Are vitamin B12 and folate deficiency clinically important after roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

A Systematic Review Investigating Maternal Nutrition During Pregnancy After Bariatric Surgery

The aim of this review was to report on maternal diet, micronutrient supplementation, and gestational weight gain (GWG) during pregnancy following bariatric surgery and explore the impact on maternal micronutrient deficiency, offspring growth, and perinatal outcomes. A search in PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and ProQuest in July 2022 returned 23 eligible studies (n = 30-20, 213). Diet was reported in two studies, supplementation in six and GWG in 19 studies. Although many women did not achieve healthy GWG, no consistent link with adverse outcomes was reported. Studies were grades II and III on the National Health and Medical Research Council evidence hierarchy and received a neutral or negative score on the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Criteria Checklist, suggesting that methodological limitations impact the reliability of reported findings.

Women with Anemia Refractory to Oral Iron Treatment Following Bariatric Surgery: a Short-Term Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Iron deficiency and anemia are common after bariatric surgery. Women have a higher risk of developing such long-term complications. Though oral supplementation is indicated, intravenous iron therapy is required in some cases.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients who underwent bariatric surgery between 2012 and 2018. Postoperative anemia patients receiving parental iron therapy were assessed during the first 24 months. Their baseline characteristics, surgery type, and laboratory test results were analyzed. A follow-up analysis included a subgroup of women with and without gynecological disorders. Patients with vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiencies were excluded.

RESULTS

Six hundred eleven (63.3%) met the inclusion criteria: 525 underwent gastric bypass, of which 79.6% were women. Overall, postoperative anemia was 28.9% (24.5% related to gastric bypass), especially among women (84%). Anemia refractory to oral iron therapy was observed in 12.9% of patients. All the patients requiring iron infusions (n = 54) were women, and half of them (51.8%) reported abnormal uterine bleeding. Postsurgical hemogram values were significantly lower in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding (despite the same number of infusions) than in those without gynecological disorders; 89.2% of these women had preoperative anemia.

CONCLUSION

Anemia is frequent in bariatric surgery patients despite supplementation. Women undergoing gastric bypass with a history of gynecological disorders are prone to require more iron infusions. Consulting with the patient about a higher risk is important, and probably knowing the plan or including the opinion of an OBGYN to determine as a team the assessment, treatment, and prognosis.

Associations of age, sex, and socioeconomic status with adherence to guideline recommendations on protein intake and micronutrient supplementation in patients with sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

INTRODUCTION

Patients with bariatric surgery often show poor long-term compliance to recommendations for prevention of nutrient deficiency but it is unclear which factors contribute. We investigated the associations of age, sex, and socioeconomic status (SES) with adherence to guideline recommendations on protein intake and micronutrient supplementation.

METHODS

In a monocentric cross-sectional study we prospectively recruited patients with sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and a minimum postoperative period of 6 months. Clinical and demographic data were obtained from the patients' medical files and by questionnaire. Patients reported on supplement usage, recorded their dietary intake for seven days and underwent physical examinations including blood testing.

RESULTS

We included 35 patients (SG: n = 25, RYGB: n = 10) with a mean (+SD) postoperative period of 20.2 (±10.4) months. Distributions of age, sex and SES were comparable between the SG and RYGB groups. Non-adherence to recommended protein intake was associated with age ≥ 50 years (p = 0.041) but not sex or SES. Protein intake inversely correlated with markers of obesity. There were no significant associations of age or sex with micronutrient supplementation. Only for vitamins A (p = 0.049) and B1 (p = 0.047) higher SES was associated with greater compliance. The only manifest deficiency associated with non-adherence to micronutrient supplementation was that for folic acid (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSION

In patients after bariatric surgery, those of older age and of lower SES might have a greater risk of unfavorable outcome and may require greater attention to micronutrient and protein supplementation.

A smartphone application to improve adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation after bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

This trial evaluated a smartphone application's effectiveness in improving adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation postoperatively.

METHODS

This study was a randomized controlled trial comprising 140 patients undergoing bariatric surgery (gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy). Participants were randomized 1:1 to the 12-week intervention, using the smartphone application PromMera, or to standard care. The primary end point was adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation.

RESULTS

Initiation rate and overall adherence to supplementation were high in both groups. Change in objectively measured adherence rate from before the intervention to 1 year post surgery, measured with pharmacy refill data, did not differ between groups for vitamin B₁₂ (-9.6% [SD = 27%] vs. -9.3% [SD = 30%]; p = 0.48) or calcium/vitamin D (-12.3% [SD = 29%] vs. -11.5% [SD = 32%]; p = 0.44). A modest effect on the secondary end point (subjectively measured adherence, using the Medication Adherence Report Scale-5) was seen immediately after the intervention (intervention group 0.00 [SD = 1.3] vs. control group -1.2 [SD = 3.5]; p = 0.021), but this effect did not persist 1 year post surgery. No differences were detected in the prevalence of biochemical deficiencies.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the smartphone application PromMera did not obtain a lasting improvement in adherence to vitamin and mineral supplementation 1 year post bariatric surgery.

Vitamin B Complex Deficiency After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy-a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Bariatric surgery, although an effective method, still has complications, like nutritional deficiencies. Our aim was to summarize the evidence on the frequency of complex B vitamin deficiencies in studies comparing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). We included 25 studies for qualitative synthesis and 21 studies for quantitative synthesis. Relevant data was extracted, including proportion of patients with deficiency and mean serum vitamin values in 3 different timeframes. B12 and folate were the most prevalent deficiencies. B12 deficiency was more common after RYGB and folate serum mean levels were higher after RYGB. SG causes less nutrient deficiency and is therefore a better technique from this point of view. More studies are needed on B2, B3, and B6 vitamins to draw better conclusions.

Factors Associated with Nutritional Deficiency Biomarkers in Candidates for Bariatric Surgery: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Peruvian High-Resolution Clinic

Previous studies have described multiple nutritional deficiencies after bariatric surgery (BS). However, few studies have evaluated these deficiencies prior to BS, specifically in Latin America. This study aimed to determine the factors associated with nutritional deficiency biomarkers in candidates for BS in Peru. We included adults of both sexes, aged 18 to 59 years, admitted to a Peruvian clinic with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2; they were candidates for BS from 2017 to 2020. We considered the serum levels of hemoglobin and albumin (in tertiles) as the nutritional deficiency biomarkers. In order to assess the associated factors, we calculated crude (cPR) and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). We analyzed 255 patients: 63.1% were males, with a mean age of 37.1 ± 10.3 years and mean hemoglobin and albumin values of 14.0 ± 1.5 g/dL and 4.6 ± 0.4 g/dL, respectively. We found that males (aPR = 1.86; 95%CI: 1.26–2.73; p = 0.002), participants between 30 and 49 (aPR = 2.02; 95%CI: 1.24–3.28; p = 0.004) or 50 years or more (aPR = 2.42; 95%CI: 1.35–4.35; p = 0.003), participants with a BMI ≥40 kg/m2 (aPR = 1.68; 95%CI: 1.09–2.60; p = 0.018), participants with impaired high-density lipoprotein levels (aPR = 1.43; 95%CI: 1.01–2.05; p = 0.049) and individuals in the high tertile of C-reactive protein (aPR = 6.94; 95%CI: 3.37–14.32; p < 0.003) had a higher probability of being in the lower tertile of albumin. In addition, we found that the male sex (aPR = 6.94; 95%CI: 3.37–14.32; p < 0.001) and elevated cholesterol levels (aPR = 0.71; 95%CI: 0.52–0.97; p = 0.034) were associated with the lowest hemoglobin tertile. In our setting, nutritional deficiency biomarkers were associated with sociodemographic, anthropometric and laboratory markers. The pre-bariatric surgery correction of nutritional deficiencies is essential, and can prevent major complications after surgery.

