Symptomatic improvement in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) following laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) on symptomatic control of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Methods: Morbidly obese patients (n = 435) who underwent LRYGBP for morbid obesity were assessed for changes in GERD symptoms, quality of life, and patient satisfaction after surgery. Results: A total of 238 patients (55%) had evidence of chronic GERD, and 152 patients (64%) voluntarily participated in the study. The mean body mass index (BMI) was 48 kg/m2. The mean excess weight loss was 68.8% at 12 months. There was a significant decrease in GERD-related symptoms, including heartburn (from 87% to 22%, p<0.001); water brash (from 18% to 7%, p<0.05); wheezing (from 40% to 5%, p<0.001) laryngitis (from 17% to 7%, p<0.05); and aspiration (from 14% to 2%, p<0.01) following LRYGBP. Postoperatively, the use of medication decreased significantly both for proton pump inhibitors (from 44% to 9%, p<0.001) and for the H2 blockers (from 60% to 10%, p<0.01). SF-36 physical function scores and the mental component summary scores improved after the operation (87 vs 71; p<0.05 and 83 vs 66; p<0.05, respectively). Overall patient satisfaction was 97%. Conclusion: LRYGBP results in very good control of GERD in morbidly obese patients with follow-up as late as 3 years. Morbidly obese patients who require surgery for GERD may be better served by LRYGBP than fundoplication because of the additional benefit of significant weight loss.     

Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass is a Safe and Effective Operation for the Treatment of Morbid Obesity in Patients Older than 55 Years

Background: Bariatric surgery in patients >50 years has been controversial. We investigated the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) in patients >55 years of age. Methods: Prospective data on 71 patients (54 females and 17 males) undergoing LRYGBP were reviewed. The patients were followed for a mean of 17 months (range 2-35 months). Results: The mean age was 59 years (range 55-67 years), and the mean preoperative BMI was 50.2 kg/m² (range 37-65 kg/m²). There were no conversions to open technique. Mean percent of excess weight loss (%EWL) was 20%, 48%, 64% and 67% at 1, 6, 12 and 24 months respectively. 89% of patients had at least a 50% EWL at 1 year postoperatively. There was a significant decrease in the number of patients requiring medical treatment for co-morbidities associated with morbid obesity: diabetes mellitus 87%, hypertension 70% and sleep apnea 86%. There was no inpatient mortality. 1 patient died suddenly 2 weeks postoperatively of possible myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism. 16 patients developed 22 complications. The median length of hospital stay was 3 days. Conclusion: LRYGBP is a safe and well-tolerated surgical option for the treatment of morbid obesity in patients >55 years old. These patients demonstrate a satisfactory weight loss and resolution of co-morbidities.     

Randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus laparoscopic vertical banded gastroplasty for obesity

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic techniques have been developed for performing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) and vertical banded gastroplasty (LVBG) in patients with morbid obesity. It is not certain, however, which is the better technique in non-superobese patients (body mass index less than 50 kg/m(2)). METHODS: Eighty-three patients (LRYGBP 37, LVBG 46) were assessed in a randomized clinical trial. Perioperative complications were recorded together with preoperative and postoperative respiratory function and mobilization rate. Patients were monitored for 2 years after operation with regard to weight change and the need for remedial surgery. RESULTS: There were no conversions to open surgery. The mean operating time was longer for LRYGBP than LVBG (138 versus 105 min). Five early reoperations were performed after LRYGBP (three for haemorrhage, one for ileus and one suspected leak) and one after LVBG (suspected leak). There were no differences in postoperative respiratory function or mobilization. Weight reduction was greater after LRYGBP (excess weight loss 78.3 versus 62.9 per cent 1 year after surgery, P = 0.009; 84.4 versus 59.8 per cent at 2 years, P < 0.001). Remedial surgical intervention was required in eight patients after LVBG (conversion to Roux-en-Ygastric bypass) and none after LRYGBP. CONCLUSION: LRYGBP and LVBG were comparable in terms of operative safety and postoperative recovery, but weight reduction was better after LRYGBP.     

