Ambulatory bariatric surgery: does it really lead to higher rates of adverse events?

BackgroundCorrelating patient outcomes with length of stay (LoS) is an important consideration in metabolic and bariatric surgery. At present, conflicting data exists regarding patient safety for ambulatory (AMB) metabolic and bariatric surgery.ObjectiveOutcomes for AMB–metabolic and bariatric surgery patients (LoS <1 d) undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) were compared with matched patients with LoS ≥1 day (non-AMB) using the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) registry.SettingMBSAQIP national database.MethodsThe MBSAQIP registry was queried for patients undergoing SG or RYGB (2015–2017) and patients grouped as AMB/non-AMB. Exclusion criteria included LoS >4 days, age <18 or >75 years, revision surgery, gastric banding, body mass index <35 kg/m², and day of surgery mortality. Variables were combined into major/minor complications and 30-day mortality. Analysis was performed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression and propensity matching.ResultsAfter exclusions were applied 408,895 patients remained (9973 AMB). Overall, 111,279 patients underwent RYGB (1032 AMB) and 297,616 underwent SG (8941 AMB), with similar demographic characteristics and co-morbidities between groups. For AMB patients, there was no increase in 30-day mortality, reoperation, or readmission, and fewer drains were placed versus matched non-AMB patients. In AMB-SG patients more surgical site infections were reported versus non–AMB-SG, although AMB-SG patients had fewer intensive care unit admissions. For AMB-RYGB, no differences in complications were detected versus non–AMB-RYGB.ConclusionBased on our analysis of the MBSAQIP database, patients undergoing laparoscopic RYGB or SG procedures can be safely discharged on the day of their procedure without increased incidence of mortality, reoperation, or readmission.     

Effect of Surgeon Volume on Sleeve Gastrectomy Outcomes

Background

Prior studies have shown a relationship between surgeon volume and patient outcomes in Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is now the most common bariatric procedure, but there is a little data on surgeon volume and outcomes after SG. We examined the relationship between annual surgeon bariatric volume and 30-day complication rate after SG.

Methods

The Bariatric Outcomes Longitudinal Database for 2011 was used for this study. Using 50 annual cases as a cutoff point, surgeons were classified as low (LV-SG) or high volume SG (HV-SG) and low (LV-RYGB) or high volume RYGB (HV-RYGB) providers. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the effect of surgeon volume on 30-day readmissions, reoperations, and complications following SG while controlling for patient demographics and comorbidities.

Results

We identified 16,547 SG patients. After controlling for baseline characteristics, HV-SG surgeons had lower rates of 30-day complications (OR 0.80, 95 % CI 0.64–0.92), reoperation (OR 0.69, 95 % CI 0.52–0.90), and readmission (OR 0.73, 95 % CI 0.61–0.88) compared to LV-SG surgeons. HV-RYGB surgeons had lower 30-day complication rates (OR 0.80, 95 % CI 0.69–0.92), but were without differences in reoperation (OR 0.82, 95 % CI 0.61–1.10) or readmission (OR 1.06, 95 % CI 0.88–1.27) compared to LV-RYGB surgeons.

Conclusions

High SG volume is associated with improved 30-day readmission, reoperation, and complication rates. Concurrent RYGB volume impacts the 30-day complication rate after SG, but does not affect the readmission or reoperation rate. Our findings suggest that SG-specific volume is important for optimal safety outcomes in SG patients.

     

