Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in Patients ≥60 Years Old: Is it Worthwhile?

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is an effective treatment for morbid obesity in younger patients, leading to improvements in related co-morbidities and quality of life. Currently, little is known how these improvements apply to older patients. Methods: A prospective review was conducted of patients ≥60 years old undergoing LAGB. Weight loss, complications, changes in Short Form-36 (SF-36) scores, and a comprehensive post-operative co-morbidity, medication and quality of life questionnaire were used to assess performance. Results: 40 patients with mean age 65.8 years (range 60-72) and preoperative mean BMI of 42.2 kg/m² (range 33-54) underwent LAGB from February 2000 to September 2005. Mean excess weight lost at 2 years was 54%. 3 complications (7.5%) occurred (1 slippage and 2 access-port infections). There were no perforations, erosions or deaths. After a mean postoperative interval of 27 months, SF-36 scores improved significantly in 4 of 8 components and exceeded age-matched population controls in 3 components. Co-morbidity improvement was reported in 80% of patients with diabetes, 79% with dyslipidemia, 75% with obstructive sleep apnea, 72% with heartburn, 69% with hypertension, 60% with musculoskeletal pain, and 56% with anxiety/depression. Medication requirements reduced or ceased in 66% who required musculoskeletal analgesics, 43% of diabetics, 33% using bronchodilators, and 29% with hypertension. Sleep improved in 48%, self-esteem increased in 70%, and 72% had a better outlook on life. 82% were happy that they had undergone LAGB, and 91% would recommend LAGB to other older people. Conclusion: LAGB offers safe and effective weight loss, and improvement in co-morbidities and in quality of life in morbidly obese patients aged ≥60 years.     

Laparoscopic banding: selection and technique in 830 patients

Background: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) with the Lap-Band? has been our first choice operation for morbid obesity since September 1993. Results in terms of complications and weight loss are analyzed. Methods: 830 consecutive patients (F 77.9%) underwent LAGB. Initial body weight was 127.9 ± SD 23.9 kg, and body mass index (BMI) was 46.4 ± 7.2 kg/m². Mean age was 37.9 (15-65). Steps in LAGB were: 1) establishment of reference points for dissection (equator of the balloon inflated with 25 cc air and left crus); 2) creation of a retrogastric tunnel above the bursa omentalis; 3) creation of "virtual" pouch; 4) embedding the band. Results: Mortality was 0, conversion 2.7%, and follow-up 97%. Major complications requiring reoperation developed in 3.9% (36 patients). Early complications were 1 gastric perforation (requiring band removal) and 1 gastric slippage (requiring repositioning). Late complications included 17 stomach slippages (treated by band repositioning in 12 and band removal in 5), 9 malpositions (all treated by band repositioning), 4 gastric erosions by the band (all treated by band removal), 3 psychological intolerance (requiring band removal), and 1 HIV positive (band removed). A minor complication requiring reoperation in 91 patients (11%) was reservoir leakage. 20% of patients who had % excess weight loss <30 had lost compliance to dietetic, psychological and surgical advice. BMI declined significantly from the initial 46.4 ± 7.2 to 37.3 ± 6.8 at 1 year, 36.4 ± 6.9 at 2 years, 36.8 ± 7.0 at 3 years, and 36.4 ± 7.8 at 5 years. Conclusion: LAGB is a relatively safe and effective procedure.     

Improvement in health-related quality of life in first year after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding

BackgroundWe analyzed the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and its determinants in the first year after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). The setting was 10 Italian public and private bariatric surgery centers.MethodsData collected in an ongoing, prospective, 3-year multicenter Italian study on the changes in HRQOL after LAGB were used. HRQOL was investigated using the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 questionnaire. Hunger, satiety, and the self-perceived effects of LAGB were recorded.ResultsA total of 334 patients were enrolled. The follow-up rate was 92.2%. The percentage of excess weight loss was 39.6% ± 25.8%, with very few side effects or complications. Hunger in the morning (0–10 scale) was 4.5 ± 2.7 before surgery and 3.8 ± 2.4 after 1 year (P <.001). Satiety after a meal (0–10 scale) was 7.1 ± 2.7 before surgery and 8.2 ± 1.9 at 1 year (P <.001). The self-perceived effect of LAGB on caloric intake (0–10 scale) was 8.4 ± 1.9 after 1 year. The scores for the 8 Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 subscales were significantly improved after surgery. The physical component summary score was 52.6 ± 11.9 at baseline and 79.1 ± 15.6 after 1 year (P <.001). The corresponding mental component summary scores were 52.2 ± 12.3 and 76.5 ± 17.2 (P <.001). Greater physical component summary improvement was independently associated with a low initial physical component summary (P <.001), high satiety (P = .002), a high percentage of excess weight loss (P = .013), and a high self-perceived effect of the LAGB (P = .026). Greater mental component summary improvement was associated with a low initial mental component summary (P <.001), high satiety (P <.001), a low frequency of heartburn (P = .004), and a high percentage of excess weight loss (P = .012).ConclusionsSignificant improvements in HRQOL were observed in the first year after LAGB. A poor baseline HRQOL, a high efficacy of the banding in eating control, and better weight loss might influence HRQOL changes.     