A Comparison of Total Food Intake at a Personalised Buffet in People with Obesity, before and 24 Months after Roux-en-Y-Gastric Bypass Surgery

Long-term reductions in the quantity of food consumed, and a shift in intake away from energy dense foods have both been implicated in the potent bariatric effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. We hypothesised that relative to pre-operative assessment, a stereotypical shift to lower intake would be observed at a personalised ad libitum buffet meal 24 months after RYGB, driven in part by decreased selection of high energy density items. At pre-operative baseline, participants (n = 14) rated their preference for 72 individual food items, each of these mapping to one of six categories encompassing high and low-fat choices in combination with sugar, complex carbohydrate or and protein. An 18-item buffet meal was created for each participant based on expressed preferences. Overall energy intake was reduced on average by 60% at the 24-month buffet meal. Reductions in intake were seen across all six food categories. Decreases in the overall intake of all individual macronutrient groups were marked and were generally proportional to reductions in total caloric intake. Patterns of preference and intake, both at baseline and at follow-up appear more idiosyncratic than has been previously suggested by verbal reporting. The data emphasise the consistency with which reductions in ad libitum food intake occur as a sequel of RYGB, this being maintained in the setting of a self-selected ad libitum buffet meal. Exploratory analysis of the data also supports prior reports of a possible relative increase in the proportional intake of protein after RYGB.

How Sustained is Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Long-term Efficacy? : Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass efficacy

Purpose

The rate of weight regain after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) can hamper the procedure long-term efficacy for obesity treatment and related comorbidities. To evaluate the rate of weight loss and comorbidity remission failure 10 years or more after RYGB surgery.

Materials and methods

Retrospective observational cohort study. Patients submitted to RYGB for obesity treatment at a single centre with 10 years or more after surgery underwent a clinical reassessment.

Results

Among the subjects invited for clinical revaluation (n = 585), only those who performed RYGB and attended the hospital visit were included in the study (n = 281). The pre-operative mean body mass index (BMI) was 44.4 ± 6.1 kg/m². Mean post-operative time was 12.2 ± 1.1 years. After surgery, mean BMI was significantly lower 33.4 ± 5.8 kg/m² (p < 0.0001), 29.5% with a BMI < 30 kg/m². Mean Total Weight Lost (%TWL) was 24.3 ± 11.4%, reaching a %TWL ≥ 20% in 70.1% with a mean %TWL of 30.0 ± 7.0%. Co-morbidities remission rate was 54.2% for type 2 diabetes, 34.1% for hypertension, 52.4% for hyperlipidemia and 50% for obstructive sleep apnea. Early complications rate was 13.2% and revision surgery occurred in 2.8% of patients. Four patients died of RYGB complications within the first 90 days after surgery.

Conclusion

RYGB has a high rate of long-term successful weight loss and obesity-associated comorbidity improvement. Weight loss failure requiring revision surgery occurs in a small proportion of patients. Our data confirms the long-term effectiveness of RYGB as primary bariatric intervention.

Graphical abstract

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass with Long Biliopancreatic Limb Compared to Single Anastomosis Sleeve Ileal (SASI) Bypass in Treatment of Morbid Obesity

PURPOSE

Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment of morbid obesity. Bariatric procedures employ different mechanisms of action to induce weight loss. The present study aimed to compare single-anastomosis sleeve ileal (SASI) bypass and roux-en-Y gastric bypass RYGB with long biliopancreatic limb (BPL) in terms of weight loss, remission of comorbidities, complications, and nutritional status.

METHODS

This was a single-center cohort study on patients with morbid obesity who underwent RYGB with long BPL of 150 cm or SASI bypass. The main outcome measures were weight loss and improvement in comorbidities at 12 months, nutritional status, and complications.

RESULTS

The present study included 92 patients (59.8% females) of a mean age of 38.4 years and mean BMI of 42 kg/m². RYGB and SASI bypass were followed by a significant decrease in body mass index at 12 months and were comparable in terms of excess and total weight loss. Improvement in comorbidities after the two procedures was similar. The serum albumin levels showed a significant decline after RYGB, but not after SASI bypass. The postoperative serum iron levels were higher after SASI bypass than after RYGB. There was no significant difference in regard to complication rates (13% vs 4.3%, p = 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB with long BPL and SASI bypass achieved satisfactory weight loss and improvement in comorbidities that were comparable among the two groups. Long BPL RYGB was followed by a significant decrease in serum albumin and iron levels at one year, which was not observed after SASI bypass.

British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society Guidelines on perioperative and postoperative biochemical monitoring and micronutrient replacement for patients undergoing bariatric surgery-2020 update

Bariatric surgery is recognized as the most clinically and cost-effective treatment for people with severe and complex obesity. Many people presenting for surgery have pre-existing low vitamin and mineral concentrations. The incidence of these may increase after bariatric surgery as all procedures potentially cause clinically significant micronutrient deficiencies. Therefore, preparation for surgery and long-term nutritional monitoring and follow-up are essential components of bariatric surgical care. These guidelines update the 2014 British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society nutritional guidelines. Since the 2014 guidelines, the working group has been expanded to include healthcare professionals working in specialist and non-specialist care as well as patient representatives. In addition, in these updated guidelines, the current evidence has been systematically reviewed for adults and adolescents undergoing the following procedures: adjustable gastric band, sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion/duodenal switch. Using methods based on Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network methodology, the levels of evidence and recommendations have been graded. These guidelines are comprehensive, encompassing preoperative and postoperative biochemical monitoring, vitamin and mineral supplementation and correction of nutrition deficiencies before, and following bariatric surgery, and make recommendations for safe clinical practice in the U.K. setting.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency Among the Healthy Jordanian Adult Population: Diagnostic Levels, Symptomology and Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

Compared to the data available for developed countries, there is a marked scarcity of information on the levels and symptomology of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in developing countries, particularly in the Middle Eastern region.

OBJECTIVE

To explore (a) the risk factors associated with a deficiency of vitamin B₁₂, and (b) the baseline (cut-off) serum level of vitamin B₁₂ for a clinically-symptomatic deficiency in the Jordanian adult population.

