Idiopathic intracranial hypertension and bariatric surgery: a systematic review

BackgroundIdiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a rare condition typically affecting women with obesity who are of child-bearing age. Patients commonly present with headaches, visual disturbances, pulsatile tinnitus and papilledema. The association between IIH and obesity has been well established in the literature, suggesting that weight loss may contribute to improving IIH. For patients with severe obesity for whom conservative management is not successful, bariatric surgery is an effective modality for weight loss. We aimed to systematically review the literature to determine the efficacy of bariatric surgery in the treatment of IIHMethodsWe conducted a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science (limited to studies in humans published in English between January 1946 and July 2015).ResultsTwelve primary studies (n = 39 patients) were included in the systematic review. All patients had a preoperative diagnosis of IIH. Preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 47.4 ± 3.6 kg/m²; BMI improved to 33.7 ± 2.1 kg/m² and 33.9 ± 11.6 kg/m² at 6 and 12 months postoperatively, respectively. Lumbar puncture opening pressures decreased from 34.4 ± 6.9 cm H₂O to 14.0 ± 3.6 cm H₂O after surgery. Common symptoms of IIH improved after bariatric surgery: headaches (100% preoperatively v. 10% postoperatively), visual complaints (62% v. 44%), tinnitus (56% v. 3%) and papilledema (62% v. 8%).ConclusionBariatric surgery appears to lead to considerable improvement in IIH. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is not a well-publicized comorbidity of obesity, but its presence may be considered as an indication for bariatric surgery.     

Predictors of postoperative emergency department visits after laparoscopic bariatric surgery

BackgroundPostoperative emergency department (ED) visits are a quality metric for bariatric surgical programs. Predictive factors of ED visits that do not result in readmission are not clear.ObjectivesWe aimed to identify predictors of ED visits in patients without readmission after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).SettingThe Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database.MethodsThe MBSAQIP database was queried for patients who underwent LSG and LRYGB from 2015 through 2017. Patients were grouped by those who presented to the ED (ED group) and those who did not. ED visits analyzed included only those that did not result in readmission. Multivariable forward selection logistic regression was used to report adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% CIs for ED visits.ResultsOf 276,073 patients, 257,985 (93.4%) were in the group who did not present to the ED, and 18,088 (6.6%) were in the ED group. Most underwent LSG (71.9%) versus LRYGB (28.1%). Multivariable forward logistic regression identified outpatient treatment for dehydration (AOR, 22.26; 95% CI, 21.30–23.27; P < .001) as the most predictive factor of an ED visit, followed by urinary tract infection (AOR, 7.25; 95% CI, 6.22–8.46; P < .001), wound disruption (AOR, 4.63; 95% CI, 3.09–6.96; P < .001), and surgical site infection (AOR, 3.80; 95% CI, 3.38–4.28; P < .001).ConclusionsPostoperative complications were the strongest predictors of ED visits after laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Quality improvement initiatives should target these variables to decrease postoperative ED visits.     

Concurrent bariatric surgery and paraesophageal hernia repair: comparison of sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background

Paraesophageal hernia (PEH) is a common condition that bariatric surgeons encounter. Expert opinion is split on whether bariatric surgery and PEH repair should be completed concurrently or sequentially. We hypothesized that concurrent bariatric surgery and PEH repair is safe.

Conversion of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: patterns predicting persistent symptoms after revision

BackgroundLaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most common bariatric operation performed. However, it is not without its drawbacks and patients may develop gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) after LSG. There are limited data available to guide treatment choice for patients suffering these sequelae.ObjectiveThis study was undertaken to evaluate the success of conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in treating GERD symptoms after LSG.SettingSingle bariatric center, United States.MethodsAnalysis of a prospectively maintained clinical database was performed. Outcomes studied included heartburn-related quality of life score (GERD-HRQL), anti-secretory usage, and body mass index (BMI).ResultsA total of 54 patients met inclusion criteria during the review period. Of these, 41 patients (76%) underwent conversion for indication including GERD. Mean BMI at conversion was 33.8 ± 5.61 and was found to be significantly reduced at 12 months after conversion (n = 26; 63%; P < .001) and at long-term follow-up (n = 37; 90%) (P ≤ .001; mean follow-up period: 33.3 mo). Mean GERD-HRQL at time of conversion was 31.5 ± 11.4. Conversion to RYGB produced a significant reduction of HRQL at 6 months after conversion (n = 30; 73%) (mean: 5.6, P < .001) and long-term follow-up (n = 38; 93%) (mean: 7.3, P < .001. mean follow-up period: 15.1 mo). Prior to conversion, 32 patients (78%) required antisecretory therapy for GERD and after conversion, 12 of these patients (38%) required antisecretory therapy (P < .001). These 12 patients were found to exhibit a significantly (P = .005) smaller decrease in GERD-HRQL after revision compared with their peers who were liberated from antisecretory therapy. Preoperative symptoms were compared between these 2 groups. Delayed onset of GERD symptoms after LSG (>3 mo) was found to be a significant risk factor for continued antisecretory dependence after conversion to RYGB.ConclusionConversion of LSG to RYGB quantitatively reduces GERD symptoms, and results in a modest but significant amount of weight loss. While there was a significant improvement in HRQL after revision, a subgroup of patients continued to be antisecretory-dependent and showed a limited improvement in HRQL. This limited response was predicted by a gradual onset of GERD symptoms prior to revision. An interval of 3 months or greater between LSG and onset of symptoms was found to be a significant risk factor for limited response to conversion.     

Gastrointestinal symptoms before and after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a longitudinal assessment

BackgroundRoux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is an effective treatment for morbid obesity, but many patients have increased gastrointestinal symptoms.ObjectivesTo evaluate gastrointestinal symptoms and food intolerance before and after RYGB over time in a large cohort of morbidly obese patients.SettingA high-volume bariatric center of excellence.MethodsA prospective cohort study was performed in patients who underwent RYGB between September 2014 and July 2015, with 2-year follow-up. Consecutive patients screened for bariatric surgery answered the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) and a food intolerance questionnaire before RYGB and 2 years after surgery. The prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms before and after surgery and the association between patient characteristics and postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms were assessed.ResultsFollow-up was 86.2% (n = 168) for patients undergoing primary RYGB and 93.3% (n = 28) for revisional RYGB. The total mean GSRS score increased from 1.69 to 2.31 after surgery (P < .001), as did 13 of 16 of the individual scores. Preoperative GSRS score is associated with postoperative symptom severity (B = .343, P < .001). Food intolerance was present in 16.1% of patients before primary RYGB, increasing to 69.6% after surgery (P < .001). Patients who underwent revisional RYGB had a symptom severity and prevalence of food intolerance comparable with that among patients with primary RYGB, even though they had more symptoms before revisional surgery.ConclusionsTwo years after surgery, patients who underwent primary RYGB have increased gastrointestinal symptoms and food intolerance compared with the preoperative state. It is important that clinicians are aware of this and inform patients before surgery.     

How frequently and when do patients undergo cholecystectomy after bariatric surgery?

