Revision of Failed Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Background: The most common bariatric surgical operation in Europe, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), is reported to have a high incidence of long-term complications. Also, insufficient weight loss is reported. We investigated whether revision to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is a safe and effective therapy for failed LAGB and for further weight loss. Methods: From Jan 1999 to May 2004, 613 patients underwent LAGB. Of these, 47 underwent later revisional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). Using a prospectively collected database, we analyzed these revisions. All procedures were done by two surgeons with extensive experience in bariatric surgery. Results: All patients were treated with laparoscopic (n=26) or open (n=21) RYGBP after failed LAGB. Total follow-up after LAGB was 5.5±2.0 years. For the RYGBP, mean operating time was 161±53 minutes, estimated blood loss was 219±329 ml, and hospital stay was 6.7±4.5 days. There has been no mortality. Early complications occurred in 17%. There was only one late complication (2%) – a ventral hernia. The mean BMI prior to any form of bariatric surgery was 49.2±9.3 kg/m², and decreased to 45.8±8.9 kg/m² after LAGB and was again reduced to 37.7±8.7 kg/m² after RYGBP within our follow-up period. Conclusion: Conversion of LAGB to RYGBP is effective to treat complications of LAGB and to further reduce the weight to healthier levels in morbidly obese patients.     

Complications of the Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: 1,040 Patients - What Have We Learned?

Background:The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is one of the most common operations for morbid obesity. Laparoscopic techniques have been reported, but suffer from small numbers of patients, longer operative times and seemingly higher initial complication rates as compared to the traditional "open" procedure. The minimally invasive approach continues to be a challenge even to the most experienced laparoscopic surgeons.The purpose of this study is to describe our experience and complications of the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with a totally hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy. Methods: 1,040 consecutive laparoscopic procedures were evaluated prospectively. Only patients who had a previous open gastric procedure were excluded initially. Eventually, even patients with failed "open" bariatric procedures and other gastric procedures were revised laparoscopically to the RYGBP. All patients met NIH criteria for consideration for weight reductive surgery. Results:There were no anastomotic leaks from the hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy. Early complications and open conversions were related to sub-optimal exposure and bowel fixation techniques. Several staple failures were attributed to a manufacturer redesign of an instrument. Average hospital stay was 1.9 days for all patients and 1.5 days for patients without complications. Operative times consistently approach 60 minutes. Average excess weight loss was 70% at 12 months.There were 5 deaths: perioperative pulmonary embolism (1), late pulmonary embolism (2), asthma (1), and suicide (1). Conclusions: The laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity with a totally hand-sewn gastrojejunostomy can be safely performed by the bariatric surgeon with advanced laparoscopic skills in the community setting. Fixation and closure of all potential hernia sites with non-absorbable sutures is essential. Stenosis of the hand-sewn gastrojejunal anastomosis is amenable to endoscopic balloon dilation. Meticulous attention must be paid to the operative and perioperative care of the patient.     

Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Revision of Previous Restrictive Operations to Vertical Banded Gastroplasty

Background: Revision of failed gastric restrictive procedures to proximal Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is the standard for many bariatric surgeons. Where the patient is not a suitable candidate or simply refuses gastric bypass, an alternative is herewith proposed. Methods: 3 patients had undergone a gastric banding as the original operation and 1 patient had had a vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG). 1 patient presented with insufficient weight loss, 1 with regain of weight and 2 with complaints of food intolerance and vomiting. The gastric bands were removed by hand-assisted laparoscopy (HALS), with conversion to a VBG. In the patient with stomal stenosis after a VBG, HALS interposition of PTFE was performed to enlarge the collar. Results: In 2 patients, further weight reduction was achieved. In the other 2 patients, relief of symptoms was achieved.There were no complications during or after the revisional surgery. Conclusion: HALS conversion of a gastric banding to a VBG, or PTFE interposition in the case of stomal stenosis after a VBG, can be a valuable alternative for patients unsuitable for or refusing proximal RYGBP.     

