Long-term and midterm outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies

Medication Use Before and After Different Bariatric Surgery Procedures: Results from a Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic and bariatric surgery improves most obesity-related comorbidities. Here, we evaluate the effect of different metabolic and bariatric surgery interventions on the use of medications to treat chronic conditions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was an observational population-based cohort study performed in Lombardy, Italy. Healthcare utilization databases were used to identify all residents who underwent a metabolic and bariatric surgery procedure between 2010 and 2020 with available follow-up data for at least three years after surgery. We included patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), gastric bypass (GB), laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD).

RESULTS

During the period 2010 to 2020, 19,450 patients (22.5% males, 13.5% with diabetes) underwent a metabolic and bariatric surgery procedure. LSG was the most commonly performed procedure (65%), followed by LAGB (19%), GB (15%), and BPD (1%). There was a significant reduction in the use of glucose-lowering and antihypertensive drugs after the procedure in all groups. Compared to LSG, the reduction in the use of glucose-lowering drugs was greater following GB (reduction at 3 years: 59 vs 65%, p-interaction < 0.001) and lower following LAGB (59 vs 25%, p-interaction < 0.001). There was a significant reduction in lipid-lowering drug use following LSG and GB (3-year reduction: 21 and 50%, p-interaction < 0.001), and in psychiatric drug use following LSG, GB, and LAGB (with no difference between groups). In all groups, proton pump inhibitor use increased during the first 6 months, followed by a decrease from 1 year afterward.

CONCLUSION

The present study including a large number of patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery procedures shows robust reductions in the use of glucose, blood pressure and lipid-lowering drugs at 3 years follow-up, suggesting benefits of surgery on both quality of life and healthcare costs.

Major Adverse Cardiac Events After Gastric Bypass vs Sleeve Gastrectomy

Importance

Metabolic bariatric surgery is the most effective and durable treatment for weight loss and improvement of cardiovascular diseases. With sleeve gastrectomy now surpassing gastric bypass as the most common procedure worldwide, comparing these procedures' associations with major adverse cardiac events (MACE) is needed.

Objective

To compare the risk of MACE among individuals undergoing gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based, inverse probability-weighted cohort study was conducted using administrative claims data from Switzerland among adults undergoing gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy for obesity treatment between January 2012 and December 2022. Inpatient individuals with a primary or secondary discharge procedure code for gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy were eligible for inclusion. Data were analyzed from April 2024 to September 2025.

Exposure

Gastric bypass vs sleeve gastrectomy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A weighted cohort was analyzed to study the primary outcome of 4-point MACE, including acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, hospitalizations for heart failure, and all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were the individual components of MACE, surgical reinterventions, and associated complications.

Results

Of 39 067 patients, 30 270 patients (77.5%) underwent gastric bypass and 8798 patients (22.5%) underwent sleeve gastrectomy. Median (IQR) patient age was 42 (35-50) years, and 28 560 patients (73.1%) were women. A total of 23 708 patients (60.7%) had a body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) of 40 or higher. After weighting, over a median (IQR) follow-up of 5.1 years (2.6-7.6), the primary outcome occurred in 577 patients in the gastric bypass group (1.9%) and 264 patients in the sleeve gastrectomy group (3.0%), with incidence rates of 3.96 and 5.10 per 1000 patient-years, respectively (hazard ratio [HR], 0.75; 95% CI, 0.64-0.88). This difference was primarily driven by lower rates of acute myocardial infarction (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.46-0.86). No differences were observed in ischemic stroke, hospitalization for heart failure, and all-cause mortality. Both short- and long-term secondary outcomes favored gastric bypass over sleeve gastrectomy, except for higher rates of revision surgery and immediate postoperative complications.

Conclusions and relevance

In this inverse probability-weighted cohort study, for patients undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery, gastric bypass was associated with lower rates of MACE than sleeve gastrectomy over a follow-up period of up to 11 years. Known postoperative complications were confirmed for both gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.

Comparison of bariatric surgery and community weight management for idiopathic intracranial hypertension in a multicenter retrospective cohort study

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) is a neurological disorder characterized by elevated intracranial pressure without definitive etiology, primarily affecting young, obese women. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of bariatric surgery versus conventional community weight management in treating IIH. We conducted a retrospective cohort study in IIH patients undergoing bariatric procedures versus conventional weight loss interventions. Propensity score matching was employed to balance study groups. Outcomes were assessed at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, including papilledema, headache, visual symptoms, and therapeutic interventions. Bariatric surgery demonstrated superior outcomes compared to community weight management. Papilledema incidence was consistently lower in the bariatric group (RR = 0.591 at 24 months, p = 0.0001). Headache prevalence and visual symptoms were also reduced in the surgical group. Acetazolamide dose was lower in bariatric patients, starting at 12 and 24 months. Subgroup analysis of different bariatric procedures showed comparable efficacy. Body mass index reduction was significantly greater in the bariatric group throughout the follow-up period. This study provides evidence supporting the efficacy of bariatric surgery in managing IIH, with superior outcomes across multiple parameters compared to conventional weight management. The sustained improvements in papilledema, headache, and visual symptoms, coupled with for the reduction in pharmacological intervention dose, suggest that bariatric surgery may offer a more definitive solution for IIH patients with concurrent obesity. Further research is needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for patient selection and optimize post-operative care protocols.

The latest evidence and guidance in lifestyle and surgical interventions to achieve weight loss in people with overweight or obesity

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of obesity and related co-morbidities has reached epidemic proportions. Effective evidence-based treatment approaches are therefore important. Lifestyle intervention remains the mainstay of the treatment strategy to manage obesity. Increased evidence has also emerged regarding the efficacy of metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) to induce significant and sustained weight loss while also reducing the progression of obesity-related co-morbidities for people living with obesity.

AIMS & METHODS

This article aims to bring together current evidence, guidance and best practice for the prevention and management of people living with overweight or obesity by means of lifestyle and behavioural intervention, as well as by MBS.

RESULT

Lifestyle intervention encompasses dietary strategies, physical activity and behavioural intervention. Discussion on MBS will focus on current indications, comparison between different MBS procedures, novel endoscopic techniques, potential complications and pre-operative management.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

The number of people living with excess weight and complications associated with being overweight is alarmingly quite high. Effective treatment approaches that are supported by clinical studies are therefore important. Lifestyle changes remain very important to manage excess weight. Increased evidence has also shown the benefits of weight loss surgery to produce significant weight loss which could be sustained, while also reducing the risk of developing medical conditions associated with excess weight. This article aims to bring together current evidence, guidance and best practice for the prevention and management of people living with excess weight by means of lifestyle and behavioural changes, as well as by weight loss surgery. Lifestyle intervention encompasses dietary strategies, physical activity and behavioural intervention. Discussion on weight loss surgery will focus on current criteria for suitability, comparison between different weight loss surgery procedures, new techniques, possible complications and appropriate management prior to weight loss surgery.

Greater durability of weight loss at ten years with gastric bypass compared to sleeve gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and gastric bypass (GB) are the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries. However, there is insufficient data on which leads to greater long-term (10 year) weight loss.

METHODS

Subjects who underwent SG and GB from 2008-2013 were followed up at 2, 5, and 10 years post-operatively for weight and diabetes (DM) outcomes. Percentage total weight loss (%TWL), weight regain ( ≥ 20% from nadir) and DM remission rates were compared.