Long-Term Outcomes of Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding (LAGB) in Moderately Obese Patients With and Without Co-morbidities

Background

Overweight and obesity independently increase cardiovascular risk, while even modest weight loss can result in clinically significant improvements in cardiovascular risk and reduce long-term mortality. Lowering the body mass index (BMI) threshold for bariatric surgery to those with moderate obesity might be one way to lower the burden of this disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding (LAGB) in moderately obese subjects with or without obesity-related co-morbidities.

Methods

Thirty-four patients with BMI between 30 and 35 kg/m² (5 males/29 females, mean age 36?±?10 years, mean preoperative weight 87.9?±?7.1 kg, mean BMI 32.6?±?1.6 kg/m² and mean percentage excess weight 48.7 ± 9 %) who underwent LAGB via pars flaccida between June 1, 2002 and August 31, 2010 were included. Good response was defined as BMI <30 kg/m² or percentage estimated weight loss (%EWL) >50. Poor response was defined as BMI >30 kg/m² or %EWL less than 50 after a minimum of 1 year.

Results

Mean weight, BMI and %EWL were recorded at 1, 3, 5 and 7 years and were 77.4?±?7.6, 69.9?±?10.8, 70.9?±?9.3 and 73.3?±?12.0 kg; 28.8?±?2.9, 26.4?±?3.2, 26.5?±?3.4 and 27.4?±?5.0 kg/m²; and 36?±?23, 46.1?±?33.8, 58.6?±?31.5 and 45?±?57, respectively (p?<?0.01). Co-morbidities were diagnosed in 17/34 (50 %) patients at baseline and underwent remission or improvement in all cases after 1 year.

Conclusions

LAGB in a safe and effective procedure in patients with a BMI <35 kg/m².     

Quality of life following lung cancer surgery

BACKGROUND: Patients with non-small cell bronchogenic carcinoma have a limited survival. Quality of life (QoL) is therefore an issue of importance in this group of patients. The aim of the present study was to evaluate QoL in lung cancer patients after open surgery. METHODS: During a 4 year period (1997-2000) 194 patients with primary bronchogenic carcinoma of the lung underwent surgery at the Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery in Uppsala, Sweden; 132 patients were alive on 1 April 2001. These patients received the Short Form-36 (SF-36) health questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale, and special questions related to pulmonary symptoms (response rate 85%). Patients who underwent coronary bypass surgery (CABG) served as a comparison group (response rate 91%). Corresponding estimates of QoL in healthy controls were obtained from the SF-36 manual for the Swedish population. RESULTS: Lung cancer patients differed from CABG patients in only one subgroup of the SF-36 (role physical), but had poorer QoL than healthy controls. No difference in anxiety was found between the lung cancer patients and the CABG patients, but the latter were more likely to suffer from depression (5.0% v 3.0%). Current smokers scored lower in the mental health dimension assessment. CONCLUSION: Lung cancer patients who undergo open traditional surgical resection have a QoL comparable to that of CABG patients. Lung cancer patients have poorer physical function because of reduced pulmonary function, but show no sign of increased anxiety or depression. Those who continued to smoke after surgery had impaired mental health.     

Quality-of-Life Assessment of Morbidly Obese Patients who have Undergone a Lap-Band® Operation: 2-Year Follow-Up Study: Is the MOS SF-36 a useful instrument to measure quality of life in morbidly obese patients?

