Staple Line Reinforcement During Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Absorbable Monofilament,Barbed Suture,Fibrin Glue,or Nothing? Results of a Prospective Randomized Study

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is associated with serious complications, such as staple line (SL) leaks and bleeding. In order to prevent the occurrence of these complications, surgeons have advocated the need to strengthen the staple line. The aim of this randomized controlled study was to compare the efficacy of three different ways of strengthening of the SL in LSG in preventing surgical post-operative complications.

Methods

Between April 2012 and December 2014, 600 patients (pts) scheduled for LSG were prospectively randomized into groups without SL reinforcement (group A) or with SL reinforcement including fibrin glue coverage (group B), or oversewn SL with imbricating absorbable (Monocryl?; group C) or barbed (V lock®) running suture (group D). Primary endpoints were post-operative leaks, bleeding, and stenosis, while secondary outcomes consisted of the time to perform the staple line reinforcement (SLR) and total operative time.

Results

Mean SLR operative time was lower for group B (3.4?±?1.3 min) compared with that for groups C (26.8?±?8.5 min) and D (21.1?±?8.4 min) (p?<?0.0001). Mean total operative time was 100.7?±?16.4 min (group A), 104.4?±?22.1 min (group B), 126.2?±?18.9 min (group C), and 124.6?±?22.8 (group D) (p?<?0.0001). Post-operative leaks, bleeding, and stenosis were recorded in 14 pts (2.3 %), 5 pts (0.8 %), and 7 pts (1.1 %), respectively, without statistical difference between the groups.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that SLR during LSG, with an imbricating or non-imbricating running suture or with fibrin glue, is an unrewarding surgical act with the sole effect of prolonging the operative time.

     

Morbidity Rates and Weight Loss After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass,Sleeve Gastrectomy,and Adjustable Gastric Banding in Patients Older Than 60 Years old: Which Procedure to Choose?

Background

As life expectancy increases, more elderly patients fit into the criteria for bariatric procedures. The aim of our study is to evaluate and compare the safety and efficacy of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in patients older than 60.

Material and Methods

Between January 2005 and December 2013, 68 LAGB, 73 LSG, and 212 RYGB patients were 60 years or older at the time of primary procedure. A retrospective review was performed in these patients.

Results

Mean age and body mass index (BMI) was 62.7?±?2.2, 64.1?±?2.9, and 62.6?±?2.3 years and 42.7?±?5.6, 44.0?±?7.0, and 45.2?±?6.7 kg/m² for LAGB, LSG, and RYGB at the time of procedure, respectively.Seven (10.3 %) patients from the LAGB, 3 (4.1 %) from the LSG, and 29 (13.8 %) from the RYGB group required readmissions. Reoperation rate was 10.3, 1.4, and 9.5 % in LAGB, LSG, and RYGB, respectively. The difference in reoperation rates was statistically significant (p?<?0.03) while that in readmission rates was not (p?>?0.58). Procedure-related mortality rate was 1.4 % in the RYGB group, while no mortality was observed in LSG and LAGB groups. At 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively, mean percentage of excess weight loss were highest in the RYGB group, followed by LSG and LAGB group (p?<?0.01). Mean number of comorbidities at the last follow-up significantly decreased in LSG and RYGB patients.

Conclusions

LSG showed the lowest readmission and reoperation rate, and RYGB patients had the highest mortality rate. Weight loss and comorbidity resolution were effectively achieved in RYGB and LSG patients.

     

Is Resected Stomach Volume Related to Weight Loss After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy?

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) was initially performed as the first stage of biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch for the treatment of super-obese or high-risk obese patients but is now most commonly performed as a standalone operation. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate outcomes after LSG according to resected stomach volume.

Methods

Between May 2011 and April 2013, LSG was performed in 102 consecutive patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Two patients were excluded, and data from the remaining 100 patients were analyzed in this study. Patients were divided into three groups according to the following resected stomach volume: 700–1,200 mL (group A, n?=?21), 1,200–1,700 mL (group B, n?=?62), and >1,700 mL (group C, n?=?17). Mean values were compared among the groups by analysis of variance.