BackgroundRapid weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with gallstone formation, and cholecystectomy is required in up to 15% of patients. Prophylactic cholecystectomy or prophylactic ursodiol administration in the postoperative period have been suggested to address this problem. The objectives of this study were to investigate the frequency and timing of cholecystectomies after bariatric surgery and to determine the associated risk factors in patients who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB), or laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).MethodsData prospectively collected in an institutional database were analyzed. Differences among the 3 procedures and the effects of ursodiol administration, patient demographic characteristics, postoperative weight loss, and individual surgeon practices on cholecystectomy rates were examined. Survival analysis and proportional hazard models were used.ResultsOf 1398 patients, 109 (7.8%) underwent cholecystectomy with a median follow-up of 49 (range 12–103) months. Cholecystectomy frequency was 10.6% after LRYGB, significantly higher than 2.9% after LAGB (P<.001), and 3.5% after LSG (P = .004). The frequency was highest within the first 6 months (3.7%), but declined over time to<1% per year after 3 years. Ursodiol administration did not affect cholecystectomy rates (P = .97), and significant intersurgeon variability was noted. Excess weight loss (EWL)>25% within the first 3 months was the strongest predictor of postoperative cholecystectomy (P<.001). Cox hazards model revealed 1.25 odds ratio per 10% EWL within 3 months, and odds ratio .77 per decade of life. In addition, white patients had 1.45 times higher cholecystectomy rates than did black patients. Preoperative body mass index, gender, and surgeon did not affect cholecystectomy rates.ConclusionBariatric surgery is associated with a low frequency of postoperative cholecystectomy, which is highest early after surgery and mainly determined by the amount of EWL within the first 3 months. The results of the present study do not support routine prophylactic cholecystectomy at the time of bariatric surgery in asymptomatic patients.     

Obstructive sleep apnea remission following bariatric surgery: a national registry cohort study

BackgroundObstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is strongly associated with metabolic syndrome. Bariatric surgery is an effective available treatment for OSA; however, limited research predicts which patients undergoing bariatric surgery will undergo OSA resolution.ObjectivesTo determine perioperative predictors for OSA resolution following bariatric surgery using a national database.SettingUnited Kingdom national bariatric surgery database.MethodsThe UK National Bariatric Surgery Registry (NBSR) was interrogated to identify all patients with OSA that underwent primary bariatric surgery between January 2009 and June 2017. Those with at least 1 follow-up recording postoperative OSA status were selected for further analysis. Demographic, pre- and postoperative outcomes were collected and analyzed. Poisson multivariate regression was conducted to identify predictors of OSA remission.ResultsA total of 4015 bariatric cases were eligible for inclusion: 2482 (61.8%) patients underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), 1196 (29.8%) sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and 337 (8.4%) adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Overall, the mean excess weight loss (EWL) % for the whole group was 61.2 (SD ± 27.2). OSA resolution was recorded in 2377 (59.2%) patients. Following Poisson regression, LRYGB (risk ratio [RR], 1.49 confidence interval [CI] 1.25–1.78) and LSG (RR, 1.46 [CI 1.22–1.75] were associated with approximately 50% increased likelihood of OSA remission compared with LAGB. Greater weight loss following intervention was associated with greater likelihood of OSA remission, while both greater age and greater preoperative body mass index (BMI) were associated with reduced likelihood of OSA remission (P < .001).ConclusionThis study demonstrated that metabolic surgery results in OSA remission in the majority of patients with obesity. Younger age, lower BMI preprocedure, greater %EWL and the use of LSG or LRYGB positively predicted OSA remission.     

Bariatric surgery outcomes in oxygen-dependent patients: analysis of the MBSAQIP database

BackgroundThe number of bariatric procedures performed on complex, oxygen-dependent patients has increased. These patients often have other medical co-morbidities that can be improved after bariatric surgery; however, questions remain regarding their perioperative risk.ObjectiveTo assess the safety of bariatric surgery among oxygen-dependent patients, and to compare outcomes in this patient group after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.SettingUniversity and private hospitals enrolled in the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program data registry.MethodsThe Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program data from 2015 to 2017 was analyzed. A multivariable regression analysis was performed looking at 30-day serious complications for oxygen-dependent patients, with a secondary propensity-matched analysis performed comparing patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.ResultsIn total, 430,396 patients were analyzed, 3034 (0.7%) of whom were oxygen dependent. The absolute 30-day complication rate among oxygen-dependent patients was more than twice as high (8.24% versus 3.46%, P < .001). The postoperative leak (.69% versus .41%, P = .017), bleed (2.08% versus .91%, P < .001), cardiac event (.16% versus .07%, P = .034), and pneumonia rate (.89% versus .19%, P < .001) were all significantly higher. Mortality was significantly higher among oxygen-dependent patients (.49% versus .09%, P < .001). On multivariable analysis, oxygen dependency was an independent predictor of adverse outcomes (odds ratio 1.30 [1.22–1.50], P < .001). Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was associated with a statistically significant higher complication rate compared with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (13.23% versus 5.16%, P < .001).ConclusionOxygen-dependent patients undergoing bariatric surgery are at a higher risk of both morbidity and mortality postoperatively.     

