Effect of surgical versus medical therapy on estimated cardiovascular event risk among adolescents with type 2 diabetes and severe obesity

BackgroundCardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality in type 2 diabetes (T2D). Better interventions are needed to mitigate the high lifetime risk for CVD in youth T2D.ObjectiveTo compare 30-year risk for CVD events in 2 cohorts of adolescents with T2D and severe obesity undergoing medical or surgical treatment of T2D.SettingLongitudinal multicenter studies at University hospitals.MethodsA secondary analysis of data collected from the participants with T2D enrolled in the Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS, n = 30) and participants of similar age and racial distribution from the Treatment Options of Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY, n = 63) studies was performed. Teen-LABS participants underwent metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS). TODAY participants were randomized to metformin alone or in combination with rosiglitazone or intensive lifestyle intervention, with insulin therapy given for glycemic progression. A 30-year CVD event score developed by the Framingham Heart Study was the primary outcome, assessed at baseline (preoperatively for Teen-LABS), 1 year, and 5 years of follow-up.ResultsParticipants with T2D from Teen-LABS (n = 30; mean ± SD age = 16.9 ± 1.3 yr; 70% female; 60% white; body mass index (BMI) = 54.4 ± 9.5 kg/m²) and TODAY (n = 63; 15.3 ± 1.3 yr; 56% female; 71% white; BMI 40.5 ± 4.9 kg/m²) were compared. The likelihood of CVD events was higher in Teen-LABS versus TODAY at baseline (17.66 [1.59] versus 12.11 [.79]%, adjusted P = .002). One year after MBS, event risk was significantly lower in Teen-LABS versus TODAY (6.79 [1.33] versus 13.64 [0.96]%, adjusted P < .0001), and sustained at 5 years follow-up (adjusted P < .0001).ConclusionDespite higher pretreatment risk for CVD events, treatment with MBS resulted in a reduction in estimated CVD event risks, whereas medical therapy associated with an increase in risk among adolescents with T2D and severe obesity.     

The metabolic and liver-related outcomes of bariatric surgery in adult patients with insulin-treated type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease at high risk of liver fibrosis

BackgroundNonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common cause of chronic liver disease, with a prevalence estimated to between 20% and 30% of the general population and approximately 70% of stage 2 obese people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with normal liver enzymes.ObjectivesTo investigate the metabolic and liver-related outcomes of bariatric surgery among patients with insulin-treated T2D and NAFLD who are at high risk of liver fibrosis.SettingMore than 600 locations within the United Kingdom.MethodsThe study comprises a retrospective cohort comparison of patients with NAFLD and a fibrosis 4 (Fib-4) score > 1.45 who received a bariatric intervention versus comparable patients who received no bariatric intervention. Metabolic outcomes (glycated hemoglobin [HbA1C] level, weight, body mass index [BMI], and Fib-4 score) and composite liver-related outcomes (cirrhosis, portal hypertension, liver failure, and hepatoma) were compared between groups over a period of 5 years. The outcomes were adjusted for baseline and time-varying covariates.ResultsThe study sample included 4108 patients, 45 of whom underwent bariatric surgery. The mean age at baseline was 62.4 ± 12.4 years; 43.8% of patients were female; the mean weight was 89.5 ± 20.8 kg; the mean BMI was 31.7 ± 7.6 kg/m²; and the mean HbA1C level was 68.4 ± 16.7 mmol/mol. In addition, the median Fib-4 score was 2.3 (interquartile range, 1.7–4.2). During the 5 years during which follow-up outcomes were recorded, the weight and BMI reductions were significantly lowered compared with baseline in the bariatric surgery group. Similarly, the HbA1C levels were lower in the bariatric surgery group, with statistically significant differences observed in the first and second postintervention years (bariatric surgery versus non–bariatric surgery patient levels at 1 year, 63.1 mmol/mol versus 68.1 mmol/mol, respectively [P = .042], and at 2 years, 62.7 mmol/mol versus 68.1 mmol/mol, respectively [P = .028]). No significant difference was observed between groups in the proportion of patients with liver fibrosis or the likelihood of developing composite liver disease during the follow-up period (bariatric surgery group, 8.9%; non–bariatric surgery group, 4.7%; X² = 1.75; P = .18).ConclusionBariatric surgery amongst patients with insulin-treated T2D with NAFLD who were at high risk of liver fibrosis was associated with significant improvements in metabolic outcomes. No significant adverse effects were observed with regards to liver-related outcomes.     