Results

The mean percentage excess body weight loss (%EBWL) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after surgery was 37.68?±?10.97, 50.97?±?13.59, 62.35?±?11.31, and 67.59?±?9.02 %, respectively. There were no significant differences in mean %EBWL among the three groups. Resected stomach volume was greater in patients with higher preoperative body mass index and was positively associated with resected stomach weight.

Conclusions

Mean %EBWL after LSG was not significantly different among three groups of patients divided according to resected stomach volume. Resected stomach volume was significantly greater in patients with higher preoperative body mass index.     

Three-dimensional stomach analysis with computed tomography after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: sleeve dilation and thoracic migration

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is frequently performed as a definitive bariatric procedure today. Quantitative data on the detailed anatomy of the stomach after LSG are yet sparse.

Methods

Thirty-two multislice computed tomography (MSCT) data sets acquired in 27 LSG patients (22 female, 5 male) with a dedicated examination protocol and post-processing were evaluated for gastric volume, stomach length, sleeve length, antrum length, staple line length, and maximum cross-sectional sleeve area. Obtained parameters were compared to time after surgery, weight loss, and the occurrence of postsurgical regurgitation.

Results

Mean gastric volume was 186.5?±?88.4?ml. Gastric volume correlated significantly with the time interval after surgery. Sleeve sizes of 105.3?±?30.2?ml during early follow-up confirmed correct primary sizing of the sleeve, whereas marked dilation to 196.8?±?84.3?ml was found in patients with a follow-up of 6?months and longer (p?=?0.038). Sleeve area and staple line length were also positively correlated with time after surgery. No correlation was found between gastric volume and excess weight loss. In ten patients an intrathoracic migration of the staple line could be noted, with four of these patients developing persistent regurgitation after LSG. Regurgitation was present in only 2 of 17 patients without sleeve herniation.

Conclusion

Multislice computed tomography allows for a comprehensive and quantitative evaluation of the anatomy after LSG and thus provides new insights in the process of sleeve dilation. Intrathoracic migration of the staple line could be identified as a possible cause of persistent regurgitation.     

Fully Ambulatory Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: 328 Consecutive Patients in a Single Tertiary Bariatric Center

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is becoming one of the most popular bariatric procedures because of its short operative time, good resolution of comorbidities, excellent weight loss, and low complications rate. However, the safety of LSG as a day-surgery procedure has not yet been widely documented.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a prospectively collected bariatric database, in a single institution, between August 2012 and February 2015, yielded 980 patients who underwent LSG; 328 patients (33.5 %) responded to established criteria and were operated on a 1-day surgery basis (length of stay?<?12 h).

Results

There were 258 (78 %) primary LSG and 70 revisional LSG (22 %) performed on 284 females and 44 males, with a mean age (±SD) of 38?±?9 years. Mean (±SD) preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 45?±?6 kg/m². Operative time was 68?±?17 min (mean?±?SD). There were no deaths. A total of 322 patients (98.2 %) were discharged home the day of surgery. There were 6 (1.8 %) unplanned overnight hospitalization, and 28 patients (8.5 %) were readmitted between days 1 and 30. Most patients (25/34, 73 %) were hospitalized for minor problems, such as pain, nausea, and/or vomiting. There were two cases of (0.6 %) gastric staple line leaks, three (0.9 %) of intra-abdominal hematomas, two (0.6 %) of pneumonia, one (0.3 %) of acute pancreatitis, and one (0.3 %) of urinary tract infection. All patients recovered well.

Conclusions

LSG can be performed as an outpatient procedure in selected patients, with acceptable results in terms of retention, readmission, and complication rates.

     

Staple-line reinforcement during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy using three different techniques: a randomized trial

Background

The main drawback of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the severity of postoperative complications. Staple line reinforcement (SLR) is strongly advocated. The purpose of this study was to compare prospectively and randomly three different techniques of SLR during LSG.

