Outcomes of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty; how does it compare to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty reintervention score using supervised machine learning

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Reintervention after endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) can be indicated because of postprocedural adverse events from various preinterventional or postprocedural comorbidities. We developed and internally validated an ESG reintervention score (ESG-RS) that determines the individualized risk of reintervention within the first 30 days after ESG.

METHODS

We used data from a sample of 3583 patients who underwent ESG in the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation Quality Improvement Program database (2016-2021). The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)-penalized regression was used to select the most promising predictors of reintervention after ESG within 30 days. The predictive variables extracted by LASSO regression were entered into multivariate analysis to generate an ESG-RS by using the coefficients of the statistically significant variables. The model performance was assessed using receiver-operator curves by 10-fold cross-validation.

RESULTS

Eleven variables were selected by LASSO regression and used in the final multivariate analysis. The ESG-RS was inferred using 5 factors (history of previous foregut surgery, preoperative anticoagulation use, female gender, American Society of Anesthesiologists class ≥II, and hypertension) weighted by their regression coefficients in the multivariable logistic regression model. The area under the curve of the ESG-RS was .74 (95% confidence interval, .70-.78). For the ESG-RS, the optimal cutpoint was 67.9 (high risk vs low risk), with a sensitivity of .76 and specificity of .71.

CONCLUSIONS

The ESG-RS aids clinicians in preoperative risk stratification of patients undergoing ESG while clarifying factors contributing to a higher risk of reintervention.

Acute Respiratory Failure Complicating Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty: A Case Report

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a safe and minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of obesity. We report the case of a patient with obesity who underwent ESG complicated by postprocedural respiratory failure. During the procedure, she developed a Pao2/fraction of inspired oxygen (Fio2) ratio that necessitated postoperative mechanical ventilation. Chest radiography demonstrated massively dilated loops of bowel, cephalad displacement of both hemidiaphragms, lung volume reduction, and atelectasis. With absorption of luminal carbon dioxide, she was weaned from mechanical ventilation to supplemental oxygen, and she recovered completely. This case highlights postoperative respiratory failure associated with mechanical loading of the respiratory system following ESG.

Presentation of portomesenteric thrombosis after one-anastomosis gastric bypass: Case report

INTRODUCTION

Obesity is a serious situation that leads to non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and others. The prevalence of obesity is growing very fast worldwide, so follow the results bariatric surgery, the most effective treatment of obesity, is increasing. Portomesentric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is one of the rare, fatal post-bariatric complications seen most commonly in sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 50-year-old menopausal female with a body mass index (BMI) of 38 was admitted with acute abdominal pain 10 days after one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB). Her lab tests were normal, but in her abdominal CT scan with IV contrast, subacute complete intraluminal thrombosis with luminal expansion at the left branch of the portal vein and its segmental branches was seen. Her diagnostic laparoscopy was normal, and she was discharged with no symptoms and a prescription for rivaroxaban.

DISCUSSION

PMVT is one of the complications after bariatric surgery that is very uncommon and fetal. It has been seen more in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and early diagnosis of PMVT is essential due to its high mortality rate and cause of gastrointestinal ischemia.

CONCLUSION

In this case report, we saw that PMVT could happen after OAGB, and it is important to consider PMVT as one of the complications after OAGB to not miss the cases.

Per-Oral Plication of (Neo)Esophagus: Technical Feasibility and Early Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is an example of endoscopic sutured plications being used to remodel a gastrointestinal organ. With per-oral plication of the esophagus (POPE), similar plications are used to remodel the dilated and redundant megaesophagus of end-stage achalasia. Redundancies and dilations can also develop in the neoesophagus of a patient with prior esophagectomy. Megaesophagus and a redundant neoesophagus can both lead to debilitating dysphagia, regurgitation, and recurrent aspiration pneumonia. Traditionally, this anatomic problem requires complex revisional or excisional surgery, to which POPE offers an incisionless alternative.

METHODS

This is a dynamic manuscript with video demonstration of POPE, as well as review of five cases performed in 1 year. Data were collected in a prospectively maintained database, and the institutional review board approved retrospective review for this publication. The procedure is performed using a dual-channel upper endoscope fixed with an endoscopic suturing device, with the patient supine under general anesthesia.

RESULTS

POPE was technically completed in all cases with no serious complications, and patients either went home the same day or spent one night for observation. Most patients reported immediate and substantial symptomatic improvement. Objective pre- and post-measures include esophagram and nuclear gastric emptying studies.