Comparative effectiveness of gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy on predicted 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease 5 years after surgery

BackgroundComparative evidence is needed when deciding which bariatric operation to undergo for long-term cardiovascular risk reduction.ObjectivesThe Effectiveness of Gastric Bypass vs. Gastric Sleeve for Cardiovascular Disease (ENGAGE CVD) study compared the effectiveness of vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) operations for reduction of the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association–predicted 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk 5 years after surgery.SettingData for this study came from a large integrated healthcare system in the Southern California region of the United States. This is one of the most ethnically diverse (64% non-White) bariatric populations in the literature.MethodsThe ENGAGE CVD cohort consisted of 22,095 patients who underwent VSG or RYGB from 2009–2016. The VSG and RYGB were compared using a local instrumental variable approach to address observed and unobserved confounding, as well as to conduct heterogeneity of treatment effects for patients of different age groups, baseline-predicted 10-year CVD risk using the ASCVD risk score, and those who had type 2 diabetes (T2D) at the time of surgery.ResultsPatients (2771 RYGB and 6256 VVSG) were primarily women (80.6%), Hispanic or non-Hispanic Black (63.7%), and 46 ± 10 years of age, with a body mass index of 43.40 ± 6.5 kg/m². The predicted 10-year ASCVD risk at surgery was 4.1% for VSG and 5.1% for RYGB, decreasing to 2.6% for VSG and 2.8% for RYGB 1 year postoperatively. By 5 years after surgery, patients remained with relatively low risk levels (3.0% for VSG and 3.3% for RYGB) and there were no significant differences in predicted 10-year ASCVD risk between VSG and RYGB at any time.ConclusionPredicted 10-year ASCVD risk was low in this population and remained low up to 5 years for those with diabetes, Black and Hispanic patients, and older adults. Literature reporting significant differences between VSG and RYGB in 10-year ASCVD risk may be a result of residual confounding.     

Impact of metabolic surgery on 10-year cardiovascular disease risk in Chinese individuals with type 2 diabetes

BackgroundIn recent years, many reports have highlighted that metabolic surgery may ameliorate the cardiovascular risk in morbidly obese patients with or without type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, few studies have evaluated the long-term cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk after metabolic surgery in T2D patients with a low body mass index (BMI).ObjectivesTo use the Prediction for ASCVD Risk in China (China-PAR) equations and United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) risk engine to assess the 10-year CVD risk in low-BMI T2D patients after metabolic surgery.SettingUniversity hospital, China.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed our prospectively collected data of T2D patients who underwent metabolic surgery at our hospital between 2010 and 2018. We included patients who met the criteria for calculating a 10-year cardiovascular risk score by the China-PAR equations and UKPDS risk engine. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric variables, and glycolipid metabolic parameters were assessed preoperatively and during a 4-year follow-up period. Patients with a BMI < 30 kg/m² were compared with those with a BMI > 30 kg/m².ResultsWe evaluated 117 patients, of whom 62 (53%) had a BMI < 30 kg/m² and 55 (47%) had a BMI > 30 kg/m². Patients with a BMI < 30 kg/m² were significantly older and had a longer duration of diabetes. The rate of complete T2D remission in the group of patients with BMIs < 30 kg/m² was significantly lower than that in the group with BMIs > 30 kg/m² (35.2% versus 56.1%, respectively; P = .042). The overall 10-year and lifetime atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risks were reduced from 4.2% to 2.3% and 25.3% to 13.9%, respectively (both P < .05), at 1 year postoperatively using the China-PAR equation. The overall 10-year coronary heart disease (CHD) and fatal CHD risks were reduced by 48.1% and 53.1%, respectively, at 1 year after surgery using the UKPDS risk engine. The advantages of metabolic surgery in reducing CVD risks are similar in both BMI groups, whether using the China-PAR equation or the UKPDS risk engine.ConclusionThe 10-year CVD risk in T2D patients with BMIs < 30 kg/m² and BMIs > 30 kg/m² were significantly reduced after metabolic surgery, although the rate of complete T2D remission T2Din patients with BMIs < 30 kg/m² was lower than that in patients with BMIs > 30 kg/m². The China-PAR equation is a reliable and useful clinical tool for CVD risk evaluation in Chinese patients after metabolic surgery.     

