 71 mL), and shorter total length of stay (5.6 ± 1.4 vs. 11.0 ± 5.7 days).

CONCLUSIONS

Perforated marginal ulcer represents a significant complication of RYGB. Patients should be educated to reduce risk factors for perforation, as prolonged proton pump inhibitor therapy may not prevent this complication in a patient with even just one risk factor. In our sample population we found laparoscopic or open omental patch repair to be a safe and effective treatment for this condition and it was associated with decreased operative time, blood loss, and length of stay.

Laparoscopic reconversion of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to original anatomy: technique and preliminary outcomes

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most common bariatric procedures performed. Dumping syndrome, intolerance to RYGB-induced restriction, and weight loss issues are possible problems bariatric surgeons are confronted with. This study reports the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of laparoscopic reconversion of RYGB to original anatomy (OA) as treatment of these complications.

METHODS

Between January 2005 and April 2008, eight patients benefited from laparoscopic reconversion of RYGB to OA. Reason was dumping syndrome without postprandial hypoglycemia (three), intolerance to RYGB-induced restriction (three), too much (one) and too little weight loss (one). Mean weight and body mass index (BMI) at RYGB were 104.7±19.3 kg and 38.7±6 kg/m(2), respectively. Four patients suffered of obesity co-morbidities. Mean time between RYGB and reconversion was 21±18.8 months. Mean weight, BMI, and % excess weight loss at reconversion was 66.8±21.7 kg, 20.1±7 kg/m(2), and 23.7±55%, respectively. The procedure involved dismantling both gastrojejunostomy and jejunojejunostomy, reanastomosing gastric pouch to gastric remnant, and proximal alimentary limb end to distal biliary limb end.

RESULTS

Mean operative time was 132.2±29.5 min. There were no conversions to open surgery and no early complications. Gastrogastrostomy was performed manually (four) and by linear stapler (four), and jejunojejunostomy by linear stapler (eight). Mean hospital stay was 7.7±3.5 days. After a mean follow-up of 18.3±9.2 months, two patients continued to further lose weight, two patients maintained the same weight, and four patients presented weight regain. Gastroesophageal reflux disease appeared in three patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic reconversion of RYGB to OA is feasible and safe. Dumping syndrome and intolerance to RYGB-induced restriction are resolved. The anatomy remains one of the aspects besides nutritional and psychological factors in cases of reconversion for weight issues.

Small bowel obstruction after antecolic antegastric laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass without division of small bowel mesentery: a single-centre, 7-year review

Reported incidence of small bowel obstruction (SBO) after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass varies between 1.5% and 3.5%. It has been suggested that the antecolic antegastric laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (AA-LRYGB) is associated with a low incidence of internal herniation (IH). Therefore we routinely did not close mesenteric defects. The records of 652 consecutive patients undergoing primary AA-LRYGB from January 2003 to December 2009 in a single institution were retrospectively reviewed to determine the incidence, etiology, clinical symptoms, radiologic diagnostic accuracy and operative outcomes of SBO. Of the 652 patients, 63 (9.6%) developed SBO. The majority (6.9%, 45 patients) had a SBO due to IH. In 41 (91%) cases, the IH was at the jejunojejunostomy (JJ), four cases had an IH at Petersen's space. Adhesions and ventral hernia were found in 14 (2.1%) and four (0.6%) cases, respectively. Twenty-nine out of 63 cases had negative computed tomography (CT) findings and IH was diagnosed on CT in only 33% (14/45) of patients with IH. All patients underwent diagnostic laparoscopy. No bowel resections had to be performed. In contrast to previous reports, a high incidence of SBO with a high rate of IH at the JJ site was found in our series. Accuracy of CT is low and diagnostic laparoscopy is mandatory when SBO is suspected. Since 2010 we have started closing the JJ site, and data on SBO are collected prospectively. We believe that closing of the mesenteric defects is a mandatory step, even in an AA-LRYGB.

[Bariatric surgery and associated complications: radiological imaging]

Obesity is an increasing problem faced by the healthcare system. In managing obesity, bariatric surgery is becoming more important with evidence showing a reduction in long-term morbidity and mortality. There are special challenges faced by the radiology department in providing an imaging service for this population of patients, from technical requirements through to the interpretation of post-surgical images. This article provides an overview of the most frequently performed procedures, normal postoperative imaging findings and the appearance of common complications.

Small bowel obstruction after antecolic and antegastric laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: could the incidence be reduced?

BACKGROUND

Small bowel obstruction (SBO) after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) may be related to the surgical technique used. The frequency and characteristics of postoperative SBO were studied in two cohorts of patients after LRYGB.

METHODS

In a 4-year period, 359 patients underwent LRYGB as an initial bariatric operation at our clinic. Patients were divided into two groups. In Group 1 (n = 187), the mesentery of the jejunum was widely divided, the mesenteric defect was closed, and Petersen's space was not sutured. In Group 2 (n = 172), the mesentery was not divided, and both the mesenteric folds and Petersen's space were closed. Episodes of SBO, etiology, treatment, and outcome were analyzed and compared.

RESULTS

There were 141 males and 218 females, with mean age of 41 ± 11 years. Preoperative BMI was 43.2 ± 7 kg/m(2). In Group 1, 29/187 patients (15.5%) developed SBO at a mean follow-up of 15 ± 6.4 months. In Group 2, 2/172 patients (1.1%) developed SBO at 12.3 ± 6.7 months. Internal hernia was responsible for the SBO in 29 patients (19 through the adjacent mesenteric defect and 10 through Petersen's space). Mean EWL at the time of SBO was 82.2 ± 22.7%. SBO was successfully resolved by laparoscopy in 25 patients, conversion was necessary in three, and one was treated by open surgery. One patient presented intestinal perforation after revision.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical details such as leaving the jejunal mesentery intact and closing all created defects significantly decreased the incidence of SBO due to internal hernias in antecolic antegastric LRYGB.

