Weight loss and effect on co-morbidities in the long-term after duodenal switch and gastric bypass: a population-based cohort study

BackgroundUnsatisfactory weight loss is common after bariatric surgery in patients with super obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥50 kg/m²). Unfortunately, this group of patients is increasing worldwide.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare long-term weight loss and effect on co-morbidities after duodenal switch (DS) and gastric bypass (RYGB) in super-obese patients.SettingUniversity hospital, Sweden, national cohort.MethodsThis observational population-based cohort-study of primary DS and RYGB (BMI ≥48 kg/m²) in Sweden from 2007 to 2017 used data from 4 national registers. Baseline characteristics were used for propensity score matching (1 DS:4 RYGB). Weight loss was analyzed up until 5 years after surgery. Medication for diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, depression, and pain were analyzed up until 10 years after surgery.ResultsThe study population consisted of 333 DS and 1332 RYGB, with 60.7% females averaging 38.5 years old and BMI 55.0 kg/m² at baseline. DS resulted in a lower BMI at 5 years compared with RYGB, 32.2 ± 5.5 and 37.8 ± 7.3, respectively, (P < .01). DS reduced prevalence of diabetes and hypertension more than RYGB, while reduction in dyslipidemia was similar for both groups, during the 10-year follow-up. Both groups increased their use of antidepressants and a maintained a high use of opioids.ConclusionThis study indicates that super-obese patients have more favorable outcomes regarding weight loss and effect on diabetes and hypertension, after DS compared with RYGB.     

The dilemma of outcome assessment after operations for morbid obesity

Outcome of 56 patients who underwent horizontal gastroplasty (HGP) and 126 who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) was assessed at 18 months postoperatively according to three definitions of successful weight loss; also, outcome was evaluated in the context of amelioration of obesity-related medical problems. Outcome definitions included the following: I, loss of 25% or more of preoperative weight; II, loss of 50% or more of excess weight; III, loss to within 50% of ideal body weight. To evaluate the impact of preoperative weight on success rate, patients were divided into two weight groups: "morbidily" obese patients, who were 100 to 199 pounds overweight (n = 146), and "super"-obese patients who were 200 pounds or more overweight (n = 36). Weight loss was significantly greater with RYGB versus HGP by each of the three definitions of success. Medical problems either improved or resolved with weight loss in 95% of cases. There were statistically significant differences in success rate depending on outcome definition in both HGP and RYGB patients. Success rate ranged from zero in super-obese HGP patients by Definition III to 97% in super-obese RYGB patients by Definition I. Although super-obese patients lost more pounds than the lighter morbidly obese patients, a significantly lower number of super-obese patients lost within 50% of ideal weight. Super-obese patients must lose more weight to reduce their actuarial risk. These results show that the definition of successful outcome may significantly influence the overall success rate in a large series of bariatric surgical patients.     

Early complications,long-term adverse events,and quality of life after duodenal switch and gastric bypass in a matched national cohort

BackgroundInsufficient weight loss is common in super-obese patients (body mass index >50) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Duodenal switch (DS) is more effective; however, it is considered to have an increased complication rate.ObjectivesTo compare early complications (≤30 d), long-term adverse events, and quality of life (QoL) between primary DS and RYGB.SettingSweden.MethodsNational cohort-study of super-obese patients after primary DS or RYGB in Sweden 2007 to 2017. Propensity-score matching was used to reduce confounders. Five national registers were cross-matched.ResultsThe study population consisted of 333 DS and 1332 RYGB (body mass index 55 ± 5 kg/m², 38.5 ± 11 yr, and 60.7% females). Laparoscopic approach was used in 25% of DS and 91% of RYGB. Early complications were more common after DS (15.3% versus 8.1%, P < .01), mainly because of more open surgery and related surgical site infections. During 4.6 ± 2.3 years mean follow-up, hospital admission rate was 1.4 ± 2.3 versus 1.1 ± 3.3 (P = .18), with 6.7 ± 18.3 versus 7.0 ± 43.0 in-hospital days, for DS and RYGB, respectively. An increased risk of malnutrition/malabsorption requiring inpatient care (2.8% versus .2%, odds ratio 12.3 [3.3–45.7]) and greater need for additional abdominal surgery (25.8% versus 15.3%, odds ratio 2.0 [1.5–2.7]) was observed for DS. However, QoL was more improved after DS.ConclusionDS was associated with more early complications because of more open surgery, but long-term requirement of inpatient care was similar to RYGB. The increased risk of malnutrition/malabsorption and need for additional abdominal surgeries was contrasted with a greater improvement in QoL for DS.     