Background: Quality of life (QoL) was tested in a 2- year postoperative study using the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (MOS SF-36) to assess preoperative and 1 and 2 year postoperative QoL among one group of female patients (group 1, n = 42) and a 2 year postoperative QoL study in a second group of female patients (group 2, n = 9) who underwent a stomach reduction operation involving open surgical placement of a Lap-Band during the year 1997. Methods: The QoL of 42 patients (group 1) was assessed at most 20 hours before surgery and 1 and 2 years (12 and 24 months) postoperatively using a randomized pre-test/post-test design. The QoL of 9 patients (group 2) was assessed 2 years (24 months) postoperatively using a randomized post-test design only.The results were compared with the standardized Dutch norm datascale. Statistical data were analyzed with SPSS versions 10.0. Results: The placement of a Lap-Band in group 1 resulted in a significant reduction in Body Mass Index (BMI) in the first and second-year follow-up. Mean BMI declined significantly from 40.7 kg/m2 preoperatively to 33.1 kg/m2 at the 1-year follow-up, to 31.3 kg/m2 at 2-year follow-up. In group 2 BMI also declined significantly from 43.0 kg/m2 preoperatively to 34.2 kg/m2 at 1-year follow-up to 32.1 kg/m2 at the 2-year follow-up. Compared to the MOS SF-36 standardized Dutch norm data, a significant improvement in the QoL was seen on the effect variable bodily pain, mental health and general health perceptions in group 1. Although the bodily pain, general health and mental health perceptions increased significantly 2 years postoperatively (group 1) com pared with the Dutch standardized norm data, the preoperative general health and mental health perceptions of morbidly obese patients were, like all other preoperative effect variables, not significantly different from the scores on the Dutch standardized norm scale. Conclusion: Although other authors found that QoL improves after surgical-induced weight loss, showing significant improvements on patients' perception of their health status, these findings were not confirmed in the present study. The findings show only a significant difference in bodily pain, general health and mental health perception before and after surgical intervention and preoperatively in group 1 compared to the Dutch standardized norm data. Because of small sample size (n = 9), no significant results were found in group 2 compared to the Dutch Standardized norm data. Based on earlier and present findings, further study is recommended to ascertain whether the MOS SF-36 is valid in morbidly obese patients and whether the response set has an influence on QoL studies of these patients.     

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background In the United States, the most frequently performed bariatric procedure is the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Worldwide, the most common operation performed is the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB). The expanding use of LAGB is probably driven by the encouraging data on its safety and effectiveness, in contrast to the disappointing morbidity and mortality rates reported for RYGB. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of LAGB versus RYGB at a single institution. Methods Between November 2000 and July 2004, 590 bariatric procedures were performed. Of these, 120 patients (20%) had laparoscopic RYGB and 470 patients (80%) had LAGB. A retrospective review was performed. Results In the LAGB group, 376 patients (80%) were female, and the mean age was 41 years (range, 17–65). In the RYGB group, 110 patients (91%) were female, and the mean age was 41 years (range, 20–61). Preoperative body mass index was 47 ± 8 and 46 ± 5, respectively (p = not significant). Operative time and hospitalization were significantly shorter in LAGB patients (p < 0.001). Complications and the need for reoperation were comparable in both groups. Weight loss at 12, 18, 24, and 36 months for LAGB and RYGB was 39 ± 21 versus 65 ± 13, 39 ± 20 versus 62 ± 17, 45 ± 25 versus 67 ± 8, and 55 ± 20 versus 63 ± 9, respectively. Conclusions The current study demonstrates that LAGB is a simpler, less invasive, and safer procedure than RYGB. Although mean percentage excess body weight loss (%EBWL) in RYGB patients increased rapidly during the first postoperative year, it remained nearly unchanged at 3 years. In contrast, in LAGB patients weight loss was slower but steady, achieving satisfactory %EBWL at 3 years. Therefore, we believe that LAGB should be considered the initial approach since it is safer than RYGB and is very effective at achieving weight loss.     

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: 10-year results of a prospective,randomized trial