Bariatric surgery in patients with obesity and end-stage renal disease

BackgroundBariatric surgery has been suggested as a treatment for obesity and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Although the number of bariatric surgeries in patients with ESRD is increasing, its safety and effectiveness in these patients are still controversial and the surgical method of choice in these patients is under debate.ObjectivesTo compare the outcomes of bariatric surgery between patients with and without ESRD and to assess different methods of bariatric surgery in patients with ESRD.SettingMeta-analysis.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted in Web of Science and Medline (via Pubmed) until May 2022. Tow meta-analyses were performed: A) to compare bariatric surgery outcomes among patients with and without ESRD, and B) to compare outcomes of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) in patients with ESRD. Using a random-effect model, odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed for surgical and weight loss outcomes.ResultsOf 5895 articles, 6 studies were included in meta-analysis A and 8 studies in meta-analysis B. The risk of bias was moderate to serious among studies. Major postoperative complications (OR = 2.82; 95% CI = 1.66–4.77; P = .0001), reoperation (OR = 2.66; 95% CI = 1.99–3.56; P < .00001), readmission (OR = 2.37; 95% CI = 1.55–3.64; P < .0001), and in-hospital/90-d mortality (OR = 4.03; 95% CI = 1.80–9.03; P = .0007) were higher in patients with ESRD. Patients with ESRD also had a longer hospital stay (MD = 1.23; 95% CI = .32–2.14; P = .008). Bleeding, leakage, and total weight loss were comparable among groups. SG showed a 10% lower rate of overall complications and significantly shorter hospital stay than RYGB did. The quality of evidence was very low for the outcomesConclusionsBariatric surgery in patients with ESRD seems to have higher rates of major complications and perioperative mortality than in patients without ESRD, but a comparable rate of overall complications. SG has fewer postoperative complications and could be the method of choice in these patients. These findings should be interpreted cautiously in light of the moderate to high risk of bias in most included studies.     

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy: nationwide data from the Danish quality registry for treatment of severe obesity

BackgroundBariatric surgery as treatment of obesity is increasing worldwide. No guidelines exist on which type of bariatric procedure to choose for the individual patient.ObjectivesThis study aims to compare Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) with respect to weight loss, complications, comorbidities, and quality of life.SettingA nationwide multi-center register-based cohort study.MethodsWe identified 16,053 patients treated by bariatric surgery from 2008 to 2021 (RYGB, n = 13,075; SG, n = 2978) from the Danish quality registry for treatment of severe obesity (DBSO). We calculated risk ratios (RRs) and prevalence ratios (PRs) comparing surgical complications, weight loss, and medical comorbidities by type of procedure up to 2 years after surgery.ResultsPatients treated with RYGB experienced a greater weight loss than patients treated by SG both after 1 year (PR, .53; 95% confidence interval [CI], .48–.58) and 2 years (PR, .46; 95% CI, .39–.54). Compared with RYGB, SG yielded a lower risk of readmission (RR, .71; 95% CI, .60–.85). Likewise, the risk of reoperation between 30 days and 1 year (RR, .40; 95% CI, .30–.53) and 1 and 5 years (RR, .15; 95% CI, .12–.20]) were lower following SG. At 1-year follow-up, 76% of patients treated with RYGB and 63% of patients treated with SG experienced diabetes remission. Ten percent and 61% of patients were lost to follow-up after 1 and 2 years, respectively.ConclusionThe DBSO is an important resource in studying treatment of severe obesity. Weight loss is slightly greater after RYGB than after SG, but RYGB is associated with more frequent readmissions and reoperations.     

Racial disparity in causes for readmission following bariatric surgery

BackgroundReadmission after bariatric surgery is not cost-effective and is a preventable quality metric within standardized practices. However, reasons for readmission among racial/ethnic bariatric cohorts are less explored and understood.ObjectiveOur study objective was designed to compare reasons for readmission among racial/ethnic cohorts of bariatric patients.SettingAcademic hospital.MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of the 2015–2018 MBSAQIP databases to identify Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) cases. Regression analyses determined predictors of all-cause and bariatric-related readmissions. Reasons for readmission were compared between racial/ethnic cohorts using propensity score matching.ResultsMore than 550 000 RYGB and SG cases were analyzed. The readmission rate was 3%–4%. Black race, RYGB, robot-assisted approach, and numerous co-morbidities were independently associated with readmission (P <.05). In RYGB cases, black (versus white) patients were at decreased odds of leak-related (P < .001) and cardiovascular-related (P < .001) readmissions but at increased odds of readmissions related to renal complications (P < .001). Hispanic (versus white) patients had a higher likelihood of venous thromboembolism–related readmissions (P < .001). In SG cases, black (versus white) patients had a similar lower likelihood of readmission related to leaks or cardiovascular complications but higher odds of readmission related to renal complications (P < .001). Hispanic (versus black) patients had a higher likelihood of leak-related readmissions (P < .001).ConclusionReadmission reasons after bariatric surgery vary by race/ethnicity. Perioperative pathways to mitigate complications, including readmissions, should consider these disparate findings.     