Outcome of hand-assisted laparoscopic gastric bypass in super obese patients

BackgroundThe optimal surgical treatment for super obese patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥50 kg/m²) has been a challenge and debate for most bariatric surgeons. To compare the outcomes of hand-assisted laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (HALGB) in super obese patients (BMI ≥50 kg/m²) to morbidly obese patients (BMI <50 kg/m²).MethodsA total of 295 patients who underwent HALGB from October 2003 to December 2005 were studied. These patients included 177 with a BMI of ≤49 kg/m² (morbidly obese) and 118 with a BMI of ≥50 kg/m² (super-obese). The patient demographics, complications, and outcomes were examined. Additionally, the 12-month postoperative outcomes included the percentage of excess weight loss and improvement of co-morbidities.ResultsThe patient age and gender were similar between the 2 groups. The super-obese patients had significantly more co-morbidities and required a greater number of medications. A significant difference was found in 3 early postoperative complications, with super-obese patients experiencing more wound infections (P = .039), nausea/vomiting (P = .003), and pulmonary failure (P = .010). Logistic regression analysis found, after controlling for significant risk factors, that the difference in the incidence of nausea/vomiting was still significant (odds ratio 14.33, 95% confidence interval 1.73–118.60, P = .01). Morbidly obese patients had a significantly greater percentage of excess weight loss at 12 months postoperatively compared with the super-obese patients (80% versus 55%, respectively, P <.001).ConclusionHALGB is a safe and effective procedure in the super obese but with less favorable outcomes compared with those for morbidly obese patients regarding the percentage of excess weight loss.     

Duodenal Switch Provides Superior Resolution of Metabolic Comorbidities Independent of Weight Loss in the Super-obese (BMI ≥ 50 kg/m<Superscript>2</Superscript>) Compared with Gastric Bypass

Objective  

Increased body mass index is associated with greater incidence and severity of obesity-related comorbidities and inadequate postbariatric surgery weight loss. Accordingly, comorbidity resolution is an important measure of surgical outcome in super-obese individuals. We previously reported superior weight loss in super-obese patients following duodenal switch (DS) compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in a large single institution series. We now report follow-up comparison of comorbidity resolution and correlation with weight loss.     

Malabsorptive gastric bypass in patients with superobesity

Weight loss in superobese patients has been problematic after conventional gastric restrictive operations including conventional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The goal of the present study was to compare weight loss in patients with superobesity (body mass index ≥50 kg/m²) using a distal RYGB (D-RY) in which the Roux-en-Y anastomosis was performed 75 cm proximal to the ileocecal junction (N = 47) vs. patients who had Roux limbs of 150 cm (N = 152) and 50 to 75 cm (N = 99). All operations incorporated the same gastric restrictive parameters. Minimum follow-up was 3 years and ranged to 16 years. Weight loss and reduction in body mass index were significantly greater after D-RY vs. both RYGB-150 cm and short RYGB and in RYGB-150 cm vs. short RYGB through 5 years. Mean percentage of excess weight loss peaked at 64% after DRY, at 61% after RYGB-150 cm, and at 56% after short RYGB. Weight loss maintenance through 5 years was correlated with Roux limb length with D-RY greater than RYGB-150 cm greater than short RYGB. More than 95% of obesity-related comorbid conditions improved or resolved with weight loss. There was no difference in the early postoperative morbidity rates: 9% after D-RY; 8% after RYGB-150 cm; and 2% after short RYGB with one death (0.3 %). All D-RY patients had at least one postoperative metabolic abnormality. Anemia was significantly more common after D-RY vs. the shorter RYGB with no difference in the incidence of metabolic sequelae between RYGB-150 cm and short RYGB. No operations were reversed or modified for nutritional complications. Two D-RY patients required total parenteral nutrition for protein malnutrition. These results show that Roux limb length is correlated with weight loss in superobese patients. However, the greater incidence of metabolic sequelae after D-RY vs. RYGB-150 cm calls into question its routine use in superobese patients undergoing bariatric surgery. We conclude that some degree of malabsorption should be incorporated into bariatric operations performed in superobese patients to achieve satisfactory long-term weight loss. Presented at the Forty-Second Annual Meeting of The Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, Atlanta, Georgia, May 20–23, 2001.     