Optimizing long-term weight control after bariatric surgery: a pilot study

BackgroundAlthough bariatric surgery is associated with significant overall weight loss, many patients experience suboptimal outcomes. Our objective was to document the preliminary efficacy of a behavioral intervention for bariatric surgery patients with relatively poor long-term weight loss and to explore the factors related to outcome at an academic medical center in the United States.MethodsPatients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m² who had undergone bariatric surgery ≥3 years before study entry and had <50% excess weight loss were enrolled. The participants were randomly assigned to a 6-month behavioral intervention or wait list control group. The assessments were conducted at baseline (before intervention) and 6 months (after intervention) and 12 months (6-mo follow-up).ResultsOn average, the participants (n = 36) had undergone surgery 6.6 years before study entry. The average age was 52.5 ± 7.1 years, and the BMI was 43.1 ± 6.2 kg/m²; most participants were women (75%) and white (88.9%). The intervention patients had a greater percentage of excess weight loss than did the wait list control group at 6 (6.6% ± 3.4% versus 1.6% ± 3.1%) and 12 (5.8% ± 3.5% versus .9% ± 3.2%) months. However, the differences were not significant and the results varied. The intervention patients with more depressive symptoms (P = .005) and less weight regain before study entry (P = .05) experienced a greater percentage of excess weight loss.ConclusionBehavioral intervention holds promise in optimizing long-term weight control after bariatric surgery. More research is needed on when to initiate the intervention and to identify which patients will benefit from this type of approach.     

High prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in a United Kingdom urban morbidly obese population: Implications for testing and treatment

BackgroundCurrent recommendations suggest universal screening of vitamin D status before bariatric surgery to identify individuals at risk for postoperative deficiency. However little is known about the magnitude or severity of vitamin D insufficiency in the morbidly obese population awaiting bariatric surgery in the United Kingdom. The purpose of this prospective observational study was to assess the prevalence and determinants of vitamin D insufficiency in an urban multiethnic U.K. population awaiting bariatric surgery.MethodsConsecutive patients attending a morbid obesity service were comprehensively assessed using a recognized obesity staging tool. Data collected included 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], parathyroid hormone (PTH), corrected calcium (Ca²⁺), body mass index (BMI), and the presence and severity of obesity associated co-morbidities, including type 2 diabetes (T2 DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), depression, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and functional limitation.ResultsOf the 118 patients assessed, 79% were female, and 21% were male, with BMI of 52.6±9.4 kg/m² (mean±standard deviation) and mean age of 44±11 years. Twenty-four percent had T2 DM, 28% CVD, 31% OSA, and 21% depression. Vitamin D insufficiency was found in 90% of the population, with a median serum 25(OH)D of 8.8 ng/mL. Secondary hyperparathyroidism was present in 43% of those with vitamin D insufficiency. Risk was not influenced by ethnicity, age, or gender. However severe functional limitation was associated with lower vitamin D status.ConclusionRegardless of ethnicity, vitamin D insufficiency appears to be typical among this clinic population; therefore, routine vitamin D supplementation is suggested for all individuals awaiting bariatric surgery rather than testing vitamin D status in an attempt to identify high-risk individuals.     

Psoriasis improvement after bariatric surgery

BackgroundPsoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease known to be associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Single case reports and small series suggest remission or improvement after bariatric surgery, hypothetically through a GLP-1 mediated mechanism. The objective of this study was to investigate on the effect of bariatric surgery on the clinical behavior of psoriasis in obese patients.MethodsA total of 33 morbidly obese individuals with psoriasis who were on active medical treatment were identified. Demographic characteristics and follow-up data were extracted from our database. Medication usage and percentage of affected body surface area (%ABSA) were recorded preoperatively and at least 6 months after bariatric surgery.ResultsNine (27.2%) patients were on systemic therapy at baseline. At a mean follow-up time of 26.2±20.3 months, a mean excess weight loss (EWL) of 48.7± 26.6% was achieved. This was associated with improvement of psoriasis based on downgrade of medication and %ABSA in 30.3% and 26.1% of patients, respectively. In total, 13 of 33 patients (39.4%) had improvement based on either criteria. Eight (24.2%) patients were not on any psoriasis medication at the latest follow-up (P = .001). Older age at the time of surgery (54.8±8.1 versus 48.1±10.4 years, P = .047), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus nonbypass procedures (52.4% versus 16.7%, P = .043), and greater EWL (64.2±26.0% versus 43.4± 23.6%, P = .036) predicted improvement. Only 1 (3%) patient experienced worsening after surgery.ConclusionAlmost 40% of our cohort showed improvement of psoriasis several months after bariatric surgery. Improvement is directly related to the degree of postoperative weight loss and is associated with the Roux-en-Y configuration.     

