Laparoscopic Greater Curvature Plication in Morbidly Obese Women with Type 2 Diabetes: Effects on Glucose Homeostasis,Postprandial Triglyceridemia and Selected Gut Hormones

Background

Laparoscopic greater curvature plication (LGCP) is an emerging bariatric procedure that reduces the gastric volume without implantable devices or gastrectomy. The aim of this study was to explore changes in glucose homeostasis, postprandial triglyceridemia, and meal-stimulated secretion of selected gut hormones [glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), ghrelin, and obestatin] in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at 1 and 6 months after the procedure.

Methods

Thirteen morbidly obese T2DM women (mean age, 53.2?±?8.76 years; body mass index, 40.1?±?4.59 kg/m²) were prospectively investigated before the LGCP and at 1- and 6-month follow-up. At these time points, all study patients underwent a standardized liquid mixed-meal test, and blood was sampled for assessment of plasma levels of glucose, insulin, C-peptide, triglycerides, GIP, GLP-1, ghrelin, and obestatin.

Results

All patients had significant weight loss both at 1 and 6 months after the LGCP (p?≤?0.002), with mean percent excess weight loss (%EWL) reaching 29.7?±?2.9 % at the 6-month follow-up. Fasting hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia improved significantly at 6 months after the LGCP (p?<?0.05), with parallel improvement in insulin sensitivity and HbA1c levels (p?<?0.0001). Meal-induced glucose plasma levels were significantly lower at 6 months after the LGCP (p?<?0.0001), and postprandial triglyceridemia was also ameliorated at the 6-month follow-up (p?<?0.001). Postprandial GIP plasma levels were significantly increased both at 1 and 6 months after the LGCP (p?<?0.0001), whereas the overall meal-induced GLP-1 response was not significantly changed after the procedure (p?>?0.05). Postprandial ghrelin plasma levels decreased at 1 and 6 months after the LGCP (p?<?0.0001) with no significant changes in circulating obestatin levels.

Conclusion

During the initial 6-month postoperative period, LGCP induces significant weight loss and improves the metabolic profile of morbidly obese T2DM patients, while it also decreases circulating postprandial ghrelin levels and increases the meal-induced GIP response.     

Equivalent Weight Loss with Marked Metabolic Benefit Observed in a Matched Cohort with and Without Type 2 Diabetes 12?Months Following Gastric Bypass Surgery

Background

Bariatric surgery results in dramatic weight loss and improves metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, previous studies have noted that morbidly obese patients with T2DM experience less weight loss benefits than non-diabetic patients following bariatric surgery. We sought to determine longitudinal effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) on percent excess body mass index (BMI) loss (%EBMIL) and clinical metabolic syndrome parameters in patients with T2DM compared with appropriately matched cohort without T2DM.

Methods

Retrospective cohort analysis of T2DM patients (n?=?126) to non-T2DM patients (n?=?126) matched on age (M?=?48.1?±?9.5), sex (81?% female), race (81?% Caucasian), and pre-surgical BMI (M?=?49.3?±?9.5). Lipids, glucose, hemoglobin A1c, blood pressure, co-morbidities of obesity, medications for co-morbidities, and T2DM medications were collected at baseline, 6?months and 12?months post-surgery. %EBMIL was collected at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12?months post-surgery. One-way analyses of variance with effect sizes estimates were conducted to compare the two groups.

Results

As expected, T2DM subjects had significantly greater pre-surgical HbA1c, blood glucose, blood pressure, and lipid parameters at baseline vs. non-T2DM (all p values of<0.05). At 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12?months after LRYRB, both groups had similar reduction in %EBMIL (p?>?0.10). At 6?months, there was a significant reduction in HbA1c, blood glucose, and lipid in the T2DM cohort compared with pre-surgical levels (p?<?0.0001). At 12?months, these values were not different to that of the non-T2DM subjects (p?>?0.10).

Conclusions

When matched on appropriate factors associated with weight loss outcomes, severely obese patients with T2DM have similar post-LRYGB weight loss outcomes in the first 12?months following surgery compared with non-T2DM patients. Furthermore, T2DM surgical patients achieved significant improvement in metabolic syndrome components.     

Laparoscopic Greater Curve Plication in Asia: Initial Experience

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of laparoscopic greater curve plication (LGCP) for the treatment of obesity in ethnic Chinese in Hong Kong.