CONCLUSION

This article discusses early experience at one institution with POPE, with detailed description of the procedure and technical considerations. An accompanying video reviews two cases, one with megaesophagus and one with a gastric conduit. While this novel procedure has limited and rare indications, it offers a low-morbidity solution to a challenging anatomic problem that traditionally requires invasive surgery.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) Versus Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (LSG): A Comparative Review

Obesity is one of the most debilitating conditions. In a quest to mitigate disease severity, various interventions have been proposed, with endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) and laparoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (LSG) being among the recent interventions that have received growing attention. This systematic review sought to conduct a comparative analysis regarding the efficacy, effectiveness, and safety of both interventions. The study involved a systematic review in which key search engines were used to select articles documented and published in the last decade. The articles for inclusion were those existing as peer-reviewed studies touching upon the aforementioned subject, with both controlled and uncontrolled trials included. Furthermore, there was the implementation of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol that governs systematic reviews, in which the article selection process entailed four key procedures in the form of identification, screening, determining eligibility, and the inclusion process. In the findings, the selected articles documented mixed outcomes, but a common denominator was that the safety profile of ESG tends to be superior to that of LSG due to the observations that ESG comes with fewer adverse events such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and severe nausea and vomiting. However, the majority of the studies contended that LSG proved superior to ESG in terms of effectiveness and efficacy. Hence, individuals with mild-to-moderate obesity are more likely to benefit from ESG, but those with severe obesity whose goal is to achieve long-term weight management might benefit more from LSG. In conclusion, the management of obesity and the decision to employ ESG or LSG ought to be patient-centered and dictated by factors such as patient preferences, safety, and the sustainability of the devised plan of care.

Deep sedation versus orotracheal intubation for endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG): preliminary experience

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an emerging bariatric procedure currently performed under general anaesthesia with orotracheal intubation (OTI). Several studies have shown the feasibility of advanced endoscopic procedures under deep sedation (DS) without impacting patient outcomes or adverse event rates. Our goal was to perform an initial comparative analysis of ESG in DS with ESG under OTI.

METHODS

A prospective institutional registry was reviewed for ESG patients between 12/2016 and 1/2021. Patients were stratified into OTI or DS cohorts, and the 1st 50 cases performed in each cohort were included for comparability. Univariate analysis was performed on demographics, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes (up to 90 days). Multivariate analyses evaluated the relationship between anesthesia type, preclinical and clinical variables.

RESULTS

Of the 50 DS patients, 21(42%) underwent primary and 29 (58%) revisional surgery. There was no significant differences in Mallampati score across groups. No DS patient required intubation. DS patients were younger (p = 0.006) and lower BMI (p = 0.002) than OTI. As expected, DS patients overall and in the primary subgroup had shorter operative time (p ≤ 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively) and higher rates (84% DS vs. 20% OTI, p ≤ 0.001) of ambulatory procedures. There were no significant differences in the sutures used between groups (p = 0.616). DS patients required less postoperative opioids (p ≤ 0.001) and antiemetics (p = 0.006) than OTI. There were no significant differences in 3-month postoperative weight loss across cohorts. There was no rehospitalization in either group. In primary ESG cases, we found DS patients were more likely younger (p = 0.006), female (p = 0.001), and had a lower BMI (p = 0.0027).

CONCLUSIONS

ESG under DS is safe and feasible in select patients. We found DS safely increased rates of outpatient care, reduced use of opioids and antiemetics, and provided the same results of postoperative weight loss. Patient selection for DS may be more clearer for durable weight loss.

Comparable Short-Term Weight Loss and Safety of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty in Diabetic and Non-diabetic Patients

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a highly effective endo bariatric procedure. Data on outcomes of ESG in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) compared to non-diabetics are limited.

AIMS

We aim to assess differences in clinical outcomes of ESG in DM patients in North America.

METHODS

We used the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation Quality Improvement Program database from 2016 to 2021 to identify all DM patients who underwent ESG as the primary procedure for weight loss. A 1:1 propensity score matched cohort of non-DM patients served as controls. Patient characteristics, clinical outcomes, and complications were compared and analyzed. Adult patients with Class I obesity and above were included.

RESULTS

After matching, 310 DM and non-DM patients that underwent ESG were compared. The median % BMI decrease (3.3% vs. 3.1%, P = 0.62) and median total body weight loss (%TBWL) (4.3% vs. 4%, P = 0.75) in 30 days were similar in the DM compared to non-DM cohorts. A similar proportion of patients with major adverse events (AEs) were present after ESG in the DM (1.6% vs. 1.3%, P = 0.74) compared to the non-DM cohort. The DM cohort had more patients with 30-day readmissions (3.2% vs. 1.9%, P = 0.08) than the non-DM cohort. %TBWL was similar in patients with HbA1c < 9% compared to ≥ 9%, (4.3% each, P = 0.33) with comparable AEs.

CONCLUSION

ESG is a safe procedure in DM patients, without an increase in AEs, and it shows similar short-term weight loss compared to non-DM patients.