Gastro-gastric Fistula in the Era of Divided Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Strategies for Prevention, Diagnosis, and Management

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is a mainstay of bariatric surgical therapy. Gastro-gastric fistula (GGF) is an infrequent but potentially serious complication of gastric bypass, and diagnosis may be difficult. We report two patients who underwent RYGBP complicated by development of GGF who nevertheless achieved excellent, durable weight loss. The pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention and management of GGF after RYGBP is reviewed. GGF may not result in poor weight loss after RYGBP and is not an absolute indication for surgical revision.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for severe gastroesophageal reflux after vertical banded gastroplasty

Background: Vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) is sometimes associated with complications such as pouch obstruction, dilatation, and gastroesophageal reflux. This occasionally requires surgical revision, in many cases to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). Case Report: A 47-year-old woman with severe obesity developed severe symptoms of stenosis of the pouch outlet and gastroesophageal reflux 15 years after VBG. Laparoscopic conversion to a RYGBP was performed. At 9-month follow-up, she lost an additional 32 kg and had complete resolution of her reflux. Conclusion: In this patient, laparoscopic re-operative RYGBP produced additional weight loss, and improved gastroesophageal reflux that occurred many years after having a VBG. Laparoscopic conversion of a VBG to RYGBP is feasible, and may confer the benefits of other minimally invasive abdominal procedures to this high-risk patient group.     

Report on Bariatric Surgery in the Ukraine

Background: Morbid obesity (MO) is a problem internationally, including in the Ukraine.We present the surgical treatment of MO in the Ukraine over the last 15 years, during which intestinal bypasses and various gastric reduction procedures were performed. Methods: 198 patients with MO underwent: jejunoileal (JI) bypass 64, non-adjustable gastric banding (NGB) 34, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) 1, horizontal gastroplasty 1, vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) 2, and abdominal lipectomy 96.The 96 men and 102 women weighed 160-290 kg (mean 210±SD18 kg). Mean body mass index was >60 kg/m2. These patients had a high incidence of hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea, menstrual disorders, impotency in men and infertility in women. Results: At 1 year, after JI bypass 61 patients lost a mean of 62±17 kg and after NGB 11 kg. After JI bypass, 1 patient died in the early postoperative period from acute respiratory insufficiency and 2 died in the first year from acute liver insufficiency. The JI bypass was reversed in 2 patients due to uncontrollable malabsorption syndrome; 1 year after reversal, the weight of these patients exceeded their preoperative weight. In the early postoperative period, 1 patient died after NGB and 1 after RYGBP, from acute respiratory insufficiency. Postoperative weight loss was associated with decrease in the co-morbidities of MO, but after JIB, there was a high incidence of bypass enteritis, excessive malabsorption, formation of renal stones and gallstones. After NGB, no complications have been identified. Isolated lipectomy was performed in 44 patients, lipectomy combined with a bariatric operation in 31, and lipectomy after loss of the excess body weight in 21. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery was very effective in weight loss, accompanied by reduction or disappear ance of the co-morbidities of MO, with considerable improvement in quality of life.     

Reoperative Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: An Experience with 49 Cases

Background: Long-term complications leading to reoperation after primary bariatric surgery are not uncommon. Reoperations are particularly challenging because of tissue scarring and adhesions related to the first operation. Reoperations must address the complication(s) related to the scarring and, at the same time, prevent weight regain that would inevitably occur after simple reversal. Conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) has repeatedly been demonstrated to be the procedure of choice in most situations. It has traditionally been performed through an open approach. Our aim is to describe our experience with the laparoscopic approach in reoperations to RYGBP over the past 5 years. Methods: All patients undergoing laparoscopic RYGBP as a reoperation were included in this study. Patients with multiple previous operations or patients with band erosion after gastric banding were submitted to laparotomy. Data were collected prospectively. Results: Between June 1999 and August 2004, 49 patients (44 women, 5 men) underwent laparoscopic reoperative RYGBP. The first operation was gastric banding in 32 and vertical banded gastroplasty in 15. The mean duration of the reoperation was 195 minutes. No conversion to open was necessary. Overall morbidity was 20%, with major complications in 2 patients (4%). Weight loss, or weight maintenance, was satisfactory, with a BMI <35 kg/m² up to 4 years in close to 75% of the patients. Conclusions: Laparoscopic RYGBP can be safely performed as a reoperation in selected patients provided that the surgical expertise is available. These procedures are clearly more difficult than primary operations, as reflected by the long operative time. Overall morbidity and mortality, however, are not different. Long-term results regarding weight loss or weight maintenance are highly satisfactory, and comparable to those obtained after laparoscopic RYGBP as a primary operation.     