RESULTS

Subjects (n = 253) who underwent SG (60.9%) and GB (39.1%) were included. The mean age was 41.4 ± 10.6 y, 39.1% were male, and the mean body mass index was 42.1 ± 9.3 kg/m2 with no significant difference between groups. The GB group had a greater proportion of subjects with DM (83.8% vs 19.5%, p < 0.001). At 2 y, %TWL was comparable (GB: 22.3 ± 9.6%, SG: 22.6 ± 10.5%, p = 0.824). However, those who underwent GB had significantly higher %TWL at 5 y (GB: 21.5 ± 8.9%, SG 18.0 ± 11.3%, p = 0.029) and 10 y (GB: 21.0 ± 9.0%, SG: 15.4 ± 12.1%, p = 0.001). The rate of significant weight regain was higher amongst the SG group at both 5 y (SG: 14.7%, GB: 3.8%, p = 0.018) and 10 y (SG: 27.9%, GB: 13.7%, p = 0.037) post-operatively. On multiple linear regression, GB remained significantly associated with greater %TWL at 10 y compared to SG (b = 5.51; adjusted p-value = 0.013), after adjusting for age, sex, pre-operative BMI, pre-operative glycemic status, and surgery year. There was no difference in DM remission rates at 10 y (SG: 26.7%, GB: 19.1%, p = 0.385).

CONCLUSION

GB was able to produce greater %TWL and less weight regain than SG at 5 and 10 years post-operatively. There was no difference in long-term DM remission rates between the two surgeries.

Managing Leaks and Fistulas After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Challenges and Solutions

Postoperative leaks after sleeve gastrectomy are a troublesome complication that occur in 0.7-5.3% of cases depending on the referenced source. These complications cause significant morbidity for patients requiring prolonged hospitalizations, nutritional support, intravenous antibiotics, and at times additional operations and procedures that risk further downstream complications. The patient presentation varies from relatively benign with minimal or no symptomatology, to the acutely ill with life-threatening sepsis. The management of gastric leak is dependent on a multitude of factors, including the initial presentation as well the surgeon's experience and preference. Here, we will summarize the current literature and discuss the different options that exist for the management of gastric leaks after sleeve gastrectomy including laparoscopic lavage, endoscopic stenting, endoscopic pigtail catheters, endoscopic vacuum therapy, and salvage surgical operations such as fistula jejunostomy and total gastrectomy. The aim is to provide a source for surgeons to reference when they encounter this disease pathology and to shed light on a daunting challenge for the modern bariatric surgeon.

Effectiveness of a Nurse-Led Telecare Programme in the Postoperative Follow-Up of Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Quasi-Experimental Study

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Obesity is a growing public health challenge due to its high prevalence and associated comorbidities. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for achieving sustained weight reduction when more conservative treatments have failed. This study evaluates the impact of a nurse-led telecare follow-up programme in the immediate postoperative period for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental study was carried out in two hospitals in southern Spain. We included 161 patients who met the inclusion criteria: a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 40 kg/m2 or a BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 with associated comorbidities, and the failure of non-surgical treatments. Patients were divided into two groups: the intervention group (IG), which received follow-up telephone calls from a specialised nurse during the first 30 days post-surgery, and the control group (CG), which received standard care. The nurse, who was available 24 h a day, answered questions and dealt with queries over the phone or referred patients to the emergency department if necessary. Several variables were recorded, including the number of telephone consultations, reasons for consultation, number of emergency visits, readmissions, and surgical reinterventions.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The IG showed a significant reduction in ED visits (4.9% vs. 30% in CG), and consultations were mainly related to diet and drainage. The nurse telecare intervention significantly improved postoperative recovery by reducing complications and optimising the safety and quality of postoperative care. These results reinforce the importance of personalised follow-up in improving clinical outcomes in bariatric patients.

An Indian multicentre real-world study on long-term quality of life outcomes following bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) on Quality of Life (QoL) in Indian patients with obesity over 10 years.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted at 11 centres for individuals with MBS between February 2013 and May 2022. Patient medical records provided the source of de-identified data.

RESULTS

Data from 2132 individuals with a mean age of 43.28 ± 11.96 years was analysed. There were 37.43% men and 62.57% females in the study population. The study population had a mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) of 45.71 ± 10.38 kg/m2. The Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System (BAROS) scoring method showed a higher overall QoL score throughout all follow-up periods, with 'very good' outcomes at one, three and 7 years and 'good' outcomes at 5 and 10 years. Improvements in QoL were associated with a substantial improvement (p < .01) in BMI at every follow-up time point.

CONCLUSIONS

Following MBS, individuals with obesity exhibited a substantial and long-term improvement in their overall QoL for up to 10 years. This study presents Indian data on QoL, which is considered one of the most important decision-making factors for or against an intervention.

Comparing long-term outcomes between laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) are the two most bariatric procedures in Asia. However, a comparison of long-term outcomes is still limited.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the degree of long-term weight loss, remission of comorbidities and complication rates after LRYGB and LSG procedures.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted for all patients who underwent LSG or LRYGB between May 2005 and May 2018 at a single institute with at least 1-5 years of follow up. Demographic data were collected.

RESULTS

Of the total 342 patients, 159 underwent primary LSG and 183 patients underwent LRYGB. Preoperative BMI in the LSG group was significantly higher than the LRYGB group (54.7 ± 12.6 kg/m2 vs 48.2 ± 8.2 kg/m2, P = 0.001). Comorbidities between LSG and LRYGB groups were similar. Mean percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) at 5 years after was 23.6 ± 1.7 % in the LSG group vs. 29.9 ± 1.3 % in the LRYGB group (P = 0.005) and LRYGB resulted in greater weight loss than LSG at all time points. The remission of comorbidities were similar in both groups, except that dyslipidemia was significantly better in the LRYGB group. Overall complications were 35.2 % in the LSG group vs. 20.8 % in the LRYGB group (P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Our center revealed that LRYGB had better results than LSG in terms of percentage total weight loss at all time points. In the long term, LSG showed a higher overall complication rate compared to LRYGB.

Gender and age specific dynamics of health-related postoperative outcome measures following the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Background

A variety of bariatric surgical techniques have been implemented to manage obesity, including the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).The aim of the study was to compare the pre and postoperative features of patients undergoing LSG, analyze the dynamics of BMI and BAROS indices and to assess the impact of body appearance concern on the postoperative outcomes.

Methods

A total of 591 participants were divided into 3 age groups (20-39, 40-59 and over 60 years of age). The Charlson Comorbidity Index was used to assess comorbidity in patient groups. The rate of complications, assessment of psychological well-being and number of hospital days for patients were used to compare the features of postoperative recovery in different age groups.

Results

In the young and middle-aged groups, the BMI reduction speed was similar, and significantly higher than in the elder group with a faster rate of BMI reduction in female participants. Higher scores of BAROS were revealed in the young and middle-aged groups for the 0-1 and 1-6 month periods. The 12-month assessment revealed much higher BAROS scores for male subgroups, compared to female participants. The BAROS scores decreased gradually in female groups within the assessment periods and was the lowest in the third assessment.

Conclusions

The pattern of BAROS reduction can be the result of lower psychological and social well-being scores in female participants who reported significant weight reduction in 6-12 month period with paradoxically decreased quality of life scores explained by the impact of body appearance concern on the postoperative outcomes.