Postoperative care fragmentation in bariatric surgery and risk of mortality: a nationwide study

BackgroundReadmission after bariatric surgery may to lead to fragmentation of care if readmission occurs at a facility other than the index hospital. The effect of readmission to a nonindex hospital on postoperative mortality remains unclear for bariatric surgery.ObjectivesTo determine postoperative mortality rates according to readmission destinations.SettingNationwide analysis of all surgical facilities in France.MethodsMulticenter, nationwide study of adult patients undergoing bariatric surgery from January 1, 2013, through December 31, 2018. Data from all surgical facilities in France were extracted from a national hospital discharge database.ResultsIn a cohort of 278,600 patients who received bariatric surgery, 12,760 (4.6%) were readmitted within 30 days. In cases of readmission, 23% of patients were admitted to a nonindex hospital. Patients readmitted to a nonindex facility had different characteristics regarding sex (men, 23.6% versus 18.2%, respectively; P < .001), co-morbidities (Charlson Co-morbidity Index, .74 versus .53, respectively; P < .001), and travel distance (38.3 km versus 26.9 km, respectively; P < .001) than patients readmitted to the index facility. The main reasons for readmission were leak/peritonitis and abdominal pain. The overall mortality rate after readmission was .56%. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of mortality for the nonindex group was 4.96 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.1–8.1; P < .001). In the subgroups of patients with a gastric leak, the mortality rate was 1.5% and the OR was 8.26 (95% CI, 3.7–19.6; P < .001).ConclusionReadmissions to a nonindex hospital are associated with a 5-fold greater mortality rate. The management of readmission for complications after bariatric surgery should be considered as a major issue to reduce potentially preventable deaths.     

Operative time as a marker of quality in bariatric surgery

BackgroundFew studies have examined the effect of prolonged operative time (OT) on outcomes in laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Existing studies mostly focus on 30-day complications, whereas serious complications may not occur until well after 30 days from the index operation.ObjectiveTo determine the effect of prolonged OT on 1-year morbidity and mortality after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).SettingThe Bariatric Outcomes Longitudinal Database (BOLD).MethodsData on primary LRYGB and LSG cases performed between 2008 and 2012 in the BOLD were analyzed. Converted cases and cases concurrent with other procedures were excluded. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between OT and 1-year morbidity and mortality, with adjustment for preoperative demographic and clinical characteristics.ResultsA total of 93,051 cases were examined, including 74,745 (80.3%) LRYGB and 18,306 (19.7%) LSG cases. For LRYGB, mean OT was 104 minutes (standard deviation [SD] 46.6). Every additional 10 minutes of OT was associated with increased odds of 1-year mortality (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.04; P = .02), leak (AOR 1.07; P < .0001), and any adverse event (AOR 1.03; P < .001). For LSG, mean OT was 78 minutes (SD 37.4). Every additional 10 minutes of OT was associated with increased odds of 1-year leak (AOR 1.07; P = .0002). Data on patients lost to follow-up was unavailable.ConclusionProlonged operative time is associated with a significant increase in the odds of mortality and serious complications after laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Operative time may be a useful marker of quality in primary laparoscopic bariatric surgery.     