Complications after gastroplasty and gastric bypass as a primary operation and as a reoperation

Background: Since 1991 we performed vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) as our surgical treatment of choice for morbid obesity in 680 patients, and since 1996 we also performed Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in 36 patients. For revisional surgery, the surgeons chose procedures based on their experience. Methods: We recorded early complications (0.6%) and late complications (8.5%) after the primary operations.When staple-line disruption or stenosis of the banded stoma occurred after VBG, revisional surgery was performed with re-VBG or conversion to RYGBP. Some early complications needed emergency operation for bleeding or gastric perforation. Results: Mortality was zero. Reoperation with reVBG and RYGBP was effective in all patients, but for many, a long stay in hospital was necessary because reoperation had a high rate of early and late complications, 33.8% and 21.8% respectively. Conclusion: The treatment of complications after VBG with re-VBG and RYGBP had danger.We believe that when VBG failure occurs, to avoid dangerous complications again, we should perform a biliopancreatic diversion, which does not involve a gastric restriction.     

Adjustable Gastric Banding as a Revisional Bariatric Procedure after Failed Gastric Bypass

Background: Inadequate weight loss after proximal gastric bypass presents a clinical challenge to bariatric surgeons. Pouch size, stoma size and limb length are the variables that can be surgically altered. Aside from conversion to distal bypass, which may have significant negative nutritional sequelae, revisional surgery for this group of patients has not often been reported. The addition of adjustable silicone gastric banding (ASGB) to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) may be a useful revision strategy because it has potential safety benefits over other revisional approaches. Materials and Methods: We report on 8 patients who presented with inadequate weight loss or significant weight regain after proximal gastric bypass. All patients underwent revision with the placement of an ASGB around the proximal gastric pouch. Bands were adjusted at 6 weeks postoperatively and beyond as needed. Complications and weight loss at the most recent follow-up visit were evaluated. Results: Mean age and body mass index (BMI) at the time of revision were 39 ± 9.9 years and 44.0 ± 4.5 kg/m² respectively. No patients were lost to follow-up, and they lost an average of 38.1 ± 10.4% and 44.0 ± 36.3% of excess weight and 49.1 ± 20.9% and 52.0 ± 46.0% of excess BMI in 12 and 24 months respectively. Patients lost an average of 62.0 ± 20.5% of excess weight from the combined surgeries in 67 (48–84) months. The only complication was the development of a seroma overlying the area of the port adjustment in one patient. There have been no erosions or band slippages to date. Conclusions: These results indicate that the addition of an ASGB causes significant weight loss in patients with poor weight loss outcome after RYGBP. The fact that no anastomosis or change in absorption is required may make this an attractive revisional strategy. Long- term evaluation in a larger population is warranted.     

Impact of Patient Follow-Up on Weight Loss after Bariatric Surgery

Background: Postoperative follow-up after bariatric surgery is important. Because of the need for adjustments, follow-up after gastric banding may have a greater impact on weight loss than after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.We reviewed all patients at 1 year after these two operations. Methods: During the first year after surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) patients were followed every 4 weeks and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) patients were followed at 3 weeks postoperatively and then every 3 months.The number of follow-up visits for each patient was calculated, and 50% compliance for follow-up and weight loss was compared. Results: Between October 2000 and September 2002, 216 LAGB and 139 RYGBP operations were performed. Of these patients, 186 LAGB patients and 115 RYGBP patients were available for 1-year follow-up. Age and BMI were similar for each group. Overall excess weight loss (EWL) after LAGB was 44.5%. 130 (70%) returned 6 or less times in the first year and achieved 42% EWL. 56 patients (30%) returned more than 6 times and had 50% EWL (P=0.005). Overall %EWL after RYGBP was 66.1%. 53 patients (46%) returned 3 or less times in the first year, achieving 66.1% EWL. 62 patients (54%) returned more than 3 times after surgery and achieved 67.6% EWL (P=NS). Conclusion: Patient follow-up plays a significant role in the amount of weight lost after LAGB, but not after RYGBP. Patient motivation and surgeon commitment for long-term follow-up is critical for successful weight loss after LAGB surgery.     