Impact of bariatric surgery on heart failure mortality

BackgroundThe impact of bariatric surgery on discrete cardiovascular events has not been well characterized.ObjectivesTo assess the impact of prior bariatric surgery on mortality associated with heart failure (HF) admission.SettingA retrospective analysis of 2007–2014 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project—Nationwide Inpatient Sample.MethodsParticipants including 2810 patients with a principal discharge diagnosis of HF who also had a history of prior bariatric surgery were identified. These patients were matched 1:5 with patients who had similar principal diagnoses but no history of bariatric surgery (controls). Propensity scores, balanced on baseline characteristics, were used to assemble 2 control groups. Control group-1 included patients with obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥35 kg/m²) only. In control group-2, the BMI was considered as one of the matching criteria in propensity matching. Multivariate regression models were utilized to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of mortality and length of stay (LOS).ResultsWith well-balanced matching, 33,720 (weighted) patients were included in the analysis. In-hospital mortality rates after HF admission were significantly lower in patients with a history of bariatric surgery compared with control group-1 (0.96% versus 1.86%, OR .52, 95% CI .35–0.77, P = .0013) and control group-2 (0.96% versus 1.86%, OR .52, 95% CI .35–0.77, P = .0011). Furthermore, LOS was shorter in the bariatric surgery group compared with control group-1 (4.8 ± 4.4 versus 5.7 ± 5.7 d, P < .001) and control group-2 (4.8 ± 4.4 versus 5.4 ± 6.3 d, P < .001).ConclusionsOur data suggest that prior bariatric surgery is associated with almost 50% reduction in in-hospital mortality and shorter LOS in patients with HF admission.     

Improvement of glucose metabolism following rapid weight loss after bariatric surgery and its impact on reduction of visceral abdominal fat versus free fat muscle

BackgroundBody fat distribution is highly associated with metabolic disturbances. Skeletal muscle plays an important role in glucose metabolism, as it serves as an important organ for glucose storage in the form of glycogen. In fact, low muscle mass has been associated with metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes (T2D), systemic inflammation, and decreased survival.ObjectivesTo compare the relationship between visceral abdominal fat (VAF) and fat free mass (FFM) with the improved glucose metabolism after bariatric surgery.SettingUniversity hospital, United States.MethodsA retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent bariatric surgery between 2011 and 2017 at a university hospital in the United States. In severely obese patients with T2D, we measured the VAF via abdominal computed tomography scan and we calculated the FFM preoperatively and at a 12-month follow-up. Data collected included baseline demographic characteristics and perioperative parameters, such as treatment for hypertension (HTN) and T2D, body mass index (BMI), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), glucose, and lipid profile.ResultsA total of 25 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 52.5 ± 11.6 years. The initial BMI was 41.41 ± 5.7 kg/m² and the postoperative BMI was 31.7 ± 6.9 kg/m² (P < .0001). The preoperative VAF volume was 184.6 ± 90.2 cm³ and the postoperative VAF volume was 93.8 ± 46.8 cm³ at the 12-month follow-up (P < .0001). The preoperative FFM was 55.2 ± 11.4 kg and the postoperative FFM was 49.1 ± 12 kg (P < .072). The preoperative HbA1C was 5.8% ± .9%, which decreased postoperatively to 5.3% ± .4% at the 12-month follow-up (P < .013).ConclusionBariatric surgery has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment modality for severe obesity and T2D. Our results suggest that at 12 months, there is a reduction in VAF and HbA1C without a significant loss of FFM. Further prospective studies are needed to better understand these findings.     

Impaired skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in morbidly obese patients is normalized one year after bariatric surgery

BackgroundObesity and type 2 diabetes are associated with impaired skeletal muscle mitochondrial metabolism. As an intrinsic characteristic of an individual, skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction could be a risk factor for weight gain and obesity-associated co-morbidities, such as type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, impaired skeletal muscle metabolism could be a consequence of obesity. We hypothesize that marked weight loss after bariatric surgery recovers skeletal muscle mitochondrial function.MethodsSkeletal muscle mitochondrial function as assessed by high-resolution respirometry was measured in 8 morbidly obese patients (body mass index [BMI], 41.3±4.7 kg/m²; body fat, 48.3%±5.2%) before and 1 year after bariatric surgery (mean weight loss: 35.0±8.6 kg). The results were compared with a lean (BMI 22.8±1.1 kg/m²; body fat, 15.6%±4.7%) and obese (BMI 33.5±4.2 kg/m²; body fat, 34.1%±6.3%) control group.ResultsBefore surgery, adenosine diphosphate (ADP)-stimulated (state 3) respiration on glutamate/succinate was decreased compared with lean patients (9.5±2.4 versus 15.6±4.4 O₂ flux/mtDNA; P<.05). One year after surgery, mitochondrial function was comparable to that of lean controls (after weight loss, 12.3±5.5; lean, 15.6±4.4 O₂ flux/mtDNA). In addition, we observed an increased state 3 respiration on a lipid substrate after weight loss (10.0±3.2 versus 14.0±6.6 O₂ flux/mtDNA; P< .05).ConclusionWe conclude that impaired skeletal muscle mitochondrial function is a consequence of obesity that recovers after marked weight loss.     