Does Gastric Dilatation Limit the Success of Sleeve Gastrectomy as a Sole Operation for Morbid Obesity?

Background: Sleeve gastrectomy as the sole bariatric operation has been reported for high-risk super-obese patients or as first-step followed by Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) or duodenal switch (DS) in super-super obese patients. The efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) for morbidly obese patients with a BMI of <50 kg/m² and the incidence of gastric dilatation following LSG have not yet been investigated. Methods: 23 patients (15 morbidly obese, 8 super-obese) were studied prospectively for weight loss following LSG. The incidence of sleeve dilatation was assessed by upper GI contrast studies in patients with a follow-up of >12 months. Results: Patients who underwent LSG achieved a mean excess weight loss (EWL) at 6 and 12 months postoperatively of 46% and 56%, respectively. No significant differences were observed in %EWL comparing obese and super-obese patients. At a mean follow-up of 20 months, dilatation of the gastric sleeve was found in 1 patient and weight regain after initial successful weight loss in 3 of the 23 patients. Conclusion: LSG has been highly effective for weight reduction for morbid obesity even as the sole bariatric operation. Gastric dilatation was found in only 1 patient in this short-term follow-up. Weight regain following LSG may require conversion to RYGBP or DS. Follow-up will be necessary to evaluate long-term results.     

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass versus Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in the Super-obese: A Comparative Study of 290 Patients

Background: Controversy exists regarding the best surgical treatment for super-obesity (BMI >50 kg/m 2 ). The two most common bariatric procedures performed worldwide are laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP). We undertook a retrospective single-center study to compare the safety and efficacy of these two operations in super-obese patients. Methods: 290 super-obese patients underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery: 179 LAGB and 111 LRYGBP. Results: There were one death in both groups. The early complication rate was higher in the LAGB group (10% vs 2.8%, P<0.01). Late complication rate was higher in the LAGB group (26% vs 15.3%, P<0.05). Operating time and hospital stay were significantly higher in the LRYGBP group. LRYGBP had significantly better excess weight loss than LAGB (63% vs 41% at 1 year, and 73% vs 46% at 2 years), as well as lower BMI than LAGB (35 vs 41 at 18 months). Conclusion: LRYGBP results in significantly greater weight loss than LAGB in super-obese patients, but is associated with a higher early complication rate.     

Effect of standard vs extended Roux limb length on weight loss outcomes after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background: Increasing the length of the Roux limb in open Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) effectively increases excess weight loss in superobese patients with a body mass index (BMI) >50 kg/m². Extending the RYGB limb length for obese patients with a BMI < 50 could produce similar results. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of superobese patients undergoing laparoscopic RYGB with standard (100-cm) with those undergoing the procedure with an extended (150-cm) Roux limb length over 1-year period of follow-up. Methods: Retrospective data over 2.5 years were reviewed to identify patients with a BMI < 50 who underwent primary laparoscopic RYGB with 1-year follow-up (n = 58). Forty-five patients (sRYGB group) received limb lengths 100 cm, including 45 cm (n = 1), 50 cm (n = 2), 60 cm (n = 6), 65 cm (n = 1), 70 cm (n = 1), 75 cm (n = 3), and 100 cm (n = 31). Thirteen patients (eRYGB group) received 150-cm limbs. Postoperative weight loss was compared at 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Results: Comparing the sRYGB vs the eRYGB group (average ± SD), respectively: There were no significant differences in age (41.5 ± 11.0 vs 38.0 ± 11.9 years), preoperative weight (119.2 ± 11.9 vs 127.8 ± 12.5 kg), BMI (43.7 ± 3.0 vs 45.2 ± 3.5 kg/m²), operative time (167.1 ± 72.7 vs 156.5 ± 62.4 min), estimated blood loss (129.9 ± 101.1 vs 166.8 ± 127.3 cc), or length of stay (median, 3 vs 3 days; range, 2–18 vs 3–19). Body weight decreased over time in both groups, except in the sRYGB group between 3 and 6 months and 6 and 12 months after surgery and in the eRYGB group between 6 and 12 months. BMI also decreased over time, except in the eRYGB group between 6 and 12 months. Absolute weight loss leveled out between 6 and 12 months in both groups, with no increase after 6 months. Percent of excess weight loss did not increase in the eRYGB group after 6 months. An extended Roux limb did not significantly affect body weight, BMI, absolute weight loss, or precent of excess weight loss at any time point when the two groups were compared. A trend toward an increased proportion of patients with >50% excess weight loss (p = 0.07) was observed in the extended Roux limb group. Conclusions: In this series, no difference in weight loss outcome variables were observed up to 1 year after laparoscopic RYGB. Thus, extending Roux limb length from 100 cm to 150 cm did not significantly improve weight loss outcome in patients with a BMI < 50 kg/m².     