A Case-Controlled Matched-Pair Cohort Study of Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Lap-Band® Patients in a Single US Center with Three-Year Follow-up

Background: Open or laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is the most common operation for treatment of morbid obesity in USA. The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) has been the most common bariatric operation performed worldwide. The LapBand^? was approved for use in USA in July 2001. Since then, several US surgeons have adopted one procedure preferentially over the other, and several have reported patient outcomes. We added the option of the LAGB to the RYGBP in our practice in July 2001. We hypothesized that both procedures will provide similar weight loss and co-morbidity reduction if followed for a sufficient length of time. To enhance weight loss, we adopted a patient behavioral program that is easy to remember, in an attempt to ensure a reduction in caloric intake and reduce hunger regardless of the operation performed. Methods: A case-controlled matched-pair cohort study was conducted. All patients who presented to the Surgical Weight Control Center of Las Vegas between Aug 2001 and Aug 2004 for LAGB were placed into one group, and a matched-pair RYGBP cohort group was created. Patients in the RYGBP cohort were matched for age, sex, date of surgery, and BMI. All patients were evaluated on an intention to treat basis. Data were collected prospectively and analyzed retrospectively. All patients were subjected to the same preoperative education regarding calorie reduction behaviors and diet change, and received the same postoperative counseling regarding long-term eating behavior and food choices. Results: During this period, 208 patients underwent LAGB and 600 underwent RYGBP. Of the 208 LAGB patients, 181 had suitable open or laparoscopic RYGBP matches. The two groups were similar in terms of age, sex, BMI, and co-morbidities. There were no deaths in either group. Resolution of co-morbidities statistically favored RYGBP as did the weight loss, over the study period. Conclusion: When patients are matched with 3-year follow-up according to time of surgery, age, sex and BMI, LRYGBP provides superior weight and co-morbidity reduction and can be done without severe complications. However, the LAGB is an effective weight loss tool and not every patient wishes to have the LRYGBP.     

Revision of Failed Gastric Restrictive Operations to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Impact of Multiple Prior Bariatric Operations on Outcome

Background: Morbid obesity is now an epidemic with considerable associated morbidity for which bariatric surgery has been the only effective treatment. Despite its success, occasional patients require revision because of weight regain or mechanical complications. The impact of multiple prior bariatric operations on complications and weight loss after revision to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) was evaluated. Methods: All patients undergoing revisional surgery to RYGBP by the senior author from 1997 through 2004 were retrospectively reviewed at a multi-center academic institution. Patients who had previously undergone multiple revisional operations (MR) were compared to patients who had undergone primary ("first-time") revision (PR). Demographics, indications for revision, complications, and weight loss were reviewed. Results: 66 patients underwent open revision to RYGBP after failed bariatric operations, with 12 in the MR group and 54 in the PR group. Mean preoperative BMI was 46.1 and 45.2 (P=0.8), respectively. Operative time (227 vs 162 min, P=0.07), blood loss (517 vs 313 ml, P=0.09) and hospital length of stay (11.5 vs 6.7 days, P=0.2) were higher in the MR group. Major perioperative complications occurred in 16.7% of MR patients compared to 9.3% of PR patients (P=0.6). Percent of excess weight loss (%EWL) has been 54.3% in the MR group and 60.6% in the PR group (P=0.6). Average follow-up is 26 and 23 months, respectively. Conclusion: Although operative times, blood loss, and LOS were greater in MR patients, RYGBP can be performed in patients with multiple previous bariatric operations with acceptable weight loss and complication rates.     