A Comprehensive Review on Bariatric Endoscopy: Where We Are Now and Where We Are Going

Background: Obesity is a chronic disease that impairs quality of life and leads to several comorbidities. When conservative therapies fail, bariatric surgical options such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are the most effective therapies to induce persistent weight loss. Over the last two decades, bariatric endoscopy has become a valid alternative to surgery in specific settings. Primary bariatric endoscopic therapies: Restrictive gastric procedures, such as intragastric balloons (IGBs) and endoscopic gastroplasty, have been shown to be effective in inducing weight loss compared to diet modifications alone. Endoscopic gastroplasty is usually superior to IGBs in maintaining weight loss in the long-term period, whereas IGBs have an established role as a bridge-to-surgery approach in severely obese patients. IGBs in a minority of patients could be poorly tolerated and require early removal. More recently, novel endoscopic systems have been developed with the combined purpose of inducing weight loss and improving metabolic conditions. Duodenal mucosal resurfacing demonstrated efficacy in this field in its early trials: significant reduction from baseline of HbA1c values and a modest reduction of body weight were observed. Other endoscopic malabsorptive have been developed but need more evidence. For example, a pivotal trial on duodenojejunal bypasses was stopped due to the high rate of severe adverse events (hepatic abscesses). Optimization of these more recent malabsorptive endoscopic procedures could expand the plethora of bariatric patients that could be treated with the intention of improving their metabolic conditions. Revisional bariatric therapies: Weight regain may occur in up to one third of patients after bariatric surgery. Different endoscopic procedures are currently performed after both RYGB and SG in order to modulate post-surgical anatomy. The application of argon plasma coagulation associated with endoscopic full-thickness suturing systems (APC-TORe) and Re-EndoSleeve have shown to be the most effective endoscopic treatments after RYGB and SG, respectively. Both procedures are usually well tolerated and have a very low risk of stricture. However, APC-TORe may sometimes require more than one session to obtain adequate final results. The aim of this review is to explore all the currently available primary and revisional endoscopic bariatric therapies focusing on their efficacy and safety and their potential application in clinical practice.

Endoscopic Gastric Sleeve: A Review of Literature

For morbid obesity, one of the treatment options that have been deemed the most effective is bariatric surgery. Specifically, endoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (ESG) has emerged as one of the minimally invasive procedures for weight loss to be developed recently. In this procedure, there is the endoscopic placement of sutures in a quest to ensure reductions in the stomach volume. In this review, the main aim was to review the literature concerning ESG's efficacy and safety. Secondary sources of data were used and electronic databases were searched to identify articles focused on assessing the safety or efficacy of ESG. They included several databases such as Clinicaltrials.gov, Embase (Excerpta Medica Database), and MEDLINE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, or MEDLARS Online) to select relevant articles. Both the titles and abstracts of the articles were used to determine their inclusion or exclusion from the current review. Additionally, some keywords were used to search and obtain relevant articles such as: ESG, obesity, bariatric surgery, and total body weight loss. This review relied on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework for the identification of articles, screening, determination of eligibility, and inclusion and exclusion as deemed appropriate. From the findings, the review established that ESG is effective when used as an alternative intervention for obesity. The beneficial effects are felt particularly in terms of the procedure's capacity to ensure that the total body weight loss mean percentage is significant. Apart from the benefit of ensuring weight loss, ESG was also found to impair gastric emptying, pose metabolic effects that are key to controlling obesity-associated metabolic dysregulation, and the ability to increase satiety. However, the procedure was documented to yield a few adverse events in some studies. Some of the notable adverse events include pulmonary embolism, potential pneumoperitoneum, and possible post-procedure leak in the posterior aspect of the gastric fundus as sutures exert tension and also cause thin walls. Emerging as a minimally-invasive procedure, ESG is a cost-effective alternative through which weight loss can be achieved significantly in obese populations. It leads to a slowdown of gastric emptying, causes an increase in satiety, and leads to an improvement in the metabolic profile. Therefore, for obese individuals not undergoing bariatric surgery, ESG can be an ideal treatment option, including individuals in need of a bridge to surgery and also those diagnosed with moderate obesity. Overall, when it comes to the management of obesity, this review established that ESG provides a paradigm shift targeting existing therapeutic gaps.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty: early results of a minimally invasive procedure in patients with obesity

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to analyze the efficacy and safety of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty at 3 months as well as to determine factors influencing post-procedural weight loss.

METHODS

Seventy-three patients with obesity classes I, II and III (BMI 31.1-46.6 kg/m²) underwent ESG between September 2021 and April 2022 at a tertiary care hospital using Overstitch (Apollo Endosurgery, Austin, TX). ESG's efficacy and safety was evaluated at 1 and 3 months post-procedure with regard to excess weight loss (EWL) and total weight loss (TWL). Categorical variables were expressed as percentages and compared with chi-square test while continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation and compared with paired t test and analysis of variance (ANOVA) as applicable. Pearson's correlation was used to determine association between factors at baseline and weight loss.