BackgroundThere are few studies of long-term outcomes for either laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) or laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). The objective of this study was to compare outcomes of patients randomly assigned to undergo LAGB or LRYGB at 10 years.MethodsLAGB, using the pars flaccida technique, and standard LRYGB were performed. From January 2000 to November 2000, 51 patients (mean age 34.0 ± 8.9 years; range 20–49) were randomly allocated to undergo either LAGB (n = 27, 5 men and 22 women; mean age 33.3 years; mean weight 120 kg; mean body mass index [BMI] 43.4 kg/m²) or LRYGB (n = 24, 4 men and 20 women; mean age 34.7; mean weight 120 kg; mean BMI 43.8 kg/m²). Data on complications, reoperations, weight, BMI, percentage of excess weight loss, and co-morbidities were collected yearly. The data were analyzed using Student’s t test and Fisher’s exact test, with P<.05 considered significant.ResultsFive patients in the LAGB group and 3 patients in the LRYGB group were lost to follow-up. No patient died. Conversion to laparotomy was performed in 1 (4.2%) of 24 LRYGB patients. Reoperations were required in 9 (40.9%) of 22 LAGB patients and in 6 (28.6%) of the 21 LRYGB patients. At 10-year follow-up, the LRYGB patients had a greater percentage of mean excess weight loss than did the LAGB patients (69±29% versus 46±27%; P = .03).ConclusionLRYGB was superior to LAGB in term of excess weight loss results (76.2% versus 46.2%) at 10 years. However, LRYGB exposes patients to higher early complication rates than LAGB (8.3% versus 0%) and potentially lethal long-term surgical complications (internal hernia and bowel obstruction rate: 4.7%).     

Quality-of-life assessment of morbidly obese patients who have undergone a Lap-Band operation: 2-year follow-up study. Is the MOS SF-36 a useful instrument to measure quality of life in morbidly obese patients?

BACKGROUND: Quality of life (QoL) was tested in a 2-year postoperative study using the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (MOS SF-36) to assess preoperative and 1 and 2 year postoperative QoL among one group of female patients (group 1, n = 42) and a 2 year postoperative QoL study in a second group of female patients (group 2, n = 9) who underwent a stomach reduction operation involving open surgical placement of a Lap-Band during the year 1997. METHODS: The QoL of 42 patients (group 1) was assessed at most 20 hours before surgery and 1 and 2 years (12 and 24 months) postoperatively using a randomized pre-test/post-test design. The QoL of 9 patients (group 2) was assessed 2 years (24 months) postoperatively using a randomized post-test design only. The results were compared with the standardized Dutch norm datascale. Statistical data were analyzed with SPSS versions 10.0. RESULTS: The placement of a Lap-Band in group 1 resulted in a significant reduction in Body Mass Index (BMI) in the first and second-year follow-up. Mean BMI declined significantly from 40.7 kg/m2 preoperatively to 33.1 kg/m2 at the 1-year follow-up, to 31.3 kg/m2 at 2-year follow-up. In group 2 BMI also declined significantly from 43.0 kg/m2 preoperatively to 34.2 kg/m2 at 1-year follow-up to 32.1 kg/m2 at the 2-year follow-up. Compared to the MOS SF-36 standardized Dutch norm data, a significant improvement in the QoL was seen on the effect variable bodily pain, mental health and general health perceptions in group 1. Although the bodily pain, general health and mental health perceptions increased significantly 2 years postoperatively (group 1) compared with the Dutch standardized norm data, the preoperative general health and mental health perceptions of morbidly obese patients were, like all other preoperative effect variables, not significantly different from the scores on the Dutch standardized norm scale. CONCLUSION: Although other authors found that QoL improves after surgical-induced weight loss, showing significant improvements on patients' perception of their health status, these findings were not confirmed in the present study. The findings show only a significant difference in bodily pain, general health and mental health perception before and after surgical intervention and preoperatively in group 1 compared to the Dutch standardized norm data. Because of small sample size (n = 9), no significant results were found in group 2 compared to the Dutch Standardized norm data. Based on earlier and present findings, further study is recommended to ascertain whether the MOS SF-36 is valid in morbidly obese patients and whether the response set has an influence on QoL studies of these patients.     

Feasibility and technique of laparoscopic conversion of adjustable gastric banding to sleeve gastrectomy