METHODS

A total of 485 subjects were included in this study. Blood samples were drawn for biochemical analysis and data regarding socio-demographics, general health, anthropometric measures, and past medical, surgical, and medication history were collected. To explore the cut-off point, we compared all parameters included in a standard complete blood count as well as the main symptoms reported to be associated with B₁₂ deficiency between groups of different B₁₂ cut-off values, consisting of those above and below 200, 175, 150 and 125 pg/ml.

RESULTS

Low dairy intake habits, age, recurrent headaches, heartburn, and peptic ulcer disease were found to be significantly associated with lower vitamin B₁₂ levels. Surprisingly, daily smoking was associated with significantly higher B₁₂ levels. The results revealed that none of the included potential indicators of B₁₂ deficiency could be considered an indicative feature of deficiency. There were no significant differences neither in the symptoms nor in the CBC parameters between any of the tested study groups.

CONCLUSION

Low dairy intake, older ages, recurrent headaches, heartburn, and peptic ulcer disease all could be considered as risk factors of having low vitamin B₁₂ levels within the Jordanians. Also, they tend to have lower levels of vitamin B₁₂ levels, in comparison to countries in the West, without necessarily having deficiency symptoms. The cut-off value to diagnose functional B₁₂ deficiency could be less than 125 pg/ml for the Jordanians. More local studies are needed to establish an accurate vitamin B₁₂ cut-off value for the population in Jordan.

Iron deficiency in bariatric surgery patients: a single-centre experience over 5 years

Background

As the prevalence of obesity has increased, so too has the demand for bariatric surgery. This study aimed to determine the incidence of postoperative iron deficiency and anemia and the impact of an increased preoperative ferritin target on postoperative outcomes.

Methods

Patients undergoing bariatric surgery in Winnipeg from 2010 to 2014 were included in the analysis. Data capture included age, sex and date of surgery and iron, ferritin and hemoglobin levels before surgery and 12 months postoperatively. Before 2014, there was no protocol for preoperative iron supplementation at our centre; in 2014, a more aggressive preoperative iron supplementation program was introduced to target a minimum preoperative ferritin level of 50 mg/L. Data were analyzed using unpaired t tests, paired t tests and χ2 tests.

Results

A total of 399 patients were considered; 288 were included in the analysis. The incidence of iron and ferritin deficiency and anemia at 12 months postoperatively was 14.6%, 9.3% and 15.0%, respectively. In patients who underwent surgery before 2014, the 12-month postoperative levels of iron and ferritin were 12.9 mmol/L and 64.0 mg/L, respectively; patients who underwent surgery in 2014 had levels of 18.3 mmol/L and 124.0 mg/L, respectively (all p = 0.001). The 12-month postoperative hemoglobin levels did not significantly differ between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery performed with more aggressive preoperative iron supplementation is associated with increased iron and ferritin levels at 1 year postoperatively. As this improves overall clinical outcomes by avoiding iron deficiency and anemia, a minimum preoperative ferritin target should be implemented in metabolic and bariatric surgery programs.

Iron, Vitamin B12, Folate and Copper Deficiency After Bariatric Surgery and the Impact on Anaemia: a Systematic Review

Bariatric surgery may increase the risk of iron, vitamin B₁₂, folate and copper deficiencies, which can cause anaemia. This review aims to critique the evidence on the prevalence of these nutritional deficiencies and the impact on anaemia in the first 12 months after surgery. PRISMA and MOOSE frameworks, the NHMRC evidence hierarchy and The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics bias tool were used to systematically critique current literature. Seventeen studies reported on deficiency prevalence with the majority being of low quality. Important confounders to serum micronutrient levels were not adequately considered. Results on the prevalence of nutritional anaemias were also lacking. Further investigation into the prevalence of iron, vitamin B₁₂, folate and copper deficiency and its impact on anaemia in bariatric surgery is needed.

Is Transdermal Multivitamin Patch Effective in Gastric Bypass Patients?

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) patients are recommended to take multiple oral vitamin supplements daily. Transdermal multivitamin patches are being advertised as an alternative for use in bariatric patients with no data to support their efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate response to daily transdermal use of multivitamin patch after LRYGB and to compare them with a control group of similar patients who used oral supplements.

METHODS

A retrospective review was carried out on patients who had LRYGB at a community hospital from February 2015 to February 2019. Patients who had completed preoperative and annual postoperative bariatric laboratory tests were included. They were divided into patch and pill (control) group.

RESULTS

Seventeen patients were included in the patch and 27 in the pill group. Patients in each group used either patch or pills for 12 months and they were 1 year post LRYGB. Fourteen patients (82.35%) in patch group and 11 patients (40.74%) in pill group had at least 1 deficiency at annual postoperative blood work (P = .0116). Vitamin D deficiency was seen in 81% patients in patch group vs 36% in the pill group (P = .0092). Statistically significant lower postoperative serum concentrations of vitamin D, B1, and B12 were seen in the patch group.

CONCLUSIONS

Multivitamin patch users are more likely to have vitamin D deficiency and lower serum concentration of various vitamins and minerals. Future large studies are needed on the efficacy of multivitamin patches before they can be recommended to bariatric patient population.

Bariatric Surgery and Type 1 Diabetes: Unanswered Questions

In recent decades there has been an alarming increase in the prevalence of obesity in patients with type 1 diabetes leading to the development of insulin resistance and cardiometabolic complications, with mechanisms poorly clarified. While bariatric surgery has long been considered an effective treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes, the evidence regarding its benefits on weight loss and the prevention of complications in T1DM patients is scarce, with controversial outcomes. Bariatric surgery has been associated with a significant reduction in daily insulin requirement, along with a considerable reduction in body mass index, results which were sustained in the long term. Furthermore, studies suggest that bariatric surgery in type 1 diabetes results in the improvement of comorbidities related to obesity including hypertension and dyslipidemia. However, regarding glycemic control, the reduction of mean glycosylated hemoglobin was modest or statistically insignificant in most studies. The reasons for these results are yet to be elucidated; possible explanations include preservation of beta cell mass and increased residual function post-surgery, improvement in insulin action, altered GLP-1 function, timing of surgery, and association with residual islet cell mass. A number of concerns regarding safety issues have arisen due to the reporting of peri-operative and post-operative adverse events. The most significant complications are metabolic and include diabetic ketoacidosis, severe hypoglycemia and glucose fluctuations. Further prospective clinical studies are required to provide evidence for the effect of bariatric surgery on T1DM patients. The results may offer a better knowledge for the selection of people living with diabetes who will benefit more from a metabolic surgery.

Oral Vitamin B12 Supplementation After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: a Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Many respectable guidelines recommend lifelong vitamin B₁₂ injections for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients in the absence of lack of consensus on the efficacy of oral route of prophylaxis and the appropriate doses needed for this purpose. The purpose of this review was to examine the published English language scientific literature in accordance with PRISMA principles to find out if orally given vitamin B₁₂ is adequate for prophylactic purposes in RYGB patients and the appropriate dosages needed for this purpose if it is.

METHODS

We examined the PubMed database for all English language articles examining various doses of oral vitamin B₁₂ supplementation after proximal RYGB in adult patients. The search revealed 19 such articles.