Methods

Twenty-seven consecutive Chinese patients (23 females; mean age 37.6?±?8.9 years) received LGCP for the treatment of obesity from September 2010 to December 2011. Mean baseline body weight (BW) and body mass index (BMI) were 84.6?±?17.5 kg and 31.2?±?4.7 kg/m², respectively.

Results

All procedures were performed laparoscopically with conversion to open surgery in one patient. There was neither mortality nor any postoperative complications. Mean follow-up was 10.6?±?6.5 months. Mean procedure time was 117.9?±?22.3 min and mean hospital stay was 2.6?±?0.7 days. Mean BMI loss was 4.1?±?1.6, 4.8?±?2.0 and 5.2?±?2.5 kg/m² at 3, 6 and 12 months. Mean % EBL was 67.3?±?42.1, 66.4?±?35.9 and 60.2?±?25.5 % at 3, 6 and 12 months. Mean % EBL in BMI >35 group (n?=?7) was 38.2?±?11.1, 43.5?±?14.0 and 50.6?±?21.6 % at 3, 6 and 12 months. Mean % EBL in BMI <35 group (n?=?20) was 76.5?±?44.2, 76.5?±?38.2 and 65.0?±?27.0 % at 3, 6 and 12 months.

Conclusions

LGCP is safe and effective in achieving significant weight loss in obese ethnic Chinese patients. However, weight loss in BMI <35 is more pronounced. It is a very valid alternative to other procedures in Asian population.     

Volume of Resected Stomach as a Predictor of Excess Weight Loss After Sleeve Gastrectomy

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is gaining popularity for the treatment of obesity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the volume of the resected stomach (VRS) as a predictor of the percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) 1 year after LSG.

Methods

This was a single-surgeon study of prospectively collected data of patients who underwent LSG at Jordan University Hospital (February 2009 to February 2012). The VRS was measured using a standardized technique. The %EWL was calculated at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The correlation between the VRS and %EWL was statistically evaluated.

Results

Ninety patients underwent LSG during the study period. Of these, 73 patients (57 female) completed at least 1 year of follow-up and were analyzed; their body mass index was 45?±?7.6 kg/m² (33–81). The VRS was 1,337.4?±?435.2 ml (600–2,800). The %EWL was 33.6?±?11.1 % at 3 months, 48.6?±?15.5 % at 6 months, and 56.8?±?18.9 % at 12 months. A significant correlation was observed between the VRS and %EWL at 1 year (p?=?0.003). Patients with a VRS of >1,100 ml (n?=?43) achieved significantly greater %EWL at 12 months than did those with a VRS of ≤1,100 (n?=?30). Removal of >1,100 ml of gastric volume was associated with a sensitivity and specificity of 75.5 and 46.2 %, respectively, for achieving a %EWL of ≥50 %.

Conclusion

The VRS can be used as an indicator of excess weight loss 1 year after LSG.     

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

Background

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusions

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

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.     

Sensitivity and Specificity of 50% Excess Weight Loss (50%EWL) and Twelve Other Bariatric Criteria for Weight Loss Success

Background

Criteria for bariatric weight loss success are numerous. Most of them are arbitrary. None of them is evidence-based. Our objective was to determine their sensitivity and specificity.

Methods

Thirteen common bariatric weight loss criteria were compared to a benchmark reflecting the gold standard in bariatric surgery. We used an elaborate baseline BMI-independent weight loss percentile chart, based on retrospective data after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), performed between 2007 and 2017. Percentile curves p31.6 (patients’ expectation), p25 (interquartile range), p15.9 (1 standard deviation (SD) below median), and p10.9 (surgeons’ goal) were used as possible cutoff for success to determine true or false positive and negative results beyond 1 year.

Results

We operated 4497 primary LRYGB patients, with mean follow-up 22 (±?1 SD 19; range 0–109) months, 3031 patients with last result ≥?1 year, 518?≥?5 years. For all four cutoff percentile curves for success, specificities were low (2–72%) for criteria <?35 body mass index (BMI), ≥?25percentage excess BMI loss (%EBMIL), ≥?50%EBMIL, ≥?15 percentage total weight loss (%TWL), ≥?20%TWL, ≥?25 percentage excess weight loss (%EWL), and high (83–96%) for <?30 BMI. No criterion had >?80% specificity and sensitivity for a cutoff above p15.9. For p15.9, they were both >?80% for criteria ≥?10 BMI reduction and ≥?50%EWL, both >?90% for ≥?25%TWL and ≥?35 percentage alterable weight loss (%AWL). All criteria had high sensitivities for all cutoff percentile curves (87–100%), except <?30 BMI (65–78%).