Methods

From April 2010 to April 2011, patients submitted to LSG were randomly selected for the following three different techniques of SLR: oversewing (group A); buttressed transection with a polyglycolide acid and trimethylene carbonate (group B); and staple-line roofing with a gelatin fibrin matrix (group C). Primary endpoints were reinforcement operative time, incidence of postoperative staple-line bleeding, and leaks. Operative time was calculated as follows: oversewing time in group A; positioning of polyglycolide acid and trimethylene carbonate over the stapler in group B; and roofing of the entire staple line in group C.

Results

A total of 120 patients were enrolled in the study (82 women and 38 men). Mean age was 44.6?±?9.2 (range, 28–64)?years. Mean preoperative body mass index was 47.2?±?6.6 (range, 40–66)?kg/m2. Mean time for SLR was longer in group A (14.2?±?4.2 (range, 8–18)?minutes) compared with group B (2.4?±?1.8 (range, 1–4)?minutes) and group C (4.4?±?1.6 (range, 3–6) minutes; P?Conclusions SLR with either polyglycolide acid with trimethylene carbonate or gelatin fibrin matrix is faster compared with oversewing. No significant differences were observed regarding postoperative staple-line complications.     

Glycemic Control after Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass in Obese Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) has weight-independent effects on glycemia in obese type 2 diabetic patients, whereas sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is less well characterized. This study aims to compare early weight-independent and later weight-dependent glycemic effects of LRYGB and LSG.

Methods

Eighteen LRYGB and 15 LSG patients were included in the study. Glucose, insulin, GLP-1, and GIP levels were monitored during a modified 30 g oral glucose tolerance test before surgery and 2 days, 3 weeks, and 12 months after surgery. Patients self-monitored glucose levels 2 weeks before and after surgery.

Results

Postoperative fasting blood glucose decreased similarly in both groups (LRYGB vs. SG; baseline—8.1?±?0.6 vs. 8.2?±?0.4 mmol/l, 2 days—7.8?±?0.5 vs. 7.4?±?0.3 mmol/l, 3 weeks—6.6?±?0.4 vs. 6.6?±?0.3 mmol/l, respectively, P <?0.01 vs. baseline for both groups; 12 months—6.6?±?0.4 vs. 5.9?±?0.4, respectively, P <?0.05 for LRYGB and P <?0.001 for LSG vs. baseline, P =?ns between the groups at all times). LSG, but not LRYGB, showed increased peak insulin levels 2 days postoperatively (mean?±?SEM; LSG +?58?±?14%, P <?0.01; LRYGB ??8?±?17%, P =?ns). GLP-1 levels increased similarly at 2 days, but were higher in LRYGB at 3 weeks (AUC; 7525?±?1258 vs. 4779?±?712 pmol?×?min, respectively, P <?0.05). GIP levels did not differ. Body mass index (BMI) decreased more after LRYGB than LSG (??10.1?±?0.9 vs. ??7.9?±?0.5 kg/m², respectively, P <?0.05).

Conclusion

LRYGB and LSG show very similar effects on glycemic control, despite lower GLP-1 levels and inferior BMI decrease after LSG.

     

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Co-morbidity Profiles and Intermediate-Term Outcomes

Background

Bariatric surgery is effective at achieving sustained weight loss and improving the control and resolution of obesity-related co-morbidities. Most studies that have demonstrated co-morbidity resolution in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) only follow patients for the short term (less than 1 year) or follow a relatively small cohort (<100 patients) for the intermediate or long term (more than 5 years). We report our experience following a large cohort of morbidly obese patients who underwent LSG with intermediate-term follow-up.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 435 consecutive patients who underwent LSG from January 2004 to November 2013. Co-morbidities investigated included diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), and hyperlipidemia (HL). A co-morbidity was determined to be resolved if the patient was no longer taking any medication to treat that specific co-morbidity.