Short-term Results of Laparoscopic Mini-Gastric Bypass

Background: The laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass (MGB) is a modification of Mason's loop gastric bypass, but with a long lesser curvature tube. With weight loss results similar to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP), the MGB is a simpler operation with a low complication rate. Controversy exists concerning the efficacy and side-effects of this procedure. This report presents the technique of laparoscopic MGB and its results in 423 patients. Methods: From October 2001 to October 2004, 423 consecutive patients (87 males and 336 females) underwent laparoscopic MGB (LMGB) for morbid obesity. Mean age was 30.8 years, preoperative mean weight 120.3 kg and mean BMI 44.2 kg/m². Results: All procedures were completed laparoscopically. Mean operative time was 130.8 minutes, and mean hospital stay was 5.0 days. 18 minor early complications (4.3%) were encountered, and 7 major complications (1.7%) occurred. Marginal ulcers were noted in 34 patients (8.0%) during follow-up, and anemia was found in 41 patients (9.7%). Mean BMI decreased to 29.2 and 28.4 kg/m² at 1-year and 2-year follow-up, with mean excess weight loss 69.3% and 72.2%. The Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index improved significantly 1 year after the operation. Conclusions: LMGB has a low complication and mortality rate. The learning curve is less steep than for LRYGBP, whereas the efficacy is similar.     

Obesity Surgery Results Depending on Technique Performed: Long-Term Outcome

Background  Many techniques have excellent results at 2 years of follow-up but some matters regarding their long-term efficacy have arisen. This is why bariatric surgery results must be analyzed in long-term follow-up. The aim of this study was to extend the analysis over 5 years, evaluating weight loss, morbidity, and mortality of the surgical procedures performed. Methods  This was a retrospective cohort study of the different procedures for morbid obesity practiced in our Department of Surgery for morbid obesity. The results have been analyzed in terms of weight loss, morbidity improvement, and postoperative morbidity (Bariatric Analysis And Reporting Outcome System). Results  One hundred twenty-five patients were operated on open vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG), 150 patients of open biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) of Scopinaro, 100 patients of open modified BPD (common limb 75 cm; alimentary limb 225 cm), and 115 patients of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP). Mean follow-up was: VBG 12 years, BPD 7 years, and LRYGBP 4 years. An excellent initial weight loss was observed at the end of the second year of follow-up in all techniques, but from this time an important regain of weight was observed in VBG group and a discrete weight regain in LRYGBP group. Only BPD groups kept excellent weight results so far in time. Mortality was: VBG 1.6%, BPD 1.2%, and LRYGBP 0%. Early postoperative complications were: VBG 25%, BPD 20.4%, and LRYGBP 20%. Late postoperative morbidity was: protein malnutrition 11% in Scopinaro BPD, 3% in Modified BPD group, and no cases reported either in VBG group or LRYGBP group; iron deficiency 20% VBG, 62% Scopinaro BPD, 40% modified BPD, and 30.5% LRYGBP. A 14.5% of VBG group required revision surgery to gastric bypass or to BPD due to 100% weight regain or vomiting. A 3.2% of Scopinaro BPD with severe protein malnutrition required revision surgery to lengthen common limb to 100 cm. A 0.8% of LRYGBP required revision surgery to distal LRYGBP (common limb 75 cm) due to 100% weight regain. Conclusions  The most complex bariatric procedures increase the effectiveness but unfortunately they also increase morbidity and mortality. LRYGBP is safe and effective for the treatment of morbid obesity. Modified BPD (75–225 cm) can be considered for the treatment of superobesity (body mass index > 50 kg/m²), and restrictive procedures such as VBG should only be performed in well-selected patients due to high rates of failure in long-term follow-up.     

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass: Development of Technique,Respiratory Function,and Long-Term Outcome

Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is the preferred operation for the treatment of morbid obesity by many surgeons. Hereby we present the process by which laparoscopic RYGBP (LRYGBP) developed at our institution. Methods: Perioperative morbidity was recorded from 150 consecutive morbidly obese patients operated upon by RYGBP from August 1994 to March 2002. The first 76 consecutive patients have been followed up to 5 years postoperatively. A subgroup of 40 patients was recruited to evaluate the postoperative lung function in a randomized study between receiving and not receiving prophylactic chest physiotherapy. Results: In the whole series, there were 4 conversions to open surgery, 5 leaks, 12 postoperative bleedings and 1 intestinal obstruction. 1 patient succumbed after developing acute dilatation of the bypassed stomach. Respiratory function deteriorated significantly in all patients in the early postoperative period, irrespective if given physiotherapy. During the follow-up period, 3 patients developed mechanical obstruction of the Roux limb. Another patient had a perforated ulcer at the proximal pouch. Weight reduction averaged 70% of excess body weight at 2 years after surgery. Conclusions: LRYGBP is an effective treatment for morbid obesity. During the initial development, we experienced a number of serious complications. The complication rate decreased over time. Postoperative lung function was markedly impaired, but there were no beneficial effects of chest physiotherapy. Long-term weight loss after LRYGBP seems to be comparable to what has been reported after open RYGBP.     