A case of multiple liver abscesses after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is the most common weight loss surgery and at the same time one of the safest. However, like any other surgery, it carries significant risks and complications. One of these complications isliver abscess. This article presents a clinical case of a 36-year-old patient who developed multiple liver abscesses one month after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. The patient’s medical history, surgery details, postoperative course, symptoms and diagnostic tests are described. Liver abscess is a rare but very serious complication after sleeve gastrectomy. The etiology of this complication is still a subject of debate. We can only assume that the most likely causes ofliver abscess are intra-abdominal bleeding with hematoma formation and its subsequent infection or failure of the stapler suture line in the early postoperative period. Computed tomography with intravenous contrast is the preferred method for diagnosing this complication, especially in patients with fever, rapid heartbeat, and abdominal pain. Currently, the most effective and safe method for treating localized purulent liver diseases is percutaneous puncture and drainage of the abscess under ultrasound or CT navigation, followed by intravenous antibiotics for 4-6 weeks. This treatment strategy has proven its effectiveness in many studies. Our clinical case was no exception. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness among surgeons about this rare complication and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

Long-Term Outcomes of Sleeve Gastrectomy Versus Gastric Bypass

BACKGROUND

Extremely obese patients can benefit greatly from bariatric surgery, a common and successful therapeutic procedure for treating obesity and accompanying medical issues. Although sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass have already demonstrated their effectiveness in this demographic, long-term results were not stated in the literature. The purpose of this research is to examine the long-term outcomes of sleeve gastrointestinal surgery and gastric bypass.

METHOD

This retrospective, single-center study compares 100 patients aged 25 years and older who visited the gastrointestinal tract surgical unit at Dar El-Fouad Hospital in Cairo, Egypt, between January 1 and August 31, 2019, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The patients underwent either a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB-50%) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG-50%) for severe obesity. Follow-up occurred at one year and up to four years following surgery to collect information from the study subjects. Two tools were used to assess BMI, weight loss, complications after surgery, and incidence outcome of comorbidities after the two surgeries. Qualitative data were presented as number and percentage and frequency distribution tables, and every analysis was done at a significance value < 0.05.

RESULT

The average age of patients within the SG group was 43.02 ± 9.19 years, whereas the average age of patients within the RYGB group was 41.02 ± 11.06 years. In addition, 74% of patients were women in both procedures. The BMI mean of the SG group was 43.90 ± 5.78, the BMI mean of the RYGB group was 42.73 ± 5.12, and the main comorbidity in both techniques was joint pain. The mean BMI at one year was 29.70 kg/m2 after SG compared with 28.64 kg/m2 after RYGB. After four years, BMI was regained within the obese range in both techniques - 30.67 kg/m2 and 30.32, respectively. Fewer postoperative complications occurred in SG than in RYGB. RYGB was superior to SG in managing dyslipidemia (DL), hypertension (HT), type 2 diabetes (T2DM), joint pain, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

CONCLUSION

There are no significant differences between the SG and RYGB in long-term outcomes regarding BMI before surgery and at follow-up, after four years, while there were statistically significant differences between them after four years than one year after surgery, and both groups showed a significant decrease in weight. However, RYGB shows improvement to some extent in comorbidities within follow-up period, including BMI, T2DM, HT, DL, HT, DL, GERD, and joint pain than SG, but with a higher rate of minor complications, while greater resolution of OSAS occurred in SG. Finally, at four years, there were no discernible variations in BMI between SG and RYGB because the patients' mean BMI was within the obese range once more.

Effect of COVID-19 changes on outcomes and socioeconomic disparities following metabolic and bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

We previously showed worse outcomes among lower socioeconomic status (SES) groups following metabolic/bariatric surgery (MBS). In light of healthcare changes in response to COVID-19, this study aims to evaluate post-pandemic MBS outcomes and determine if prior socioeconomic disparities persisted in the post-COVID era.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of patients undergoing primary Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) between 2015 and 2022 was performed. Patients were stratified into pre- and post-COVID groups. Post-COVID cohort was further stratified into high (HT) and low (LT) tier status based on Distressed Communities Index, a geocoded composite measure of SES. Preoperative characteristics and postoperative outcomes were compared between pre- and post-COVID cohorts, as well as between post-COVID HT and LT groups.

RESULTS

Of 709 patients, 82.9% were pre-COVID and 17.1% were post-COVID. Post-COVID cohort had greater rate of public insurance (46% vs. 37%, p < 0.001), longer wait time to surgery (mean 358 ± 609.8 days vs 241.9 ± 368.5 days, p = 0.045), and were more likely to undergo RYGB (69% vs. 56%, p = 0.010). Post-COVID patients also had lower risk of any complications on multivariable analysis (OR 0.599, 95% CI 0.372-0.963), had higher follow-up rates at post-discharge (95.8% vs 79.7%, p < 0.005), 6-month (93% vs. 82%, p < 0.001) and 12-month visits (75% vs. 63%, p = 0.005), and lost more weight at 12 months (67% excess weight loss (%EWL) vs. 58%EWL, p = 0.002). Among post-COVID HT and LT cohorts, previously seen disparities in complications were no longer seen. Finally, there were no differences in weight or follow-up rates between post-COVID HT and LT.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-COVID changes to MBS care have resulted in improved short-term outcomes and reduced disparities for patients of lower SES. Further studies are needed to identify these positive factors to perpetuate practice patterns that optimize care for patients of all socioeconomic status.

Comparing the effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on weight loss and comorbidity resolution: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) and Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) are the most common bariatric modalities. There is ongoing debate on the two modalities' long-term effects on weight loss and comorbidity resolution.PubMed, EMbase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing LRYGB versus LSG were searched by March 2024. Quality assessment was conducted by Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) guidelines, following the procedures outlined in the Cochrane Collaborations tool (RoB 2.0 Assessment Form).In total, 13 datasets were included from 10 RCTs that involved 1106 individuals. Both the percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) and percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) were greater in LRYGB compared to LSG at 3 years (MD: 13.04, 95%CI: 6.95-19.13; P < 0.0001) and 1 year (MD: 5.97, 95%CI: 5.23-6.71; P < 0.00001), respectively. When comparing LRYGB to LSG, the remission percentage for type 2 diabetes mellitus was greater at one (RR: 0.15, 95%CI: 0.03-0.27; P = 0.02) and 3 years (RR: 0.17, 95 % CI: 0.07-0.28; P = 0.001). Moreover, early (RR: 1.72, 95%CI: 1.19-2.46; P = 0.003) and late (RR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.15-1.71; P = 0.001) adverse events were more common with LRYGB. Regarding remission from obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, no significant changes were seen. LRYGB and LSG are both viable bariatric surgery options for resolving long-term comorbidities. While the rate of adverse events is greater with LRYGB than LSG, the former may provide more long-term sustainable weight reduction.Additional research of a higher quality is necessary.

Effect of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass on body composition

BACKGROUND

There is limited data with respect to body composition changes for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The objective of this study was to analyse changes in body composition between these two procedures during the first year after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A prospective study was performed in patients undergoing bariatric surgery at two tertiary hospitals between 2017 and 2023. Body composition was assessed with dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry immediately before surgery, and at 1-, 6-, 12-, 18- and 24-months post-operatively, with a subgroup analysis performed for patients who undertook a scan at 18- and 24-months. Total weight loss (TWL), body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM), lean body mass (LBM) and bone mineral content (BMC) parameters were compared between SG and RYGB.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients were included in this series (SG n = 30, RYGB n = 15). There was a significant reduction in mean %TWL of 26.94 ± 8.86% and mean BMI of 11.12 ± 3.70 kg/m2 over 12-months. LBM accounted for 17.8% of TWL over 12-months, SG and RYGB did not differ in terms of loss of FM or LBM. For both procedures, the loss of LBM appeared to plateau at 6-months post-operatively. The only statistically significant finding between the two procedures was that RYGB resulted in an additional 0.06 kg loss compared with SG.