Incidence of polyp formation following bariatric surgery

BackgroundMultiple studies have linked obesity to an increased risk of cancer. The correlation is so strong that the national cancer prevention guidelines recommend weight loss for patients with obesity to reduce their risk of cancer. Bariatric surgery has been shown to be very effective in sustained weight loss. However, there have been mixed findings about bariatric surgery and its effects on the risk of colorectal cancer.ObjectiveThis study sought to examine bariatric surgery patients and their risk of pre-cancerous or cancerous polyps to elucidate any risk factors or associations between bariatric surgery and colorectal cancer.SettingA retrospective review of the academic medical center’s bariatric surgery database was performed from January 2010 to January 2017. Patients who underwent medical or surgical weight loss and had a subsequent colonoscopy were included in the study. Positive colonoscopy findings were described as malignant or premalignant polyps.MethodsA total of 1777 patients were included, with 1360 in the medical group and 417 in the surgical group. Data analysis included patient demographics, co-morbidities, procedure performed, surgical approach, weight loss, and colonoscopy findings. A multivariate analysis was used to determine whether an association exists between weight loss and incidence of colorectal polyps, and if so, whether the association different for medical versus surgical weight loss.ResultsA higher percentage of body mass index (BMI) reduction was seen in the surgical group. An overall comparison showed average reductions in BMI of 27.7% in the surgical group and 3.5% in the medical group (P < .0001). Patients with the greatest reduction in BMI, regardless of medical or surgical therapy, showed a lower incidence of precancerous and cancerous polyps (P = .041).ConclusionThis study offers a unique approach in examining the incidence of colorectal polyps related to obesity. Patients with the greatest reduction in their BMI, more common in the surgical group, had a lower incidence of precancerous and cancerous polyps.     

Short-term rapid weight loss induced by bariatric surgery improves ventricular ejection fraction in patients with severe obesity and heart failure

BackgroundObesity is a major risk factor for the development of metabolic syndrome, coronary artery disease, and heart failure (HF). Rapid weight loss following bariatric surgery can significantly improve outcomes for patients with these diseases.ObjectivesTo assess whether bariatric surgery improves ventricular ejection fraction in patients with obesity who have heart failure.SettingPrivate practice, United States.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective review of echocardiographic changes in systolic functions in patients with obesity that underwent bariatric surgery at our institution. Patients were divided into 2 groups, those (1) without known preoperative HF and (2) with preoperative HF. We compared the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) before and after bariatric surgery in both groups. Common demographics and co-morbidities were also analyzed.ResultsA total of 68 patients were included in the analysis: 49 patients in group 1 and 19 in group 2. In group 1, 59.2% (n = 29) of patients were female, versus 57.9% (n = 11) in group 2. The excess body mass index lost at 12 months was 52.06 ± 23.18% for group 1 versus 67.12 ± 19.27% for group 2 (P = .0001). Patients with heart failure showed a significant improvement in LVEF, from 38.79 ± 13.26% before to 48.47 ± 14.57% after bariatric surgery (P = .039). Systolic function in patients from group 1 showed no significant changes (59.90 ± 6.37 mmHg) before and (59.88 ± 7.85 mmHg) after surgery (P = .98).ConclusionRapid weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with a considerable increase in LVEF and a significant improvement of systolic function.     

Gut microbiota differs a decade after bariatric surgery relative to a nonsurgical comparison group