Outcomes of adolescents compared with young adults after bariatric surgery: an analysis of 227,671 patients using the MBSAQIP data registry

BackgroundObesity in the United States is increasingly prevalent in adolescents. Metabolic and bariatric surgery is offered at select sites to adolescents (<18 yr). Controversy exists regarding the safety of performing metabolic and bariatric surgery in adolescents.ObjectivesThe Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program registry was employed to compare outcomes of adolescents with adults (18–40 yr) undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).SettingAcademic Teaching Institution.MethodsThe Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Participant User Files were reviewed for patients undergoing SG or RYGB (2015–2018). Patients were stratified by age and outcomes for adolescents versus adults compared. A bivariate analysis was performed on propensity-matched data.ResultsAfter exclusion criteria were applied, 227,671 patients <40 years remained, of whom 1005 were adolescents. For those undergoing RYGB (13.8% adolescents, 25.3% adults), demographic characteristics were similar. Adolescent SG patients were more likely to be male and Hispanic, but less likely to be smokers or have preoperative co-morbidities. There were no differences in infection rates, mortality, major complications, reoperation, readmission, or other interventions for RYGB and SG groups. For both adult SG and adolescent SG, patients’ operative times were less than adult and adolescent RYGB, respectively. However, operative times were shorter for adolescent RYGB versus adult RYGB patients, yet longer for adolescent SG patients versus adult SG patients.ConclusionsMetabolic and bariatric surgery is as safe for adolescents undergoing an SG or RYGB as adults. Currently, SG is more commonly performed in adolescents than RYGB, and adolescent SG patients have similar outcomes and shorter operating room times compared with adolescent RYGB patients.     

Hospital utilization 4 years after bariatric surgery: sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BackgroundWhile sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has lower perioperative risk compared with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), long-term data about their differential impact on overall health are unclear. Hospital use after bariatric surgery is an important parameter for improving peri- and postoperative care.ObjectiveThis present study was aimed to compare SG and RYGB in terms of their effect on long-term hospital-based healthcare utilization.SettingMulticenter, statewide database.MethodsA retrospective cohort study of adult patients who underwent SG and RYGB between 2009 and 2011, with follow-up until 2015 and 2-year presurgery information. Propensity score–matched SG and RYGB groups were created using preoperative demographic characteristics, co-morbidities, and presurgery hospital use, measured by cumulative length of stay (LOS) and frequency of emergency department visits. Postsurgery yearly LOS, incidence of hospital visits, and the reason for the visit were compared. Primary outcomes included postoperative hospital visits during years 1 to 4 after bariatric surgery and cumulative LOS. Secondary outcomes included specific reasons for hospital use.ResultsThere were 3540 SG and 13,587 RYGB patients, whose mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) LOS was 1.3 (1.3–1.4), .9 (.8–1), 1 (.9–1.1), and 1.2 (1–1.3) days at years 1 through 4, respectively. Postoperative yearly LOS was similar between the 2 propensity-matched groups. The risk of hospitalizations (odd ratio .73, 95% CI .64–.84, P < .0001) and emergency department visits (odds ratio .84, 95% CI .75–.95, P = .005) was significantly lower for SG, during the first postoperative year. The reverse was seen at the fourth postoperative year, with higher risk of emergency department use after SG (odds ratio 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.33, P = .035).ConclusionPostoperative 4-year hospital utilization remains low for both SG and RYGB. The previously established lower early perioperative risk of SG was not appreciated for longer-term hospital use compared with RYGB.     

Repair of post–bariatric surgery,recurrent, and de novo hiatal hernias improves bloating,abdominal pain,regurgitation, and food intolerance