Validation of the individualized metabolic surgery score for bariatric procedure selection in the merged data of two randomized clinical trials (SLEEVEPASS and SM-BOSS)

BackgroundLSG and LRYGB are globally the most common bariatric procedures. IMS score categorizes T2D severity (mild, moderate, and severe) based on 4 independent preoperative predictors of long-term remission as follows: T2D duration, number of diabetes medications, insulin use, and glycemic control. IMS score has not been validated in a randomized patient cohort.ObjectivesTo assess the feasibility of individualized metabolic surgery (IMS) score in facilitating procedure selection between laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) for patients with severe obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D).SettingMerged individual patient-level 5-year data of 2 large randomized clinical trials (SLEEVEPASS and SM-BOSS [Swiss Multicenter Bypass or Sleeve Study]).MethodsIMS score was calculated for study patients and its performance was analyzed.ResultsOne hundred thirty-nine out of 155 patients with T2D had available preoperative data to calculate IMS score as follows: mild stage (n = 41/139), moderate stage (n = 77/139), severe stage (n = 21/139). At 5 years, 135 (87.1%, 67 LSG/68 LRYGB) were available for follow-up and 121 patients had both pre- and postoperative data. Diabetes remission rates according to preoperative IMS score were as follows: mild stage 87.5% (n = 14/16) after LSG and 85.7% (n = 18/21) after LRYGB (P = .999), moderate stage 42.9% (n = 15/35) and 45.2% (n = 14/31) (P = .999), and severe stage 18.2% (n = 2/11) and 0% (n = 0/7) (P = .497), respectively. The T2D remission rate varied significantly between the stages as follows: mild versus moderate odds ratio (OR) 8.3 (95% CI, 2.8–24.0; P < .001), mild versus severe OR 52.2 (95% CI 9.0–302.3; P < .001), and moderate versus severe OR 6.3 (95% CI, 1.3–29.8; P = .020).ConclusionsIn our study, remission rates of T2D were not statistically different after LSG and LRYGB among all patients and among patients with mild, moderate, and severe diabetes stratified by the IMS score. However, the study may be underpowered to detect differences due to small number of patients in each subgroup. IMS score seemed to be useful in predicting long-term T2D remission after bariatric surgery.     

Nephrolithiasis after bariatric surgery: A comparison of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy

IntroductionLaparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is known to increase risk for calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis due to hyperoxaluria; however, nephrolithiasis rates after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are not well described. Our objective was to determine the rate of nephrolithiasis after LRYGB versus LSG.MethodsThe electronic medical records of patients who underwent LRYGB or LSG between 2001 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed.Results1,802 patients were included. Postoperative nephrolithiasis was observed in 133 (7.4%) patients, overall, and 8.12% of LRYGB (122/1503) vs. 3.68% of LSG (11/299) patients (P < 0.001). Mean time to stone formation was 2.97 ± 2.96 years. Patients with a history of UTI (OR = 2.12, 95%CI 1.41–3.18; P < 0.001) or nephrolithiasis (OR = 8.81, 95%CI 4.93–15.72; P < 0.001) were more likely to have postoperative nephrolithiasis.ConclusionThe overall incidence of symptomatic nephrolithiasis after bariatric surgery was 7.4%. Patients who underwent LRYGB had a higher incidence of nephrolithiasis versus LSG. Patients with a history of stones had the highest risk of postoperative nephrolithiasis.     

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.     

Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on bariatric surgery in North America: a retrospective analysis of 834,647 patients