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass as a re-do procedure for failed restricive gastric surgery

Background Gastric restrictive procedures such as laparoscopic gastric banding or vertical banded gastroplasty show, at longer follow up, more and more failures and complications. This study focuses on the results of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure (RYGBP) done as a re-do procedure, both after a technically failed restrictive procedure or when the restrictive procedure failed to obtain substantial weight loss. Methods We reviewed data concerning the postoperative complications and weight loss of 36 patients undergoing re-do surgery for failed restrictive procedures. Results Over a period of two years, 36 patients with a mean age of 40.9 years were converted to a RYGBP. Median time to conversion was 4.9 years, median follow up after conversion was 6.6 months. Early postoperative complications (less than 30 days postoperatively) were noted in 11 patients (30%). A greater number of early complications were noticed in group A (technical complications) compared to group B (insufficient weight loss) (39% vs. 22%). Late postoperative complications were seen in six patients (16%). In this relatively short follow up period we noticed a drop in body mass index (BMI) from a mean of 38.8kg/m² to 30.9 kg/m² with a mean excess body weight loss (EBWL) of 33.1% after the re-do procedure. Body mass index decreased from a mean preoperative value of 37.6kg/m² to 28.9 kg/m² in group A patients with an EBWL 36%, while group B patients had a change in BMI from 40.1kg/m² to 32.9 kg/m² with a mean EBWL of 30%. Conclusion Based on the literature, we can presume that restrictive surgery for morbidly obese patients will require many reoperations in the future. The standard operation of choice is RYGBP. In our study this procedure showed a higher, but not significantly early morbidity rate when the indication for re-do surgery was a technical complication of the initial procedure.     

Comparison of rates of resolution of diabetes mellitus after gastric banding, gastric bypass, and biliopancreatic diversion

BACKGROUND: Bariatric operation is the most effective treatment for diabetes mellitus in the morbidly obese. The purpose of this study is to compare the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus after three common laparoscopic bariatric procedures: laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and biliopancreatic diversion with or without duodenal switch (BPD/DS). STUDY DESIGN: All data were prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Characteristics evaluated for this study included preoperative age, body mass index, duration of diabetes, race, gender, operative time, length of stay, percent excess weight loss, oral hypoglycemic requirements, and insulin requirements. RESULTS: A total of 282 bariatric patients with diabetes mellitus were analyzed (218 LAGB, 53 RYGB, and 11 BPD/DS). Preoperative age (46 to 50 years), body mass index (46 to 50; calculated as kg/m(2)), race and gender breakdown, and baseline oral hypoglycemic (82% to 87%) and insulin requirements (18% to 28%) were comparable among the three groups (p = NS). Percent excess weight loss at 1, 2, and 3 years was: 43%, 50%, and 45% for LAGB; 66%, 68%, and 66% for RYGB; and 68%, 77%, and 82% for BPD/DS (p < 0.01 LAGB versus RYGB and LAGB versus BPD/DS at all time intervals). At 1 and 2 years, the proportion of patients requiring oral hypoglycemics postoperatively was 39% and 34% for LAGB; 22% and 13% for RYGB; and 11% and 13% for BPD/DS (p = NS). At 1 and 2 years, the proportion of patients requiring insulin postoperatively was 14% and 18% for LAGB; 7% and 13% for RYGB; and 11% and 13% for BPD/DS (p = NS). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the disparity in percent excess weight loss between LAGB, RYGB, and BPD/DS, the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus is equivalent.     