BackgroundTo evaluate the feasibility, safety, and short-term efficacy of the conversion of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) because of inadequate weight loss.MethodsThe inclusion criteria were an inadequate percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), defined as <30% at ≥1 year after LAGB. From August 2002 to October 2007, 27 patients (17 women and 10 men) had undergone removal of their LAGB and conversion to LSG. The average age at LSG was 43.6 ± 11.4 years (range 25–66). Before LAGB, the mean weight and body mass index was 129.8 ± 21.9 kg (range 95–178) and 45 ± 8.1 kg/m² (range 35–64), respectively. The average interval between LAGB and LSG was 51.2 ± 30.1 months (range 22–132). Before conversion, the mean weight, body mass index, and %EWL was 117.9 ± 27.3 kg (range 63–170), 39 ± 9.6 kg/m² (range 24–61), and 18.1% ± 18.3%, respectively. Of the 27 patients, 12 had 19 obesity-related co-morbidities, including arterial hypertension in 7, type 2 diabetes mellitus in 2, degenerative joint disease in 7, and sleep apnea in 3.ResultsThe mean operative time was 120.6 ± 32.4 minutes (range 65–195). No conversion to open surgery was required, and no patient died. The postoperative complications included a subphrenic hematoma that required laparoscopic drainage; no postoperative leaks developed. The mean hospital stay was 3.2 ± 1.4 days (range 2–8). After a mean follow-up of 18.6 ± 14.8 months (range 1–59) for 23 patients (4 patients were lost to follow-up), the mean weight, body mass index, and weight loss was 100.7 ± 23.5 kg (range 61–152), 34.6 ± 8.7 kg/m² (range 21–50.4), and 23 ± 12.4 kg (range 2–55), respectively. The patients had had an additional 16.7% EWL after LSG for a total average %EWL of 34.8% ± 21.8% (P <.05). Of the 12 patients with obesity-related co-morbidities, 5 had had resolution, including arterial hypertension in 1, type 2 diabetes mellitus in 1, degenerative joint disease in 2, and sleep apnea in 2.ConclusionThe results of this study support the safety of LSG in the case of an inadequate %EWL after LAGB. However, the degree of weight loss and co-morbidity resolution is of concern.     

Quality of life of patients with Takayasu's arteritis

OBJECTIVE: Takayasu's arteritis (TA) is a chronic immune vasculitis that causes inflammation of the aorta and its branches and is clinically characterized by exacerbations and remissions. This study examined the quality of life (QoL) of patients with TA using the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey, a validated health related QoL questionnaire. METHODS: Questionnaires that included the SF-36 and demographic related variables were mailed to 392 patients enrolled in the Takayasu's Arteritis Research Association. Raw SF-36 scores, as well as Physical Health Summary (PHS) and Mental Health Summary (MHS) scores, were calculated according to standard protocols. Data were analyzed for predictors of superior QoL using univariate and stepwise logistic regression analysis. SF-36 scores were also compared with those of other chronic diseases associated with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) published in the literature. Results are reported as mean +/- standard error of the mean. RESULTS: A total of 158 patients (144 women, 14 men) with average age of 42.2 +/- 1.1 years responded to the questionnaire. Mean onset of symptoms occurred at 30.5 +/- 1.2 years, with a mean age at diagnosis of 34.7 +/- 1.2, and a median of four doctors were seen before diagnosis. The group underwent 299 TA-related surgical procedures (1.9 +/- 0.3), including coronary (38%), carotid (35%), upper extremity (30%), and lower extremity (26%) revascularization. PHS and MHS summary scores (39.2 +/- 1.0 and 44.5 +/- 1.0, respectively) were worse than mean scores for an age-matched healthy population as well as nationally reported scores for diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary artery disease (all P < .0001). Multivariate predictors of better physical QoL were younger age (P = .003) and remission of the disease (P = .0002). The use of immunomodulating medications was associated with inferior physical QoL (P = .02). The sole predictor of better mental QoL was remission of disease (P = .002). CONCLUSION: TA is a rare disease with profound consequences on QoL. Scores for physical and mental health are worse compared with many other chronic diseases associated with PVD. Superior physical QoL is seen in younger patients, whereas inferior physical QoL is encountered in those who take immunomodulating medications. Because the only factor to influence positively both physical and mental QoL is disease remission, every effort should be directed to attenuate disease activity.     

Quality of life after total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis or proctocolectomy and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis for familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND: Knowledge of postoperative health status is important in decision-making about the type of operation necessary in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). This study compared the quality of life (QoL) between patients with an ileorectal anastomosis (group 1) and those with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (group 2). METHODS: QoL was assessed with both a generic questionnaire (Short Form-36 Health Survey; SF-36) and a disease-specific questionnaire (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Colorectal QoL Questionnaire; EORTC QLQ-CR38). The SF-36 consists of 36 items representing eight generic health domains, and the EORTC QLQ-CR38 comprises 38 items representing disease-specific health domains. Both questionnaires were distributed among 323 patients with FAP known at the Dutch Polyposis Registry who had previously undergone either operation. The results of the SF-36 were compared with the scores of age- and sex-matched respondents from the general population. RESULTS: Some 279 patients (86 per cent), 161 in group 1 and 118 in group 2, completed the questionnaire. Generic and disease-specific QoL was the same for groups 1 and 2. The SF-36 scores of both groups were significantly lower than those of the general population. CONCLUSION: There were no differences with respect to health status between patients in groups 1 and 2, and preference for either procedure cannot be based on QoL.     