BackgroundCOVID-19 has transformed surgical care, yet little is known regarding implications for bariatric surgery.ObjectiveWe sought to characterize the effect of COVID-19 on bariatric surgery delivery and outcomes.SettingThe Metabolic and Bariatric Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) collects data from 885 centers in North America.MethodsThe MBSAQIP database was evaluated with 2 cohorts described: the COVID-19 and the pre–COVID-19, with patients receiving surgery in 2020 and 2015–2019, respectively. Yearly operative trends were characterized, and bivariate analysis compared demographics and postoperative outcomes. Multivariable modeling evaluated 30-day readmission, reintervention, and reoperation rates and factors associated with undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.ResultsWe evaluated 834,647 patients, with 155,830 undergoing bariatric surgery during the 2020 pandemic year. A 12.1% reduction in total cases (177,208 in 2019 versus 155,830 in 2020; P < .001) and 13.8% reduction in cases per center occurred (204.2 cases per center in 2019 versus 176.1 cases per center in 2020; P < .001). Patients receiving bariatric surgery during the pandemic were younger and had fewer co-morbidities. Use of sleeve gastrectomy increased (74.5% versus 72.5%; P < .001), and surgery during COVID-19 was associated with reduced Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure selection (odds ratio = .83; 95% CI: .82–.84; P < .001). Length of stay decreased significantly (1.4 ± 1.4 days versus 1.6 ± 1.4 days; P < .001), yet postoperative outcomes were similar. After adjusting for co-morbidities, patients during COVID-19 had decreased 30-day odds of readmission and reintervention and a small increase in odds of reoperation.ConclusionThe COVID-19 pandemic dramatically changed bariatric surgery delivery. Further studies evaluating the long-term effects of these changes are warranted.     

Does pregnancy increase the risk of cholecystectomy following bariatric surgery? A cross-sectional cohort study

BackgroundReproductive-aged women constitute a substantial proportion of patients who undergo weight loss procedures. While the risk of gallstone disease after such procedures has been addressed extensively, the impact of pregnancy on gallstone disease after bariatric procedures has not been reported.ObjectivesTo explore the effects of pregnancy on cholecystectomy rates after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).SettingA university hospital.MethodsA cross-sectional cohort study of reproductive aged women (18–45 yr) who underwent LSG. The association between pregnancy and cholecystectomy was evaluated with Cox regression analysis.ResultsOf 1056 women of childbearing age who underwent LSG during 2006–2017, 128 (12.1%) subsequently experienced a pregnancy. Median follow-up durations were 3.9 and 4.9 years for women who did and did not conceive, respectively (P < .001). The median time from procedure to conception was 509 (374–1031) days. Overall, 117 (11.1%) women underwent cholecystectomy after LSG. The rate of cholecystectomy among those who conceived was higher than among those who did not (18.8% versus 10.0%, P = .005). In an unadjusted analysis, pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of cholecystectomy (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 3.97 [2.58, 6.09], P < .0001). The association between pregnancy and cholecystectomy persisted after controlling for confounding factors (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 3.82 [2.47, 5.92], P < .0001). Among those who experienced pregnancy, lower gestational weight gain was the only factor found to be associated with cholecystectomy after surgery (P = .05).ConclusionsPregnancy is associated with a 4-fold increased risk of cholecystectomy after LSG. Thus, the desire for future pregnancy should be considered before LSG.     

Extremely early pregnancy (<6 mo) after sleeve gastrectomy: maternal and perinatal outcomes

BackgroundData are scarce regarding outcomes of pregnancies occurring very early after bariatric surgery.ObjectivesWe compared outcomes of pregnancies occurring extremely early (surgery-to-conception interval <6 mos) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) with those occurring later (≥6 mos postsurgery).SettingA university hospital.MethodsWe reviewed the records of all women who underwent LSG and delivered during 2006–2019.ResultsOf 196 women, 23 (11.7%) became pregnant within 6 months of surgery. For these women, the median surgery-to-conception interval was 116 [interquartile range 76–161] days, compared with 903 [465–1377] days for the remaining cohort. Three (13.0%) women turned out postoperatively to be pregnant at the time of LSG. Compared with women who conceived later, the extremely early pregnancy group had lower gestational weight gain (median 4 versus 10 kg, P < .001), including negative gestational weight gain in 9 (39.1%) women. The proportion of small for gestational age (SGA) infants was higher among women who conceived within 6 months after surgery rather than later (26.1% versus 10.4%, P = .04). Other maternal and perinatal outcomes were similar between the groups. In multivariate analysis, conceiving within 6 months after LSG was the only independent factor associated with delivering a SGA infant (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 3.35 (1.12, 10.01), P = .03).ConclusionsPregnancy occurring in the first 6 months after LSG was independently associated with a higher rate of SGA infants. Delaying conception during the very early postoperative period is recommended. Providing adequate contraception and excluding the presence of early pregnancy at the time of surgery are of utmost importance.     