Conclusions

For the first time, common bariatric criteria for weight loss success were systematically validated. Most criteria recognized success very well (high sensitivities), but ≥?15%TWL, ≥?20%TWL, <?35BMI, ≥?25%EWL, ≥?25%EBMIL, and ≥?50%EBMIL left too many poor responders unnoticed (low specificities). Bariatric weight loss success is best assessed by comparing results to percentile curve 1 SD below median (p15.9) in a bariatric baseline BMI-independent weight loss percentile chart. Criteria ≥?35%AWL and ≥?25%TWL came close to that curve, both with >?90% sensitivity and specificity. Among others, criterion ≥?50%EBMIL did not.

     

Comparison of short-term outcomes between laparoscopic greater curvature plication and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Background

Laparoscopic greater curvature plication (LGCP) is an emerging restrictive bariatric procedure that successfully reduces the gastric volume by plication of the gastric greater curvature. The aim of this prospective nonrandomized study was to compare short-term outcomes and associated complications between LGCP and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

Methods

From January 2011 to November 2011, a total of 39 patients were allocated to undergo either LGCP (n = 19) or LSG (n = 20). Data on the operative time, complications, hospital stay, overall cost of LSG and LGCP, body mass index loss (BMIL), percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), loss of appetite and improvement of comorbidities were collected during the follow-up examinations.

Results

All procedures were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 95.0 ± 17.4 minutes for the LGCP group and 85.5 ± 18.4 minutes for the LSG group (P = 0.107). No patient required reoperation due to an early complication. One patient in the LSG group was readmitted because of gastric stenosis. The mean hospital stay was 4.2 ± 1.9 days in the LGCP group and 3.9 ± 1.7 days in the LSG group (P = 0.595). The total cost of LSG was $7,826 ± 537 compared to LGCP ($3,358 ± 264) (P < 0.001). One year after surgery, the mean %EWL was 58.8 ± 16.7 % (n = 11) in the LGCP group and 80.0 ± 26.8 % (n = 11) in the LSG group (P = 0.038). Loss of feeling of hunger was reported in 27.3 % LGCP patients and 72.7 % LSG patients (P = 0.033) at 1 year after surgery. The comorbidities, including diabetes, sleep apnea and hypertension, were markedly improved in both groups 6 months after surgery.

Conclusions

The short-term outcomes of our study demonstrate that compared with LSG, LGCP is inferior as a restrictive procedure for weight loss, despite its significantly smaller cost. Longer follow-up and prospective comparative trials are needed to confirm the long-term outcomes of this novel procedure and make definitive conclusions.     

Racial Disparity in Short-Term Outcomes after Gastric Bypass Surgery

Background

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure is the most frequently performed bariatric surgery for the extremely obese in USA. However, the information about the effects of racial/ethnic differences, comorbidities, and medication use on weight loss outcomes is limited. The objectives of this study were to investigate if race/ethnicity, comorbidities, and medication use affect weight loss effectiveness after the surgery.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study conducted at one teaching hospital at Houston metropolitan area, TX, USA. Patients between 18 and 64 years, with body mass index (BMI) of ≥40 or BMI of ≥35 with comorbidities, who had completed medical evaluations/consultations and met insurance policy requirements, were included in the study.

Results

From a total of 40 patients in the study (40 % African Americans, 35 % Caucasians, 17.5 % Hispanics, 7.5 % others), the weight loss was significantly greater in Caucasian patients at 6 months after the surgery, with mean percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) of 40.6?±?17.3, as compared to all other racial groups combined at %EWL of 30.9?±?11.5 (p value 0.04). No association was found between the 6-month weight loss and other variables including age, gender, BMI prior to surgery, comorbidities, and total number of medications taken before the surgery.

Conclusions

This study found that Caucasian patients had a significantly greater %EWL at 6 months post-op as compared to their African-American and Hispanic counterparts. No other variables exhibited significant impact on the weight loss. Further studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm the results from this study.     

Weight Loss Outcome After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: 10 Years of Follow-up

Background

By submitting obese people to surgical treatment, we hope they lose weight and stay slim. Long-term monitoring is essential to assess effectiveness of surgery. This study aims to evaluate weight loss over 10 years in an obese population undergoing banded Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (B-RYGBP).