BackgroundPost–bariatric surgery hiatal hernias are associated with a cluster of symptoms, including bloating (nausea/vomiting or fullness), abdominal pain, regurgitation, and food intolerance or dysphagia (BARF).ObjectivesTo report the short-term outcomes of repairing post–bariatric surgery hiatal hernias in patients with BARF.SettingLarge, multispecialty group practice with university affiliation.MethodsWe reviewed the records of all consecutive patients who underwent repair of post–bariatric surgery hiatal hernias (2012–2020). Data are shown as means ± standard deviations.ResultsWe repaired hiatal hernias in 52 patients (age, 57 ± 10 yr), 4 ± 3 years post sleeve gastrectomy (SG; n = 27), 11 ± 6 years following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB; n = 24), and 11 years post duodenal switch with SG (DS-SG; n = 1). Diagnoses were made by upper gastrointestinal contrast study (80%), computed tomography (70%), and/or endoscopy (56%). Hernias in patients with SG were repaired by a posterior cruroplasty after reducing the neo-stomach into the abdomen (n = 11 SG patients; n = 1 DS-SG patient) or converting the SG to RYGB (n = 16). All 24 RYGB patients underwent hernia repair similarly. At 12 ± 10 months of follow-up, dysphagia or regurgitation improved in >80% of patients; nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain improved in 70% of patients; and heartburn persisted in 56% of patients. Subsequent recurrent hernias that required operative repair developed in 3 patients.ConclusionsHiatal hernias containing the neo-stomach present earlier after SG than RYGB. The diagnosis can be made with a combination of imaging studies and endoscopy. Repair of post–bariatric surgery hiatal hernias markedly improves symptoms of BARF in most patients.     

Variations in bariatric surgical practice patterns between general and bariatric surgeons: a matched analysis of the 2017 MBSAQIP database

BackgroundWhile general surgeons (GSs) perform metabolic and bariatric surgery (MABS), these procedures are increasingly performed by metabolic and bariatric surgeons (MBSs). Because MABS is an evolving practice with changing surgical platforms and approaches, it is important to evaluate outcomes between different specialists performing these procedures.ObjectivesTo compare perioperative practice pattern variations and outcomes of MABS performed by GSs versus MBSs.SettingUniversity Hospital, United States.MethodsUsing the 2017 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database, we identified Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) cases and stratified them by specialization (GSs versus MBSs). Patient characteristics, practice patterns and outcomes, complications, and 30-day outcomes were compared between cohorts. Matched procedure-specific analyses were performed.ResultsOf 172,430 MABS procedures, 4394 (2.5%) were performed by GSs and 168,036 (97.4%) by MBSs. At baseline, patients of GSs had fewer co-morbidities. GSs more commonly used the robotic platform for SG cases and performed interventions such as staple line reinforcement and staple line check with provocative testing. MBSs more commonly performed robotic (versus laparoscopic) RYGB. Overall complications were low in both study cohorts. After propensity matching, transfusion and venous thromboembolism were higher in SG performed by GSs, while surgical site infection was higher in SG and RYGB performed by MBSs. These findings were not reproduced after case-control matching. In matched analyses, there were no mortality or morbidity differences between study cohorts.ConclusionMABS is performed safely by both GSs and MBSs, with no difference in morbidity and mortality.     

Clinical significance of diabetes control before metabolic surgery

BackgroundEven though observational studies have suggested that poor preoperative diabetes control increases risk after major abdominal surgery, it is unclear whether this effect is seen in metabolic surgery patients.ObjectivesTo determine whether poor preoperative diabetes control is associated with worse outcomes in patients with obesity and diabetes undergoing metabolic surgery.SettingMetabolic and Bariatric Surgery Quality Improvement Project (MBSAQIP) database.MethodsUsing the MBSAQIP 2017 and 2018 database and preoperative glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) as a diabetes control surrogate, we examined the association between diabetes control and major outcomes of primary laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in patients with diabetes and obesity. Multivariate logistic regression modeling examined five 30-day postoperative outcomes: composite serious complications (composite of 10 adverse events), composite infection (composite of 7 infectious complications), length of stay >5 days, reoperation, and readmission. Models were adjusted for multiple covariates.ResultsIn total, 26,674 patients with HbA1C data available within 30 days before metabolic surgery were included in the primary analysis and 35,884 patients with HbA1C data within 90 days before surgery were included in the sensitivity analysis. The mean body mass index (BMI) and preoperative HbA1C were 45.6 ± 8.2 kg/m² and 8.2 ± 2.7%, respectively. The incidence of 30-day postoperative infections and serious complications were 1.62% and 1.35%, respectively. Neither primary analysis nor sensitivity analysis demonstrated any association between higher HbA1C and worsening of 5 primary outcomes of interest. The odds ratio of an overall effect for SG was 1.01 (95% CI .98–1.03; P = .58) and for RYGB was .99 (95% CI .96–1.02; P = .41).ConclusionSuboptimal preoperative diabetes control is not associated with increased adverse events and should not delay metabolic surgery, as metabolic surgery is generally a safe procedure and intrinsically improves diabetes control.     