CONCLUSION

SG and RYGB have been shown to have comparable weight loss and body composition changes in the short-to-medium term following surgery. LBM reduction was most significant in the early post-operative period across the entire cohort.

Metabolic surgery and oral health: A register-based study

OBJECTIVE

The impact of weight loss surgery on oral health is not clear. The aim of the present study was to investigate its impact on the risk for dental interventions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All adults who underwent metabolic surgery in Sweden between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2018 were identified in the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry (SOReg; n = 53,643). A control cohort from the general population was created, matched 10:1 on sex, age and place of residence (n = 536,430). All individuals were followed in the Swedish Dental Register regarding event rates for four types of dental intervention: restorative, endodontic and periodontal interventions, and tooth extractions.

RESULTS

The surgical cohort had increased interventional rates postoperatively regarding all studied outcomes except periodontal interventions. Dental interventions were more common in the surgical cohort both pre- and postoperatively. The difference between the groups increased markedly in the postoperative period. The between-group comparison postoperatively showed increased event rates for restorations (IRR 1.8; 95% CI 1.7-1.8), extractions (1.9; 95% CI 1.9-2.0) and endodontics (2.1; 95% CI 2.0-2.1).

CONCLUSION

The surgical intervention might cause a substantial negative impact on oral health. These results imply an important role for counselling metabolic surgery patients regarding preventive oral health measures.

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass versus Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: A Randomized Prospective Trial

Background and Objectives: One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgeries are effective methods used in bariatric surgery. There are limited randomized studies comparing these procedures over more than 2 years. Here, we aimed to compare the 3-year results of two bariatric procedures. Materials and Methods: Patients included in this randomized prospective study were compared in OAGB and RYGB groups. A total of 55 patients, aged between 18 and 65, were eligible for the study. Thirteen patients who did not accept randomization were excluded. Patients were evaluated at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months postoperatively. Results: Three patients were excluded from the study due to loss of communication during the clinical follow-up and one due to death by amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which started in the eighth month after surgery. The study was completed with a total of 38 patients (OAGB; n = 20, RYGB; n = 18). Patients in the two groups were similar in terms of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and obesity-related comorbidities. At the end of 3-year follow-up, BMI in the OAGB and RYGB groups was 28.80 ± 4.53 kg/m2 and 29.17 ± 5.36 kg/m2, respectively (p = 0.822). Percentage total weight loss (TWL%) was similar. No significant differences were found between the groups regarding percentage excess weight loss (EWL%). Remission of comorbidities was similar. De novo refluxes developed in four OAGB patients; there were no occurrences of these in RYGB patients (p = 0.066). Conclusions: Both OAGB and RYGB are effective in the treatment of morbid obesity. The two procedures are similarly successful in terms of obesity-related comorbidities.

Obesity surgery and neural correlates of human eating behaviour: A systematic review of functional MRI studies

Changes in eating behaviour including reductions in appetite and food intake, and healthier food cue reactivity, reward, hedonics and potentially also preference, contribute to weight loss and its health benefits after obesity surgery. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been increasingly used to interrogate the neural correlates of eating behaviour in obesity, including brain reward-cognitive systems, changes after obesity surgery, and links with alterations in the gut-hormone-brain axis. Neural responses to food cues can be measured by changes in blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal in brain regions involved in reward processing, including caudate, putamen, nucleus accumbens, insula, amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex, and top-down inhibitory control, including dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC). This systematic review aimed to examine: (i) results of human fMRI studies involving obesity surgery, (ii) important methodological differences in study design across studies, and (iii) correlations and associations of fMRI findings with clinical outcomes, other eating behaviour measures and mechanistic measures. Of 741 articles identified, 23 were eligible for inclusion: 16 (69.6%) longitudinal, two (8.7%) predictive, and five (21.7%) cross-sectional studies. Seventeen studies (77.3%) included patients having Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery, six (26.1%) vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), and five (21.7%) laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). The majority of studies (86.0%) were identified as having a very low risk of bias, though only six (27.3%) were controlled interventional studies, with none including randomisation to surgical and control interventions. The remaining studies (14.0%) had a low risk of bias driven by their control groups not having an active treatment. After RYGB surgery, food cue reactivity often decreased or was unchanged in brain reward systems, and there were inconsistent findings as to whether reductions in food cue reactivity was greater for high-energy than low-energy foods. There was minimal evidence from studies of VSG and LAGB surgeries for changes in food cue reactivity in brain reward systems, though effects of VSG surgery on food cue reactivity in the dlPFC were more consistently found. There was consistent evidence for post-operative increases in satiety gut hormones glucagon-like-peptide 1 (GLP-1) and peptide YY (PYY) mediating reduced food cue reactivity after RYGB surgery, including two interventional studies. Methodological heterogeneity across studies, including nutritional state, nature of food cues, post-operative timing, lack of control groups for order effects and weight loss or dietary/psychological advice, and often small sample sizes, limited the conclusions that could be drawn, especially for correlational analyses with clinical outcomes, other eating behaviour measures and potential mediators. This systematic review provides a detailed data resource for those performing or analysing fMRI studies of obesity surgery and makes suggestions to help improve reporting and design of such studies, as well as future directions.

A rare presentation of gastro-pleural fistula after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, simultaneous fistula of gastric pouch, and remnant to the pleural space

Key Clinical Message

Although gastro-pleural fistulas after bariatric surgeries are rare, they are life-threatening complications that should be suspected in patients who present with gastrointestinal or respiratory symptoms after bariatric surgery.

Abstract

Previous studies showed an incidence rate of 0.2%-0.37% for gastro-pleural fistulas after bariatric surgery. We report a 56-year-old female with a rare presentation of gastro-pleural fistula after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, simultaneous fistula of the gastric pouch, and remnant to the pleural space.

Long-Term Outcomes of Sleeve Gastrectomy: Weight Recurrence and Surgical Non-responders

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is an effective procedure with remarkable weight loss and low complication rates. However, up to 30% of cases require revisional surgery in non-responders or patients who experience weight recurrence. We aim to report the rate of weight recurrence/non-responders (WR/NR) in patients who underwent SG and had more than 5 years of follow-up.

METHODS

We performed a multicenter retrospective study of patients who underwent initial SG from 2008 to 2017. Patient demographics and weight loss outcomes up to 12 years after SG were collected. Surgical non-responders were defined as 20% weight regain compared to maximum weight loss. A chi-square test for categorical variables and a two-sample t-test for continuous variables were used. Data are summarized as mean ± standard deviation.

RESULTS

From a total of 1263 patients, we included 339 patients (78% female, age 47.3 ± 11.2 years; baseline weight 125.8 ± 27.6 kg) with at least 5 years of follow-up (mean follow-up of 7.1 ± 1.8 years) (Table 1). Surgical non-response was demonstrated in 15.9% of patients (n=54) and 64.0% (n=217) had weight recurrence after SG (Fig. 1). There was a statistically significant difference in history of hypertension (p=0.046) and diabetes (p=0.032) as well as %TBWL at 1 year (p=0.005) and at longest follow-up (p<0.001) between patients who experienced WR/NR and those who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

Only 20% of patients who underwent SG and followed up for more than 5 years were able to maintain appropriate weight loss.