BackgroundFew studies have assessed differences in the gut microbiota composition after bariatric surgery in the long term or whether differences are correlated with remission of type 2 diabetes.ObjectivesThis observational study assessed differences in the gut microbiota between individuals at up to 13 years after surgery and a comparison group of individuals with severe obesity. The relationship between type 2 diabetes remission and the gut microbiota was also assessed.SettingUniversity.MethodsStool samples were collected from individuals completing bariatric surgery (surgery group; n = 16) and individuals with severe obesity that did not receive surgery (nonsurgery group; n = 19) as part of the 12-year follow-up in the Utah Obesity Study. Metabolic health data were collected at baseline and the follow-up examination. The gut microbiota was quantified by sequencing the V4 region of the 16 S rRNA gene. Significant differences in microbiota composition with surgery and other covariates were determined by Unifrac distance analysis and permutational multivariate analysis of variance. Significant differences in the relative abundance of individual bacterial taxa were assessed using analysis of composition of microbiomes software.ResultsThe surgery group had higher relative abundances of Verrucomicrobiaceae (5.7 ± 1.3% versus 1.1 ± .3%) and Streptococcaceae (6.3 ± 1.0% versus 3.2 ± .8%), but lower relative abundances of Bacteroidaceae (8.8 ± 1.8% versus 18.6 ± 2.3%) 10.6 years after surgery. In a small subset of 8 individuals, a higher relative abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila was correlated with type 2 diabetes remission.ConclusionsDifferences in the gut microbiota are evident a decade after bariatric surgery compared with individuals with severe obesity that did not undergo surgery. The observed long-term differences are consistent with previous findings.     

Insurance-mandated weight management program completion before bariatric surgery provides no long-term clinical benefit

BackgroundThere is no evidence that insurance-mandated weight loss before bariatric surgery affects outcomes.ObjectiveThis retrospective study evaluated the relationship between insurance-mandated weight management program (WMP) completion before primary bariatric surgery and postoperative outcomes.SettingSuburban academic medical center.MethodsPatients who underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB, n = 572) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG, n = 484) from 2014 to 2019 were dichotomized to presence (LRYGB n = 431, SG n = 348) or absence (LRYGB n = 141, SG n = 136) of insurance-mandated WMP completion. Primary endpoints included follow-up rate, percent total weight loss (%TWL), and percent excess weight loss (%EWL) through 60 months after surgery. The Mann-Whitney U test compared between-group means with significance at P < .05.ResultsFollow-up rate, %TWL, and %EWL were not different (P = NS) up to 60 months postoperation between groups for either surgery. Both LRYGB and SG patients without WMP completion maintained greater %TWL (LRYGB: 34.4 ± 11.1% versus 29.8 ± 11.0%, P = .159; SG: 21.4 ± 10.0% versus 18.2 ± 10.5%, P = .456) and %EWL (LRYGB: 71.3 ± 26.3% versus 67.6 ± 26.5%, P = .618; SG: 49.2 ± 18.8% versus 47.5 ± 28.8%, P = .753) at 36 months after surgery. Secondarily, duration of time to get to surgery was significantly greater among yes-WMP patients (LRYGB: 178 days versus 121 days, P < .001; SG: 169 days versus 95 days, P < .001).ConclusionInsurance-mandated WMP completion before bariatric surgery delays patient access to surgery without improving postoperative weight loss potential and must be abandoned.     

Diabetes and Weight in Comparative Studies of Bariatric Surgery vs Conventional Medical Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

We performed a meta-analysis of weight loss and remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies of bariatric surgery vs conventional medical therapy. English articles published through June 10, 2013 that compared bariatric surgery with conventional therapy and included T2DM endpoints with ≥12-month follow-up were systematically reviewed. Body mass index (BMI, in kilogram per square meter), glycated hemoglobin (HbA_1C, in degree), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG, in milligram per deciliter) were analyzed by calculating weighted mean differences (WMDs) and pooled standardized mean differences and associated 95 % confidence intervals (95 % CI). Aggregated T2DM remission event data were analyzed by calculating the pooled odds ratio (POR) and 95 % CI. Random effects assumptions were applied throughout; I ²?≥?75.0 % was considered indicative of significant heterogeneity. Systematic review identified 512 articles: 47 duplicates were removed, 446 failed inclusion criteria (i.e., n?<?10 per arm, animal studies, reviews, case reports, abstracts, and kin studies). Of 19 eligible articles, two not focused on diagnosed T2DM and one with insufficient T2DM data were excluded. In the final 16 included papers, 3,076 patients (mean BMI, 40.9; age, 47.0; 72.0 % female) underwent bariatric surgery; 3,055 (39.4; 48.6, 69.0 %) received conventional or no weight-loss therapy. In bariatric surgery vs conventional therapy groups, the mean 17.3?±?5.7 month BMI WMD was 8.3 (7.0, 9.6; p?<?0.001; I ²?=?91.8), HbA_1C was 1.1 (0.6, 1.6; p?<?0.001; I ²?=?91.9), and FPG, 24.9 (15.9, 33.9; p?<?0.001; I ²?=?84.8), with significant differences favoring surgery. The overall T2DM remission rate for surgery vs conventional group was 63.5 vs 15.6 % (p?<?0.001). The Peto summary POR was 9.8 (6.1, 15.9); inverse variance summary POR was 15.8 (7.9, 31.4). Of the included studies, 94.0 % demonstrated a significant statistical advantage favoring surgery. In a meta-analysis of 16 studies (5 RCTs) with 6,131 patients and mean 17.3-month follow-up, bariatric surgery was significantly more effective than conventional medical therapy in achieving weight loss, HbA_1C and FPG reduction, and diabetes remission. The odds of bariatric surgery patients reaching T2DM remission ranged from 9.8 to 15.8 times the odds of patients treated with conventional therapy.     