Gastric Bypass in a Japanese Man with Prader-Willi Syndrome and Morbid Obesity

Background: In Prader-Willi syndrome (PrWS), marked obesity is the most serious and common complication, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. Because of the associated psychosocial difficulties, bariatric surgery appears to be the only effective treatment. Case Report: A 30-year-old man with PrWS weighing 108 kg (BMI 50 kg/m²), underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). 3 months before the RYGBP, he weighed 146 kg (BMI 68.5), partly because of heart failure. 18 months after RYGBP, he weighed 92.4 kg (BMI 43.3), with no postoperative complications. Moreover, he showed considerable increase in serum HDL-cholesterol levels with reciprocal reduction in LDL-cholesterol after the surgery. Conclusion: RYGBP resulted in satisfactory weight loss and improvement in serum lipid profile in a Japanese morbidly obese patient with PrWS.     

Vertical Banded Gastroplasty Converted to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Little Impact on Nutritional Status after 5-Year Follow-up

Background: Conversion to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) has been advocated after the failure of vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG). The aim of this study was to analyze the differences in anthropometric and nutritional parameters between patients with VBG and those converted to RYGBP. Methods: 45 patients initially underwent VBG. 22 of these patients have maintained this operation for more than 5 years (Group A) and 23 have been converted to RYGBP (Group B), after 2 years of follow-up. We analyzed anthropometric and nutritional parameters (macronutrients,micronutrients and lipid profile), and postoperative morbidity after both procedures. Data were recorded before the first operation and at 6 months, 1, 2 and 5 years follow-up. Results: VBG failure rate was 51%. The 23 patients converted to RYGBP have maintained an excess weight loss (EWL) of 70% 3 years after the revision, and all the complications related to VBG disappeared. Anthropometric parameters were significantly better after RYGBP. We found no significant differences in nutritional status between both groups except for levels of iron, vitamin B₁₂ and transferrin saturation index, which significantly decreased in converted patients. The redo procedure had a low morbidity rate, with no mortality. Conclusion: More than 50% of VBGs failed after 2-year follow-up. Patients converted to RYGBP maintained mean EWL 73% at 5 years. The only significant nutritional deficiencies were iron and vitamin B₁₂, in patients converted to RYGBP.     

Reoperative bariatric surgery. Lessons learned to improve patient selection and results.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the spectrum of presentation, safety, and efficacy of operative bariatric surgery. SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: The only lasting therapy for medically complicated clinically severe obesity is bariatric surgery. Several operative approaches have resulted in disappointing long-term weight loss or an unacceptable incidence of complications that require revisionary surgery. METHODS: Sixty-one consecutive patients who underwent reoperative bariatric surgery from 1985 to 1990 were observed prospectively. One, two, or three previous bariatric procedures had been performed in 77%, 18%, and 5% of patients, respectively. Reoperation was required for unsatisfactory weight loss after gastroplasty or gastric bypass (61%), metabolic complications of jejunoileal bypass (23%), or other complications (16%), including stomal obstruction, alkaline- or acid-reflux esophagitis, and anastomotic ulcer. Revisionary procedures included conversion to vertical banded gastroplasty (33% of operations) and vertical Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (52% of operations); partial pancreato-biliary bypass was used selectively in four patients with severe, medically complicated obesity. RESULTS: A single patient died postoperatively of a pulmonary embolus; serious morbidity occurred in 11%. Weight loss (mean +/- SEM) after reoperation for unsuccessful weight loss was greater with gastric bypass than with vertical banded gastroplasty (54 +/- 6% versus 24 +/- 6% of excess body weight). Metabolic complications of jejunoileal bypass were corrected, but 67% of the patients were dissatisfied with their postoperative lifestyle because of changes in eating habits or weight gain (64% of patients). Stomal complications and esophageal reflux symptoms were reversed in all patients. CONCLUSIONS: Reoperative bariatric surgery in selected patients is safe and effective for unsatisfactory weight loss or for complications of previous bariatric procedures. Conversion to gastric bypass provides more effective weight loss than vertical banded gastroplasty.     