Hypoalbuminemia as a risk factor for complications in revisional/conversional bariatric surgery: an MBSAQIP analysis

BackgroundHypoalbuminemia (HA) is a risk factor for serious complications after elective bariatric surgery. Patients undergoing revisional/conversional bariatric surgery may represent a higher-risk group who often have underlying co-morbid medical illnesses and more complex surgery.ObjectivesThis study investigated the postoperative complications in patients with HA undergoing revisional/conversional bariatric surgery.SettingMetabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), years 2015–2019.MethodsThe MBSAQIP database was used to evaluate patients undergoing non-banding revisional/conversional bariatric surgery between 2015 and 2019. Patients were categorized by serum albumin (≤3.5 g/dL). Variables were assessed via bivariate analysis and multivariable regression. Propensity score matching was conducted to compare gastric bypass (RYGB) to sleeve gastrectomy (VSG).ResultsOne hundred forty-seven thousand four hundred thirty patients underwent revisional/conversional procedures. After applied exclusions, 58,777 patients were available for analysis. The HA group had a significantly (P < .05) higher prevalence of being black (22.95% versus 17.76%), renal insufficiency (1.08% versus .36%), smoking history (9.47% versus 6.91%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (2.54% versus 1.33%), and history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) (4.03% versus 2.3%). Postoperative complications associated with HA included perioperative blood transfusion (3.1% versus 1.27%; P < .001), 30day readmission (10.87 versus 6.77%; P < .001), 30day reoperation (4.9% versus 3.18%; P < .001), and 30day mortality (.40% versus .14%; P < .0001). HA was a significant predictor of 30day readmission in the RYGB versus VSG matched cohort (odds ratio [OR], 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], [1.14, 1.48]; P < .001).ConclusionsHA is a risk factor requiring attention for patients undergoing revisional/conversional bariatric surgery and optimization of nutritional status or medical comorbidities associated with HA prior to bariatric surgery may help avoid postoperative complications.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a case-control study and 3 years of follow-up

BackgroundLaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has become a popular surgical procedure among bariatric surgeons. Few studies have compared the efficacy of the procedure to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). We performed a case-control study to assess the surgical results, weight progression, and remission of co-morbid conditions.MethodsFrom January 2006 to September 2009, we selected 811 patients undergoing LSG as a primary procedure. These patients were matched by age, body mass index, and gender to 786 patients undergoing LRYGB. The complication rate, mortality, and percentage of excess weight loss after 1, 2, and 3 years were analyzed.ResultsThe mean age for the LRYGB and LSG groups was 37.0 ± 10.3 and 36.4 ± 11.7 years, respectively (P = .120). Most of the patients were women (LRYGB 76.6% versus LSG 76.2%; P = .855). The preoperative body mass index before surgery was similar in both groups (LRYGB 38.0 ± 3.2 versus LSG 37.9 ± 4.6 kg/m²; P = .617). The mean operative time was longer for LRYGB (106.2 ± 33.2 versus 76.6 ± 28.0 min; P <.001), and the hospital stay was longer for LRYGB (3.4 ± 4.4 versus 2.8 ± .8 for LSG; P <.001). The early complication rate was 7.1% for LRYGB and 2.9% for LSG (P <.001), and the suture leak rate was .7% for LRYGB and .5% for LSG (P = NS). The percentage of excess weight loss for LRYGB versus LSG at 1, 2, and 3 years was 97.2% ± 24.3% versus 86.4% ± 26.4% (P <.001), 94.6% ± 30.2% versus 84.1% ± 28.3% (P <.001), and 93.1% ± 25.0% versus 86.8% ± 27.1% (P = .082), respectively. The total cholesterol level at 1 year for LRYGB versus LSG was 169.0 ± 32.9 versus 193.6 ± 38.7 mg/dL, respectively (P <.001), and the rate of diabetes remission was similar in both groups (LRYGB 86.6% versus LSG 90.9%).ConclusionLSG has become an acceptable primary bariatric procedure for obesity, with results comparable to LRYGB in this population.     