Long limb Roux en Y gastric bypass revisited

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) that is performed with at least a 150-cm Roux limb results in significantly greater weight loss than shorter (<100-cm) Roux limb procedures in superobese patients(BMI >50 kg/m2). Conversely, longer Roux limb procedures do not provide greater weight loss in less obese (BMI <50 kg/m2)patients. Modest elongation of the Roux limb-in the range of 150 cm to 200 cm-does not result in more frequent nutritional sequelae compared with shorter Roux limb procedures. This article discusses the current status of long limb Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in the context of weight loss, metabolic sequelae and CPT coding.     

Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch or gastric bypass for failed gastric banding: retrospective study from two institutions with preliminary results.

BACKGROUND: Of patients who have undergone gastric banding, 11-25% will require a major reoperation with band removal and conversion to another bariatric procedure after they have failed to lose sufficient weight or have developed dysphagia or reflux. The aim of this study was to evaluate the respective benefits of Roux-en-Y gastric band (RYGB) or biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) after failed gastric banding and whether 1 of the 2 procedures might be a better procedure for such cases. METHODS: RYGB or BPD-DS was performed according to the institutional protocols with synchronous band removal, irrespective of the reason for failure. RESULTS: Of the 53 patients, 32 underwent laparoscopic RYGB for a body mass index (BMI) of 43.1 +/- 6.4 kg/m(2) (BMI 45.8 +/- 6.4 kg/m(2) before laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding) and 21 underwent BPD-DS for a BMI of 46.0 +/- 5.5 kg/m(2) (BMI 49.6 +/- 5.2 kg/m(2) before laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding). BPD-DS required significantly longer operative times (239.7 +/- 55.8 versus 135 +/- 26.7 minutes) and resulted in more complications (62% versus 12.5%; P <.002). No patients died postoperatively. The 2 groups of patients had a similar BMI at 12 and 18 months after revision (BMI 33.4 +/- 5.6 kg/m(2) and 31.4 +/- 3.5 kg/m(2)). The weight loss was greater after BPD-DS than after RYGB compared with the prerevision weight loss (66.2% versus 58.8% excess weight loss) or initial weight (73% versus 61.8%), although this was not significant. CONCLUSION: Despite an excessive rate of complications that were, in part, related to the learning curve in this series, BPD-DS resulted in greater weight loss compared with RYGB. However, both procedures were successful after failed gastric banding. A more accurate definition of failure could help to determine the respective indications for revisional surgery.     

Interval jejunoileal bypass reduces the morbidity and mortality of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in the super-obese

Among Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients, large male patients carry the greatest risk for severe, life-threatening complications. The higher complication rate is partly related to large amounts of intra-abdominal fat that increases the technical difficulty of the RYGB. In order to minimize the risk for complications, we established a staged approach for weight loss surgery for high-risk, super-obese patients. Patients with intra-abdominal fat at exploration which precluded the performance of RYGB underwent jejunoileal bypass (JIB). Following an initial period of weight loss (6-24 months), they were converted to a RYGB during a second operation. Twenty-four patients underwent initial JIB that was associated with a major complication rate of 8.3 per cent (2/24) and no mortality. Eight patients lost 53.4 +/- 6.3 kg prior to their conversion to RYGB (mean, 14.1 months). There was one major complication (12%) and no deaths (0%). Following RYGB, an additional period of weight loss resulted in overall excess weight loss (EWL) totaling 62 per cent. A two-step procedure is a safe and effective approach for minimizing complications for high-risk patients undergoing RYGB. The initial JIB was associated with low morbidity and no mortality, and the follow-up RYGB procedure was a technically simple operation that could be performed with few complications.     