A Prospective Comparison of Vertical Banded Gastroplasty and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in a Non-Superobese Population

Background: In the non-superobese population, consensus is currently unavailable in bariatric surgery. We report the results of a prospective comparison of vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) in a non-superobese population. Methods: From 1994 to 2000, 179 patients with clinically severe obesity underwent various surgical procedures in our department. During this time a prospective study was undertaken in order to compare VBG with RYGBP in morbidly obese patients with a BMI <50 kg/m². Based on specific criteria including eating behavior, 68 patients were selected to undergo RYGBP and 35 VBG. All patients have undergone complete follow-up evaluation at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively and every year thereafter. Results: All patients have now completed their 5th postoperative year. Mean follow-up period to date is 96.5±12.2 months for VBG and 67.6±11.3 months for RYGBP. 3 patients (8.6%) in the VBG group and 9 patients (13.2%) in the RYGBP group are lost to follow-up. Mean excess weight loss (EWL) was always better in the RYGBP group (P=0.0013). The percentage of failure, defined as EWL <25%, was not significantly different between the two procedures. No statistically significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in the total number of non-metabolic complications, and the only statistically significant difference observed in metabolic complications was vitamin B₁₂ deficiency after RYGBP. Frequency of vomiting was significantly less and quality of eating significantly better in RYGBP than in VBG patients. Conclusion: This prospective long-term study, with nearly complete follow-up, suggests that in the non-superobese population, preoperative eating habits may play a role in choosing the most appropriate bariatric operation for each patient. Although RYGBP is associated with better mean weight loss outcomes, the percentage of patients who achieved and maintained ≥50% EWL after VBG in this pre-selected patient population was not significantly different. Each type of operation has advantages and disadvantages, and, if properly chosen, a purely restrictive procedure can be successful for some patients. Therefore, it can be said that the decision regarding which bariatric procedure to perform in non-superobese patients must be based on in-depth preoperative evaluation as well as the patients' own preferences and outcome expectations.     

Weight Reduction after an Early Version of the Open Gastric Bypass for Morbid Obesity: Results after 23 Years

Background: While numerous promising short-term results of open gastric bypass for morbid obesity were published, the long-term outcome of earlier versions was somewhat disappointing. Thus, it was not until 1993 that this procedure was reintroduced with current modifications and now performed laparoscopically. Published long-term results of gastric bypass are still lacking. Methods: Out of an original population of 195 patients, we retrospectively analyzed the outcome of 98 patients (82 women, 16 men, mean age 32 years [range 17-54], mean weight 132 kg [range 65-200], mean BMI 46.6 kg/m²) operated on in Erlangen with mean follow-up 22.9 years (range 16.5-25.4). 3 different bariatric operations were performed: horizontal gastroplasty (HGP, n=18), stapled Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (S-RYGBP, n=14) and transected Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (T-RYGBP, n=66). BMI and percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) were calculated at time 0, and after 1, 2, 3, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years. Results: Statistically significant weight loss was found for the whole patient population at every postoperative time-point compared to preoperative values. Maximal weight loss was achieved mainly during the first 3 years. However, initial and long-term outcome after HGP was significantly worse than after S-RYGBP or T-RYGBP. Gender did not significantly influence the results. Conclusion: Traditional open gastric bypass resulted in acceptable and safe long-term weight reduction. It may be assumed that laparoscopic gastric bypass with modern tiny pouch volumes based on the lesser curvature achieves even better and life-long weight reduction.     

Fasting Plasma Ghrelin Concentrations 6 Months after Gastric Bypass are not Determined by Weight Loss or Changes in Insulinemia