Results

Mean follow-up was 26?±?25 months (range?=?1–112). Mean postoperative total weight loss (%TWL) at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 months were 23.6, 29.9, 29.5, 25.2, 26.7, 25.4, and 24.3 %, respectively. The incidence of all three co-morbidities was found to be significantly lower at the last patient follow-up. The resolution rates for DM, HTN, and HL were 59, 31, and 50 %, respectively. In patients who continued to have co-morbidities, the mean numbers of medications for DM (1.2?±?0.7 vs. 0.5?±?0.7, p?<?0.0001), HTN (1.8?±?1.1 vs. 1.3?±?1.2, p?<?0.0001), and HL (0.9?±?0.7 vs. 0.6?±?0.6, p?<?0.0001) postoperatively were all significantly less.

Conclusions

LSG is effective at achieving significant and sustained weight loss, improvement in co-morbidity profiles, and a reduction in poly-pharmacy for these conditions over intermediate-term follow-up.

     

Efficacy of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy and Intensive Medical Management in Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background

There are a dearth of studies comparing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and intensive medical treatment (IMT) in obese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. This study compares these modalities in terms of weight loss, metabolic parameters and quality of life (QOL) score.

Methods

We evaluated the efficacy of LSG (n?=?14) vs. IMT (n?=?17) comprising of low calorie diet, exenatide, metformin and if required insulin detemir in 31 obese T2DM patients with BMI of 37.9?±?5.3kg/m² and target HbA1c?<?7 %. The mean (±SD) age of the patients was 49.6?±?11.9 years and 74 % were women. The mean duration of diabetes was 8.5?±?6.1 years and mean HbA1c was 8.6?±?1.3 %. Primary end point was excess body weight loss (EBWL) at the final follow-up.

Results

The mean duration of follow-up was 12.5?±?5.0 (median 12) months. EBWL was 61.2?±?17.6 % and 27.4?±?23.6 % in LSG and IMT group respectively (p?<?0.001). Glycemic outcomes improved in both with mean HbA1c of 6.6?±?1.5 % in LSG and 7.1?±?1.2 % in IMT group. In LSG group, there was resolution of diabetes and hypertension in 36 and 29 % of patients respectively while none in the IMT group. HOMA-IR, hsCRP, ghrelin and leptin decreased while adiponectin increased significantly in LSG compared to IMT group. QOL score improved in LSG as compared to IMT.

Conclusions

In obese T2DM patients, LSG is superior to IMT in terms of weight loss, resolution of comorbidities and QOL score.     

Investigating Nutritional Deficiencies in a Group of Patients 3 Years Post Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) as a single-stage procedure has shown to be effective in achieving significant weight loss and resolving obesity-related co-morbidities. However, its nutrition consequences have not been extensively explored. This study aims to investigate weight loss and evolution of nutritional deficiencies in a group of patients 3 years post LSG.

Methods

Retrospective data of a group of patients, 3 years following LSG as a stand-alone procedure was collected. Data included anthropometry, nutritional markers (hemoglobin, iron studies, folate, calcium, iPTH, vitamins D, and B₁₂), and compliancy with supplementations.

Results

Ninety-one patients (male/female; 28:63), aged 51.9?±?11.4 years with a BMI of 42.8?±?6.1 kg/m² were identified to be 3 years post LSG. Percentage of weight loss at 1 and 3 years post-operatively was 29.8?±?7.0 and 25.9?±?8.8 %, respectively. Pre-operatively, the abnormalities included low hemoglobin (4 %), ferritin (6 %), vitamin B₁₂ (1 %), vitamin D (46 %), and elevated iPTH (25 %). At 3 years post-operatively, the abnormal laboratory values included low hemoglobin (14 % females, P?=?0.021), ferritin (24 %, P?=?0.011), vitamin D (20 %, P?=?0.018), and elevated iPTH (17 %, P?=?0.010). Compliancy with multivitamin supplementation was noted in 66 % of patients.

Conclusion

In these patients, LSG resulted in pronounced weight loss at 1 year post-operatively, and most of this was maintained at 3 years. Nutritional deficiencies are prevalent among patients prior to bariatric surgery. These deficiencies may persist or exacerbate post-operatively. Routine nutrition monitoring and supplementations are essential to prevent and treat these deficiencies.