RESULTS

Mean age was 49.2 ± 9.7 years with 61 (83.6%) patients being female. Mean initial weight was 105.7 ± 15.7 kg, and mean BMI was 38.6 ± 3.5 kg/m². Median hospitalization was 2.0 ± 1.8 days with 62 (84.9%) patients discharged after 24 h. One patient had accidental suturing of the stomach to the abdominal wall and diaphragm which was managed laparoscopically. Mean %EWL was 25.4 ± 7.1 and 36.3 ± 11.4, and %TBWL was 11.2 ± 2.6 and 15.8 ± 4.2 at 1 and 3 months, respectively. Significant excess weight loss at 3 months was only observed in patients with BMI < 40 kg/m² (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

ESG is safe and effective to manage obesity. Significant weight loss at 3 months was only observed in patients with obesity class I and class II.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty using the novel single-channel suturing device: A multicenter experience

Background and aim

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an effective treatment for obesity. Recently, a novel single-channel endoscopic suturing device has been made available to overcome the need for a double-channel endoscope. However, there is limited evidence evaluating its utility for ESG. In this multicenter study, we aim to assess the efficacy and safety of the single-channel suturing device for ESG.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 18 patients who underwent ESG using the novel device at the Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, and Siriraj Hospital, Bangkok, between 2020-2021. We adopted a "U" suture pattern. Our primary outcome was to assess technical feasibility and safety. The secondary outcome was to determine the percentage of total body weight loss at 1 year.

Results

The mean ± SD age and body mass index were 42 ± 8.5 years and 34.9 ± 4.4 kg/m², respectively. The majority were female (61%). ESG was technically successful in 94% (n = 17) of patients. Device dislodgement occurred in one patient. We used an average of five sutures (range, 4-8), and the mean ± SD procedure time was 96.5 ± 43.8 min. No complications occurred. The mean ± SD length of stay was 2.3 ± 1.5 days. The mean ± SD percentage of total body weight loss at 6 and 12 months were 16 ± 5.2% and 13.1 ± 5.8%, respectively. We found that >5%, >10%, and >15% total body weight loss was observed in 83.3%, 72.2%, and 56%, respectively.

Conclusion

ESG using the single-channel endoscopic suturing system is safe and effective for inducing weight loss at 1 year in patients with obesity.

A Representative Percentile Chart for Prediction of Weight Loss Trend after Sleeve Gastrectomy

INTRODUCTION

It could be valuable for surgeons and patients to use one chart in different groups and evaluate weight loss during the post-surgery period.

METHODS

This retrospective study used the Iran National Obesity Surgery Database. Patients with clinically severe obesity aged 18-70 undergoing sleeve gastrectomy participated in this study. Body mass index (BMI) reduction and 5 other metrics measured over the study period were modeled using lambda-mu-sigma method. Our data were split into the train (70%) and test (30%) sets.

RESULTS

In this study, 1,258 patients (75% female) met the eligibility criteria to participate. Mean age and initial BMI were 36.87 ± 10.51 and 42.74 (40.37-46.36), respectively. Percentile charts for various metrics have been presented for the first 2 years after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

For sleeve surgery, all metrics are acceptable for clinical applications. Using the statistical view, BMI reduction is the most acceptable metric according to the lowest bias values and its variation between all the metrics.

Prospective Multicenter Study of the Primary Obesity Surgery Endoluminal (POSE 2.0) Procedure for Treatment of Obesity

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The Primary Obesity Surgery Endoluminal (POSE) 2.0 procedure involves a novel pattern of full-thickness gastric body plications to shorten and narrow the stomach using durable suture anchor pairs. Our prospective, multicenter trial examined the safety, efficacy, durability, and physiologic effects of POSE 2.0 in adults with obesity.

METHODS

Adults with obesity underwent POSE 2.0 at 3 centers. Primary outcomes were percent total body weight loss (%TBWL) and proportion of patients achieving >5% TBWL at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included change in obesity comorbidities, satiety, quality of life at 6 months, and durability of plications at 12 and 24 months. Subjects were followed for adverse events throughout the study duration.

RESULTS

44 patients (61% female; mean age, 45 ± 9.7 years; mean body mass index, 37 ± 2.1 kg/m²) were enrolled. This procedure used an average of 19 suture anchor pairs, with a mean duration of 37 ± 11 minutes, and was technically successful in all subjects. Mean %TBWL at 12 months was 15.7% ± 6.8%. At 12 months, %TBWL >5%, >10%, and >15% was achieved in 98%, 86%, and 58% of patients, respectively. Improvements in lipid profile, liver biochemistries, and hepatic steatosis were seen at 6 months. Improvements in hepatic steatosis persisted for 24 months in a subgroup of patients (P < .01). POSE 2.0 reduced maximum tolerated meal volume (P = .03) and was associated with increased fullness (P < .01) and improved eating behavior (P < .01) at 6 months. Impact of weight on quality-of-life questionnaire improved at 6 months (2.23 vs 1.23; P < .01). Repeat assessment at 24 months (n = 26) showed fully intact plications. No serious adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

POSE 2.0 is an effective and durable endoscopic bariatric therapy which may influence physiologic pathways impacting satiety. Larger comparative studies are needed to further elucidate these initial findings.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov Identifier: NCT03721731.

Comparative Effectiveness and Safety Between Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Meta-analysis of 6775 Individuals with Obesity

INTRODUCTION

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a novel endoscopic bariatric therapy that complements current medical and surgical therapeutic offerings for weight management and fills an unmet need. Few meta-analyses compared ESG to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). However, these studies relied on indirect evidence derived from non-comparative studies. Comparative effectiveness data derived from direct comparative studies is needed. We performed a meta-analysis of studies that directly compared ESG with LSG.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases was conducted. Single-arm studies were excluded. Pooled mean difference (MD) and risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were obtained within a random-effect model.