Additional preparation program for bariatric surgery: Two-year results of a large cohort study

BACKGROUND

Multidisciplinary screening of bariatric surgery candidates is recommended, and some centers provide an additional preparation program (APP) to optimize patients preoperatively.

OBJECTIVE

To compare patients with APP to standard care 2 years after primary bariatric surgery regarding postoperative weight loss and resolution of obesity-related comorbidities.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted for patients undergoing primary Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy between September 2017 and March 2019. The first 12 months patients received an APP, after September 2018, the APP was no longer part of the weight loss trajectory. A multivariable linear regression model was built.

RESULTS

Of the 384 patients receiving an APP advice, 50 were lost to follow up. In total, 192 (57%) received the APP and 142 (43%) received standard care. Percentage total weight loss after 2 years was significantly different, 28.8% for the APP group versus 32% for the standard group (p = 0.001). Postoperative weight loss after 2 years was increased in patients who had a gastric bypass, a higher baseline body mass index, and female gender in multivariable analysis. An APP was predictive for decreased postoperative weight. Diabetes mellitus was in remission significantly more often in the preparation group (84.1% of the cases) compared with the standard group (61.9%, p = 0.028).

CONCLUSION

A weight loss trajectory is at least as effective without additional preparation in terms of 2 years postoperative %TWL for primary gastric bypass and sleeve procedures. For comorbidities, diabetes mellitus was in remission more often in the APP group.

Revisional Procedures after Sleeve Gastrectomy for Weight Recurrence or Inadequate Weight Loss: An Analysis of the MBSAQIP Database

INTRODUCTION

The safety of conversional bariatric procedures after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) for weight recurrence (WR) or inadequate weight loss (IWL) is debated due to limited evidence. Conversion options include Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass (SADI), and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS). We aimed to compare serious complications and mortality rates between these procedures within 30 days.

METHODS

Using the 2020 and 2021 MBSAQIP databases, we identified patients who underwent a conversion from SG to RYGB, SADI, or BPD-DS. We performed a multivariable logistic regression to assess predictors of 30-day complications and mortality.

RESULTS

Among 7388 patients (77.6% RYGB, 8.7% SADI, 13.7% BPD-DS), those undergoing SADI and BPD-DS had higher preoperative body mass index. Conversion reasons included WR (63.0%) and IWL (37.0%). SADI and BPD-DS patients had longer operative times (p < 0.001) and higher leak rates (p = 0.001). Serious complications, reoperations, readmissions, and 30-day mortality were similar across groups. Conversion procedure type was not an independent predictor of complications.

CONCLUSION

RYGB was the most performed conversional procedure after SG. The study indicated a similar safety profile for revisional RYGB, SADI, and BPD-DS, with comparable 30-day complications and mortality rates. However, SADI and BPD-DS patients had longer operative time and higher leak rates.

Metabolic and Bariatric Endoscopy: A Mini-Review

We are currently in a worldwide obesity pandemic, which is one of the most significant health problems of the 21st century. As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, new and innovate treatments are becoming available. Metabolic and bariatric endoscopic procedures are exciting new areas of gastroenterology that have been developed as a direct response to the obesity crisis. These novel interventions offer a potentially reversible, less invasive, safer, and more cost-effective method of tackling obesity compared to traditional bariatric surgery. Minimally invasive endoscopic treatments are not entirely novel, but as technology has rapidly improved, many of the procedures have been proven to be extremely effective for weight loss and metabolic health, based on high-quality clinical trial data. This mini-review examines the existing evidence for the most prominent metabolic and bariatric procedures, followed by a discussion on the future trajectory of this emerging subspecialty.

The long weight: association between distressed communities index and long-term weight outcomes following bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Socioeconomic status (SES) is multifactorial, and its effect on post-bariatric weight recurrence is unclear. Distressed Community Index (DCI) is a composite SES score measuring community economic well-being. This study aims to evaluate the effect of DCI on long-term post-bariatric weight outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients undergoing primary laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy between 2015 and 2020 was performed. All weights in the electronic medical record (EMR), including non-bariatric visits, were captured. Patients were stratified into low tier (LT) and high tier (HT) DCI groups.

RESULTS

Of 583 patients, 431 (73.9%) were HT and 152 (26.1%) were LT. Average bariatric follow up was 1.78 ± 1.6 years and average postoperative weight in the EMR was 3.96 ± 2.26 years. Rates of bariatric follow up within the last year were similar (13.8% LT vs 16.2% HT, p = 0.47). LT had higher percent total body weight loss (%TWL; 26% LT vs 23% HT, p < 0.01) and percent excess weight loss (%EWL; 62% vs 57%, p = 0.04) at 1 year on univariate analysis. On multivariate linear regression adjusting for baseline characteristics and surgery type, there were no differences in %EWL between groups at 1 year (p = 0.22), ≥ 3 years (p = 0.53) or ≥ 5 years (p = 0.34) postop. While on univariate analysis LT only trended towards greater percentage of patients with > 15% increase from their 1-year weight (33.3% LT vs 21.0% HT, p = 0.06), on multivariate analysis this difference was significant (OR 2.0, LT 95%CI 1.41-2.84). There were no differences in the percentage of patients with > 15% decrease in %EWL from 1 to 3 + years postop between groups (OR 0.98, LT 95% CI 0.72-1.35).

CONCLUSIONS

While low tier patients had similar weight loss at 1 year, they were twice as likely to have weight recurrence at ≥ 3 years. Further studies are needed to identify factors contributing to greater weight recurrence among this population.

The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Quality of Life in Patients with Obesity

Obesity has become a widespread health problem influencing people's health, general well-being, and healthcare costs. It also represents an important risk factor for multiple comorbidities and malignancies.

OBJECTIVES

the primary objective of this study was to provide notable insights to healthcare professionals regarding the management of patients with obesity, to highlight the effectiveness of bariatric surgical methods in losing excess weight, and to establish the relationship between weight loss and changes in quality of life (QoL).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

our study evaluated the QoL of 76 patients following bariatric surgery at different postoperative stages using the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) and The World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaires.

RESULTS

regarding the type of bariatric procedure performed, out of the 76 respondents, 39.47% underwent gastric bypass surgery (RYGB), 56.57% underwent sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and only 3.94% underwent single anastomosis duodeno-ileal switch (SADI-S). Pertaining to the SF-36 questionnaire, the lowest average scores were found in the energy/fatigue subscales and in the limitations due to mental health, which remained consistent across surgery types with a significant decrease in the SADI-S group. Concerning the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire, the lowest mean scores were found in the environment (15.03 ± 2.37) and social relations (16.08 ± 2.22) subscales, whilst the highest average scores were in physical health (16.30 ± 2.03) and mental health (16.57 ± 2.16).

CONCLUSIONS

the findings revealed that whilst bariatric surgery significantly improved physical health, it resulted in a decrease in mental health scores. Consequently, the study emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to managing obesity that considers improving both physical and mental health outcomes.