     

Impact of Extent of Antral Resection on Surgical Outcomes of Sleeve Gastrectomy for Morbid Obesity (A Prospective Randomized Study)

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a surgical technique that treats morbid obesity.

Methods

Consecutive patients with morbid obesity treated by LSG at our department were evaluated. Patients enrolled in the study were randomized into group I (LSG begins the division 2 cm from the pylorus) and group II (LSG begins the division 6 cm from the pylorus). The primary outcome measure was the percent of excess weight loss (% EWL); secondary outcomes included postoperative morbidity and mortality and improvement of comorbidity.

Results

One hundred five patients (79 (75.2 %) were females) were randomized into two groups of (GI) 52 patients and (GII) 53 patients. In group I, the mean % EWL was 51.8?±?13.9, 63.8?±?16.1 and 71.8?±?12; however, in group II, the mean % EWL was 38.3?±?10.9, 51.9?±?13.6 and 61?±?11.1 at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively (P?=?0.0001, 0.0001, 0.003). There was weight regain after 2 years in five patients in group II and only one patient in group I (P?=?0.09). There was no significant difference between both group as regards gastric leakage, vomiting or GER. There was significant improvement in comorbidity after LSG in both groups, but no significant difference between them. Hospital mortality occurred in group II in one case as a result of gastric leakage.

Conclusions

LSG is a safe and effective procedure with good short-term outcome. Increasing the size of the resected antrum is associated with better weight loss without increasing the rate of complications significantly.     

Outcomes of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Patients Older than 60 Years

Background

Morbidity and mortality following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) occur at acceptable rates, but its safety and efficacy in the elderly are unknown.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients aged >60 years who underwent LSG from 2008 to 2012. These patients were 1:2 matched, by gender and body mass index (BMI) to young patients, 18?<?age?<?50. Data analyzed included demographics, preoperative and postoperative BMI, postoperative complications, and improvement or resolution of obesity-related comorbidities.

Results

Fifty-two morbid obese patients older than 60 years underwent LSG (mean age, 62.9?±?0.3 years). These were matched to 104 young patients, age 18–50 years (mean age, 35.7?±?0.8 years). Groups did not differ in male gender (44 vs. 43 %, p?=?0.9), preoperative BMI (42.6?±?0.7 vs. 42.6?±?0.6, p?=?0.97), and length of follow-up (17?±?2 vs. 22?±?1.4 months, p?=?0.06). Obesity-related comorbidities were significantly higher in the older group (96 vs. 65 %, p?<?0.001). Excess weight loss (EWL) was higher in the younger group (75?±?2.4 vs. 62?±?3 %, p?=?0.001). Older patients had a significantly higher rate of a concurrent hiatal hernia repair (23 vs. 1.9 %, p?<?0.001). Overall postoperative minor complication rate was higher in the older group (25 vs. 4.8 %, p?<?0.001). This included atrial fibrillation (9.5 %), urinary tract infection (7 %), trocar site hernia (4 %), dysphagia, surgical site infection, bleeding, bowel obstruction, colitis, and nutritional deficiency (2 %, each). No perioperative mortality occurred. Comorbidity resolution or improvement was comparable between groups (88 vs. 80 %, p?=?0.13).

Conclusions

LSG is safe and very efficient in patients aged >60, despite higher rates of perioperative comorbidities.     

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass vs. Sleeve Gastrectomy in the Super Obese Patient: Early Outcomes of an Observational Study

Background

Super obesity [body mass index (BMI)?>?50 kg/m²] can yield to higher morbidity/mortality in bariatric surgery, this could be related to patient's characteristics and/or surgeon's experience. In morbid obesity, both techniques proved to have a positive impact and sometimes comparable outcomes during the first 2 years. This has not been clearly analyzed in the super obese patient.

Methods

Retrospective study comparing the records of 77 consecutive super obese patients (BMI: 50–59.9 kg/m²) submitted to either laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGBP, n?=?32) or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG, n?=?45) between 2010 and 2012 at a single institution. The primary objective was to analyze baseline demographics, comorbidities, operative outcomes, and early complications (<30 days). Secondarily, weight loss [BMI and % excess weight loss (%EWL)] was also described and compared during the first year.