Methods

The surgery was performed in 211 obese between May 1999 and December 2000. This prospective study evaluated excess weight loss (%EWL) and body mass index (BMI) during the period. We considered surgical treatment failure if %EWL was less than 50 %.

Results

We followed 54.9 % of the population (116 patients). Patients' %EWL was 67.6?±?14.9 % 1 year after surgery, 72.6?±?14.9 % after 2 years, 69.7?±?15.1 % after 5 years, 66.8?±?7.6 % after 8 years, and 67.1?±?11.9 % after 10 years postoperatively. Surgical treatment failure occurred in 16 patients (14.6 %) over 10 years.

Conclusions

B-RYGBP is a good technique to promote and maintain weight loss 10 years after surgery with low failure rate.     

Air-Filled vs Water-Filled Intragastric Balloon: a Prospective Randomized Study

Background

The positioning of an intragastric saline-filled balloon has been developed as temporary and reversible therapeutic option for treatment of morbid obesity. Recently, an air-filled balloon was also developed. The aim of this study is to prospectively compare these two devices in terms of weight loss parameters, safety, and tolerance.

Methods

Sixty patients were randomized into two groups: group A (Bioenterics Intragastric Balloon?CBIB; n?=?30; 20?F/10?M, mean age 36.7?±?10.9; mean BMI 46.5?±?5.9) and group B (Endobag-Heliosphere; n?=?30; 20?F/10?M, mean age 37.8?±?10.6; mean BMI 46.1?±?5.6). All patients of both groups were sedated with midazolam (5?mg)?+?Propofol (2?mg/kg i.v.). The Heliosphere Bag was air-filled with 950?ml while BIB? was inflated with 500?ml of saline and 10?ml of methylene blue. Percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) and body mass index (BMI) were evaluated. Student t test, Fisher exact test, and ?? ² test were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Similar weight loss parameters were observed in patients treated with liquid or air-filled balloon at time of removal: mean BMI was 40.8?±?6.2 and 41.9?±?6.5(p?=?ns), and mean %EWL was 20?±?12 and 18?±?14 (p?=?ns) in groups A and B, respectively. Significant longer extraction time, with high patient discomfort, was observed in group B due to difficult passage through the cardia and the lower pharynx.

Conclusions

Air-filled balloon can be another valid therapeutic option in the temporary treatment of obesity, but at this time, the quality of the device must be improved to ameliorate the patient compliance at removal and avoid the spontaneous deflations.     

Tests of correlation between immediate postoperative gastroduodenal transit times and weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Background

Previous studies have shown accelerated gastric emptying after sleeve gastrectomy. This study aimed to determine whether a correlation exists between immediate postoperative gastroduodenal transit time and weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Specifically, correlation tests were conducted to determine whether more rapid transit after LSG correlated with increased weight loss.

Methods

Data were collected from an institutional review board-approved electronic registry. All LSGs were performed over a 40-Fr bougie, starting 5 to 7?cm proximal to the pylorus. Gastroduodenal transit time (antrum to duodenum) was calculated from a postoperative day 1 esophagram. Pearson??s correlation coefficient was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The analysis included 62 consecutive LSG patients. The mean gastroduodenal transit time was 12.3?±?19.8?s. Almost all the patients (99?%) had a transit time less than 60?s. The mean percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) was 23.8?±?9.8?% at 3?months, 37.9?±?11.8?% at 6?months, and 52.2?±?10.8?% at 12?months. No correlation was found between gastroduodenal transit time and %EWL at 3, 6, or 12?months.

Conclusion

No correlation was found between gastroduodenal transit time and weight loss after LSG.     

Correlation Between Age and Weight Loss after Bariatric Surgery

Background

Conflicting evidence exists regarding age as a predictive factor in excess weight loss after bariatric surgery. The objective of this cross-sectional study is to evaluate differences in excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) 1 year after surgery in patients older and younger than 45 years.

Methods

Adult obese patients fulfilling selection criteria underwent either Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy and were grouped according to age < and ≥45 years with follow-up at least 1 year. Both groups were compared in terms of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) and other clinical outcomes. Possible relationship between %EBMIL, age, surgical technique, and presence of comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension (HT), and dyslipidemia (DL) was searched.

Results

Three hundred thirty-seven patients (72.5 % female), 196 (50.1 %) younger than 45 years and 141 (49.9 %) with age ≥45 years. There was significant difference between age group and %EBMIL 12 months after surgery (p?<?0.001), showing better results in younger patients. No differences were found in terms of gender, preoperative body mass index (BMI), surgical technique, nor presence of DL. Using multiple regression, we found significant interaction effect between age group (p?<?0.001), presence of HT (p?=?0.001), and %EBMIL at follow-up.