Obesity Surgery in the Philippines: Experience in a Private Tertiary Care Hospital for Years 2002 to 2004

Background Information on experience in bariatric surgery in the Asia-Pacific region is minimal: hence the need for more reports from this area. Methods The procedures of bariatric surgery and outcome as part of a weight management program in a tertiary care private hospital in the Philippines is reported from years 2002 to 2004. 50 patients were included, of which 60% underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and 40% Roux-en- Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). Results There were more females than males (64% vs 36%) with the mean age 38 ± 13.1 years. Initial mean BMI was 46.2 kg/m2, which decreased to 27.0 kg/m² in 1 year. Initial mean weight was 126.7 ± 25.4 kg, of which the 1 year weight loss was 32.3 kg for the morbidly obese and 58.0 kg for the super obese. %EWL at 1 year was 30.2%. There was greater weight loss with RYGBP compared to LAGB at 1 year (43.5 kg vs 30.2 kg). There was no mortality, and early complications were: wound infection (2/50 or 4%), and 1/50 or 2% each for pneumonia, dehydration, gastritis, and leakage. Late complications were: band slippage (2/20 or 10%), stomal stenosis (1/20 or 5%), and ventral hernia (1/5 or 20%). Conclusion Bariatric surgery is safe with a low complication rate and the outcome was similar to the reported data from Asia and the western world.     

A 5-Year Experience of Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in China

Background

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has been our operation of choice for morbid obesity since 2003. The aim of this study was to review 5 years of LAGB procedures at a single institution in China.

Methods

All patients who underwent LAGB at our institution from June 2003 to November 2009 were analyzed retrospectively. A telephone survey of patients was conducted in 2010.

Results

This study included 188 Chinese patients, of which 69.7 % were female and 8 (4.3 %) were super-obese (body mass index (BMI) >50 kg/m²). The mean age of patients was 27.2?±?9.1 years (range, 14–55 years), mean weight was 106.8?±?24.7 kg (range, 67–230 kg), and mean BMI was 37.5?±?6.2 kg/m² (range, 26.1–61.7 kg/m²). The mortality rate was 0 %. Six bands were removed (four for slippage). One operation was converted to an open procedure. Ninety-eight patients were surveyed by telephone. The mean weight loss was 17.6?±?12.5 kg, and the mean follow-up time was 23.6 months. Percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) at 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years was 27.8?±?16.4, 39.0?±?23.1, 44.1?±?27.3, and 43.1?±?28.4 %, respectively. The nonresponder rate (%EWL <30 %) at 2 years was 33.3 % (20/60). Weight regain of more than 10 kg from nadir was observed in 10 of the 98 patients (10.2 %).

Conclusions

LAGB is a relatively safe procedure with few major complications. However, a minority of morbidly obese patients did not benefit sufficiently from their surgery.     

A Single, Global Patient-Centered Measure from the SF-36 Instrument to Assess Surgical Outcomes and Quality of Life: A Pilot Study

Background

Many quality of life (QoL) and patient-reported outcomes (PRO) measures have been developed to assess the effects of disease processes and treatments. Although these instruments are valuable, the process is hampered because of their number and lack of interchangeability.

Methods

We identified a cohort of patients across a variety of operations within 3–12?months postoperatively. Patients completed the SF-36, measuring eight domains of QoL (physical functioning, role-physical, role-emotional, bodily pain, vitality, mental health, social functioning, and general health), plus a health transition item: Compared to one year ago, how would you rate your health in general now?. (1) Much better now than one year ago. (2) Somewhat better now than one year ago. (3) About the same as one year ago. (4) Somewhat worse than one year ago. (5) Much worse than one year ago. Additional data included improvement of preoperative symptoms, the occurrence of any postoperative symptoms, and the occurrence of any postoperative complications.