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass versus Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in the Super-obese: A Comparative Study of 290 Patients

Background: Controversy exists regarding the best surgical treatment for super-obesity (BMI >50 kg/m 2 ). The two most common bariatric procedures performed worldwide are laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP). We undertook a retrospective single-center study to compare the safety and efficacy of these two operations in super-obese patients. Methods: 290 super-obese patients underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery: 179 LAGB and 111 LRYGBP. Results: There were one death in both groups. The early complication rate was higher in the LAGB group (10% vs 2.8%, P<0.01). Late complication rate was higher in the LAGB group (26% vs 15.3%, P<0.05). Operating time and hospital stay were significantly higher in the LRYGBP group. LRYGBP had significantly better excess weight loss than LAGB (63% vs 41% at 1 year, and 73% vs 46% at 2 years), as well as lower BMI than LAGB (35 vs 41 at 18 months). Conclusion: LRYGBP results in significantly greater weight loss than LAGB in super-obese patients, but is associated with a higher early complication rate.     

Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass in Patients on Thyroid Replacement Therapy for Subnormal Thyroid Function – Prevalence and Short-Term Outcome

Background: Hypothyroidism is associated with increased body weight. Weight gain may occur despite normal levels of serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) achieved by replacement therapy. We evaluated the prevalence of patients on thyroid replacement for subnormal thyroid function who were operated on for morbid obesity and monitored their postoperative weight loss pattern. Methods: Data was identified from a prospectively accrued database of patients undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for morbid obesity from February 2000 to November 2001. All patients with subnormal thyroid function, diagnosed by past thyroid function tests and treated by an endocrinologist, who were on thyroid replacement therapy, were identified; 5 of these were matched for age, gender, preoperative body mass index (BMI) and surgical procedure (LRYGBP) to 5 non-hypothyroid patients. Weight loss at 3 and 9 months after surgery was compared between the 2 groups. Results: 192 patients underwent LRYGBP (n=155) or LAGB (n=37). Of the 21 patients (10.9%) on thyroid replacement identified, 14 were primary, 4 were postablative, and 3 were post-surgical; 17 underwent LRYGBP. All patients had normal preoperative serum levels of TSH and T4. Comparison of the 2 matched groups of patients revealed no difference in weight loss at 3 and 9 months after surgery (P=1.0). Conclusions: The prevalence of euthyroid patients on thyroid replacement for subnormal thyroid function who undergo surgical intervention for morbid obesity is high. Short-term weight loss in these patients is comparable to normal thyroid patients. Longer follow-up may be necessary to demonstrate the weight loss pattern in this group.     

Gastrointestinal Quality of Life after Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Background: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) is a commonly performed bariatric surgical procedure for the treatment of morbid obesity (MO). Obesity-related co-morbidities reduce the quality and expectancy of life. We assessed gastrointestinal quality of life in patients following LRYGBP. Methods: The Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI test) was used in this study. A higher score correlates with better quality of life. The GIQLI test was administered to 3 non-selected groups: 100 morbidly obese patients (MO group), 100 patients who had undergone LRYGBP (LRYGBP group); and a control group of 100 individuals (CO group). The CO group was composed of healthy individuals with a BMI <30 kg/m², consecutively recruited among the companions of patients who came for a surgery consultation for obesity or other pathologies. Overall test and specific dimensions scores were evaluated for each group. Results: Overall test and specific dimensions scores were significantly lower in patients with MO when compared to the CO and LRYGBP groups. There were no differences between the CO and LRYGBP groups in the overall score with regard to disease-specific digestive symptoms and the psychological and social dimensions. Conclusions: The quality of life of morbidly obese patients is worsened not only because of the presence of digestive symptoms but also because of their emotional, physical and social impact. Patients operated on by LRYGBP experience an improvement in their quality of life, with good tolerance of the anatomical changes.     