Roux-en-Y divided gastric bypass results in the same weight loss as duodenal switch for morbid obesity

BACKGROUND: The 2 weight loss procedures most commonly performed in the United States are Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) and lateral gastrectomy with duodenal switch (BPD/DS). RYGB is a restrictive procedure, whereas BPD/DS relies on mild restriction of intake as well as malabsorption. Many physicians believe that weight loss is greater after BPD/DS than after RYGBP. However, these procedures have not been compared using groups of patients operated on by the same surgeons at the same institution. METHODS: We compared weight loss (expressed as percent of excess body weight [%EBW]) after 1 and 2 years in patients who underwent open RYGB or BPD/DS at our institution. RESULTS: Average length of stay was longer in BPD/DS patients than in those undergoing RYGBP (8.7 vs. 5.9 days, P <0.05). Anastomotic leaks were higher after BPD/DS (6% vs. 3%), but the difference did not achieve statistical significance. Mortality did not differ between the 2 groups (0.8% vs. 0.9%). In the group of patients followed-up for 1 to 2 years, age and distribution of men and women did not differ. Those patients undergoing BPD/DS had higher body mass index (59 vs. 55, P <0.05). Weight loss expressed as %EBW was similar between the 2 groups: 54% versus 53% at 1 year and 67% versus 64% at 2 years. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggested that weight loss expressed as %EBW is similar between patients undergoing RYGBP and those undergoing BPD/DS. However, BPD/DS was associated with a longer hospital stay.     

Revisional bariatric surgery: who,what, where,and when?

BackgroundRevisional bariatric surgery (RBS) outcomes have been poorly characterized. We compared the RBS and primary bariatric surgery (PBS) outcomes at the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center in the United States.MethodsA total of 72 RBS cases from 2000 to 2007 were reviewed and grouped by indication: failure of weight loss, gastrojejunal complications, or other. The RBS patients were compared with the 856 PBS patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. The mean follow-up time was 12.6 ± 1.2 months for the RBS group and 16 ± 0.5 months for the PBS group. Weight loss was analyzed as the kilograms lost and patients with ≥50% excess body weight loss (EBWL). Outcomes included mortality, leaks, surgical site infections, and length of stay.ResultsThe weight loss was 23 ± 2.8 kg after RBS and 41.3 ± 0.7 kg after PBS (P <.05 versus PBS). The post-RBS weight loss varied by surgical indication: failure of weight loss, 27.1 ± 2 kg; gastrojejunal complications, 8.7 ± 3.4 kg; and other 23.5 ± 10.6 kg. Also, 29% of the RBS patients had ≥50% excess body weight loss (versus the prerevision weight) and 61% (versus the initial weight) compared with 52.7% after PBS. Only age ≤50 years was associated with ≥50% excess body weight loss after RBS for the failure of weight loss group. No RBS patients died. However, leaks, surgical site infections, and length of stay were increased after RBS.ConclusionThe results of our study have shown that weight loss after RBS varies with the surgical indication and is affected by age >50 years. Although the RBS patients had decreased weight loss and increased complications compared with the PBS patients, ≥50% EBWL was achieved by a significant number of RBS patients.     

Weight loss is more sustained after biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch than Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in superobese patients

BackgroundAlthough biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) is not the most performed procedure, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is challenged by weight regain and insufficient weight loss, especially in patients with a body mass index >50 kg/m². The aim of our retrospective study was to compare the weight loss after 2 types of primary bariatric surgery. A total of 83 BPD-DS and 97 RYGB procedures were performed from March 2002 to October 2009 for an initial mean body mass index of 55 kg/m².MethodsAll RYGB patients underwent surgery at a private practice hospital and BPD-DS patients underwent surgery at a university hospital before February 2007 and at the same private hospital thereafter. The patients were seen in follow-up every 4 months the first year, every 6 months the second, and yearly thereafter. The maximum weight loss was assessed, as well as the weight regain beyond the first postoperative year. Weight loss success was defined as a percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) of ≥50%.ResultsThe patients did not differ by age, gender, or length of follow-up (mean 46 mo, range .5–102 for RYGB and 44.3 mo, range 9–111 for BPD-DS). Of the patients, 17 RYGB and 7 BPD-DS patients were lost to follow-up within 3 years postoperatively. At 3 years of follow-up, the mean %EWL was 63.7% ± 17.0% after RYGB and 84.0% ± 14.5% after BPD-DS (P < .0001). Weight loss success was achieved by 83.5% of the RYGB and 98.7% of the BPD-DS patients (P = .0005).ConclusionAfter 12 months postoperatively, the number of patients regaining 10% of the weight lost during the first postoperative year was significantly greater after RYGB than after BPD-DS.     