Comparison of Short-term Safety of One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy in the United States: 341 cases from MBSAQIP-accredited Centers

BackgroundOne anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is the third most common (4%) primary bariatric procedure worldwide but is seldom performed in the United States and is currently under consideration for endorsement by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Evidence from the United States on safety of OAGB compared to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is limited.ObjectiveTo compare the short-term safety outcomes of the three primary bariatric procedures.SettingMetabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP)-accredited hospitals in the United States and Canada.MethodsUsing the 2015–2019 MBSAQIP database, we compared the safety outcomes of adult patients who underwent primary laparoscopic OAGB, RYGB, and SG. Exclusion criteria included age over 80 years, emergency operation, conversion, and incomplete follow-up. The primary outcome was 30-day overall complication. Secondary outcomes were 30-day surgical and medical complications and hospitalization length.ResultsA total of 341 patients underwent primary OAGB. Using propensity scores, we matched the OAGB cohort 1:1 with two cohorts of similar baseline characteristics who underwent RYGB and SG, respectively. The OAGB cohort had a lower overall complication rate than the RYGB cohort (6.7% versus12.3%, P = .02) and a similar rate to the SG cohort (5.0%, P = .43). The OAGB cohort had a similar rate of surgical complication to the RYGB cohort (5.0% versus 8.5%, P = .1) and a higher rate than the SG group (1.2%, P = .009). The OAGB cohort had a shorter median hospitalization than the RYGB cohort (1 d [interquartile range (IQR) 1–2 d] versus 2 d [IQR 1–2 d], P < .001) and a similar hospitalization length to the SG cohort ([1–2 d], P = .46).ConclusionUsing the largest and the most current U.S. data, this study demonstrated that the short-term safety profile of primary OAGB is acceptable, but future studies should determine the long-term safety.     

Exploring perioperative outcomes in metabolic and bariatric surgery amongst the elderly: an analysis of the 2015–2017 MBSAQIP database

BackgroundMetabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is increasingly performed in patients >65 years. Studies of perioperative outcomes have shown equivocal results.ObjectivesOur study objective was to explore perioperative outcomes in elderly MBS patients compared with those <65 years.SettingAcademic Hospital.MethodsPrimary sleeve (SG) and gastric bypass (RYGB) cases were identified from the 2015–2017 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database. Selected cases were stratified by age (≥65 yr versus <65 yr). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed comparing outcomes in the elderly with the general MBS cohort.Results26,557 (5.6%) of MBS cases were performed in elderly patients, who were more likely to be white, male, have a lower mean body mass index (BMI), receive a gastric bypass, and robotic-assisted surgery. Elderly patients had a significantly higher disease burden, and most outcome measures were significantly higher in elderly patients, including mortality and morbidity. On multivariate regression analyses, elderly patients undergoing SG have significantly less risk of mortality and morbidity compared with RYGB. In general, co-morbidities were in most cases more strongly predictive of complications than age alone. The number needed to harm (NNH) for overall and related morbidity were 59 and 232, respectively.ConclusionElderly MBS patients have higher disease burden and higher adverse outcomes following MBS; however, complications in this cohort remain overall rare. When performing bariatric surgery on elderly patients, procedure consideration should favor SG as RYGB is independently associated with worse outcomes.     

Conversion of gastric sleeve to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion/duodenal switch: safe and viable options

BackgroundSleeve gastrectomy (SG) remains the most performed bariatric surgery. As numbers of SG increase, so do the numbers of patients requiring conversion for insufficient weight loss or weight regain. However, the literature has cited complication rates as high as 30%for reoperative bariatric surgery.ObjectiveWith the recent inclusion of conversion surgery variables in the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database, we compared the safety and efficacy of SG conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) versus biliopancreatic diversion and duodenal switch (BPD/DS).SettingMBSAQIP database.MethodsAnalysis of the 2020 MBSAQIP Participant Use Files revealed 6020 patientswho underwent SG conversion to RYGB (5348) and BPD/DS (672). We examined 30-day outcomes including death, anastomotic leak, readmission, any complication, dehydration, and weight loss.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference in mortality (.12% versus 0%) or; complication rate (6.5% versus 5.1%) with SG conversion to RYGB or BPD/DS. There was a statistically significant difference in anastomotic leak (.5% versus 1.2%, P = .024).Interestingly, BPD/DS was less likely to require dehydration treatments (4.2% versus 2.2%, P = .009) and had fewer readmissions within 30 days (7.3% versus 5.4%, P = .043).ConclusionsComplication rates after conversion of SG to RYGB or BPD/DS may be significantly lower than previously reported and only slightly higher than after primary weight loss surgery. SG conversion to either RYGB or BPD/DS remain safe, viable options forpatients who had insufficient weight loss or regain, and BPD/DS may be the better option in the appropriate patient.     