Results

Female sex comprised 72.7 % of all cases. Both groups had comparable BMI (52.7?±?2.1 kg/m² for LGBP vs. 53.87?±?2.8 kg/m² for LSG; p?=?0.087) and homogeneous baseline characteristics. Operative time was lower for the LSG group (113.1?±?35.3 vs. 186.9?±?39 min for LGBP; p?≤?0.001). Overall, early complications were observed in 16.8 % of patients (LGBP 9 % vs. LSG 22 %; p?=?0.217). There were four major complications (two in each group), with two reinterventions. Weight loss (%EWL) at 6, 9, and 12 months was significantly higher in the LGBP group (51.6?±?12.9 %, 56.5?±?13 %, 63.9?±?13.3 %, respectively) than in the LSG group (40?±?12.8 %, 45.1?±?15.5 %, 43.9?±?10.4 %, respectively).

Conclusions

Just like in morbid obesity, LGBP and LSG are effective and safe procedures in super obese patients. LGBP had better weight loss at 1 year.     

Results of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in 541 Consecutive Patients with Low Baseline Body Mass Index (30–35 kg/m<Superscript>2</Superscript>)

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is currently the leading bariatric procedure and targets, among other obesity classes, patients with BMI 30–35 kg/m², which are reaching alarming proportions.

Methods

Between February 2010 and August 2015, data on 541 consecutive patients with BMI 30–35 kg/m² undergoing LSG were prospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

Mean age was 32?±?8 years (13–65) and 419 (77.4 %) were women. Preoperative weight was 92.0?±?8.8 kg (65–121) and BMI was 32.6?±?1.5 kg/m² (30–35). Comorbidities were detected in 210 (39 %) patients. Operative time was 74?±?12 min (40–110) and postoperative stay was 1.7?±?0.22 days (1–3). There were no deaths, leaks, abscesses or strictures and the rate of hemorrhage was 1.2 %. At 1 year, 98 % were followed and BMI decreased to 24.7?±?1.6, the percentage of total weight loss (% TWL) was 24.1?±?4.7 while the percentage of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) reached 106.1?±?24.1. At 5 years, 76 % of followed patients achieved a ≥50 % EBMIL.

Conclusion

With appropriate surgical expertise, LSG in patients with BMI 30–35 kg/m² achieved excellent outcomes with a zero fistula rate.

     

The Effects of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on Obesity-Related Hypertriglyceridemia-Induced Acute Pancreatitis

Background

Hypertriglyceridemia-induced acute pancreatitis (HTG-AP) is a significant clinical problem and is characterized by high recurrence rate compared with non-HTG-AP. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on obesity-related HTG-AP.

Methods

Twenty-nine patients with obesity-related HTG-AP were admitted to our hospital and treated with the conventional therapy or LSG surgery according to the wishes of patients. Clinical data and the recurrence rate of AP were collected at baseline and at four different time points (3, 6, 9, and 12 months) after the treatments for all patients.

Results

Of the 29 patients, 28 patients (19 patients with conventional therapy and 9 patients with LSG surgery) completed the 12-month follow-up. Clinical data and the severity scores of AP were comparable at baseline when the patients were admitted to the intensive care unit. The LSG group experienced a large weight loss (percent total weight loss, 26.87?±?1.44%; percent excess weight loss, 79.56?±?1.37%) and triglyceride reduction (from 15.77?±?1.02 to 1.36?±?0.09 mmol/L), and no recurrence was observed at 12 months after the surgery. In the conventional treatment group, however, body weight was not changed although triglyceride was significantly decreased (from 17.34?±?1.29 to 8.25?±?1.12 mmol/L), and more importantly, 47.4% of the patients had at least one recurrence of AP in 12 months after the treatment.

Conclusions

LSG might be an effective way to cure obesity-related HTG-induced AP since it prevents the recurrence of this disease. Further randomized studies will be needed to standardize this way of treatment.