The effect of bariatric surgery on gout: a comparative study

BackgroundObesity is a risk factor for the development of gout. An increased incidence of early gouty attacks after bariatric surgery has been reported, but the data is sparse. The effect of weight loss surgery on the behavior of gout beyond the immediate postoperative phase remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pre- and postoperative frequency and features of gouty attacks in bariatric surgery patients.MethodsCharts were reviewed to identify patients who had gout before bariatric surgery. Demographic and gout-related parameters were recorded. The comparison group consisted of obese individuals with gout who underwent nonbariatric upper abdominal procedures.ResultsNinety-nine morbidly obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery had gout. The comparison group consisted of 56 patients. The incidence of early gouty attack in the first month after surgery was significantly higher in the bariatric group than the nonbariatric group (17.5% versus 1.8%, P = .003). In the bariatric group, 23.8% of patients had at least one gouty attack during the 12-month period before surgery, which dropped to 8.0% during postoperative months 1–13 (P = .005). There was no significant difference in the number of gouty attacks in the comparison group before and after surgery (18.2% versus 11.1%, P = .33). There was a significant reduction in uric acid levels 13-months after bariatric surgery compared with baseline values (9.1±2.0 versus 5.6±2.5 mg/dL, P = .007).ConclusionThe frequency of early postoperative gout attacks after bariatric surgery is significantly higher than that of patients undergoing other procedures. However, the incidence decreases significantly after the first postoperative month up to 1 year.     

Long-term impact of bariatric surgery on glycemic control and glucose-lowering therapy for people with type 2 diabetes: population-based cohort study

BackgroundRandomized controlled trials (RCTs) have demonstrated that bariatric surgery improves glycemic control among people with diabetes. However, evidence from RCTs may not be generalizable to real-world clinical care with unselected patients in routine clinical practice.ObjectivesTo examine long-term glycemic control and glucose-lowering drug regimens following bariatric surgery for people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in unselected patients in routine clinical practice.SettingPopulation-based cohort study using linked routinely collected real-world data from Ontario, Canada.MethodsIndividuals with T2D who were assessed for bariatric surgery at any referral center in the province between February 2010 and November 2016 were identified and divided into those who received surgery within 2 years of the initial assessment and those who did not.ResultsThere were 3674 people who had bariatric surgery and 1335 who did not. By 2 years, people who had undergone surgery had a significantly lower HbA1C (6.3 ± 1.2 % versus 7.8 ± 1.8 %, P < .0001), and this difference persisted at 3, 4, 5, and 6 years. Even by 6 years, half of those who had undergone surgery remained on no glucose-lowering drugs, and they were nearly 6 times less likely to be on insulin than those who had not undergone surgery.ConclusionsIn real-world clinical care, bariatric surgery was associated with large and sustained improvements in glycemic control.     

Long-term outcomes comparing metabolic surgery to no surgery in patients with type 2 diabetes and body mass index 30–35

BackgroundWe previously conducted a randomized study comparing metabolic surgery with medical weight management in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and body mass index (BMI) 30 to 35 kg/m². At 3-year follow-up, surgery was very effective in T2D remission; furthermore, in the surgical group, those with a higher baseline soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products had a lower postoperative BMI.ObjectivesTo provide long-term follow-up of this initial patient cohort.SettingUniversity Hospital.MethodsRetrospective chart review was performed of the initial patient cohort. Patients lost to follow-up were systematically contacted to return to clinic for a follow-up visit. Data were compared using 2-sample t test, Fisher’s exact test, or analysis of variance when applicable.ResultsOriginally, 57 patients with T2D and BMI 30 to 35 kg/m² were randomized to metabolic surgery (n = 29) or medical weight management (n = 28). Ten patients in the medical weight management group crossed over to surgery. Five-year follow-up data were available in 43 of 57 (75%) patients. Baseline mean BMI and glycated hemoglobin were 32.6 kg/m² and 7.8%, respectively. Median follow-up was 79 and 88 months in the surgical group and nonsurgical group, respectively. Compared with the nonsurgical group, the surgical patients had significantly lower rate of T2D (62% versus 100%; P = .008), lower insulin use (10% versus 50%; P = .0072), lower glycated hemoglobin (6.93% versus 8.26%; P = .012), lower BMI (25.8 versus 28.6 kg/m²; P = .007), and higher percent weight loss (21.4% versus 10.3%; P = .025). Baseline soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products was not associated with long-term outcomes.ConclusionsMetabolic surgery in T2D patients with BMI 30 to 35 kg/m² remains effective long term. Baseline soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products are most likely predictive of early outcomes only.     