Lipid risk profile and weight stability after gastric restrictive operations for morbid obesity

There are no longitudinal data that address weight loss stability and lipid levels in bariatric surgical patients. The goal of this study was to determine whether weight regain adversely affected reduction in lipid levels after gastric bariatric operations. Of 651 consecutive patients undergoing gastric restrictive surgery for morbid obesity, 227 (35%) had increased serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, or both preoperatively. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were subnormal (≤35 mg/dl) in 45 (20%) of the hyperlipidemic patients. Fasting lipid profiles were determined at 6-month intervals postoperatively. This series included the following three operations: gastroplasty (GP; N = 13), standard Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB; N = 205), and distal Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (DRY; N = 9). By 6 months postoperatively, patients had a ≥15% mean reduction in TC and a ≥50% mean reduction in triglycerides, both of which were significant in comparison with preoperative levels (P ≤0.05). Mean HDL-C levels had increased significantly vs. preoperative levels by 12 months postoperatively (P <0.05) and continued to increase through 5 years. By 18 months both HDL-C and TC were significantly lower after DRY than after GP or RYGB. In 91 patients who were followed for 2 years or longer (mean 48 ± 25 months), mean excess weight loss was 55% with mean body mass index reduced from 48 to 33 kg/m². This group was divided into patients whose weight remained stable (N = 54) and patients who regained ≥l5% of their lost weight or lost less than 50% of excess weight (N = 3 7). Although mean excess weight loss and body mass index were significantly different between the two groups (P <0.0001) at 2 years, there was no difference in the lipid profile (TC/HDL) between the two groups at any interval through 5 years. These results show that abnormal lipid profiles can be permanently improved after gastric bariatric surgery and are not adversely affected by mediocre weight loss or regaining ≥15% of lost weight. DRY appears to be a superior operation for TC reduction in comparison with GP and RYGB.     

Results of Bariatric Surgery for Morbid Obesity in Patients Older than 50 Years

Background: Surgery is increasingly used for weight loss in morbidly obese patients. The authors evaluated the safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in patients older than 50 years. Methods: Prospective data on 62 consecutive patients (Male = 13, Female = 49) undergoing bariatric procedures between 1985-1994 were reviewed. Mean followup was 30 ± 2 months (3-48 months). All data are mean ± sem. Results: Age was 57 ± 1 year (range 50-71 years). Patients had a mean preoperative weight of 125 ± 4 kg (275 ± 9 lb) and 119 ± 6% excess body weight. A total of 68 procedures were performed: vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG = 23), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB = 43), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD = 2). Six patients were converted to RYGB (5) and BPD (1) after failed VBG. Hospital mortality was nil. Complications were wound infection (5), pulmonary (4), gastric leak (2), abscess (1) and others (4). Mean weight loss at 3 years was 55 ± 7 and 33 ± 6% of percent excess body weight for RYGB and VBG, respectively. Postoperative use of medications for arthritis, diabetes mellitus and asthma was reduced by 23%, 62% and 100%, respectively. Satisfaction with the outcome of treatment and weight loss was reported by 81% of patients. Six patients that were converted from jejunoileal bypass (metabolic complications) to VBG gained weight. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery is safe and well tolerated in morbidly obese patients older than 50 years. Weight loss parallels that of younger populations and is greater in patients treated with RYGB in this subgroup. Age should not be a contraindication to bariatric surgery provided the patient has obesity-related medical morbidity. Control of obesity-related co-morbid conditions is improved by weight loss.