Medical and surgical treatments for obesity have opposite effects on peptide YY and appetite: a prospective study controlled for weight loss

CONTEXT

The effects of medical and surgical treatments for obesity on peptide YY (PYY) levels, in patients with similar weight loss, remain unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to assess PYY and appetite before and after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), and medical treatment (MED).

DESIGN

This was a prospective, controlled, nonrandomized study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at the Departments of Nutrition and Digestive Surgery at a university hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

PARTICIPANTS included three groups of eight patients with similar body mass indexes (RYGB 37.8 +/- 0.8, SG 35.3 +/- 0.7, and MED 39.1 +/- 1.7 kg/m(2), P = NS) and eight lean controls (body mass index 21.7 +/- 0.7 kg/m(2)).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Total plasma PYY, hunger, and satiety visual analog scales in fasting and after ingestion of a standard test meal were measured.

RESULTS

At baseline there were no differences in the area under the curve (AUC) of PYY, hunger, or satiety in obese groups. Two months after the interventions, RYGB, SG, and MED groups achieved similar weight loss (17.7 +/- 3, 14.9 +/- 2.4, 16.6 +/- 4%, respectively, P = NS). PYY AUC increased in RYGB (P < 0.001) and SG (P < 0.05) and did not change in MED. PYY levels decreased at fasting, 30 min, and 180 min after a standard test meal in MED (P < 0.05). Hunger AUC decreased in RYGB (P < 0.05). Satiety AUC increased in RYGB (P < 0.05) and SG (P < 0.05). Appetite did not change in MED. PYY AUC correlated with satiety AUC (r = 0.35, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

RYGB and SG increased PYY and reduced appetite. MED failed to produce changes. Different effects occur despite similar weight loss. This suggests that the weight-loss effects of these procedures are enhanced by an increase in PYY and satiety.

Favorable internal hernia rate achieved using retrocolic, retrogastric alimentary limb in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

The present study was performed at a tertiary care university hospital. The present study examined the incidence of internal hernia (IH) in our series of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) with retrocolic, retrogastric routing of the alimentary limb accompanied by routine secure closure of all mesenteric defects.

METHODS

During a 4-year period, 847 patients underwent LRYGB. Our operative technique included retrocolic, retrogastric placement of the alimentary limb. The enteroenterostomy mesenteric defect, mesocolic defect, and Petersen defect were routinely closed in running fashion with nonabsorbable suture.

RESULTS

The study population had a mean age of 42.4 +/- 9.3 years and a mean preoperative body mass index of 45.3 +/- 5.6 kg/m(2). The mean operative time was 154 +/- 25 minutes. The mean excess body weight loss at 1 year was 70%. The incidence of IH among this large study population was 0%. A total of 11 patients (1.3%) presented with symptoms concerning for IH, most commonly nausea, vomiting, and crampy abdominal pain, from 1 month to 6 years after the initial surgery. On re-exploration, 4 patients had adhesive small bowel obstruction, 4 had adhesions without obstruction, 1 had small bowel intussusception, and 2 patients had negative findings.

CONCLUSION

IH is a serious complication of LRYGB that can lead to catastrophic morbidity and mortality. We advocate vigilant screening for this complication and laparoscopic exploration for patients with worrisome symptoms. Our data have indicated that a routine and consistent technique to securely close the mesenteric defects can significantly reduce the risk of IH associated with retrocolic, retrogastric placement of the alimentary limb during LRYGB.

Increase of bone resorption and the parathyroid hormone in postmenopausal women in the long-term after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

The effects of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) on bone in the long-term remains unclear. We assessed bone metabolism and bone mineral density (BMD) 1 to 5 years after RYGB.

METHODS

We designed a retrospective cohort study in 26 postmenopausal women (58.0+/-3.9 years old) with RYGB 3.5+/-1.1 years before (body mass index (BMI) 29.5+/-3.8 kg/m2, presurgery 43.6+/-5.5 kg/m2) and 26 nonoperated women (57.5+/-4.7 years old, BMI 29.2+/-4.1 kg/m2) matched by age and BMI. The main measures were BMD, serum carboxy telopeptide (CTx), total alkaline phosphatases (ALP), parathyroid hormone (PTH), 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), and ghrelin.

RESULTS

RYGB group, compared to nonoperated women, had higher CTx (0.71+/-0.21 vs. 0.43+/-0.15 ng/ml; P<0.01) and PTH (68.3+/-35 vs. 49.4+/-16 pg/ml; P=0.02). There were no differences between RYGB and nonoperated women in: calcium and vitamin D intake (759+/-457 vs. 705+/-460 mg/day; 176+/-160 vs. 111+/-86 UI/day), ghrelin (763+/-336 vs. 621+/-274 pg/ml), ALP (101+/-22 vs. 94+/-25 UI/l), 25OHD (18.8+/-7.6 vs. 17.4 +/- 5.9 ng/ml), lumbar spine BMD (1.059+/-0.32 vs. 1.071+/-0.207 g/cm2), or femoral neck BMD (0.892+/-0.109 vs. 0.934+/-1.1 g/cm2).

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB is associated to high bone resorption and hyperparathyroidism prevalence in postmenopausal women in the long-term. This occurs independently of the intake of calcium, vitamin D status, or ghrelin and does not seem to affect BMD after RYGB.