RESULTS

The data suggest that oral vitamin B₁₂ supplementation doses of ≤ 15 μg daily are insufficient to prevent deficiency in RYGB patients. Higher supplementation doses show better results and it appears that a dose of 600.0 μg vitamin B₁₂ daily is superior to 350.0 μg daily suggesting an incremental dose-response curve. It further appears that supplementation doses of 1000.0 μg vitamin B₁₂ daily lead to an increase in B₁₂ levels and are sufficient for the prevention of its deficiency in most RYGB patients.

CONCLUSION

The review finds that oral supplementation doses of ≤ 15 μg vitamin B₁₂ daily are inadequate for prophylaxis of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in adult RYGB patients but doses of 1000 μg vitamin B₁₂ daily might be adequate. Future studies need to examine this and even higher oral doses for vitamin B₁₂ supplementation for patients undergoing RYGB.

Anemia and Bariatric Surgery: Results of a National French Survey on Administrative Data of 306,298 Consecutive Patients Between 2008 and 2016

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery (BS) has grown exponentially in France, and long-term anemia due to micronutrient deficiencies has become common.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to assess the long-term risk of anemia after BS and to investigate the factors associated with the occurrence of this complication.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data from the French National Health Service database on patients who had undergone gastric bypass (GB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), or adjustable gastric banding (AGB), between 2008 and 2016 were extracted. Only patients with a primary intervention were considered.

RESULTS

Data from 306,298 patients (143.733 SG, 79.188 GB, and 36.413 AGB) were analyzed. Overall, 12.930 of them (5.0%) had a diagnosis of anemia due to micronutrient deficiencies as main diagnosis or related diagnosis at time of a hospital stay between 2008 and 2016. In multivariate analysis, GB surgery, female gender, age younger than 52 years, and 25-OH vitamin D deficiency were positively associated with the occurrence of anemia whereas hospital procedural volume was negatively associated. The risk to be diagnosed with anemia after BS was 13.0% after a GB, 5.6% after a SG and 4.0% after an AGB (Log-rank p < 0.0001). The hazard ratio for anemia after GB compared to SG was 2.0 (95% CI 1.9-2.1), adjusted for age and gender.

CONCLUSION

In France, between 2008 and 2016, 5% of patients had anemia after BS. The risk to develop anemia was 2-fold higher after a GB than after a SG. Young women should be particularly aware of this long-term risk.

Metabolic surgery and iron homeostasis

Iron deficiency and anaemia after metabolic surgery, potentially modifiable nutritional complications, are becoming an increasing cause for concern as prevalence increases with time and there is limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of the current guidelines for prophylactic oral iron supplementation and treatment for deficiency. Abnormalities in iron nutrition predisposing to deficiency are common in severely obese patients, and the low-grade systemic inflammation, also common to these patients, reduces the effectiveness of oral iron supplementation. The surgical procedures result in alterations of foregut anatomy and physiology, which limit iron absorptive capacity and daily food intake. These alterations and the limited effects of oral iron supplementation explain the high prevalence of postoperative iron deficiency and anaemia. This review outlines current mechanisms concerning the pathogenesis of disordered iron nutrition in patients with severe obesity, current gaps in knowledge, and opportunities for quality improvement.

Overfed but undernourished: recognizing nutritional inadequacies/deficiencies in patients with overweight or obesity

Overweight and obesity are highly prevalent throughout the world and can adversely affect the nutritional status of individuals. Studies have shown that many people with obesity have inadequate intake of iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, folate and vitamins A and B₁₂, likely as a result of poor diet quality. Nutritional inadequacies or deficiencies may also occur due to altered pharmacokinetics in the individual with obesity and due to interactions in those with overweight or obesity with various pharmaceuticals. However, it has been demonstrated that the adult population in the United States as a whole is deficient in certain micronutrients as a result of the availability and overconsumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient processed foods. Poor nutrition may contribute to the development of certain chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, which is already more prevalent in those with obesity. Clinicians need to be aware of these gaps, particularly in those individuals with obesity who are undergoing bariatric surgery or taking pharmaceutical products long term to facilitate weight loss. Patients with overweight or obesity likely struggle to achieve a balanced diet and may benefit from consultation with a dietitian. Along with providing recommendations for healthy eating and exercise, supplementation with specific micronutrients or multivitamins should be considered for individuals at the highest risk for or with established deficiencies. Further research is needed to understand the factors underlying nutritional inadequacies in individuals with overweight or obesity, as well as the outcomes of treatment strategies employed to address them.

Early changes in vitamin B12 uptake and biomarker status following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Bariatric surgery increases the risk of micronutrient deficiencies, including vitamin B12 (B12) deficiency. We analysed early changes in biomarkers of B12 status following bariatric surgery.

METHODS

We prospectively included adult patients (n = 27) referred for either Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) (n = 19) or Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) (n = 8). Blood samples were drawn before surgery and 2 and 6 months following surgery for measurement of B12, holotranscobalamin (holoTC), and methylmalonic acid (MMA). The B12 absorption capacity was estimated from the increase in plasma holoTC two days after a standardised oral B12 challenge.

RESULTS

B12 status decreased following both RYBG and SG. While a decrease in plasma B12 was not evident until 6 months postoperatively, we observed a statistically significant decrease in plasma holoTC and increase in MMA already 2 months postoperatively. These changes were more pronounced at 6 months post surgery. Correspondingly, the B12 absorption capacity was decreased following surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

HoloTC and MMA were superior to B12 to detect early changes in B12 status following bariatric surgery. Our data challenge the current concept that liver B12 stores secure long-term maintenance of B12 status. They indicate that B12 treatment in pharmacological doses may be warranted immediately after surgery.

Nutrient Deficiency 10 Years Following Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Who's Responsible?

OBJECTIVE(S)

Monitoring and prevention of long-term nutrient deficiency after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) remains ill defined due to limited surgical follow-up after bariatric surgery. This study compared nutrient supplementation as well as surgeon and primary care physician (PCP) follow-up between patients with short-term versus long-term follow-up.

METHODS

All patients undergoing LRYGB at a single institution in 2004 (long-term group, n = 281) and 2012-2013 (short-term group, n = 149) were evaluated. Prospectively collected database, electronic medical record (EMR) review and telephone survey were used to obtained follow-up for both cohorts. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess factors independently predicting multivitamin use.

RESULTS

Complete follow-up was achieved in 172 (61 %) long-term and 107 (72 %) short-term patients. We demonstrate a significant difference (p < 0.0001) in time since last surgeon follow-up (13.3 ± 7.8 vs 86.9 ± 39.9 months) for the long-term group with no difference in PCP follow-up, (3.1 ± 4.3 vs 3.7 ± 3.4). Nutrient supplementation was higher in the short-term group, including multivitamin (70.3 vs 58.9 %, p < 0.05), iron (84.2 vs 67.1 %, p = 0.02), and calcium (49.5 vs 32.9 %, p = 0.01). After adjusting for interval since surgery, %EBMI and current comorbidities logistic regression (c = 0.797) demonstrated shorter time since last surgeon visit was independently predictive of multivitamin use (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

While it appears patients prefer to follow-up with their PCP, this study reveals a large disparity in malnutrition screening and nutrient supplementation following LRYGB. Therefore, implementation of multidisciplinary, best-practice guidelines to recognize and prevent malnutrition is paramount in the management of this growing population of high-risk patients.

