Hiatal hernia repair and gastroesophageal reflux disease in gastric banding patients: Analysis of a national database

BackgroundHiatal hernia (HH) is a risk factor for complications after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), with recommendation to repair these at the time of LAGB placement. We reviewed the characteristics and outcomes of bariatric patients undergoing HH repair during LAGB. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of HH repair in LAGB patients and its potential effect on outcomes.MethodsUsing the Bariatric Outcomes Longitudinal Database, we identified patients who had hiatal hernia repair at the time of their LAGB (HHR group) and compared them to other LAGB patients without a HH repair (NonHHR group).ResultsOf 41,611 patients who underwent LAGB during 2007–2010, 8120 (19.5%) had HH repair (HHR), adding only 4 minutes to the operating time, without an increase in blood transfusion, length of stay, or band-related complications. Preoperatively, the HHR cohort had a higher incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) compared with nonHHR (49% versus 40%, respectively; P<.001) with a higher GERD score (1.13 versus .88, respectively; P<.001). Of those with GERD, similar percentage of patients in the HHR and nonHHR groups experienced improvement 1-year after surgery (53% versus 52%, respectively, P = .4), with similar GERD scores at this time point.ConclusionHH are repaired in one fifth of LAGB patients, with a surprisingly minimal increase in operative times and no change in length of stay, morbidity, or mortality. In patients with GERD, HH repair had minimal effect on postoperative improvements in reflux symptoms. These findings suggest that many of the repairs may involve small hernias with unclear clinical effect.     

Predictive value of preoperative DeMeester score on conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for gastroeosophageal reflux disease after sleeve gastrectomy

BackgroundObesity is well known to increase the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The impact of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on GERD is still discussed but seems to be associated with the development of de novo GERD or the exacerbation of preexisting GERD.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of preoperative pH monitoring, using the DeMeester score (DMS), on the risk of conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) after SG.SettingUniversity Hospital in Nantes, France.MethodsThis monocentric study reported the results of a retrospective chart review of 523 obese individuals treated between 2011 and 2018. All patients underwent primary bariatric surgery; 95% had undergone an SG. GERD diagnosis was established with preoperative DMS based on 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring.ResultsPreoperative DMS was identified in 423 patients (86%). Sixty-seven patients (14%) underwent a second bariatric procedure; among them, 36 (54%) have been converted to RYGB because of GERD. There was no significant difference between preoperative DMS (16.1 ± 22 versus 13.7 ± 14, P = .37) in patients undergoing conversion for GERD and the nonconverted ones. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive, and negative predictive values of the preoperative DMS for predicting conversion to RYGB were 25%, 66%, 7%, and 4%, respectively. In patients who underwent a conversion for GERD, DMS (P < .002), rates of esophagitis (P = .035), and hiatal hernia (P = .039) significantly increased after SG.ConclusionPreoperative DMS alone is not predictive of the risk of conversion of SG to RYGB for GERD.     

Sleeve gastrectomy with concomitant hiatal hernia repair in obese patients: long-term results on gastroesophageal reflux disease

BackgroundHiatal hernia repair (HHR) during Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) is recommended when the defect is intraoperatively found; however, the long term effect on gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains controversial.ObjectivesThis study aimed to report long-term follow-up data, at least after 7 years, of SG with concomitant HHR and the outcome on GERD symptoms.SettingTertiary-care referral hospital.MethodsThis study retrospectively analyzed 91 obese patients submitted to SG + HHR with a minimum of 7-years follow-up. The preoperative evaluation included GERD symptoms assessment by a standardized questionnaire, proton pump inhibitor usage evaluation, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, and a barium-swallow esophagogram to detect the presence of HH. At long-term follow-up visit, GERD assessment was performed to evaluate remission, persistence, or new onset of typical GERD symptoms; proton pump inhibitor usage was also investigated. Patients underwent barium-swallow esophagogram and/or upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.ResultsAt long-term evaluation, 2 of 91 patients (2.2%) were lost and 1 patient underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Of patients with preoperative GERD, 60% had GERD resolution; however, 27 of 88 (30.6%) patients reported postoperative GERD symptoms. Among these patients 15 (55.5%) showed the HH recurrence detected by barium-swallow esophagogram. All patients with HH recurrence had esophagitis and 1 case had a Barrett’s esophagus. In the remaining 12 patients (44.4%) with postoperative GERD without HH recurrence, the barium-swallow esophagogram showed signs of reflux in reverse Trendelenburg.ConclusionsAt long-term follow-up HH recurrence was consistently related to the presence of GERD symptoms and to a high rate of esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus. In all patients with GERD symptoms after SG + HHR, a HH recurrence should be suspected and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy strongly recommended to rule out esophagitis, and especially Barrett’s esophagus.     