RESULTS

Seven studies with 6,775 patients (3,413 with ESG vs. 3,362 with LSG) were included. There were significant differences in 6-month (MD - 7.48; 95% CI - 10.44, - 4.52; P < 0.00001), 12-month (MD - 9.90; 95% CI - 10.59, - 9.22; P < 0.00001), and 24-month (MD - 7.63; 95% CI - 11.31, - 3.94; P < 0.0001) TBWL% favoring LSG over ESG. There was a trend toward lower incidence of adverse events with ESG compared to LSG but did not reach statistical significance (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.23-1.11, P = 0.09). The incidence of new-onset gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was significantly lower after ESG compared to LSG, 1.3% vs. 17.9%, respectively (RR 0.10, 95% CI 0.02-0.53, P = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

ESG achieved clinically adequate but lower short- and mid-term weight loss when compared to LSG, with fewer adverse events, including GERD. Given the stomach-sparing nature of ESG and acceptable safety profile, it provides an acceptable alternative to LSG for patients with mild-to-moderate obesity.

Nutritional Management and Role of Multidisciplinary Follow-Up after Endoscopic Bariatric Treatment for Obesity

The prevalence of obesity has risen exponentially, and patients living with obesity suffer from its debilitating consequences. The treatment options for obesity have expanded significantly and include lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, endoscopic bariatric therapies (EBTs), and bariatric surgery. Endoscopic bariatric therapies comprise volume-reducing procedures such as endoscopic gastroplasty and gastric space-occupying devices such as intragastric balloons. Because of its minimally invasive nature and ease of delivery, EBTs are increasingly being adopted as a treatment option for obesity in several centers. These procedures mainly achieve weight loss by inducing early satiety and reducing meal volume. While the technical aspects of EBTs have been well explained, the nutritional management surrounding EBTs and the effectiveness of multidisciplinary team for maximizing weight loss is less described. There is considerable variation in post-EBT care between studies and centers. In this paper, we review the existing literature and share our experience on nutrition and the role of multidisciplinary management of obesity following EBT.

Endoscopic gastroplasty versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a noninferiority propensity score-matched comparative study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Endoscopic bariatric therapies are less-invasive alternatives to bariatric surgery, and endoscopic gastroplasty (ESG) represents the latest evolution. This study aims to compare weight loss, safety, and comorbidity resolution of ESG compared with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

METHODS

This was a propensity score-matched study of patients who underwent ESG or LSG. Primary outcome was weight loss at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months. A noninferiority margin of 10% total weight loss (%TWL) was used. Secondary outcomes were safety and comorbidity resolution.

RESULTS

A 1:1 propensity score match yielded 3018 patient pairs. Average age and body mass index (BMI) were 34 ± 10 years and 33 ± 3 kg/m², respectively, and 89% were women. Mean percentage of excess weight loss at 1, 2, and 3 years after ESG was 77.1% ± 24.6%, 75.2% ± 47.9%, and 59.7% ± 57.1%, respectively. Mean percentage of excess weight loss at 1, 2, and 3 years after LSG was 95.1% ± 20.5%, 93.6% ± 31.3%, and 74.3% ± 35.2%, respectively. The mean difference in %TWL was 9.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.9-11.8; P < .001), 6.0% (95% CI, -2.0 to 9.4; P < .001), and 4.8% (95% CI, -1.5 to 8.7; P < .001) at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. Noninferiority was demonstrated at all follow-up visits. Fourteen ESG patients developed adverse events (.5%) versus 10 LSG patients (.3%). Comorbidity remission rates after ESG versus LSG were 64% versus 82% for diabetes, 66% versus 64% for dyslipidemia, and 51% versus 46% for hypertension, respectively. Eighty ESG patients (2.7%) underwent revision to LSG for insufficient weight loss or weight regain, and 28 had resuturing after primary ESG (.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

ESG induces noninferior weight loss to LSG with similar comorbidity resolution and safety profiles.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty: a narrative review on historical evolution, physiology, outcomes, and future standpoints

Since its first description in 2013, robust evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of the endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) has been on the rise. A large case series and meta-analysis report supported results up to 24 months, while some other studies already described 5-year data. If associated with pharmacotherapy, the ESG may help one to achieve weight loss similar to that of surgical sleeve gastrectomy. Though the results of the ongoing randomized trials on ESG are awaited, currently available data support the clinical use of the ESG, especially for patients who are refusing or unfit for bariatric surgery.

Safety and early efficacy of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) for obesity in a multi-ethnic Asian population in Singapore

Background and Aim

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an alternative nonsurgical treatment option for obesity. However, most studies on the utility and efficacy of ESG are derived from the Western population. It is unknown if ESG elicits similar results in Asians with different fat distribution, sociocultural customs, and dietary practices. Our study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of ESG among a multi-ethnic Asian population.