Downsizing pregnancy complications: a study of paired pregnancy outcomes before and after bariatric surgery

BackgroundOverweight and obesity have been shown to be associated with increased adverse pregnancy outcomes. Weight reduction improves maternal health status and reduces the risk of pregnancy complications, as well as long-term consequences. Our objective was to compare the pregnancy outcomes of the same women who delivered before and after bariatric surgery.MethodsA retrospective study comparing pregnancy outcomes, of the same women, delivered before and after a bariatric surgery was conducted. The observed deliveries occurred from 1988 to 2008 at Soroka University Medical Center, the sole tertiary hospital in the southern region of Israel.ResultsThe present study included 288 paired pregnancies: 144 deliveries before and 144 after bariatric surgery. A significant reduction in the prepregnancy and predelivery maternal body mass index was noted after bariatric surgery (36.37 ± 5.2 versus 30.50 ± 5.4 kg/m², P < .001; and 40.15 ± 4.92 versus 34.41 ± 5.42 kg/m², P < .001; respectively). Only 8 patients (5.6%) were admitted during their pregnancy for bariatric complications. Pregnancy complications, such as hypertensive disorders (31.9% versus 16.6%; P = .004) and diabetes mellitus (20.8% versus 7.6%; P = .001), were significantly reduced after bariatric surgery. The rate of cesarean deliveries because of labor dystocia was significantly lower after bariatric surgery (5.6% versus 2.1%, P < .05). Using a multiple logistic regression model, controlling for maternal age, the reduction in hypertensive disorders (odds ratio .4, 95% confidence interval .2–.8) and diabetes mellitus (odds ratio .15, 95% confidence interval .1–.4) remained significant.ConclusionA significant decrease in pregnancy complications, such as hypertensive disorders and diabetes mellitus, is achieved after bariatric surgery.     

Change of cardiovascular risk associated serologic biomarkers after gastric bypass: A comparison of diabetic and non-diabetic Asian patients

BackgroundWhile clinical findings demonstrate a superior benefit of cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) receiving bariatric surgery over non-T2D patients, the mechanism is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the changes in the CV risk score and five CV-associated biomarkers after gastric bypass surgery.MethodWe enrolled 80 obese subjects who underwent gastric bypass (40 T2D and 40 non-T2D). CV risks were assessed using the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study (UKPDS) engine before and after surgery. Levels of five biomarkers —fasting serum fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-19, FGF-21, corin, oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL), and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products (sRAGE)—were measured before surgery and one year after surgery.ResultsThe T2D group was significantly older and had a higher CV risk score than the non-T2D group, but body mass index (BMI) was similar between the groups. Preoperative biomarker levels were similar in both the T2D and the non-T2D groups. One year after surgery, the percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) was similar between the two groups (32.2 ± 19.5% versus 34.1% ± 8.8%, p = 0.611). Complete T2D remission (hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) < 6.0%) was achieved in 29 patients (72.5%). The 10-year CV risk scores by the UKPDS risk engine reduced significantly in both the T2D and the non-T2D groups, but more in the T2D group. Three of five biomarkers changed significantly after surgery: the FGF-19 increased from 195.6 ± 249.1 pg/mL to 283.2 ± 211.8 pg/mL, corin increased from 3.3 ± 2.3 ng/mL to 4.6 ± 3.7 ng/mL, and ox-LDL decreased from 148.5 ± 71.7–107.9 U/L; the P values were 0.002, 0.002 and < 0.001, respectively. The T2D group showed a significantly different change in FGF-19 increase and FGF-21 decrease compared to the non-T2D group. The changes in corin and ox-LDL levels were not different between the T2D and non-T2D groups.ConclusionGastric bypass surgery resulted in a higher UKPDS CV risk score reduction in obese T2D Asians than in those without. FGF-19 and FGF-21 may be associated with the underlying mechanism of this difference.