Validation of the cumulative deficit theory in bariatric surgery: new bariatric frailty score is associated with non-home discharge,prolonged hospital stay and mortality in the era of fast-track bariatric surgery

BackgroundFrailty is a wasting disorder that can coexist with obesity, thus, the term “obese frailty syndrome”. Frailty can be measured using the cumulative deficit model demonstrated in the Canadian Study of Health and Aging-Frailty Index (CSHA-FI).ObjectivesTo develop a Bariatric Frailty Score (BFS) to predict 30-day adverse postoperative outcomes.SettingUniversity hospital.MethodsPatients (aged 18–80 yr) who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass (RYGB) were included using the 2015–2018 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database. Fourteen variables of the CSHA-FI were mapped onto 10 variables of MBSAQIP (each component equal 1 point). Correlations and multivariate logistical regression analysis were performed between BFS and 4 postoperative outcomes (non-home discharge, mortality, prolonged hospital stay, and ICU admissions). Finally, a propensity matching score (PSM) between low BFS (0–4) and high BFS (5–10) was performed.ResultsIn 650,882 patients (72% SG, 28% RYGB), the increasing BFS was strongly correlated on linear regression. In the multivariate analysis, scores of 5, 6, and 7 strongly predicted the 4 postoperative outcomes of interest. After the PSM, high BFS (5–10) was associated with an increased rate of postoperative complications in SG and RYGB groups.ConclusionOur BFS is a better predictor of non-home discharge, prolonged hospital stay, mortality, and unplanned ICU admission compared with age >60 years or American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score of IV–V. Our study validated the cumulative deficit theory in bariatric surgery, implying that the cumulative effects of the existing co-morbidities are higher than if these co-morbidities were simply added.     

Diagnoses related to abuse of alcohol and addictive substances after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy: a nation-wide registry study from Norway

BackgroundAfter Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients are at higher risk of alcohol problems. In recent years, sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has become a common procedure, but the incidence rates (IRs) of alcohol abuse after SG are unexplored.ObjectivesTo compare IRs of diagnoses indicating problems with alcohol or other substances between patients having undergone SG or RYGB with a minimum of 6-month follow-up.SettingAll government funded hospitals in Norway providing bariatric surgery.MethodsA retrospective population-based cohort study based on data from the Norwegian Patient Registry. The outcomes were ICD-10 of Diseases and Related Health Problems diagnoses relating to alcohol (F10) and other substances (F11–F19).ResultsThe registry provided data on 10,208 patients who underwent either RYGB or SG during the years 2008 to 2014 with a total postoperative observation time of 33,352 person-years. This corresponds to 8196 patients with RYGB (27,846 person-yr, average 3.4 yr) and 2012 patients with SG (5506 person-yr; average 2.7 yr). The IR for the diagnoses related to alcohol problems after RYGB was 6.36 (95% confidence interval: 5.45–7.36) per 1000 person-years and 4.54 (2.94–6.70) after SG. When controlling for age and sex, adjusted hazard ratio was .75 (.49–1.14) for SG compared with RYGB. When combining both bariatric procedures, women <26 years were more likely to have alcohol-related diagnoses (3.2%, 2.1–4.4) than women of 26 to 40 years (1.6%, 1.1–2.1) or women >40 (1.3%, .9–1.7). The IR after RYGB for the diagnoses related to problems with substances other than alcohol was 3.48 (95% confidence interval: 2.82–4.25) compared with 3.27 (1.94–5.17) per 1000 person-years after SG. Controlling for age and sex, the hazard ratio was .99 (.60–1.64) for SG compared with RYGB.ConclusionsIn our study, procedure-specific differences were not found in the risks (RYGB versus SG) for postoperative diagnoses related to problems with alcohol and other substances within the available observation time. A longer observation period seems required to explore these findings further.     