Long-term weight loss outcome of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass predicted by weight loss at 6 months in Chinese patients with BMI ≥ 32.5 kg/m2

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is classic bariatric procedure with long-term safety and efficacy. However, no studies have focused on predicting long-term weight loss after LRYGB in Chinese patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 32.5 kg/m2. To explore the relationship between initial and long-term weight loss after LRYGB in patients with BMI ≥ 32.5 kg/m2. All patients were followed-up to evaluate BMI, percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), and comorbidities. Linear and logistic regression were performed to assess the relationship between initial and long-term weight loss. Receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine optimal cutoff value. We enrolled 104 patients. The median preoperative BMI was 41.44 (37.92-47.53) kg/m2. %EWL ≥ 50% at 5 years was considered as successful weight loss, and 75.00% of the patients successfully lost weight. The cure rates of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus at 1 year were 84.38%, 33.93%, and 60.82%, respectively. %EWL at 6 months and 5 years were positively correlated and its relationship could be described by following linear equation: %EWL5 years = 43.934 + 0.356 × %EWL6 months (P < .001; r2 = 0.166). The best cutoff %EWL at 6 months after LRYGB to predict 5-year successful weight loss was 63.93% (sensitivity, 53.85%; specificity, 84.62%; area under the curve (AUC) = 0.671). In Chinese patients with BMI ≥ 32.5 kg/m2, %EWL at 6 months and 5 years were positively correlated and %EWL at 5 years could be calculated by following linear equation: %EWL5 years = 43.934 + 0.356 × %EWL6 months.

Factors influencing bariatric surgery outcomes

The outcomes of bariatric surgery, while often impressive, are not universally satisfactory; they vary from patient to patient and from operation to operation. Between 20-30% of patients experience suboptimal weight loss or substantial weight regain early in their postoperative course. Confronted with this chronic disease, and given that failures are difficult to manage, it is essential to better characterize obesity preoperatively, considering other metrics beyond just the body mass index (BMI), to select the best candidates for surgery and optimize the benefit/risk ratio. Based on the data of the most recent studies on bariatric surgery, our objective is to identify the predictive factors of weight loss as well as the risk factors of failure. Our analysis indicates that the choice of the surgical technique, age, initial BMI, ethnic origin, the presence of eating disorders and metabolic factors all have an impact on weight-loss outcomes after bariatric surgery. Thus, it is of major importance to carefully select patients during a preoperative multidisciplinary discussion in order to optimize weight loss and metabolic outcomes.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy versus Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: An Analysis of Weight Loss Using a Multilevel Mixed-Effects Linear Model

Background: Regarding weight loss outcomes, the results published after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y (LRYGB) are conflicting. At this time, no clear evidence exists that outcomes from LSG are similar to those for LRYGB. The main objective of this study was to compare the percent of total weight loss (%TWL) between LRYGB and LSG over the first 2 years using a multilevel mixed-effects linear regression. Methods: Data were collected from a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent primary laparoscopic bariatric surgery from January 2016 to December 2017 at a French accredited bariatric center. The medical records of 435 consecutive patients were analyzed. %TWL was calculated at each follow-up surgical consultation and used as a repeated outcome variable in our models to assess the long-term %TWL. Due to this hierarchical structure of the data (%TWL at each visit = level 1) within patients (level 2), a multilevel linear regression adjusted for age, sex, preoperative BMI and comorbidities was used. Results: Among the medical records of 435 consecutive patients included, 266 patients underwent LRYGB and 169 underwent LSG. The average %TWL at 2 years was 31.7% for the LRYGB group and 25.8% for the LSG group. The final multivariate model showed that, compared with LRYGB, LSG was associated with a decreased %TWL at over 2 years of follow-up (β: −4.01; CI95%: −5.47 à −2.54; p ≤ 0.001). Conclusion: This observational study suggests that compared with LRYGB, LSG was associated with a decreased %TWL at 2 years using a multilevel model. Further studies are required to confirm the results observed with this statistical model.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy effects on obesity comorbidities: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are the most commonly used bariatric procedures. There is an increasing awareness about a comorbidity-based indication for bariatric surgery regardless of weight (metabolic surgery). The best operation to mitigate obesity-associated comorbidities is a matter of controversy. This review is aimed at comparing LRYGB and LSG for the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemias, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Cochrane library for articles comparing these two commonly used bariatric approaches. We identified 2,457 studies, 1,468 of which stood after the removal of duplications; from them, 81 full texts were screened and only 16 studies were included in the final meta-analysis. LRYGB was equal weight to LSG for diabetes (P-value = 0.10, odd ratio, 1.24, 95% CI, 0.96-1.61, I 2 for heterogeneity = 30%, P-value for heterogeneity, 0.14), and OSA (P-value = 0.38, odd ratio, 0.79, 95% CI, 0.47-1.33, I 2 for heterogeneity = 0.0%, P-value for heterogeneity, 0.98). However, LRYGB was superior to LSG regarding hypertension (P-value = 0.009, odd ratio, 1.55, 95% CI, 1.20-2.0, I 2 for heterogeneity = 0.0%, P-value for heterogeneity, 0.59), dyslipidemia (odd ratio, 2.18, 95% CI, 1.15-4.16, P-value for overall effect, 0.02), and GERD (P-value = 0.003, odd ratio, 3.16, 95% CI, 1.48-6.76). LRYGB was superior to LSG for gastroesophageal reflux, hypertension, and dyslipidemia remission. While the two procedures were equal regarding diabetes and obstructive sleep, further reviews comparing LSG, and one anastomosis gastric bypass are recommended.

Gut Factors Mediating the Physiological Impact of Bariatric Surgery

Despite decades of obesity research and various public health initiatives, obesity remains a major public health concern. Our most drastic but most effective treatment of obesity is bariatric surgery with weight loss and improvements in co-morbidities, including resolution of type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, the mechanisms by which surgery elicits metabolic benefits are still not well understood. One proposed mechanism is through signals generated by the intestine (nutrients, neuronal, and/or endocrine) that communicate nutrient status to the brain. In this review, we discuss the contributions of gut-brain communication to the physiological regulation of body weight and its impact on the success of bariatric surgery. Advancing our understanding of the mechanisms that drive bariatric surgery-induced metabolic benefits will ultimately lead to the identification of novel, less invasive strategies to treat obesity.

The impact of the interplay of the intestinal microbiome and diet on the metabolomic and health outcomes of bariatric surgery

Obesity has evolved into a global epidemic. Bariatric surgery, the most effective treatment for obesity, keeps many comorbidities of obesity at bay for a prolonged period of time. However, complications, including metabolic alterations, are inherent in bariatric surgery. Surgical intervention in the structure of the digestive tract, especially during bariatric bypass procedures, also causes significant changes in the composition of the microbiome, which may affect the composition and quantity of various metabolites produced by intestinal bacteria. The composition of the intestinal microbiome is connected to human metabolism via metabolites that are produced and secreted by bacterial cells into the intestinal lumen and then absorbed into the host's bloodstream. Bariatric surgery causes changes in the composition and quantity of many circulating metabolites. Metabolic disorders may be affected after bariatric surgery by changes in the composition of the microbiome and metabolites produced by bacteria.

T and B Cell Composition and Cytokine Producing Capacity Before and After Bariatric Surgery

Morbid obesity is associated with a chronic state of low-grade inflammation, which may lead to accelerated differentiation of T and B cells. These differentiated immune cells are strongly cytotoxic and have an increased pro-inflammatory cytokine producing capacity. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory function of the T and B cells decreases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of morbid obesity on the subset profile and cytokine producing capacity of T and B cells. Subsequently, we assessed whether bariatric surgery affected the subset profile and cytokine producing capacity of these cells. We determined the proportion of T and B cell subsets and their cytokine producing capacity in peripheral blood collected from 23 morbidly obese patients before and three months after bariatric surgery using flow-cytometry. We compared this with the results of 25 lean controls. Both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells showed a more differentiated subset profile in morbidly obese patients as compared to lean controls, which was not recovered three months after bariatric surgery. The B cell composition of morbidly obese patients after bariatric surgery adjusted towards the profile of lean controls. However, the IL-2 and IFN-γ producing capacity of CD8+ T cells and the IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α and IL-10 producing capacity of B cells was not restored three months after bariatric surgery. In conclusion, the data suggest that the immune system has the capacity to recover from the detrimental effects of morbid obesity within three months after bariatric surgery in terms of cell composition; however, this was not seen in terms of cytokine producing capacity. The full restoration of the immune system after bariatric surgery may thus take longer.