Assessment of Folate Status in Obese Patients: Should We Measure Folate in Serum or in Red Blood Cells?

BACKGROUND

Recent studies revealed that obesity is associated with decreased serum but at the same time increased red blood cell (RBC) folate concentrations compared with lean subjects, thus casting doubt upon the agreement between serum and RBC folate measurements for assessing folate status. This work aimed to determine whether these two metrics lead to the same classification of folate status in obese patients.

METHODS

RBC and serum folate concentrations were measured with a chemiluminescent immunoassay in 263 adults with body mass index ≥30 kg/m² and without previous bariatric surgery. Among them, 68.1 % were eligible for bariatric surgery. Each serum and RBC folate result was classified as deficient or not according to thresholds recommended by the kit manufacturer (model A) or by the World Health Organization (model B). The agreement between serum and RBC folate results was evaluated using the proportion of overall agreement and the prevalence-adjusted bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK) statistics.

RESULTS

The overall percentage agreements between serum and RBC measurements were 91.6 % (95 % CI 87.6-94.7 %) and 92.4 % (95 % CI 88.5-95.3 %) with PABAK coefficients of 0.87 (95 % CI 0.82-0.93) and 0.88 (95 % CI 0.83-0.94) in the models A and B, respectively, corresponding to almost perfect agreement. The same was true in the subgroup of patients eligible for bariatric surgery. Gender, age, and BMI did not influence the quality of agreement between the two parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study showed that folate measurements in serum and in RBC display similar performances to assess folate status in obese patients.

Predictors of Vitamin Adherence After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Vitamin supplementation in bariatric aftercare is essential to prevent nutrient deficiencies; however, rates of vitamin adherence have been as low as 30 % 6 months post-surgery. Preliminary literature suggests non-adherence to prescribed treatments can be linked to demographic and psychological factors. We aimed to determine the relationship between these factors to vitamin adherence in post-bariatric surgery patients.

METHODS

A total of 92 bariatric patients were assessed 6 months post-surgery. Patients were administered a questionnaire collecting demographic information, psychological scores, and self-reported adherence. Nutrient deficiencies were analyzed through serum vitamin levels measured 3 and 6 months after surgery. Wilcoxon rank-sum and chi-square tests were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Non-adherence was associated with male sex and full-time employment (p = 0.027, p = 0.015). There were no differences with respect to living situation, education level, or relationship type. Non-adherent patients did not have significantly higher scores for generalized anxiety, depressive symptoms, or avoidant behaviors. However, non-adherent patients displayed greater attachment anxiety than their adherent counterparts (p = 0.0186). Non-adherence was also associated with lower vitamin B12 levels 6 months post-surgery (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Male gender and full-time work have previously been shown to be associated with non-adherence. This is the first study to demonstrate that attachment anxiety is associated with poor multivitamin adherence in the post-surgical bariatric population. This result is concordant with recent literature that has demonstrated attachment anxiety is associated with poor adherence to dietary recommendations in bariatric patients 6 months postoperatively. Presurgical screening for attachment anxiety could facilitate early interventions to promote better bariatric aftercare in this group.

Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency after Bariatric Surgery

Morbid obesity is a lifelong disease, and all patients require complementary follow-up including nutritional surveillance by a multidisciplinary team after bariatric procedures. Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) refers to an insufficient secretion of pancreatic enzymes and/or sodium bicarbonate. PEI is a known multifactorial complication after upper gastrointestinal surgery, and might constitute an important clinical problem due to the large number of bariatric surgical procedures in the world. Symptoms of PEI often overlap with sequelae of gastric bypass, making the diagnosis difficult. Steatorrhea, weight loss, maldigestion and malabsorption are pathognomonic for both clinical conditions. Altered anatomy after bypass surgery can make the diagnostic process even more difficult. Fecal elastase-1 (FE1) is a useful diagnostic test. PEI should be considered in all patients after bariatric surgery with prolonged gastrointestinal complaints that are suggestive of maldigestion and/or malabsorption. Appropriate pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy should be part of the treatment algorithm in patients with confirmed PEI or symptoms suggestive of this complication.

Multi-omic network-based interrogation of rat liver metabolism following gastric bypass surgery featuring SWATH proteomics

Morbidly obese patients often elect for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), a form of bariatric surgery that triggers a remarkable 30% reduction in excess body weight and reversal of insulin resistance for those who are type II diabetic. A more complete understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms that drive the complex metabolic reprogramming post-RYGB could lead to innovative non-invasive therapeutics that mimic the beneficial effects of the surgery, namely weight loss, achievement of glycemic control, or reversal of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). To facilitate these discoveries, we hereby demonstrate the first multi-omic interrogation of a rodent RYGB model to reveal tissue-specific pathway modules implicated in the control of body weight regulation and energy homeostasis. In this study, we focus on and evaluate liver metabolism three months following RYGB in rats using both SWATH proteomics, a burgeoning label free approach using high resolution mass spectrometry to quantify protein levels in biological samples, as well as MRM metabolomics. The SWATH analysis enabled the quantification of 1378 proteins in liver tissue extracts, of which we report the significant down-regulation of Thrsp and Acot13 in RYGB as putative targets of lipid metabolism for weight loss. Furthermore, we develop a computational graph-based metabolic network module detection algorithm for the discovery of non-canonical pathways, or sub-networks, enriched with significantly elevated or depleted metabolites and proteins in RYGB-treated rat livers. The analysis revealed a network connection between the depleted protein Baat and the depleted metabolite taurine, corroborating the clinical observation that taurine-conjugated bile acid levels are perturbed post-RYGB.

Micronutrient Deficiencies After Bariatric Surgery: An Emphasis on Vitamins and Trace Minerals [Formula: see text]

Obesity has become a worldwide epidemic with a disproportionate increase in grade III obesity. Bariatric surgery offers an attractive option for sustained weight loss compared with traditional methods such as exercise and diet. Micronutrient deficiencies are common and clinically significant after bariatric surgery. These deficiencies are related to a combination of patient and surgical variables. A thorough understanding of specific micronutrient deficiencies is necessary for early recognition and optimal management. The purpose of this review is to describe indications, outcomes, and types of bariatric procedures, risk factors, and mechanisms for micronutrient deficiencies, as well as outline specific vitamin and trace element deficiencies after bariatric surgery.

Long-term (>10 Yrs) Outcome of the Laparoscopic Biliopancreatic Diversion With Duodenal Switch

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to report 10+ year outcome of laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (LDS), with special focus on quality of life.

BACKGROUND:

Reports on long-term morbidity and quality of life after LDS are rare.