Recent trends of bariatric surgery in adolescent population in the state of New York

BackgroundIn the United States the percentage of adolescents with obesity has reached an alarming level of 21%. Bariatric surgery has emerged as a successful intervention in the weight loss for adolescents.ObjectiveTo compare bariatric procedures performed in adolescent and adult populations.SettingUniversity Hospital, United States.MethodsUsing the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database, records from the adolescent (age 12-21years) and adult populations undergoing bariatric surgery during 2005-2014 were examined. Patients’ demographics, surgery type (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG), Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB), length of stay (LOS), complications and comorbidities were analyzed.ResultsThe annual adolescent bariatric cases increased from 150 in 2005 to 406 in 2014. In the adolescent population, increasing utilization trends were noted in the Hispanic population (RR=1.08, p-value<0.0001), use of Public (Medicaid or Medicare) insurance (RR=1.10, p-value=0.0003) and SG procedures (RR= 1.56, p-value <0.0001). Decreasing trends were noted in the Caucasian population (RR=0.95, p-value<0.0001), RYGB (RR=0.92, p-value<0.0001) and LAGB (RR= 0.84, p-value=0.0001). Adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery had fewer comorbidities (55.4% vs 81.1%, p-value<0.0001), experienced fewer complications (3.3% vs 4.9%, p-value<0.0001) and 30-day readmissions (3.8% vs 5.0%, p-value=0.0029). Length of stay was also found to be significantly shorter for the adolescent population (1.73 vs 2.00 days, p-value<0.0001). After adjusting for other confounding factors, adolescent patients still had significantly lower complication risk (p-value=0.01) and shorter length of stay (p-value=0.0005) than adults.ConclusionBariatric surgery procedure rates have increased in the adolescent population with increasing trend of using LSG. The data from our study supports that bariatric surgery is safe in adolescents with significantly lower complication risk and shorter length of stay as compared to the adult population.     

Safety of same-day discharge after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: propensity score–matched analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program Registry

BackgroundInformation on the safety of outpatient sleeve gastrectomy is sparse.ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the safety of sleeve gastrectomy as a day case surgery.SettingUniversity health network, United States.MethodsPatients who underwent primary sleeve gastrectomy were identified in the 2015–2017 MBSAQIP database. Day case surgery procedure was defined as having a hospital length of stay of 0 days. Day case surgery patients were matched with inpatient controls using propensity score matching. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality.ResultsA total of 271,658 sleeve gastrectomy patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, only 7825 (2.88 %) were day case surgery procedures. There was no mortality in the group. Day case surgery, compared with inpatient sleeve gastrectomy, was associated with a similar risk of a leak (.56% versus .40%; relative risk [RR], 1.419; 95% CI, .896–2.245; P = .133), bleeding (.38% versus .31%; RR, 1.250; 95% CI, .731–2.138; P = .414), 30-day reoperation (.81% versus .56%; RR, 1.432; 95% CI, .975–2.104; P = .066), and 30-day morbidity (1.15% versus 1.01%; RR, 1.139; 95% CI, .842–1.541; P = .397). Outpatients’ SG increased the risk for 30-day readmission (3.35% versus 2.79%; RR, 1.202; 95% CI, 1.009–1.432; P = .039).ConclusionsSleeve gastrectomy in the outpatient setting as a day case surgery was associated with no mortality and no statistically significant risk of reoperation, leakage, or bleeding compared with patients admitted to inpatient units. The readmission rate was higher in the day case surgery group.     

Conversion of sleeve gastrectomy to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for complications: outcomes from a tertiary referral center in the Middle East