Conclusions

Patients younger than 45 years lose greater amount of excess BMI than older patients after bariatric surgery. This tendency might be useful as a preoperative weight loss predictor in bariatric patients.     

A Randomized Clinical Trial of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy for the Treatment of Morbid Obesity in China: a 5-Year Outcome

Background

No randomized comparative trials have presented long-term outcomes for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). The present study was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of these two procedures.

Methods

From January 2007 to July 2008, 64 eligible patients were randomly assigned to LSG or LRYGB. During the 5-year follow-up, we compared morbidity rate, body mass index (BMI), percent of excess weight loss (%EWL), Moorehead-Ardelt (M-A) II quality of life, and resolution or improvement rate of obesity-related comorbidities between the groups.

Results

Both groups were matched with respect to age, gender, and BMI. Slightly more major complications were observed in patients undergoing LRYGB (P?>?0.05). Weight loss was significantly better with LRYGB except during the first postoperative year. At 5 years, %EWL for LSG and LRYGB was 63.2?±?24.5 % and 76.2?±?21.7 % (P?=?0.02), respectively. No statistical difference was observed in quality of life between the groups at all intervals (P?>?0.05). At the last follow-up, most comorbidities in both groups were resolved or improved, with no difference between the groups (P?>?0.05).

Conclusion

LRYGB and LSG are equally safe and effective in quality of life and improvement or resolution of comorbidities, and LRYGB possesses the superiority in terms of weight loss. Further studies are needed to evaluate micronutrient deficiencies of these procedures.     

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.     

Single-Incision Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding is Effective and Safe: 756 Cases in an Academic Medical Center

Background

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is safe and effective. This less invasive option involving fewer incisions and umbilical approaches is coined as single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS). Over the last 3 years, we performed 46 % of our LAGBs as SILS with excellent results.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of 1,644 LAGBs performed between 2008 and 2010. A total of 756 were performed as SILS bands (46 %) and 888 as standard (non-SILS) (54 %). Data points compared include operative time, percent of excess weight loss at 1 and 2 years, complication, and re-operation rates.

Results

Groups were matched by age, initial BMI, and gender: 584 non-SILS and 710 SILS patients. The average operating time was 44.3?±?19.6 min for SILS and 51.1?±?19.4 min for non-SILS (p?<?0.001). The 12-month percent excess weight loss (%EWL) for SILS was 45.0?±?19.1; it was 40.7?±?17.5 for non-SILS (p?=?0.003). The 24 month %EWL for SILS was 54.4?±?16.3; it was 46.4?±?16.1 for non-SILS (p?=?0.10). Complication rates were 5.6 % (40 of 710) for SILS and 4.5 % (26 of 584) for non-SILS (p?=?0.34). The 30-day readmission/re-operation rates are 1 % (seven of 710) for SILS and 1.5 % (nine of 584) for non-SILS (p?=?0.37). There was one death in the SILS group.

Conclusions

We have been performing more SILS bands over time. Our operative times and weight loss figures show that it is an efficient and effective means of weight loss. Furthermore, the data also show that the SILS approach is safe and does not increase operative time. In conclusion, SILS laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a safe and effective means of attaining weight loss in selected patients.     

Comparison of Gastrojejunal Anastomosis Techniques in Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Gastrojejunal Stricture Rate and Effect on Subsequent Weight Loss

Background

Different gastrojejunal anastomotic (GJA) techniques have been described in laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). There is conflicting data on whether one technique is superior to the other. We aimed to compare hand-sewn (HSA), circular-stapled (CSA) and linear-stapled (LSA) anastomotic techniques in terms of stricture rates and their impact on subsequent weight loss.

Methods

A prospectively collected database was used to identify patients undergoing LRYGB surgery between March 2005 and May 2012. Anastomotic technique (HSA, CSA, LSA) was performed according to individual surgeon preference. The database recorded patient demographics, relevant comorbidities and the type of GJA performed. Serial weight measurements and percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) were available at defined follow-up intervals.