Has Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery been Accepted in Japan? The Experience of a Single Surgeon

Background  Obesity is steadily increasing in Asia due to factors such as a lack of exercise, adoption of a more Western diet, changing lifestyles, environments, or stresses. Even in Japan, this tendency is notable, and metabolic syndrome has become widely recognized. However, bariatric surgery is still uncommon in Japan. There are no adequate data regarding the experience and outcome of bariatric surgery in Asia. Here, we report on the current status of morbid obesity and the outcomes of bariatric surgery by a single surgeon in Japan. Methods  Between February 2002 and January 2008, we have performed laparoscopic bariatric surgery for morbid obesity in 178 cases. They consisted of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) in 105 cases, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in 26 cases, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with duodenal jejunal bypass (LSG/DJB) in 14 cases, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in 13 cases, and laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch in one case under the same protocol of follow up. The first author of this paper performed all procedures. Results  One hundred and thirty-eight patients with a follow-up of over 3 months after surgery were enrolled. LRYGBP accounted for 72% of all bariatric procedures. The reduction of weight and body mass index (BMI) in LRYGBP and LSG showed similar results. These outcomes were superior to those of LAGB. Percentage of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) of LRYGBP showed greater reductions at follow-ups 6, 9, 12, and 18 months after surgery compared to that of LRYGBP and LAGB. All procedures resulted in over 50% of %EBMIL after 18 months of follow-up. There was no postoperative mortality within 30 days after surgery. Preoperative comorbidity including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were resolved or improved after surgery in most patients. Conclusion  In bariatric surgery, LRYGBP is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity, while LAGB has a low risk of postoperative complications. LSG is also a safe procedure for supermorbidly obese patients. We expect that bariatric surgery will be a common procedure for patients with morbid obesity in Japan.     

A comparison of diet and exercise therapy versus laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery for morbid obesity: a decision analysis model

BACKGROUND: In the absence of randomized controlled trials that directly compare medical versus surgical treatment of morbid obesity, decision analysis is a useful tool to help determine the optimal treatment strategy. Using decision analysis we simulated a trial comparing diet and exercise therapy to laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery to determine which approach resulted in longer life expectancy. STUDY DESIGN: A Markov decision analysis model was constructed to evaluate survival after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery compared with a diet and exercise program for a 45-year-old woman with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m(2). Baseline mortality data were derived from published tables of vital statistics, and the relative risks of death associated with obesity (relative to normal weight) were taken from epidemiologic studies. We assumed that successful surgery resulted in a reduction of BMI to 30 kg/m(2). The baseline assumptions were: an operative mortality of 0.4%; a probability of weight loss after surgery of 80%; a rate of weight loss on a diet and exercise program, 20% at two years; a rate of regain of lost weight, 95% at two years; a relative risk of death for a BMI of 40 kg/m(2), 2.70; and a relative risk of death for a BMI of 30 kg/m(2), 1.51. RESULTS: The undiscounted life expectancy after surgery was 69.7 years compared with 67.3 years for a diet and exercise program (an absolute increase in life expectancy of 2.4 years, a relative increase in life expectancy of 10.8%). Sensitivity analyses assumed discounting at 5%/y, and showed that surgery was associated with a longer expectation of life when the risk of operative mortality was less than 10%, and when the probability of weight loss after surgery was greater than 4%. CONCLUSIONS: In a decision analysis model, laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery for morbid obesity was associated with a substantially longer survival than diet and exercise therapy.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for recalcitrant gastroesophageal reflux disease in morbidly obese patients.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is commonly associated with morbid obesity (MO). Antireflux surgery has a higher failure rate in MO and addresses only one of the comorbidities present. This paper reviews the results of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) performed for recalcitrant GERD in MO. METHODS: Patients with recalcitrant GERD and a body mass index (BMI)>35 undergoing LRYGBP were included. LRYGB included crural repair, creation of a small gastric pouch (30 mL), and intestinal bypass (150 to 180 cm). All patients were followed in clinic and by telephone. RESULTS: From February 1999 to April 2001, 57 patients (51 F, 6 M) with a mean age of 43 (range, 22 to 67) and a median BMI of 43 underwent LRYGBP. Hiatal hernia or esophagitis, or both, were present in 48, Barrett's in 2. LRYGBP was possible in 52 patients; 5 required open conversion. The median hospital stay was 3 days. Complications included 1 leak, 1 pulmonary emboli, 2 reoperations for internal roux limb hernia, and 7 gastrojejunal strictures. At a mean follow-up of 18 months (range, 3 to 30), all patients report improvement or no symptoms of GERD and a mean weight loss of 40 kg (range, 16 to 70). Quality of life scores (SF-36) were above national norms for physical and mental components (median 55, norms=50). GERD-health related quality of life median score was <1 (scale, 0 to 45, 0=asymptomatic, 45=worse). CONCLUSION: LRYGBP was effective for recalcitrant GERD in MO. LRYGBP also led to weight loss and improvement in other comorbidites. Surgeons with minimally invasive expertise should consider LRYGBP for treatment of GERD in the morbidly obese.     