Methods

We reviewed 35 patient records who underwent primary ESG for obesity at our unit. We followed a U-shaped suture pattern. Our primary outcome was to assess technical feasibility and safety. The secondary outcome was to determine the percentage total body weight loss (TBWL) at the last follow-up.

Results

The mean ± SD age and body mass index were 43.6 ± 11.3 years and 34 ± 4.9 kg/m², respectively. The majority were female (57%) and of Chinese ethnicity (51%). The procedure was technically successful in all patients. We used an average of five sutures (range, 4-7), and the mean ± SD procedure time was 65 ± 10 min. No major complications occurred, and the average length of stay was 1 day. Twenty-one patients completed 3 months of follow-up, and 10 patients 6 months. The mean ± SD TBWL at 3 and 6 months were 14.5 ± 4.8% and 16.2 ± 4.9%, respectively. We observed improvement in diabetes mellitus (87%), fatty liver (86%), and hypertension (58%) during the follow-up.

Conclusion

ESG is a safe and effective option for promoting weight loss in a multi-ethnic Asian population. ESG-induced weight loss may improve obesity-related comorbidities.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty - minimally invasive treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity

INTRODUCTION

Adequate weight loss can lead to reduction in steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in patients with obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We evaluated the role of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) in patients with obesity and NAFLD.

METHODS

In this single-center prospective study, consecutive adult patients with NAFLD who underwent ESG between November 2018 and May 2019 were included. The primary outcome was the impact of ESG on hepatic parameters: change in alanine aminotransferase (ALT), hepatic steatosis index (HSI), NAFLD fibrosis score (NFS), fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) from baseline to 6 and 12 months. Secondary outcomes included change in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), percentage weight loss, and safety. Analysis of variance with repeated measures was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 26 patients (mean age [SD] 41.5 [9.58] years; 16 females) with mean (SD) weight of 99.43 (21.89) kg at baseline were included. There was significant improvement in ALT (mean ± SD) from baseline of 59.54 ± 17.02 IU/L to 49.50 ± 11.72 IU/L and 48.42 ± 13.22 IU/L at 6 and 12 months (p = 0.001). Mean (SD) NFS was significantly improved from 0.228 (1.00) at baseline to -0.202 (1.16) and -0.552 (1.08) at 6 and 12 months (p 0.001). Mean (SD) HSI, FIB-4, and APRI scores significantly reduced from baseline to 6 and 12 months (p = 0.001). There was 18.07% total body weight loss at 12 months, with significant improvement in HbA1c. There were no major adverse events.

CONCLUSION

ESG is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with NAFLD and obesity causing significant weight loss. Rigorous randomized trials are required to incorporate ESG in NAFLD treatment algorithm.

Primary obesity surgery endoluminal (POSE-2) procedure for treatment of obesity in clinical practice

BACKGROUND

The POSE-2 procedure shortens and narrows the stomach using multiple full-thickness plications in the gastric body. We studied the efficacy and safety of POSE-2 for obesity at 1 year in a real-world setting.

METHODS

We reviewed the records of 75 patients who underwent POSE-2 at our unit. The primary outcome was percentage total body weight loss (%TBWL) at 1 year. Secondary outcomes were safety and durability. We used linear mixed model analysis.

RESULTS

46 patients completed 1 year. Mean age and body mass index (BMI) were 49.3 years (standard deviation [SD] 10.2) and 38.2 kg/m² (SD 6.6), respectively. Technical success rate was 98.7 % (n = 74). Mean TBWL, %TBWL, and BMI decline at 1 year were 20 kg (SD 12.7), 17.8 % (SD 9.5), 7 kg/m² (SD 4.3). Adverse events occurred in four patients. The median length of stay was 1 day. Endoscopy at 1 year in 15 patients showed intact sutures and a reduction in gastric length compared with baseline (26.9 cm [SD 5.3] vs. 35.7 cm [SD 3.5]; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

POSE-2 induced significant weight loss at 1 year. It appears to be safe, durable, and required only a short hospital stay.

Endoscopic Procedures for Weight Loss

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide updated evidence on the endoscopic procedures for weight loss and to bring personal insights on the future of endobariatrics.

RECENT FINDINGS

Intragastric balloons promote significant improvement in histologic and radiologic aspects of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; the endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is effective up to 5 years and seems particularly beneficial to patients with BMI≤40kg/m²; distal POSE is a promising technique but still lacks adequate clinical data; aspiration therapy triggers remarkable weight loss, but data on weight trends after removal of the device are still lacking; the satiety-inducing device, the sleeveballoon, the gastric mucosal devitalization, and the endoscopic magnetic partial jejunal diversion are promising procedures still under study and refinements. Several therapeutic options are necessary during obesity's natural history. Therefore, endobariatrics should act in harmony with lifestyle interventions, diet modification, psychological treatment, pharmacotherapy, and bariatric surgery seeking the best outcome in the long term.