Impact on sleeve gastrectomy in patients with esophageal motor disorder

BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal motor disorders (EMD) are frequent conditions among patients with obesity. The effects of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on esophageal function can worsen GERD, but little is known about its effects on EMD and the consequences of preexisting EMD on GERD after SG.ObjectivesTo study the postoperative outcomes of SG in a population of patients displaying preexisting EMD.SettingUniversity Hospital, France.MethodsPatients with EMD confirmed by high-resolution manometry who underwent a laparoscopic SG between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively included in this monocenter study. GERD symptoms and high-resolution manometry results were recorded before surgery and during follow-up. Conversion to gastric bypass were also recorded.ResultsThirty-seven patients were included. Mean age was 52.6 ± 12.9 years. Most patients were female (70%). EMD were achalasia (19% of patients), hypercontractile (22%), hypocontractile (30%) and nutcracker esophagus (22%), and ineffective esophageal motility (8%). GERD symptoms were present in 10 patients (27%) preoperatively and 18 (49%) postoperatively. Achalasia was not resolved after SG and was constantly associated with disabling food blockage or GERD symptoms after surgery, and 3 of 4 patients with nutcracker esophagus had postoperative GERD symptoms and underwent gastric bypass.ConclusionsThis study is the largest to describe the course of GERD and EMD after SG in patients displaying preoperative EMD. Achalasia and nutcracker esophagus are associated with poorer postoperative outcomes, and another procedure such as a gastric bypass should be performed.     

Sleeve gastrectomy and crural repair in obese patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and/or hiatal hernia

BackgroundGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with or without hiatal hernia (HH) is now recognized as an obesity-related co-morbidity. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has been proved to be the most effective bariatric procedure for the treatment of morbidly obese patients with GERD and/or HH. In contrast, the indication for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) in these patients is still debated. Our objective was to report our experience with 97 patients who underwent SG and HH repair (HHR). The setting was a university hospital in Italy.MethodsFrom July 2009 to December 2011, 378 patients underwent a preoperative workup for SG. In 97 patients, SG was performed with HHR. The clinical outcome was evaluated considering GERD symptom resolution or improvement, interruption of antireflux medications, and radiographic evidence of HH recurrence.ResultsBefore surgery, symptomatic GERD was present in 60 patients (15.8%), and HH was diagnosed in 42 patients (11.1%). In 55 patients (14.5%), HH was diagnosed intraoperatively. The mean follow-up was 18 months. GERD remission occurred in 44 patients (73.3%). In the remaining 16 patients, antireflux medications were diminished, with complete control of symptoms in 5 patients. No HH recurrences developed. “De novo” GERD symptoms developed in 22.9% of the patients undergoing SG alone compared with 0% of patients undergoing SG plus HHR.ConclusionSG with HHR is feasible and safe, providing good management of GERD in obese patients with reflux symptoms. Small hiatal defects could be underdiagnosed at preoperative endoscopy and/or upper gastrointestinal contrast study. Thus, a careful examination of the crura is always recommended intraoperatively.     