METHODS

Records of all patients who underwent LDS 10+ years ago were analyzed. Patients were contacted to answer a questionnaire based on Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System. Blood work was reported when performed within the past year.

RESULTS

Of the 153 patients who underwent LDS, follow-up was available for 113 patients (78.5%). Mean follow-up was 130.2 ± 4.6 months. Percentage total weight loss was 40.7 ± 10.8%. Weight loss was greatest in the super obese category (BMI > 50 kg/m). Remission rate for type 2 diabetes was 87.5% (21/24) and for arterial hypertension 80.9% (38/47). Dyslipidemia remission rates were 93.3% (28/30) for total cholesterol, 89.7% (26/29) for triglycerides, and 95.0% (19/20) for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. However, 42.5% of the patients needed reoperation, including 10.6% for correction of protein malnutrition, the latter exclusively in non-super obese individuals. Most common deficiencies concerned vitamin A and D, iron, and zinc. De novo gastroesophageal reflux disease was reported in 43.8%. The Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System score was good at 4.9 ± 2.2, and 82.3% of participants would choose the procedure again.

CONCLUSIONS

LDS is a very effective metabolic procedure, at the cost of occasional protein and other nutritional deficiencies. Outcome in the long term is best in super obese patients. Overall quality of life is good. The high reoperation rate and incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease are concerning.

Should bariatric surgery be performed in adolescents?

Adolescent obesity has markedly increased worldwide in both its extent and prevalence in recent decades and obesity prevention strategies are failing. As a result, effective treatment strategies are urgently needed. As behavioral and pharmacological treatment approaches have only moderate effects in severe obesity, bariatric surgery has begun to emerge as a treatment option. In this debate article, we offer arguments opposing and supporting bariatric surgery in the treatment of severe obesity in adolescents. Bariatric surgery has superior therapeutic outcomes with respect to weight loss and resolution of comorbid diseases over other existing treatments. However, long-term outcomes after bariatric surgery in adolescents are only just beginning to emerge. Furthermore, the procedures are generally considered irreversible, apart from gastric banding. Most importantly, not all adolescents seem to benefit greatly from bariatric surgery and we are not yet able to reliably identify those who stand to gain the greatest benefit. The authors agree that adolescent bariatric surgery should be offered exclusively within formal adolescent obesity programs, delivered by specialist multidisciplinary child/adolescent obesity teams, and within specialist centers, in order to optimize outcomes and minimize potential detrimental effects. Patients and their family/carers must be educated regarding the benefits and risks, potential side effects, expected changes in eating behavior and the lifelong requirement for regular medical follow-up after surgery. Before embarking upon a surgical treatment pathway in adolescents with severe obesity, it may also be beneficial to ensure compliance to treatment is demonstrated, in order to minimize the risk of nutritional deficiencies and associated potential complications.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and Nutrient Deficiencies: A Prospective Study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is being increasingly established as a definitive procedure for weight loss. The mechanism for weight loss in LSG is gastric restriction and neurohormonal changes, but there is deficient information on its nutritional effect. The aim of this prospective study was to assess vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies following LSG (whats and when) in organized follow-up visits.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

LSG was performed in 112 consecutive patients between June 2010 and December 2013. In all patients, the vitamin and micronutrient deficiencies were corrected before the LSG procedure. Patients were investigated for vitamin and micronutrient concentrations 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

During the study time, 112 patients (65% female) underwent LSG. The mean age was 26 years (range: 20 to 37 y), and the mean preoperative body mass index was 41 (range: 35 to 52). Complications and nutrient deficiencies were observed and analyzed throughout the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

The appearance of vitamin and nutritional deficiencies after LSG is a common phenomenon. Correction of the deficiencies before surgery, sufficient supplementation immediately after the procedure, and routine long follow-up are important to avoid the serious consequences of the deficiencies.

Can Composite Nutritional Supplement Based on the Current Guidelines Prevent Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency After Weight Loss Surgery?

BACKGROUND

Nutritional deficiencies occur after weight loss surgery. Despite knowledge of nutritional risk, there is little uniformity of postoperative vitamin and mineral supplementation. The objective of this study was to evaluate a composite supplement based on the clinical practice guidelines proposed in 2008 regarding vitamin and mineral supplementation after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The composite included iron (Fe) and calcium as well.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 309 patients undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) was evaluated for the development of deficiencies in iron and vitamins A, B1, B12, and D. Patients were instructed to take a custom vitamin and mineral supplement that was based on society-approved guidelines. The clinical practice guidelines were modified to include 1600 international units (IU) of vitamin D3 instead of the recommended 800 IU.

RESULTS

The compliant patients' deficiency rates were significantly lower than those of the noncompliant patients for iron (p = 0.001), vitamin A (p = 0.01), vitamin B12 (p ≈ 0.02), and vitamin D (p < 0.0001). Women's menstrual status did not significantly influence the development of iron deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of a composite based on guidelines proposed by the AACE, TOS, and the ASMBS appears to be effective for preventing iron and vitamins A, B1, B12, and D deficiencies in the LRYGB patients during the first postoperative year. Separation of calcium and Fe does not need to be mandatory. Even with simplification, compliance is far from universal.

Bariatric Surgery and the Neuro-Ophthalmologist

BACKGROUND

As the prevalence of obesity increases, so, too, do the prevalences of weight-related diseases and surgical procedures to promote weight loss. It is important for neuro-ophthalmologists to be familiar with these procedures and possible downstream effects on afferent and efferent visual function.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Review of ophthalmology, neurology, general surgery, obesity, endocrinology, nutrition, psychiatry, and neurosurgery literature.

RESULTS

Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective treatment for weight loss in obese individuals. There is Level IV evidence that it is associated with improvement in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Laboratory nutrient deficiencies are common following some types of bariatric procedures. Symptomatic deficiencies are less common but can be devastating. Thiamine deficiency can cause nystagmus and other symptoms in weeks to months after surgery, whereas B12 or copper deficiency can cause optic neuropathy in years to decades following bariatric surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery is a potential treatment for IIH. Postoperative vitamin deficiencies may cause nystagmus, optic neuropathy, nyctalopia, and/or ophthalmoparesis weeks to years after surgery.

Biliopancreatic Diversion for Severe Obesity: Long-Term Effectiveness and Nutritional Complications

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery is currently the treatment of choice for those patients with severe obesity, but the procedure of choice is not clearly established. We describe weight loss and nutritional parameters in severely obese patients after biliopancreatic diversion for 10 years of follow-up.

METHODS

Patients were followed by the same multidisciplinary team, and data are shown for 10 years. Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System (BAROS) questionnaire, data regarding the evolution of obesity-related diseases, and nutritional parameters are reported.