Nutritional Outcomes One Year after One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass Compared to Sleeve Gastrectomy

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) and Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) are the most common bariatric procedures performed worldwide. SG is a restrictive procedure whereas OAGB involves malabsorption as well, supposing a risk of deficiency development post OAGB. The aim of the study was to compare nutritional deficiencies and metabolic markers one year after the procedures, while adhering to the current protocols. Retrospective analysis was performed for data on 60 adults undergoing primary OAGB, compared to 60 undergoing primary SG. Mean pre-surgery BMI for SG was 42.7 kg/m² and 43.3 kg/m² for OAGB. A multidisciplinary team followed up with the patients at least 3 times during the first year. Mean weight loss was 39.0 kg for SG and 44.1 kg for OAGB. The OAGB group presented a significantly sharper decline in T.Chol and a trend for sharper LDL decrease; a higher increase in folate and a trend for a greater decrease in albumin and hemoglobin were observed in OAGB. For vitamin B12, D, iron and ferritin, no difference was observed between the treatment groups, although there were some in-group differences. Nutritional recommendations and adopted supplement plans minimize the risk of deficiencies and result in improvement in metabolic biomarkers one year after OAGB, which was comparable to SG.

Complications Rate Variability after Bariatric Surgery and the Importance of Standardization of a Reporting System

BACKGROUND

The rate of early (< 30 days) complications after bariatric surgery has been reported to be 0.4-27.4%. Although the incidence of serious adverse events has decreased with time and experience, controversy regarding how they are reported persists, and the current literature is heterogeneous.

METHODS

Data from patients, who underwent primary bariatric surgery (gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy) at a single institution between 2012 and 2018, were retrospectively reviewed. Any deviation from a "normal" postoperative course (< 30 days) was identified, and a comparative analysis of early complications according to five models was performed: modified Clavien-Dindo; Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (LABS); Bariatric Surgery Centers of Excellence (BSCOE); American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS); and Li (major/minor).

RESULTS

A total of 788 patients (83.7% gastric bypass), of whom 8.8% deviated from a "normal" postoperative course, were included. After applying the five classifications, the results were as follows: Clavien-Dindo, 8.8%; LABS, 2.3%; BSCOE, 0.4%; ASMBS, 9.9%; and Li, 11.2%. The incidence of major/severe/adverse outcomes were as follows: Clavien-Dindo, 2.4%; LABS, 2.3%; BSCOE, 0.4%; ASMBS, 6.9%; and Li 9.2%. Minor complications were as follows: Clavien-Dindo, 6.5%; ASMBS, 3%; and Li, 2%. There was no mortality.

CONCLUSION

Germane heterogeneity was found in reporting of early complications after bariatric surgery. Incidence varied according to classification system applied, and Clavien-Dindo demonstrated accuracy as a reporting model. To avoid bias, standardized reporting should be mandatory, and a more stringent and homogeneous reporting system should be established.

Variation of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Techniques: a Survey of 518 Bariatric Surgeons

INTRODUCTION

Surgical technique varies dramatically in the performance of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and these differences can potentially lead to variation in outcomes. The objective of this study was to characterize surgical techniques used during LRYGB.

METHODS

An anonymous 44-question survey was distributed by email to all bariatric surgeons with membership in the ASMBS, SAGES, and ACS from April to June 2020. Questions were designed to evaluate surgeon demographics, experience, and variation of techniques. Only surgeons who performed LRYGB within the past year were included for analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 534 (18.8%) surgeons responded and the majority (97.0%) reported performing LRYGB in the past year. Surgeons were predominantly from the USA (77.8%). For preoperative work-up, 20.1% performed upper gastrointestinal series while 60.8% performed esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Limb length evaluation revealed mean Roux and biliopancreatic limb lengths of 124.1 ± 29.4 cm and 67.4 ± 32.2 cm, respectively. The gastrojejunostomy was most commonly formed using a linear stapler with handsewn closure of the common enterotomy (53.1%) and the jejunojejunostomy using a linear stapled anastomotic technique with handsewn closure of the common enterotomy (60.6%). The majority of surgeons closed the jejunojejunostomy mesenteric defect (91.1%) and one of the antecolic or retrocolic mesenteric defects (65.1%). Intraoperative leak tests were performed in 95.9% of cases. Only 22.1% of surgeons routinely performed upper gastrointestinal swallow studies postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

There are wide variations in pre- and intraoperative practice patterns for LRYGB. Further clinical trials designed to evaluate the impact of these practice pattern differences on patient outcomes are warranted.

Are Geographical Health Accessibility and Socioeconomic Deprivation Associated with Outcomes Following Bariatric Surgery? A Retrospective Study in a High-Volume Referral Bariatric Surgical Center

PURPOSE

Few studies have evaluated the association between non-clinical determinants (socioeconomic status and geographic accessibility to healthcare) and the outcomes of bariatric surgery, with conflicting results. This study aimed to evaluate this association.

METHODS

The medical records of 1599 consecutive patients who underwent either laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy between June 2005 and December 2017 were retrieved. All relevant data, including patient characteristics, biometric values before and after surgery, related medical problems, surgical history, medications, and habitus, for each patient were prospectively collected in a database. Logistic regressions were used to assess the influence of non-clinical determinants on surgical indications and complications. Multilevel linear or logistic regression was used to evaluate the influence of non-clinical determinants on long-term %TWL and the probability to achieve adequate weight loss (defined as a %TWL > 20% at 12 months).

RESULTS

Analysis of the 1599 medical records revealed that most geographically isolated patients were more likely to have undergone laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (odds ratio: 0.97; 95% confidence interval: 0.94 to 0.99; P = 0.018) and had a greater likelihood of adequate weight loss (β: 0.03; 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.05; P = 0.021). Conversely, socioeconomic status (measured by the European Deprivation Index) did not affect outcomes following bariatric surgery.

CONCLUSION

Geographical health isolation is associated with a higher probability to achieve adequate weight loss after 1 year of follow-up, while neither health isolation nor socioeconomic deprivation is associated with post-operative mortality and morbidity. This results suggests that bariatric surgery is a safe and effective tool for weight loss despite socioeconomic deprivation.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on bariatric surgery in North America – A retrospective analysis of 834,647 patients

Background

COVID-19 has transformed surgical care, yet little is known regarding implications for bariatric surgery.

Objective

We sought to characterize the effect of COVID-19 on bariatric surgery delivery and outcomes.

Setting

The Metabolic and Bariatric Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) collects data from 885 centers in North America.