Results

Included in the data were 426 patients, divided between HSA (n?=?174, 40.8 %), CSA (n?=?110, 25.8 %) and LSA (n?=?142, 33.3 %). There was no significant difference in the stricture rates (HSA n?=?17, 9.72 %; CSA n?=?9, 8.18 %; LSA n?=?8, 5.63 %; p?=?0.4006). Weight loss was similar between the three techniques (HSA, CSA and LSA) at 3 months (40.6 %?±?16.2 % vs 35.92 %?±?21.42 % vs 48.21 %?±?14.79 %; p?=?0.0821), 6 months (61.48 %?±?23.94 % vs 58.16 %?±?27.31 % vs 60.18 %?±?22.26 %; p?=?0.2296), 12 months (72.94 %?±?19.93 % vs 69.72?±?21.42 % vs 66.05 %?±?17.75 %; p?=?0.0617) and 24 months (73.29 %?±?22.31 % vs 68.75 %?±?24.71 % vs 69.40 %?±?23.10 %; p?=?0.7242), respectively. The stricture group lost significantly greater weight (%EWL) within the first 3 months compared to the non-stricture group (45.39 %?±?16.82 % vs 39.22 %?±?21.93 %; p?=?0.0340); however, this difference had resolved at 6 months (61.29 %?±?18.50 % vs 59.79 %?±?23.03 %; p?=?0.8802) and 12 months (71.59 %?±?18.67 % vs 68.69 %?±?22.19 %; p?=?0.5970).

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in the rate of strictures between the three techniques, although the linear technique appears to have the lowest requirement for post-operative dilatation. The re-intervention rate will, in part, be dictated by the threshold for endoscopy, which will vary between units. Weight loss was similar between the three anastomotic techniques. Surgeons should use techniques that they are most familiar with, as stricture and weight loss rates are not significantly different.     

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

Background

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusions

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

Initial Japanese Experience with Intragastric Balloon Placement

Background

We introduced intragastric balloon placement in Japan and evaluated the initial data.

Methods

Between December 2004 and March 2008, intragastric balloons [BioEnterics® Intragastric Balloon (BIB®) system] were placed in 21 Japanese patients with obesity [six women, 15 men; mean age 40?±?9 years; mean body mass index (BMI) 40?±?9 kg/m²]. The inclusion criteria were morbid obesity (BMI?≥?35 kg/m²), the presence of obesity-related disorders, and failure with conventional treatments for at least 6 months. The balloon was routinely removed under endoscopy after 5 months.

Results

No serious complications occurred, but in two of the 21 patients (9.5%), early removal (within 1 week) of the balloon was required due to continuous abdominal discomfort. Two other patients (9.5%) could not control their eating behavior and were considered unresponsive to the treatment, and their balloons were also removed before 5 months. Seventeen of the 21 patients (81%) finished the treatment, and the average weight loss and percent excess weight loss (%EWL) at the time the balloons were removed were 12?±?5 kg and 27?±?9%, respectively. Eight patients were followed for 1 year without intervention of consecutive bariatric surgery, and at that time, four of these patients had kept more than 20% of %EWL. The other patients regained their weight in the first year.

Conclusions

Intragastric balloon placement is a safe and effective procedure in obese Japanese patients, and about half of the patients will maintain their weight loss after the balloon is removed.     

Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Lead to Comparable Changes in Body Composition after Adjustment for Initial Body Mass Index

Background

Bariatric surgery is a safe and established treatment option of morbid obesity. Mere percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) should not be the only goal of treatment.

Methods

One hundred seventy-three obese patients were included in the study. They underwent either Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB; n?=?127, mean body mass index (BMI) 45.7?±?5.7 kg/m²) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG; n?=?46, mean BMI 55.9?±?7.8 kg/m²) for weight reduction. Body weight and body composition were assessed periodically by bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Results

After 1 year of observation, %EWL was 62.9?±?18.0 % in RYGB and 52.3?±?15.0 % in SG (p?=?0.0024). Body fat was reduced in both procedures with a slight preference for SG, and lean body mass was better preserved in the RYGB group. Due to significant differences in the initial BMI between the two groups, an analysis of covariance was performed, which demonstrated no significant differences in the %EWL as well as in the other parameters of body composition 1 year after surgery. Using percentage of total weight loss to evaluate the outcomes between the two procedures, no significant difference was found (31.7?±?8.4 % in RYGB and 30.5?±?7.6 % in SG patients, p?>?0.4).

Conclusions

Excess weight loss is highly influenced by the initial BMI. Total weight loss seems to be a better measurement tool abolishing initial weight differences. SG and RYGB do not differ in terms of body composition and weight loss 1 year after surgery.