Background: Ghrelin is a gastric peptide with potent orexigenic effects. Circulating ghrelin concentrations are increased in obese subjects, but increase after weight loss. However, in patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP), a decrease in ghrelin levels has been reported. The effect of comparable weight loss induced by either adjustable gastric banding (AGB), RYGBP or conventional dietary treatment (Conv) on ghrelinemia was studied. Methods: 24 matched obese male patients in whom similar weight loss had been achieved by either AGB (n=8), RYGBP (n=8) or Conv (n=8) were studied before and 6 months after treatment start. The independence of ghrelin concentrations from body mass index (BMI) and weight loss was further analyzed in a group of patients with total gastrectomy (TtGx, n=6). Results: Comparable weight loss after 6 months exerted significantly different effects on plasma ghrelin concentrations, depending on the procedure applied (AGB: 424.6 ± 32.8 pg/ml; RYGBP: 131.4 ± 13.5; Conv: 457.3 ± 18.7; P<0.001). Without significant differences in body weight and BMI, patients who had undergone the RYGBP exhibited a statistically significant decrease in fasting ghrelin concentrations, while the other two procedures (AGB and Conv) showed a weight loss-induced increase in ghrelin levels. Despite significant differences in BMI between RYGBP and TtGx patients after 6 months (31.9 ± 2.2 vs 22.0 ± 0.7 kg/m², respectively; P<0.05), both groups showed similar ghrelin concentrations. Conclusion: The reduction in circulating ghrelin concentrations in RYGBP patients after 6 months of surgery are not determined by an active weight loss or an improved insulin-sensitivity but rather depend on the surgically-induced bypass of the ghrelin-producing cell population of the fundus.     

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass with 2-metre Long Biliopancreatic Limb for Morbid Obesity: Technique and Experience with the First 150 Patients

Background: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) is being performed widely as a treatment of choice for morbid obesity. We present our method and experience with the first 150 consecutive cases of laparoscopic RYGBP with a 2-m long biliopancreatic limb (BP-limb). Methods: Between November 2001 and November 2003, a prospective analysis of 150 patients was performed identifying technical success and complications. Before surgery, patients underwent a strict multidisciplinary behavioral program. At operation the stomach was transected proximally with a linear stapler (60-mm, Endo-GIA) to create a prolongation of the esophagus (gastric tube) along the lesser curvature, resulting in a 40-50 ml pouch. Two meters of the proximal jejunum were bypassed (BP-limb), creating an antecolic Roux-en-Y gastro-jejunostomy to the posterior wall of the gastric tube using a 45-mm linear Endo-GIA stapler. The entero-anastomosis was created 50 cm below the gastro-jejunostomy, also with a 45-mm linear Endo-GIA. Results: Mean BMI was 50.0, and 78% of patients were females. With 100% follow-up, we found an EWL of 50% 6 months after surgery, gradually rising to 80% after 18 months. The mean operating time was 116 min for the first 50 cases and decreased to 82 min for the last 50 cases. Intestinal leakage occurred in 5 patients (3%) and bleeding in 5 (3%). Most of these complications occurred in the first 50 cases, and all but one were treated successfully with an early laparoscopic re-operation. Marginal ulcers were found in 16.6% of patients. No internal hernias have occurred. Conclusion: The operation demands advanced laparoscopic skills, but technically it is relatively simple and has an acceptable complication rate. Short-term results regarding excess weight loss are at least comparable to the RYGBP with a long alimentary limb.     

Weight Changes in Spouses of Gastric Bypass Patients

Background: The effectiveness of gastric bypass for weight loss has been demonstrated. No study has documented the effect of this surgery on patient spouses' weight. Excess leftover food may be consumed by the spouses of gastric bypass patients, which may increase the total caloric intake compared to the preoperative intake. This investigation tested the hypothesis that there would be a significant change in patient spouse's weight. Methods: Patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) ≥ 12 months before were included. Preoperative weights of their spouses were requested before RYGBP surgery. Current weights of spouses were collected ≥ 12 months postoperatively. Chi-squared tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: 63 patients were included in this study. 1 patient was divorced and current data was not available. 3 patients' spouses themselves had RYGBP during the study period, and their average weight loss was 49 kg. Of the spouses who had a significant change in weight (but did not have a RYGBP), 13 lost weight and 20 gained weight. In this subgroup of spouses, 75% (15/20) of obese spouses gained weight compared to only 38% (5/13) non-obese spouses (P <0.04). Conclusions: Patients' spouses who are obese are more likely to have weight gain while the patients lose weight after RYGBP. Preoperative counseling should be offered to spouses of potential bariatric surgery patients, especially to spouses who are obese. This phenomenon suggests that obese spouses of bariatric patients should be counselled regarding weight gain or even be considered for candidates for bariatric surgery.