Long-term outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a primary bariatric procedure

BackgroundLaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been established as a reliable bariatric procedure, but questions have emerged regarding its long-term results. Our aim is to report the long-term outcomes of LSG as a primary bariatric procedure.MethodsRetrospective analysis of patients submitted to LSG between 2005 and 2007 in our institution. Long-term outcomes at 5 years were analyzed in terms of body mass index (BMI), excess weight loss (EWL) and co-morbidities resolution. Surgical success was defined as %EWL>50%. Also, we compared long-term results according to preoperative BMI, using Mann-Whitney test.ResultsA total of 161 LSG were analyzed, and 114 patients (70.8%) were women. The median age was 36 years old (range 16–65), median preoperative BMI was 34.9 kg/m² (interquartile range [IQR], 33.3–37.5). A total of 112 patients (70%) completed 5 years of follow-up. At the fifth year, median BMI and %EWL was 28.5 kg/m² (IQR: 25.8–31.9) and 62.9% (IQR: 45.3–89.6), respectively, with a surgical success of 73.2% of followed patients. According to preoperative BMI, surgical success was achieved in 80% of patients with BMI<35 kg/m², 75% of BMI 35–40 kg/m², and 52.6% of BMI>40 kg/m², with significant lower %EWL in patients with BMI>40 kg/m² (P = .001 and .004). Dyslipidemia and insulin resistance resolution was 80.7% and 84.7%, respectively. A total of 26.7% of patients reported new-onset gastroesophageal reflux symptoms at 5 years.ConclusionLSG as a primary procedure is a reliable surgery. We observed positive long-term outcomes of %EWL and co-morbidities resolution. In our series, best results are seen in patients with preoperative BMI<40 kg/m².     

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as day-case surgery versus conventional hospitalization: results of the DAYSLEEVE randomized clinical trial

BackgroundLaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is an effective bariatric intervention with short operative time and low morbidity and mortality. However, ambulatory sleeve gastrectomy is underutilized.ObjectiveThis clinical trial compares feasibility, perioperative outcomes, and weight loss of patients undergoing ambulatory LSG with same-day discharge versus conventional hospitalization with next-day discharge.SettingHospital and ambulatory surgery center.MethodsPatients who satisfied low-acuity criteria were randomized to undergo day-case LSG in the ambulatory surgery center with same-day discharge (DC LSG) or LSG with conventional hospitalization and next-day discharge (CH LSG) between December 2018 and December 2020. The primary outcomes were 30-day adverse events, hospitalizations, reoperations, and readmissions, and the secondary outcome was weight loss during the first year.ResultsOf 2541 screened patients, 1544 patients were randomized in the study. Mean age and body mass index were 31.7 ± 9.1 years versus 31.8 ± 9.2 years and 39.6 ± 5.8 kg/m² versus 40.0 ± 5.7 kg/m² in the DC LSG group (n = 777) and in the CH LSG group (n = 777), respectively. Eighteen patients (2.3%) in the DC LSG were transferred to the hospital for overnight stay. Additionally, 13 patients (1.7%) requested additional stay without a medical indication for a total overnight stay rate of 4%. One DC LSG patient (.1%) was readmitted, and 2 CH LSG patients (.3%) stayed for an extra day. Seventeen percent of DC LSG patients had unscheduled consultations during the first postoperative week compared with 6% of CH LSG patients (P < .001). Those 2 groups were similar in baseline characteristics. There were no reoperations or mortality in either group, and weight loss results were similar; At 1-year follow-up, DC LSG percent excess weight loss was 87% ± 17% compared with 85% ± 17% in the CH LSG group. The follow-up rate was 100%.ConclusionLSG is feasible as a day-case procedure with comparable outcomes to conventional hospitalization.