     

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy for Morbid Obesity: 5 Years Experience from an Asian Center of Excellence

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is emerging as a popular “stand-alone” bariatric procedure. We report our 5 years experience with LSG as a single-stage bariatric procedure with which to study the technical progress, learning curve, complications, and follow-up results.

Methods

Prospectively collected data of 228 patients (145 females and 83 males), who underwent LSG for morbid obesity, from February 2007 to March 2012, was retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The mean age was 34.68 years (range, 18–62 years) and the mean preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 37.42?±?4.75 kg/m² (range, 32.08–65.69 kg/m²). Mean operative time was 60.63?±?27.37 min. The mean BMI decreased to 26.15?±?3.71 kg/m² at 3 years (p?<?0.001) and to 27.94?±?4.08 kg/m² at 5 years (p?<?0.001). Mean percentage excess weight loss was 71.96?±?21.30 % at 3 years and 63.71?±?20.08 % at 5 years. The 30-day readmission rate was 3.07 %.Overall complication rate was 4.3 %, including strictures, leaks, peritonitis, gastrocutaneous fistula, and one (0.43 %) mortality. One patient with weight regain and another with stricture underwent conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Complication rates significantly decreased after the first 50 cases (p?=?0.022), suggesting an initial learning curve. Resolution of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia was 66.67, 100, and 50 %, respectively, at 5 years.

Conclusions

LSG as a single-stage bariatric procedure is safe and durable, achieving weight loss and resolution of comorbidities up to 5 years. Adherence to technical details is pivotal in reducing complications associated with the initial learning phase.     

Impact of Botulinum Neurotoxin Pyloric Injection During Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on Postoperative Gastric Leak: a Clinical Randomized Study

Background

The most frequent and most feared complication after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is gastric leak (GL). We hypothesize that botulinum neurotoxin (botulinum type A (BTX-A)) injection into the pyloric sphincter muscle at the time of operation may decrease the risk of postoperative GL.

Methods

Consecutive patients with morbid obesity (MO) treated by LSG were enrolled. Patients were randomly allocated into two groups: group I (intrapyloric BTX-A injection was performed) and group II (no injection was performed). The primary outcome measure was number of patients developing GL. Secondary outcome measures were percent of excess weight loss, postoperative complications, and their management.

Results

One hundred and fifteen patients (86 (74.8 %) females) were randomized into two groups of 57 patients (group I) and 58 patients (group II). Four patients in group II developed GL versus no patient in group I (P?=?0.04). Ten patients in group I and two in group II developed refractory epigastric pain (P?=?0.01). Other complication rates were comparable for both groups. Mean preoperative BMI of patients in both groups had significantly decreased from 54.64?±?6.82 to 42.99?±?5.3 at 6 months and to 39.09?±?5.14 at 12 months (P?<?0.001).

Conclusions

LSG is an effective, safe, and minimally invasive procedure for treatment of MO. No patient in whom pyloric BTX-A injection was performed developed postoperative GL versus four patients in whom injection was not performed. The difference in GL rate was statistically significant, thus favoring the use of pyloric BTX-A injection during LSG.

     

Short-Term Outcomes of Sleeve Gastrectomy for Morbid Obesity: Does Staple Line Reinforcement Matter?

Background

Stand-alone laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been found to be effective in producing weight loss but few large, one-center LSG series have been reported. Gastric leakage from the staple line is a life-threatening complication of LSG, but there is controversy about whether buttressing the staple line with a reinforcement material will reduce leaks. We describe a single-center, 518-patient series of LSG procedures in which a synthetic buttressing material (GORE® SEAMGUARD® Bioabsorbable Staple Line Reinforcement) was used in the most recently treated patients.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients who underwent LSG in our unit between September 2007 and December 2011. Patients treated before August 2009 did not receive the staple line reinforcement material (n?=?186), whereas all patients treated afterward did (n?=?332).