Laparoscopic approach to morbid obesity: personal experience of 250 gastric bypasses. Analysis of different techniques and results

AIM: Severe obesity is a major health problem affecting more than 1,000,000 people in Italy, with a 95% failure rate of nonsurgical treatments. We report our over five-years experience with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP), evaluating the postoperative course of the patients undergoing 3 different gastro-esophageal anastomosis technique: Gagner procedure (87 cases) (34.8%), the purse-string approach (93 cases) (37.2%), robotic-assisted gastric bypass (68 cases) (27.2%) and by laparoscopic hand sewn anastomosis (2 cases) (0.8%). METHODS: Between October 2000 and February 2006, we performed LRYGBP on 250 patients (77 male and 173 female aged from 16 to 65 years [mean age 43.1 years] and with an average body mass index of 51.1 kg/m(2) [35-99]). Comorbidities were: hypertension, type II diabetes, hyperlipemia, osteoarthritis, chronic restrictive pulmonary insufficiency, sleep apnea, deep venous thrombosis. RESULTS: The mean operative time was 142.3 min (80-420) with a mean hospitalization of 9.8 days (5-44). Eighteen major complications were recorded. There were no deaths. The mean percent excess body weight loss was 47.2+/-18.2% after 1 year (212 patients), 66.2+/- 19.4% after 2 years (178 patients), 78.2+/-12.4% after 3 years (139 patients), 80.6+/-11.7% after 4 years (101 patients), and 82.5+/-10.2% after 5 years (67 patients). Nearly all of the comorbidities were solved or improved. Bariatric analysis and reporting outcome system results after 5 years were excellent, good or fair in 100% of the subject evaluated. CONCLUSIONS: Although requiring the skill of an expert surgeon, LRYGBP is one of the most effective procedure available today to induce long-term weight loss, with limited nutritional risks and better prospects for improved quality of life.     

Effect of laparoscopic Roux-en Y gastric bypass on type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate pre- and postoperative clinical parameters associated with improvement of diabetes up to 4 years after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The surgical treatment of morbid obesity leads to dramatic improvement in the comorbidity status of most patients with T2DM. However, little is known concerning what preoperative clinical factors are associated with postoperative long-term improvement in diabetes in the morbidly obese patient with diabetes.METHODS We evaluated pre- and postoperative data, including demographics, duration of diabetes, metabolic parameters, and clinical outcomes, in all patients with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and type T2DM undergoing LRYGBP from July 1997 to May 2002. RESULTS: During this 5-year period, 1160 patients underwent LRYGBP and 240 (21%) had IFG or T2DM. Follow up was possible in 191 of 240 patients (80%). There were 144 females (75%) with a mean preoperative age of 48 years (range, 26-67 years). After surgery, weight and body mass index decreased from 308 lbs and 50.1 kg/m2 to 211 lbs and 34 kg/m2 for a mean weight loss of 97 lbs and mean excess weight loss of 60%. Fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin concentrations returned to normal levels (83%) or markedly improved (17%) in all patients. A significant reduction in use of oral antidiabetic agents (80%) and insulin (79%) followed surgical treatment. Patients with the shortest duration (<5 years), the mildest form of T2DM (diet controlled), and the greatest weight loss after surgery were most likely to achieve complete resolution of T2DM. CONCLUSION: LRYGBP resulted in significant weight loss (60% percent of excess body weight loss) and resolution (83%) of T2DM. Patients with the shortest duration and mildest form of T2DM had a higher rate of T2DM resolution after surgery, suggesting that early surgical intervention is warranted to increase the likelihood of rendering patients euglycemic.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Morbid Obesity: Results of our Learning Curve in 100 Consecutive Patients