Results

Of 217 patients, 28?% were much better, 28?% somewhat better, 27?% unchanged, 13?% somewhat worse, and 3?% much worse. The health transition results were associated with all SF-36 domains, preoperative symptom change (p?=?0.03) and persistent or new postoperative symptoms (p?=?0.001), but not postoperative complications. Patients with persistent or new symptoms postoperatively had worse scores in the role-emotional (p?=?0.01), bodily pain (p?=?0.05), social functioning (p?=?0.02), and mental health (p?=?0.009) domains of the SF-36.

Conclusions

This single, global assessment of health transition may be a promising practical alternative to assess postoperative patient-centered outcomes. Improved patients had better QoL scores, preoperative symptoms elimination, and no operation-related symptoms, but the occurrence of complications did not affect improvement.     

Correlation between quality of life and voiding variables in patients treated with percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) and voiding variables in patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction treated with percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS), as it is assumed that improvements in voiding will lead to a better QoL in such patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 30 patients with urge urinary incontinence who were treated with PTNS; 24-h bladder diaries and QoL questionnaires (Short Form, SF-36, and incontinence-specific QoL) were completed at baseline and after PTNS. RESULTS: There was a significant correlation (P < 0.05) between the number of pads used and the SF-36 domains of physical and vitality, between the number of incontinence episodes and the SF-36 domains of physical and role physical, between nocturia and the SF-36 domains of general and mental health, between the mean voided volume and the SF-36 domains of role physical and final, and between the mean voided volume and the incontinence-specific QoL score. CONCLUSIONS: PTNS is useful for treating refractory urge incontinence and should at least be considered as a therapeutic alternative before resorting to aggressive surgery, as voiding and QoL variables significantly and quantifiably correlate in patients with refractory urge urinary incontinence who are treated with PTNS. Patients must have a reduction of >or = two pads/day before their QoL improves, and this might be the best definition of successful therapy for patients with urge urinary incontinence.     

Effects of Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding on Weight Loss,Metabolism, and Obesity-Related Comorbidities: 5-year Results in China

Background

Despite some reports about the long-term metabolic outcomes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in the Western populations, there are few reports on the Asian population whose body size and fat distribution are different. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the medium-term effects of LAGB on weight loss and metabolic outcomes of obese patients with different body mass index (BMI) in China.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed to review the 5-year follow-up data of 56 patients (18 males, 38 females) who received LAGB from November 2003 to May 2013 at the Shanghai Changhai Hospital. The patients were evaluated at years 1, 3, and 5 after operation in the outpatient clinic, and the weight loss, metabolic parameters, and remission of comorbidities were measured.

Results

The 56 patients preoperatively had BMI of 37.4?±?6.0 kg/m², with BMI?<?35 kg/m² in 19 patients (BMI <35 kg/m² group), and BMI?≥?35 kg/m² in 37 patients (BMI?≥?35 kg/m² group). The percentages of excess weight loss (%EWL) of the BMI?<?35 kg/m² group at years 1, 3, and 5 were 65.2, 65.6, and 65.7 %, respectively, indicating the majority of metabolic parameters were significantly improved (P?<?0.05). However, in the BMI?≥?35 kg/m² group, the %EWL were 37.9, 34.8, and 26.5 %, respectively, except at year 1 when the metabolic parameters improved significantly (P?<?0.05), those at year 3 and year 5 did not significantly improve compared with the preoperative levels. Similar results were observed in the improvement of comorbidities.

Conclusions

Relatively low medium-term weight loss, metabolic improvement, and resolution or remission of obesity-related comorbidities and high reoperation rate were observed in our population of patients with BMI?≥?35 kg/m² who underwent LAGB.     

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding versus laparoscopic gastric bypass for morbid obesity: A single-institution comparison study of early results