The Effect of Endoscopic Bariatric and Metabolic Therapies on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Obesity is a chronic disease that is becoming increasingly more prevalent and is associated with many health problems, such as metabolic syndrome. The treatment options for obese patients include lifestyle modification, medications, endoscopic bariatric and metabolic therapies (EBMTs), and surgery. In particular, EBMTs have an excellent therapeutic effect and are less invasive than bariatric surgery. Although it is clear that EBMTs are relatively safe procedures, they can result in several adverse events. Among them, the relationship between EBMTs and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is unclear. Several studies have demonstrated that an intragastric balloon (IGB) may worsen GERD. There are a few studies on the effects of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) on GERD, but the linking evidence is insufficient. However, the conclusion is not simple. Because obesity is an important cause of GERD, and GERD naturally improves with weight loss after EBMTs, it is not easy to evaluate accurately the effect of EBMTs on GERD. This review aimed to discuss the effect of EBMTs on GERD and suggest future research directions.

Bariatric and Metabolic Endoscopy: A New Paradigm

The prevalence of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and metabolic syndromes is increasing globally. Minimally invasive metabobariatric (MB) endoscopic therapies are adjunct treatments that can potentially bridge the gap between surgical interventions and medical therapy. A growing number of MB techniques are becoming available, allowing for more personalized and patient-targeted treatment options for specific disease states. MB techniques are less invasive than surgery and can precisely target different parts of the gastrointestinal tract that may be responsible for the pathophysiology of obesity and metabolic syndromes such as type 2 diabetes mellitus. These alternatives should be selected on an individualized patient basis to balance the expected clinical outcomes and desired anatomical targets with the level of invasiveness and degree of acceptable risk. Each MB intervention presents great flexibility allowing for a tailored intervention and different levels of patient engagement. Patient awareness and motivation are essential to avoid therapy withdrawal and failure. Differences between MB procedures in terms of weight loss and metabolic benefit will be discussed in this review, along with the insights on clinical decision-making processes to evaluate the potential of further evolution and growth of bariatric and metabolic endoscopy.

Endoscopic assessment of morphological and histopathological upper gastrointestinal changes after endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a promising bariatric endoluminal procedure. Restriction and shortening of the stomach are obtained by means of non-resorbable full-thickness sutures, thus inducing the formation of several endoluminal pouches in which food can stagnate. The effect of ESG on the upper gastrointestinal tract has never been investigated.

OBJECTIVES

This study objectively evaluates endoscopic macroscopic and histopathologic changes within 12-month follow-up (FU) in patients who underwent ESG.

SETTING

Retrospective study on a prospective database of patients who underwent ESG at our tertiary referral center between October 2016 and March 2019.

METHODS

All consecutive patients undergoing upper endoscopy (EGD) preoperatively and 6 and 12 months after ESG were included. The upper gastrointestinal tract was evaluated for mucosal abnormalities and biopsies were systematically taken.

RESULTS

Eighty-six patients were included. EGD results were as follows: esophagitis decreased from 14% preoperatively to 3.6% and 1.2% at 6- and 12-month FU, respectively (P = .001); 19.8% of patients presented preoperatively a type I hiatal hernia <4 cm and showed no size increment or de novo hiatal hernia at 6- and 12-months. The rate of preoperative hyperemic (23.2%) and erosive (3.5%) gastropathy decreased to 9.5% and 1.2% at 6 months and 17.4% and 1.2% at 12 months, respectively. Gastric ulcer (4.7%), duodenal hyperemic mucosa (1.2%) and duodenal micro-ulcerations (2.3%) detected preoperatively were not present at 6- and 12-month EGD. The rate of histopathological disease, which was 68.1% preoperatively, dropped to 29.2% at 12 months, chronic gastritis decreased from 40.3% to 26.4%, acute gastritis from 9.7% to 0%, and acute inflammation on chronic gastritis from 18% to 2.8% (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

ESG is a safe procedure that does not promote the new onset of macroscopic and histopathologic abnormalities within 1-year follow-up.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and laparoscopic greater curve plication: do they differ at 2 years?

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an effective treatment option for obesity. However, data comparing its efficacy to bariatric surgery are scarce. We aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of ESG with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic greater curve plication (LGCP) at 2 years. METHODS : We reviewed 353 patient records and identified 296 patients who underwent ESG (n = 199), LSG (n = 61), and LGCP (n = 36) at four centers in Spain between 2014 and 2016. We compared their total body weight loss (%TBWL) and safety over 2 years. A linear mixed model (LMM) was used to analyze repeated measures of weight loss outcomes at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months to compare the three procedures. RESULTS : Among the 296 patients, 210 (ESG 135, LSG 43, LGCP 32) completed 1 year of follow-up and 102 (ESG 46, LSG 34, LGCP 22) reached 2 years. Their mean (standard deviation [SD]) body mass index (BMI) was 39.6 (4.8) kg/m². There were no differences in age, sex, or BMI between the groups. In LMM analysis, adjusting for age, sex, and initial BMI, we found ESG had a significantly lower TBWL, %TBWL, and BMI decline compared with LSG and LGCP at all time points (P = 0.001). The adjusted mean %TBWL at 2 years for ESG, LSG, and LGCP were 18.5 %, 28.3 %, and 26.9 %, respectively. However, ESG, when compared with LSG and LGCP, had a shorter inpatient stay (1 vs. 3 vs. 3 days; P < 0.001) and lower complication rate (0.5 % vs. 4.9 % vs. 8.3 %; P = 0.006). CONCLUSION : All three procedures induced significant weight loss in obese patients. Although the weight loss was lower with ESG compared with other techniques, it displayed a better safety profile and shorter hospital stay.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) for morbid obesity: how effective is it?