Results

The percentages of excess weight loss in the 518 patients (mean age, 41 years; 82 % female; mean preoperative body mass index, 44 kg/m²) were 67 % (79 % follow-up rate) at 6 months postoperatively, 81 % (64 %) at 1 year, and 84 % (30 %) at 2 years. Type 2 diabetes resolved in 71 % of patients (91/128). Patients given reinforcement material had baseline characteristics similar to those in the no-reinforcement-material group, but had no postoperative staple line leaks or bleeding. The no-reinforcement group had three leaks (p?=?0.045) and one case of bleeding.

Conclusions

LSG resulted in substantial short-term weight loss. Use of the bioabsorbable staple line reinforcement material may decrease leaks after LSG.     

Weight Loss and Comorbidity Resolution 3 Years After Bariatric Surgery—an Indian Perspective

Introduction

Bariatric surgery has seen a sharp rise in India in the last decade. India is one of the 10 most obese nations of the world, ranking second in number of type 2 diabetics.

Aims

To evaluate clinical outcomes of bariatric surgery after 3 years of follow-up in terms of weight loss, co-morbidity resolution, complaints of gastroesophageal reflux disease and weight regain.

Methodology

All patients who underwent bariatric surgery from January to December 2013 with a minimum follow-up of 3 years were included in the study. Their demographic, preoperative, and postoperative data were prospectively maintained on Microsoft Office Excel and analyzed statistically.

Results

One hundred seventy-eight patients (157 lap. sleeve gastrectomy and 21 patients lap. RYGB) completed 3 years of follow-up. In the LSG group, patients had a pre-operative BMI 44.8?±?8.33 kg/sq. m (mean ± S.D.) and excess body weight 52.3?±?23.0 kg. In the RYGB group, pre-operative BMI was 42.7?±?8.82 kg/sq. m and excess body weight 45?±?18.7 kg. In the LSG group, % excess weight loss (EWL) at 1 year was 87.6?±?24.4% and 3 years was 71.8?±?26.7%. In the RYGB group, % EWL at 1 year was 97.2?±?27.3% and at 3 years was 85.8?±?25.3%. Diabetes resolution was seen in 32 (80%) in LSG group and 11 (91.7%) in RYGB group (Figs. 1, 2, 3, and 4).

Conclusion

Our study reflects that there is no statistically significant difference between outcomes of sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery in terms of weight loss and diabetes resolution at 3 years.

     

Early Post-operative Complications: Incidence, Management, and Impact on Length of Hospital Stay. A Retrospective Comparison Between Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are the most common obesity surgeries. Their early complications may prolong hospital stay (HS).

Methods

Data for patients who underwent LRYGB and LSG in our clinic from 2009 through August 2012 were collected. Early post-operative complications prolonging HS (>5 days) were retrospectively analyzed, highlighting their relative incidence, management, and impact on length of HS.

Results

Sixty-six patients (4.9 %) after 1,345 LRYGB operations vs. 49 patients (7.14 %) after 686 LSG operations developed early complications. This difference is statistically significant (p?=?0.039). Male gender percentage was significantly higher in complicated LSG group vs. complicated LRYGB group [23 patients (46.9 %) vs. 16 patients (24.2 %)] (p?=?0.042). Mean BMI was significantly higher in the complicated LSG group (54.2?±?8.3) vs. complicated LRYGB group (46.8?±?5.7; p?=?0.004). Median length of HS was not longer after complicated LSG compared with complicated LRYGB (11 vs. 10 days; p?=?0.287). Leakage and bleeding were the most common complications after either procedure. Leakage rate was not higher after LSG (12 patients, 1.7 %) compared with LRYGB (22 patients, 1.6 %; p?=?0.304). Bleeding rate was significantly higher after LSG (19 patients, 2.7 %) than after LRYGB (10 patients, 0.7 %; p?=?0.004). Prolonged elevation of inflammatory markers was the most common presentation for complications after LSG (18 patients, 36.7 %) and LRYGB (31 patients, 46.9 %).

Conclusions

LSG was associated with more early complications. This may be attributed to higher BMI and predominance of males in LSG group.