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) are common surgical procedures for morbid obesity, but few studies have compared LRYGB and LAGB. All patients who underwent LRYGB and LAGB by a single surgeon at Legacy Health System were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Preoperatively, most patients were allowed to choose between LRYGB and LAGB. Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), complications, mortality, and weight loss were examined. From October 2000 to November 2003, 219 patients underwent LRYGB and 154 patients underwent LAGB. Mean preoperative BMI was 49.5 ± 6.6 and 50.9 ± 9.4 kg/m2, respectively (P = 0.10). Mean age was 42 ± 9 and 47 < 11 years (P < 0.001). The LAGB group had a higher proportion of male patients (21% versus 7%, P < 0.001). Patients undergoing LRYGB had longer operative times (134 versus 76 minutes, P < 0.001), more blood loss (43 versus 28 ml, P < 0.01), and longer hospital stays (2.6 versus 1.3 days, P < 0.001). Excess weight loss was 35% for LRYGB versus 19% for LAGB at 3-month follow-up (P < 0.001), 49% versus 25% at 6 months (P < 0.001), 64% versus 36% at 12 months (P < 0.001), 70% versus 45% at 24 months (P < 0.001), and 60% versus 57% at 36 months (P = 0.85). Major complications occurred in 7% and 6% (P < 0.58) and minor complications occurred in 18% and 20% (P = 0.65) of patients, respectively. Reoperation occurred in 21 patients (10%) after LRYGB and 31 (20%) patients after LAGB (P < 0.01). Of patients undergoing reoperation, eight (38%) LRYGB patients and one (3%) LAGB patient required open laparotomy. One death occurred in each group. Patients undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding have shorter operative times, less blood loss, and shorter hospital stays compared with laparoscopic gastric bypass patients. The incidence of major and minor complications is similar; however, morbidity after LRYGB is potentially greater and the reoperation rate is higher in the LAGB group. Early weight loss is greater with gastric bypass, but the difference appears to diminish over time. Presented at the Forty-Fifth Annual Meeting of The Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, New Orleans, Louisiana, May 15–19, 2004 (oral presentation). Supported in part by an educational grant from U.S. Surgical (Norwalk, CT).     

The influence of alcohol abuse history on the differential, longitudinal patterns of mental and physical quality of life following liver transplantation

This prospective, longitudinal study investigated change in physical and mental health quality of life (QoL) in a sample of 65 end-stage liver disease patients before and after liver transplantation. Physical and mental health QoL were assessed using the SF-36 Physical Health Summary and Mental Health Summary, respectively. Baseline data were collected prior to transplant and follow-up data were collected at 1 and 6 months after transplantation. Repeated-measures analysis of variance results indicate that physical QoL did not improve significantly between baseline and 1-month follow-up (F = .031, P = .860) but did between 1- and 6-month follow-up (F = 20.873, P < .001). Significant between-subject effects suggested attenuated improvement for patients with alcohol abuse histories (F = 6.213, P = .017). Physical QoL did not improve between 1- and 6-month follow-up for patients with alcohol abuse history (t₍₁₃₎ = −1.074, P = .112). By contrast, mental health QoL improved significantly between baseline and 1-month follow-up (F = 13.840, P < .001), but not between 1- and 6-month follow-up (F = .750, P = .391). No significant differences were found on the Mental Health Summary index based on alcohol abuse history for either time period. Post hoc multivariate analysis of variance results suggested worse functioning (F = 2.674, P = .013) for individuals with alcohol abuse history on SF-36 Physical Functioning (F = 5.55, P = .021), Body Pain (F = 13.578, P < .001), Vitality (F = 4.337, P = .040), and Social Functioning (F = 10.50, P = .002) subscales. For liver transplant patients, improvements in psychosocial functioning and QoL precede improvements in physical QoL. Attenuated physical QoL improvements for patients with alcohol abuse histories are related to greater pain and physical deficits.     

Quality of Life in Morbidly Obese Patients after Surgical Weight Loss

Background Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is seen as a safe surgical procedure in individuals with morbid obesity, with satisfactory weight loss and significant postoperative improvement in quality of life (QoL). The present study investigates the predictive value of various parameters such as age, gender, weight loss, and preoperative psychiatric disorders with regard to QoL after LAGB. Methods 300 obesity surgery patients were sent questionnaires to assess a variety of personal parameters. QoL was assessed using the Ardelt-Moorehead Quality of Life Questionnaire. Questionnaires were completed by 140 (63%) female patients and 36 (45%) male patients. Results Average weight loss in both sexes was 14.7 kg/m²; however, not all patients successfully lost weight. No difference was seen in satisfaction with weight loss among the age groups. Some correlations were seen between the amount of weight loss and QoL scores in females, but not in males. Greater weight loss showed a statistically significant positive correlation to self-esteem, physical activity, social relationships, sexuality, and eating pattern. Obese females with no preoperative psychiatric diagnosis had better self-esteem, more physical activity, and more satisfying social and sexual relationships than those with psychiatric diagnoses at follow-up. Conclusion A majority of morbidly obese patients show psychological and interpersonal improvement after surgery. However, some obese patients, particularly those having a preoperative psychiatric or personality disorder, need more individual strategies for psychosocial intervention than do obese individuals with no psychiatric disorder.