Background: Morbid obesity requires life-long treatment, and bariatric surgery provides the best results. Among the bariatric procedures, laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) has been considered to be superior. However, it requires advanced laparoscopic skills and a learning curve. We analyzed our results in an initial series of 100 patients. Methods: Data of 100 consecutive patients who underwent LRYGBP for morbid obesity in a 2.5-year period were prospectively collected and analyzed with emphasis on results and complications. Results: Mean age was 31±5 years. There were 63 woman and 37 men. Preoperative BMI was 50±9 kg/m². 33 patients were considered super-obese (BMI>50). Mean operative time was 3.8 ± 0.7 hours. Two patients required conversion to open surgery. Mean hospital stay was 6 days. Complications occurred in 10 patients. Mortality rate was 2%. Excess body weight loss was as follows: 33 ± 8% at 3 months (n=92), 47 ± 2% at 6 months (n=82), 62 ± 4% at 1 year (n= 70), 66 ± 5% at 18 months (n= 63) and 67 ± 8% at 2 years (n= 35). There was significant improvement in several co-morbid conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension. Conclusion: LRYGBP is a reproducible technique. It requires the combination of bariatric and laparoscopic expertise.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Vs. Mini-gastric Bypass for the Treatment of Morbid Obesity: a 10-Year Experience

Background

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is considered the gold standard for the treatment of morbid obesity but is technically challenging and results in significant perioperative complications. While laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass (LMGB) has been reported to be a simple and effective treatment for morbid obesity, controversy exists. Long-term follow-up data from a large number of patients comparing LMGB to LRYGB are lacking.

Methods

Between October 2001 and September 2010, 1,657 patients who received gastric bypass surgery (1,163 for LMGB and 494 for LRYGB) for their morbid obesity were recruited from our comprehensive obesity surgery center. Patients who received revision surgeries were excluded. Minimum follow-up was 1?year (mean 5.6?years, from 1 to 10?years). The operative time, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay, and operative complications were assessed. Late complication, changes in body weight loss, BMI, quality of life, and comorbidities were determined at follow-up. Changes in quality of life were assessed using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index.

Results

There was no difference in preoperative clinical parameters between the two groups. Surgical time was significantly longer for LRYGB (159.2 vs. 115.3?min for LMGB, p?<?0.001). The major complication rate was borderline higher for LRYGB (3.2 vs. 1.8?%, p?=?0.07). At 5?years after surgery, the mean BMI was lower in LMGB than LRYGB (27.7 vs. 29.2, p?<?0.05) and LMGB also had a higher excess weight loss than LRYGB (72.9 vs. 60.1?%, p?<?0.05). Postoperative gastrointestinal quality of life increased significantly after operation in both groups without any significant difference at 5?years. Obesity-related clinical parameters improved in both groups without significant difference, but LMGB had a lower hemoglobin level than LRYGB. Late revision rate was similar between LRYGB and LMGB (3.6 vs. 2.8?%, p?=?0.385).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that LMGBP can be regarded as a simpler and safer alternative to LRYGB with similar efficacy at a 10-year experience.     

腹腔镜胃旁路术后病态肥胖症患者微量营养素缺乏的诊治

目的 探讨行腹腔镜胃旁路术后病态肥胖症患者血清微量营养素的变化. 方法回顾性分析121例病态肥胖症患者腹腔镜胃旁路术后6、12、24个月血清铁(Fe)、钙(Ca)、锌(Zn)、硒(Se)及维生素A(VitA)、维生素D(VitD)、维生素B12(VitB12)和甲状旁腺素(PTH)水平的变化.结果 本组121例病态肥胖症患者术前1个月平均体质量指数(body mass index,BMI)为(47±7)kg/m2,术后6个月平均BMI为(34±6)kg/m2,术后BMI平均下降(13±5)kg/m2(P＜0.01).在术后的2年随访中,血清Fe、Ca、Zn、Se、VitA、VitD、VitB12均在正常范围.虽然一些患者的血清Zn、Se和VitA水平偏低,但接近正常.而血清PTH始终高于正常水平,术后6、12、24个月分别升高了(22±34)pg/ml、(28±34)pg/ml、(31±40)pg/ml(P＜0.05).结论 本研究证明腹腔镜胃旁路手术治疗病态肥胖症患者是有效、安全的,但术后患者血清Ca、Zn、Se代谢及PTH水平有所改变.因此,建议所有腹腔镜胃旁路手术患者术后长期服用多种维生素和矿物质补充剂.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass--evaluation of three different techniques