BackgroundComplications after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) unfortunately lead a subset of patients to require revisional surgery, including conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB).ObjectivesWe aimed to describe the indications for conversion and perioperative outcomes in this subset of patients.SettingAcademic hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.MethodsAll patients undergoing conversion from SG to RYGB from September 2015 to December 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients who underwent conversion solely for weight recidivism were excluded from analysis.ResultsForty-seven patients underwent conversion to RYGB due to complications from SG. The cohort was 76.5% female with a mean age of 39 years and median body mass index of 34 kg/m². The median time between SG and RYGB was 36 months. Indications warranting conversion included mechanical complications (n = 24, 51.1%), intractable reflux (n = 21, 44.7%), and fistula (n = 2, 4.2%). Preoperative mechanical abnormalities included hiatal hernia (n = 13, 27.7%), helical twist (n = 10, 21.3%), sleeve stenosis/stricture (n = 5, 10.6%), fistula (n = 2, 4.2%), and leak (n = 1, 2.1%). Each conversion was completed with a laparoscopic approach, with a median length of stay of 3 days. Four patients (8.5%) experienced complications within 30 days, including 2 patients (4.2%) with superficial surgical site infection, 1 patient each (2.1%) with gastrointestinal hemorrhage and anastomotic leak. There were no mortalities at a median follow-up of 17 months.ConclusionIn this series, representing the largest reported single-center experience in the Middle East, conversion of SG to RYGB was safe and effective for the treatment of symptoms and mechanical complications after SG.     

The relationship between kidney function and body mass index before and after bariatric surgery in patients with chronic kidney disease

BackgroundImprovements in kidney function post–bariatric surgery may be related to weight loss–independent effects.ObjectivesTo characterize the dynamic relationship between body mass index (BMI) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) before and after bariatric surgery in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).SettingKaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC) health system.MethodsWe conducted an observational, retrospective cohort study of patients with CKD stage 3 or higher who received bariatric surgery at the KPSC health system between 2007–2015. Bariatric surgery procedures included primary Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) procedures. Outcomes consisted of mean trajectory estimates and correlations of BMI and eGFR taken between 2 years before and 3 years after surgery. Multivariate functional mixed models were used to estimate how BMI and eGFR trajectories evolved jointly.ResultsA total of 619 RYGB and 474 SG patients were included in the final analytic sample. The measurements were available before surgery for a median time of 1.9 years for SG and 1.8 years for RYGB patients. Median follow-up times after surgery were 2.8 years for both SG and RYGB patients. The mean age at the time of surgery was 58 years; 77% of patients were women; 56% of patients were non-Hispanic White; the mean BMI was 44 kg/m²; 60% of patients had diabetes mellitus; and 84% of patients had hypertension. Compared to the presurgery eGFR declines, the postsurgery declines in eGFR were 57% slower (95% credible interval [CrI], 33%–81%) for RYGB patients and 55% slower (95% CrI, 25%–75%) for SG patients. The mean correlation between BMI and eGFR was negligible at all time points.ConclusionThough bariatric surgery slowed declines in eGFR up to 3 years after surgery, changes in eGFR tracked poorly with changes in BMI. This study provides evidence that the kidney-related benefits of bariatric surgery may be at least partly independent of weight loss. Confirming this hypothesis could lead to mechanistic insights and new treatment options for CKD.     

Single-anastomosis duodenoileal bypass with sleeve in the United States: a first comparative safety analysis of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database

BackgroundThe single-anastomosis duodenoileal bypass with sleeve (SADI-S) is a relatively new bariatric procedure. In 2020, the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) started reporting outcomes for SADI-S.ObjectivesWe aimed to study the perioperative safety of SADI-S and compare it with other established bariatric procedures utilizing the MBSAQIP database.SettingAcademic hospital, United States.MethodsThe 2020 MBSAQIP Participant Use File was used to evaluate SADI-S outcomes. We included SADI-S primary cases and excluded revisions and concurrent operations. A 5:1 propensity matched analysis (PMA) for 20 variables was performed to compare the outcomes of the SADI-S with the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and a 2:1 PMA to the biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS).ResultsThere were 255 primary SADI-S reported in 2020. After PMA, the only significant complications between the RYGB and SADI-S cohorts were Clavien-Dindo grade IVa and IVb (.1% and 1.4% versus 1.6% and 7.1%, respectively). SADI-S had more Clavien-Dindo grade II, IVa, and IVb complications than the SG cohort (1.3% versus 3.5%, P = .03; .2% versus 1.6%, P = 0; 1.% versus 7.1%, P = 0). When compared with BPD/DS, outcomes including readmission, reoperation, and intervention were not statistically significant.ConclusionSADI-S, in its early adoption stage, has a higher incidence of perioperative complications than RYGB and SG. It has comparable 30-day outcomes to BPD/DS.