INTRODUCTION

ESG is an effective treatment for classes I and II obesity. However, the benefit of ESG in patients with morbid obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m²) who decline surgery is not known. The study aims to compare the effectiveness and safety of ESG in all three obesity classes at 1 year.

METHODS

We reviewed 484 patient records and identified 435 patients (class I: 105, class II: 169, class III: 161) who underwent ESG at our unit between May 2013 and March 2020. We compared their total body weight loss (%TBWL) and safety over 1 year. We used a linear mixed model (LMM) to analyse repeated measures of weight loss outcomes at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months for comparison between the three BMI groups.

RESULTS

Among the 435 patients, 396 patients (class I: 99, class II: 151, class III: 146) completed 6 months, and 211 patients reached 1 year (class I: 50, class II: 77, class III: 84). There was no difference in age between the groups. In LMM analysis, adjusting for age and sex, we found ESG had a significantly higher TBWL, %TBWL, and BMI decline in class III compared to classes I and -II obesity at all time points (p < 0.001). The adjusted mean %TBWL at 1 year with classes I, -II, and -III obesity was 16.5%, 18.2%, and 20.5%, respectively. The overall complication rate and the hospital stay was identical in the three groups.

CONCLUSION

ESG induced significant weight loss in all classes of obesity. In class III obesity, the weight loss achieved was significantly higher at 1 year. In patients declining or unsuitable for surgery, ESG could be considered as an alternative treatment option.

The Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty as an Alternative to Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a therapeutic endoscopic technique for reducing the size of the gastric reservoir in obese patients, using a full-thickness endoscopic suturing device. The effectiveness of ESG in weight loss is significantly greater than that of high-intensity diet and lifestyle therapy and lower than that of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). The efficacy at 12 months after ESG in terms of percentage of total body weight loss and excess body weight loss was approximately 16% and 60%, respectively. The well-known predictive factors for increased weight loss by ESG are good compliance with regular monitoring and post-procedure care involving a multidisciplinary team approach. Although the underlying mechanism of weight loss induced by ESG is debatable, delayed gastric emptying and early satiation are some of the proposed mechanisms. The pooled rate of adverse events after ESG reported in several meta-analysis studies ranged from 1.5% to 2.3% and the incidence of new-onset gastroesophageal reflux disease after ESG was negligible, indicating that ESG has a superior safety profile to LSG. Moreover, ESG reduced the risk of obesity-related metabolic comorbidities, evidenced by the reduction in HbA1c level, systolic blood pressure, triglyceride level, and risk of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis; it even improved the quality of life. ESG could be considered safe and qualify as an alternative treatment to LSG.

Re-suturing after primary endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) for obesity

INTRODUCTION

Although primary endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (P-ESG) is effective, some patients may require revision procedures to augment weight loss. We hypothesized that a non-surgical approach using redo ESG (R-ESG) might be a viable option in such patients. We aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of R-ESG following P-ESG to treat obesity.

METHODS

We reviewed the outcome of patients who underwent R-ESG at our unit. We classified them as weight loss failure (WF)-< 10% total body weight (TBWL) at 6-months; weight regain (WR)-lost ≥ 10% TBWL and regained 50% of the maximum weight loss at or after 1-year; weight plateau (WP)-lost ≥ 10% TBWL but could not lose further over 3-months. We analyzed the feasibility, safety, and evaluated the efficacy of R-ESG in each group.

RESULTS

Of the 482 patients who underwent P-ESG, 35 (7%) required R- ESG (WF-12, WR-12, WP-11). The mean age, weight, BMI (38.2 kg/m²), and the number of sutures used during P-ESG were similar between the groups. The nadir %TBWL was lowest in WF group compared to WR and WP (6.5% vs. 20% vs. 22.4%, p = 0.001). The mean BMI at R-ESG was 33.6 kg/m². The time to R-ESG was longer in the WR group compared to WF and WP (22.3 vs. 13.4 vs. 13.7 months, p = 0.03). We placed a median of 3 (range 2-6) sutures. R-ESG was technically successful, and no serious complications occurred. All except two patients were discharged on the same day. The overall %TBWL achieved by R-ESG was significantly higher in WP (26%) as compared to WF (11.2%) and WR (12%), respectively (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The need for R-ESG after P-ESG is low. R-ESG is safe and induced weight loss in all patients. The maximum benefit was observed in WP.