Background:The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is one of the ideal operations for morbid obesity.The minimal invasive laparoscopic technique has been performed to shorten the operative time and to reduce the complications of the open surgery. Methods: From Jan 1999 through Jan 2001, laparoscopic RYGBP (LRYGBP) was attempted in 90 patients. Median age was 30, with median preoperative BMI 47. The preoperative nutritional habits and comorbidities were recorded. LRYGBP was done by three different techniques in three equal groups. In the first group, the gastrojejunostomy was constructed by passing the EEA anvil transorally, using a pull-wire technique. In the second group, the gastrojejunostomy was fashioned with a totally hand-sewn technique. In the third group, the gastrojejunostomy was performed with an endo-cutter cartridge and the anastomotic incision was closed with an endo TA30 stapler. Results: The results were nearly identical in the three groups. Average excess weight loss at 1 year was 70%. The mean operating time was 120 min in the first group, 100 min in the second group and 75 min in the third group. Esophageal injury was the most common problem in the first group. Incidence of gastrojejunostomy stenosis was higher in the second group (36.6%). Incidence of internal herniation was higher in the second (17%) and first (13.6%) groups than in the third group (3.3%). Conclusion: Whichever technique is used to construct the gastrojejunostomy, LRYGBP is a safe, effective and technically feasible operation for morbidly obese patients. We recommend the technique of constructing the gastrojejunostomy with an endocutter cartridge and closing the anastomotic incision with an endo TA stapler, as it saved time and reduced the incidence of the essential complications in gastric bypass surgery.     

Psoriasis Remission after Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass for Morbid Obesity

Background: Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease characterized by epithelial hyperplasia and an accelerated rate of epithelial turnover affecting approximately 1-3% of the population. Exogenous and endogenous factors including morbid obesity can increase the morbidity of psoriasis. Case Report: A 55-year-old male, who weighed 131 kg with BMI 41 kg/m², underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP). He had a 15-year duration of severe psoriasis and was being medically treated. At 12 months after LRYGBP, he had lost 39 kg (68% EWL), and had complete resolution of the psoriasis and had discontinued all preoperative medications related to the disease. At 2 years after LRYGBP, psoriasis has not recurred. Conclusion: Weight loss after LRYGBP should be considered as a strategy in the treatment of severe psoriasis in morbidly obese patients.     

Five-Year Follow-up after Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric and Partial Ileal Bypass for Treatment of Morbid Obesity and Uncontrolled Hyperlipidemia

BACKGROUND: Morbid obesity is associated with significant co-morbid illnesses and mortality. Hyperlipidemia is strongly associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is a proven and effective procedure for the treatment of morbid obesity and its related co-morbid illnesses. In a randomized prospective clinical trial, partial ileal bypass showed sustained control of hyperlipidemia and reduced comorbidities. Given risks of surgery, pharmacologic agents are the current primary therapy for hyperlipidemia. However, a morbidly obese patient with medically refractory hyperlipidemia may benefit from a combined laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and partial ileal bypass. We are describing the first case of a totally laparoscopic approach. METHODS: A 56-year-old female patient with morbid obesity (BMI 45.2 kg/m(2)) and medically refractive hyperlipidemia underwent a combined LRYGB and partial ileal bypass in 2002. She was continuously followed for 5 years for weight profile, hyperlipidemia, post-operative complications, and morbidity. RESULTS: Five-year follow-up of the patient showed sustained excess body weight loss. Her lipid profile has approached normal ranges with less medication. She experienced no comorbidities related to surgery or hyperlipidemia. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and partial ileal bypass may be the best option for the patient who has morbid obesity and medically refractory hyperlipidemia and should be considered for select patients.