RESULTS

Two hundred ninety-nine patients underwent biliopancreatic diversion, 76.1 % women, initial BMI 50.1 kg/m(2) (7.2). Weight loss was maintained throughout 10 years with EWL% around 65 % and EBMIL% around 70 %. More than 80 % of the patients showed EWL higher than 50 %. Blood pressure, glucose metabolism, and lipid profile clearly improved after surgery. Mean nutritional parameters remained within the normal range during follow-up. Protein malnutrition affected less than 4 % and anemia up to 16 %. Fat-soluble vitamin levels decreased along the time, with vitamin D deficiency in 61.5 % of patients. No significant differences were found either in nutritional parameters or weight loss regarding gastrectomy or gastric preservation, or common limb length longer or shorter than 55 cm

CONCLUSIONS

Biliopancreatic diversion is an effective surgical procedure in terms of weight loss, quality of life, and evolution of obesity-related diseases. Nutritional deficiencies are less frequent than feared for a malabsorptive procedure, but must be taken into account, especially for fat-soluble vitamins.

[Nutritional deficiencies and supplementation after metabolic surgery]

Increasing prevalence of morbid obesity in Germany is associated with an increasing number of bariatric surgical interventions.Based on the effectiveness of bariatric surgery with regard to a significant reduction of body weight and comorbidity as well as improvement of the quality of life compared with conservative measures, its value and impact has been substantially increased. Long-term metabolic deficits such as nutrient deficiencies can be considered the main risks of various restrictive, combined and malabsorptive procedures of bariatric surgery.The aim of this overview is to characterize metabolic complications after bariatric surgery and their prophylaxis, which require a temporary or permanent surveillance and, if necessary, effective supplementation.Bariatric surgical interventions such as gastric banding (GB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) can be subsequently associated with deficiencies related to B‑vitamins whereas iron, folate, and vitamins B1, B12 and D deficiencies might be consequences of malabsorptive procedures such as biliopancreatic diversion, duodenal switch and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.Due to possible metabolic and surgical complications after bariatric surgery, patients need to undergo life-long follow-up investigations. The currently available guidelines of the American Association of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery are the basis for the latest recommendations on supplementation and treatment in bariatric surgery.

Comparison Between Different Intramuscular Vitamin B12 Supplementation Regimes: a Retrospective Matched Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The incidence of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency after bariatric surgery can range from 26 to 70 %. There is no consensus on optimal vitamin B₁₂ supplementation in postbariatric patients. The objective of this study was to compare three different regimes.

METHODS

In this retrospective matched cohort study, we included 63 patients with methylmalonic acid (MMA) levels ≥300 nmol/L. Group A (n = 21) received 6 intramuscular (im) vitamin B₁₂ injections including a loading dose, group B (n = 21) received 3 im vitamin B₁₂ injections without loading dose and group C (n = 21) received no im vitamin B₁₂ injections.

RESULTS

The total post-bariatric patient population consisted of 14 males (22.2 %) and 49 women (77.8 %) with a mean current body mass index of 30.6 ± 8.0 kg/m². There was no significant difference in vitamin B₁₂ and MMA levels between 3 groups at baseline. There was a significant difference in follow-up vitamin B₁₂ levels of group A compared to group B (p = 0.02) and group A compared to group C (p = 0.03). In the follow-up results, there is also a significant decrease in MMA levels of group A compared to group B (p = 0.02), group A compared to group C (p < 0.001), and group B compared to group C (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, a shorter injection regime is probably not sufficient to treat a vitamin B₁₂ deficiency. An injection regime with 6 injections recovered all vitamin B₁₂ deficiencies biochemically. MMA levels cannot recover spontaneously over time without additional im injection regime.

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies After Biliopancreatic Diversion and Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch--the Rule Rather than the Exception

INTRODUCTION

Malabsorptive bariatric procedures, like the biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) and BPD with duodenal switch (BPD/DS), have excellent results in terms of weight loss. However, these malabsorptive techniques are associated with severe malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the vitamin and mineral status after BPD and BPD/DS in the long term.

METHODS

All patients who underwent BPD or BPD/DS were selected and invited for an additional follow-up (FU) visit, including blood sampling for vitamin and mineral levels.

RESULTS

Forty patients completed the blood sampling with a median FU of 42 (range 12-90) months. At that time, all patients used some kind of supplementation. However, 93 % of all patients were diagnosed with a deficiency. There were no significant differences in mean serum level vitamins and minerals between BPD and BPD/DS. Forty-three per cent of the patients were anaemic, and 40 % had an iron deficiency (ID). High deficiency rates for fat-soluble vitamins were present: vitamin A in 28 %, vitamin D in 60 %, vitamin E in 10 % and vitamin K in 60 % of the patients. Hypervitaminosis was found in 43 % of the patients for vitamin B1 and in 50 % for vitamin B6.

CONCLUSION

High numbers of vitamin and mineral deficiencies were found after BPD and BPD/DS despite vitamin supplementation. Anaemia, ID and deficiencies for fat-soluble vitamins are frequently diagnosed. Repeated monitoring is necessary to detect deficiencies at an early stage. Taking all of this into consideration, a stringent multivitamin supplementation regimen should be implemented after malabsorptive procedures.

Mechanism Underlying the Weight Loss and Complications of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. Review

Various bariatric surgical procedures are effective at improving health in patients with obesity associated co-morbidities, but the aim of this review is to specifically describe the mechanisms through which Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery enables weight loss for obese patients using observations from both human and animal studies. Perhaps most but not all clinicians would agree that the beneficial effects outweigh the harm of RYGB; however, the mechanisms for both the beneficial and deleterious (for example postprandial hypoglycaemia, vitamin deficiency and bone loss) effects are ill understood. The exaggerated release of the satiety gut hormones, such as GLP-1 and PYY, with their central and peripheral effects on food intake has given new insight into the physiological changes that happen after surgery. The initial enthusiasm after the discovery of the role of the gut hormones following RYGB may need to be tempered as the magnitude of the effects of these hormonal responses on weight loss may have been overestimated. The physiological changes after RYGB are unlikely to be due to a single hormone, or single mechanism, but most likely involve complex gut-brain signalling. Understanding the mechanisms involved with the beneficial and deleterious effects of RYGB will speed up the development of effective, cheaper and safer surgical and non-surgical treatments for obesity.

PROPOSAL OF A REVISIONAL SURGERY TO TREAT SEVERE NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY POST-GASTRIC BYPASS

Background

The gastric bypass has nutritional and electrolyte disturbances rate of approximately 17%. The most common deficits are protein malnutrition, ferric and zinc, in addition to the vitamin. Although rare, some malnutrition stages reach such severity that ends up being necessary hospitalization and sometimes revisional or reversal surgical procedures.

Aim:

To present a proposal of surgical revision for treatment of severe malnutrition after bariatric surgery.

Methods:

The procedure is to reconstitute the food transit through the duodenum and proximal jejunum, keeping the gastric bypass restrictive component. As an additional strategy, the gastric fundus resection is performed, aiming to intensify the suppression of the greline and avoiding excessive weight regain.

Results:

After initial stabilization, nutritional and electrolytic support, the procedure was performed in two patients as definitive treatment of malnutrition status. Good results were observed at one year follow up.

Conclusion:

As improvement option and/or resolution of the nutritional alterations, surgical therapy is one of the alternatives. There is still no consensus on the surgical technique to be performed. This procedure is based on pathophysiological factors for the treatment of this condition, with good initial results, without significant clinical alterations. Longer follow-up will determine its effectiveness.