Methods

The MBSAQIP database was evaluated with 2 cohorts described: the COVID-19 and the pre–COVID-19, with patients receiving surgery in 2020 and 2015–2019, respectively. Yearly operative trends were characterized, and bivariate analysis compared demographics and postoperative outcomes. Multivariable modeling evaluated 30-day readmission, reintervention, and reoperation rates and factors associated with undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

Results

We evaluated 834,647 patients, with 155,830 undergoing bariatric surgery during the 2020 pandemic year. A 12.1% reduction in total cases (177,208 in 2019 versus 155,830 in 2020; P < .001) and 13.8% reduction in cases per center occurred (204.2 cases per center in 2019 versus 176.1 cases per center in 2020; P < .001). Patients receiving bariatric surgery during the pandemic were younger and had fewer co-morbidities. Use of sleeve gastrectomy increased (74.5% versus 72.5%; P < .001), and surgery during COVID-19 was associated with reduced Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure selection (odds ratio = .83; 95% CI: .82–.84; P < .001). Length of stay decreased significantly (1.4 ± 1.4 days versus 1.6 ± 1.4 days; P < .001), yet postoperative outcomes were similar. After adjusting for co-morbidities, patients during COVID-19 had decreased 30-day odds of readmission and reintervention and a small increase in odds of reoperation.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed bariatric surgery delivery. Further studies evaluating the long-term effects of these changes are warranted.

Changes in Antihypertensive Medication Following Bariatric Surgery

Obesity is a leading cause of hypertension (i.e., high blood pressure [BP]). While hypertension can be managed with antihypertensive medication, substantial weight loss can also lower BP, reducing the need for antihypertensive medication. Articles in this review (n = 60) presented data on antihypertensive medication use among adults pre- and postoperatively. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was the most studied surgical approach followed by Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy. Antihypertensive medication was discontinued in a large proportion of patients after surgery, and the mean number of antihypertensive medications decreased by approximately one. In almost a third of the studies, over 75% of participants experienced hypertension remission. All articles aside from two reported a decrease in systolic BP, with about 40% reporting a decrease of ≥ 10 mm Hg.

Multisite study of Titan SGS stapler in longitudinal gastric resection

Background

Standardization of the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy procedure is needed to improve patient outcomes. A single-fire 23 cm stapler was developed to streamline the operation. Comparative testing conducted on excised human tissue has demonstrated the superiority of the novel Titan SGS stapler to two commonly utilized commercial devices in both staple line integrity and burst pressure. We hypothesized that the stapler would be safe and effective in creating longitudinal gastric resections in human patients.

Methods

61 patients were enrolled to undergo gastric resection with the Titan SGS stapler. Perioperative interventions and post-operative adverse events were recorded. Upper GI study was completed on post-operative day 1, and patients were followed for 6 weeks post-operatively to determine any subacute device-related adverse events.

Results

Surgeon feedback for intraoperative device utilization and post-operative gastric pouch shape were positive. Adverse events were found to be mild, limited, and generally well-known effects of bariatric surgery. One episode of post-operative hemorrhage required surgical takeback, with no criminal bleeding vessel identified.

Conclusion

The Titan SGS stapler is both safe and effective in sleeve gastrectomy pouch creation.

Evaluation of Metabolic Outcomes Following SADI-S: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass with sleeve gastrectomy (SADI-S) offers a novel bariatric procedure. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluates observational and comparative studies evaluating SADI-S, with meta-analysis comparing outcomes to other malabsorptive procedures (MPs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted in March 2021. The study followed PRISMA guidelines. Studies evaluating SADI-S with n > 5 were included. Primary outcome was diabetes (DM) remission, and secondary outcomes included perioperative outcomes, comorbidity resolution, and weight loss.

RESULTS

We reviewed 2285 studies with 16 included evaluating 3319 patients and 1704 (51.3%) undergoing SADI-S. SADI-S patients had increased BMI (49.6 kg/m² vs 48.8 kg/m²) and weight (139.7 kg vs 137.1 kg), were more likely to have DM (46.3% vs 42.1%), and dyslipidemia (36.6% SADI-S vs 32.7%). SADI-S had a shorter operative duration than MPs (MD - 36.74, p < 0.001), 0.85-day shorter post-operative stay (p < 0.001), and trended towards fewer complications (OR 0.69, p = 0.06). Rate of reoperation (OR 0.83, p = 0.59) was similar and DM remission was similar (OR 0.07, p = 0.1). Subgroup analysis suggested greater DM remission than Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (OR 4.42, p = 0.04). SADI-S had fewer malabsorptive complications, though follow-up was shorter. Weight loss was 37.3% compared to 35.6% total weight loss after SADI-S and MPs, respectively.

CONCLUSION

SADI-S demonstrates improved metabolic and weight loss outcomes with lower perioperative risks. SADI-S represents a promising bariatric procedure but long-term outcomes are needed to guide future uptake.

Long-Term Weight Outcome After Bariatric Surgery in Patients with Melanocortin-4 Receptor Gene Variants: a Case-Control Study of 105 Patients

INTRODUCTION

Pathogenic heterozygous MC4R variants are associated with hyperphagia and variable degrees of obesity. Several research groups have reported short-term weight loss outcomes after bariatric surgery in a few patients with MC4R variants, but lack of longer-term data prevents evidence-based clinical decision-making.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bariatric surgery patients with heterozygous (likely) pathogenic MC4R variants, from three collaborating centers in the Netherlands, France, and the UK, were compared to matched controls (matched 2:1 for age, sex, preoperative BMI, surgical procedure, and diabetes mellitus, but without MC4R mutations). Weight loss and regain outcomes up to 6 years of follow-up were compared.

RESULTS

At 60 months of follow-up after RYGB, cases with MC4R variants showed weight regain with a mean of 12.8% (± 10.4 SD) total weight loss (TWL) from nadir, compared to 7.9% (± 10.5 SD) in the controls (p = 0.062). Among patients receiving SG, the cases with MC4R variants experienced inferior weight loss (22.6% TWL) during the first year of follow-up compared to the controls (29.9% TWL) (p = 0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

This multicenter study reveals inferior mid-term weight outcomes of cases with MC4R variants after SG, compared to RYGB. Since adequate weight loss outcomes were observed after RYGB, this procedure would appear to be an appropriate surgical approach for this group. However, the pattern of weight regain seen in cases with MC4R variants after both RYGB and SG highlights the need for pro-active lifelong management to prevent relapse, as well as careful expectation management.

Factors affecting relapse of type 2 diabetes after bariatric surgery in Sweden 2007-2015: a registry-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Although a large proportion of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) who have undergone metabolic surgery experience initial remission some patients later suffer from relapse. While several factors associated with T2D remission are known, less is known about factors that may influence relapse.

OBJECTIVES

To identify possible risk factors for T2D relapse in patients who initially experienced remission.

SETTING

Nationwide, registry-based study.

METHODS

We conducted a nationwide registry-based retrospective cohort study including all adult patients with T2D and body mass index ≥35 kg/m² who received primary metabolic surgery with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) in Sweden between 2007 and 2015. Patients who achieved complete diabetes remission 2 years after surgery was identified and analyzed. Main outcome measure was postoperative relapse of T2D, defined as reintroduction of diabetes medication.

RESULTS

In total, 2090 patients in complete remission at 2 years after surgery were followed for a median of 5.9 years (interquartile range [IQR] 4.3-7.2 years) after surgery. The cumulative T2D relapse rate was 20.1%. Duration of diabetes (hazard ratio [HR], 1.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.14; P < .001), preoperative glycosylated hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C) level (HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.02; P = .013), and preoperative insulin treatment (HR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.84-3.90; P < .001) were associated with higher rates for relapse, while postoperative weight loss (HR, .93; 95% CI, .91-.96; P < .001), and male sex (HR, .65; 95% CI, .46-.91; P = .012) were associated with lower rates.

CONCLUSION

Longer duration of T2D, higher preoperative HbA1C level, less postoperative weight loss, female sex, and insulin treatment prior to surgery are risk factors for T2D relapse after initial remission.