Post-Bariatric Body Contouring

BACKGROUND

The "epidemic" of obesity has recently been accompanied by a new "epidemic" of massive weight loss. The demand for post-bariatric contouring is rising and, as such, it is extremely important for plastic surgeons to be well versed in the treatment of these patients. Unfortunately, the problem is not solely surgical.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this article is to understand the nutritional and psychological complications that can occur in patients following massive weight loss, to understand the anatomic deformities in massive weight loss as a means to correct those deformities surgically, and to understand the complications from post-bariatric contouring procedures in an effort to avoid them.

METHODS

This article discusses the nutritional and psychological considerations in the massive weight loss patient, anatomical considerations in this patient group, and the surgical techniques designed to address these anatomic concerns. Important pertinent studies are reviewed and discussed.

RESULTS

Anatomical changes are encountered in each region of the body: there are surgical options available to correct them, although potential complications are associated with these surgical procedures. These surgical options are reviewed as well as the risk and benefits associated with them.

CONCLUSIONS

There are many problems that need to be addressed in the massive weight loss patient prior to embarking on surgical treatment. Additionally, surgery on massive weight loss patients has unique considerations that distinguish these operations from those performed on the non-bariatric population.

Anaemia and related nutrient deficiencies after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To obtain a pooled risk estimate on the long-term impact of anaemia and related nutritional deficiencies in patients receiving Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were searched to identify English reports published before 16 May 2014.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Articles with case numbers >100, follow-up period >12 months, and complete data from both before and after surgery were selected. Outcomes of interest were changes in baseline measurements of proportion of patients with anaemia, by haemoglobin, haematocrit, ferritin, iron, vitamin B12 and folate levels.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two reviewers independently reviewed data and selected six prospective and nine retrospective studies with a total of 5909 patients. A random effect model with inverse variance weighting was used to calculate summary estimates of outcomes at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Proportion of patients with anaemia was 12.2% at baseline, which, respectively, increased to 20.9% and 25.9% at 12 and 24 months follow-up, consistent with decreases in haemoglobin and haematocrit levels. Although the serum iron level did not change substantially after surgery, the frequency of patients with ferritin deficiency increased from 7.9% at baseline to 13.4% and 23.0% at 12 and 24 months, respectively, postoperation. Vitamin B12 deficiency increased from 2.3% at baseline to 6.5% at 12 months after surgery in those subjects receiving RYGB. There was no obvious increase in folate deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

RYGB surgery is associated with an increased risk of anaemia and deficiencies of iron and vitamin B12, but not folate. Ferritin is more sensitive when serum iron level is within normal range.

Anemia and the Need for Intravenous Iron Infusion after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

The frequency of anemia, iron deficiency, and the long-term need for IV iron following Roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery has not been well characterized. Three-hundred and nineteen out of 904 consecutive subjects who underwent RYGB at Penn State Hershey Medical Center from 1999 to 2006 met the inclusion criteria for a preoperative complete blood count (CBC) and at least one CBC >6 months following surgery. Cumulative incidence of anemia 7 years post procedure was 58%. Menstruation status and presence of preoperative anemia were predictive of anemia by univariate analysis and multivariable Cox regression (P = 0.0014 and 0.044, respectively). Twenty-seven subjects, primarily premenopausal women, representing 8.5% of the cohort and 22% of the 122 anemic subjects, needed intravenous (IV) iron a mean of 51 months postoperatively for anemia unresponsive or refractory to oral iron. The risk for development of anemia necessitating IV iron therapy following RYGB is highest in menstruating women and continues to increase for many years, even in post-menopausal women. Well-designed prospective studies are needed to identify the incidence of iron deficiency anemia and the patient populations at increased risk for requiring IV iron replacement after RYGB surgery.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in obese Korean patients: efficacy and potential adverse events

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the medium-term efficacy and adverse events of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) performed at a single center in Korea.

METHODS

The records of 412 consecutive patients who underwent LRYGB between January 2011 and February 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. The preoperative demographics, surgical outcomes, and follow-up data including anthropometrics indices and late complications were analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean preoperative body mass index was 38.0 ± 5.8 kg/m(2) and 338 patients (82.0 %) had at least one obesity-related comorbidity. Seven patients (1.7 %) developed severe complications requiring invasive intervention or reoperation. The %EWL of the eligible patients was 63.1, 74.3, 79.2, 65.4, and 89.8 % at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Diabetes was resolved in 63.5 % of the followed up patients. Twenty-two out of 256 patients (8.6 %) with available follow-up data failed to achieve  %EWL ≥50 % by 12 months after the surgery. The most frequent late complications were marginal ulcers (24.5 %) and anemia (18.0 %).

CONCLUSION

LRYGB achieves excellent weight loss and significant short- to medium-term comorbidity resolution in Korean obese patients with acceptable perioperative risks. However, late complications including marginal ulcers and nutritional deficiencies are not negligible. Therefore, regular and lifelong surveillance is mandatory in patients undergoing LRYGB.

[Impact of bariatric surgery on vitamin metabolisms in obese patients]

AIM

To investigate the impact of bariatric surgery (BS) on the level of vitamins in obese patients.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

One hundred obese patients (78 women and 22 men) aged 19 to 61 years were examined. Controlled gastric banding (CGB) was carried out in 20 patients (mean body mass index (BMI), 41.3 ± 8.2 kg/m2); gastric sleeve resection (GSR) in 40 patients, and gastric shunting (GS) in 40 (the mean BMI in these groups were 41.1 ± 17.8 and 45.9 ± 6.2 kg/m2, respectively). A control group consisted of 10 apparently healthy individuals (BMI, 24.9 ± 3.2 kg/m2). An enzyme immunoassay was used to determine the serum concentrations of vitamins B1, B2, B5, B6, B9, B12, C, and D, niacin, biotin, and retinol-binding protein (RBP) before and 1 year after surgery.

RESULTS

All the three groups showed a considerable decrease in the levels of vitamins C, B5, B6, and D, and RBP both prior to and following BS. More than 50% of the patients who had undergone GSR had also a lower baseline niacin level. A year after CGB, GSR, and GS, the number of patents with deficiency of these vitamins remained the same or increased. The majority of patients with the same level of vitamin B2, niacin, and folic acid (FA) were observed to have its decrease a year postsurgery. The concentration of the other test vitamins was also reduced a year after all operations; however, it remained within the normal range. GS had no substantial impact on the concentrations of FA, vitamins B2, B12, B1, and biotin. The lower serum vitamin levels were not accompanied by clinical symptoms in most patients following BS.

CONCLUSION

In 80% of the patients with obesity, the levels of vitamins C, B6, and D were decreased to a variable degree. After BS, there was a rise in the number of patients with low serum vitamin C, D, B6, B5, niacin, FA, and RBP concentrations, at the same time the number of patients with FA deficiency increased by more than twice. BS did not significantly affect the metabolism of vitamins B1 B2 B12, and biotin.