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in patients with NASH-related cirrhosis: A case-matched study

BackgroundLaparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is a validated procedure for the surgical treatment of morbid obesity. Cirrhosis is often considered a relative contraindication to elective extrahepatic surgery. The objective of this study was to evaluate the morbidity related to SG performed in cirrhotic patients compared with noncirrhotic patients.MethodsBetween March 2004 and January 2013, we included all patients with cirrhosis undergoing SG (13 patients). These patients (SG-cirrhosis group) were matched in terms of preoperative data (age, gender, body mass index, and co-morbidities) on a 1:2 basis, with 26 noncirrhotic patients (SG group) selected from a population of 750 patients. Cirrhosis was diagnosed postoperatively on histologic exam. The primary endpoint was the overall postoperative complication rate. Secondary endpoints were operating time, revisional surgery rate, gastric fistula and bleeding rates, postoperative mortality, and weight loss over a 24-month period.ResultsThe SG-cirrhosis group consisted of 13 patients with a median age of 52 years. All patients in the SG-cirrhosis group were Child A. Etiology of cirrhosis was related to NASH in 93.3%. Median operating time in the SG-cirrhosis group and SG group was 75 minutes versus 80 minutes (P = .59). No postoperative mortality was observed in either group. The overall postoperative complication rate was 7.7% versus 7.7% (P = 1). The major complication rate was 0% versus 7.7% (P = .22), and the postoperative gastric fistula rate was 0% versus 3.8% (P = .47). No complications related to cirrhosis were reported.ConclusionSG can be performed in Child A cirrhosis with no increased risk of postoperative complications and no specific complications related to cirrhosis. Weight loss for patients with cirrhosis undergoing SG is similar to that observed in noncirrhotic patients.     

Magnetic sphincter augmentation at the time of bariatric surgery: an analysis of the MBSAQIP

BackgroundMagnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) has gained popularity as a treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The role of MSA in treating GERD in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) patients at the time of primary MBS is unknown.ObjectiveTo determine the short-term outcomes of MSA placed at the time of MBS.SettingNational database, United States.MethodsWe queried the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) database for MSA performed at time of the sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) for the years 2017–2018. A propensity adjusted analysis was performed to assess 30-day outcomes of patients who had MSA placed versus those who did not.ResultsThere were 319,580 patients who underwent MBS in the study period. Twenty-four patients had MSA at time of surgery. These patients did not have a higher reported rate of preoperative GERD (P = .93). Six patients (25%) with MSA had a RYGB; the other 18 patients (75%) patients had SG (P < .001). Operative times were similar between the groups and there was no difference in length of stay. After propensity matched analysis (with 24 patients in each arm), patients who underwent an MSA had shorter discharge times (1.4 days [.8] versus 2.0 [.9], P = .012).ConclusionMSA is safe in the short term in MBS. There is no difference in major morbidity or mortality and operative times are similar in MSA patients. The long-term efficacy of this practice is unknown.     

Metabolic syndrome impact on nutritional deficiencies and metabolic status 1 year after sleeve gastrectomy

BackgroundA paucity of information is available on the comparative nutritional deficiencies considering the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and nutritional changes after vertical sleeve gastrectomy (SG).ObjectivesTo compare the nutritional status in patients with and without MetS before and 1 year after SG and to investigate its association with metabolic status.SettingA tertiary referral center.MethodsRetrospective study, including all patients submitted to SG between January 2011 and July 2015. Patients were evaluated before and 12 months after surgery. MetS presence was classified using the International Diabetes Federation/American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 2009 definition. Univariate and multivariate analyses were applied to find associations between MetS, nutritional, anthropometric, and metabolic parameters.ResultsA total of 330 patients were included and MetS was present in 47%. Preoperatively, patients without MetS presented a higher percentage of folate deficiency (12% versus 2%, P < .001). Follow-up data were available for 202 patients. In the 1-year evaluation, MetS patients presented significantly lower body mass index and percent excess weight loss (70.96 ± 20.4 versus 79.55 ± 23.0, P < .001). These patients also presented lower homocysteine (11.76 ± 4.3 versus 13.66 ± 7.6, P = .027) and magnesium (19.41 ± 2.1 versus 20.22 ± 1.9, P = .004) levels but higher calcium (9.27 ± .3 versus 9.16 ± .4, P = .031) and vitamin B12 (396, P 312–504.5 versus 329, P 255–433, P = .002) levels comparing with those without MetS. Multiple linear regression evidenced that higher preoperative albumin and postoperative ferritin and homocysteine were predictors of a lower body mass index after surgery, and higher postoperative folate levels were associated with lower insulin-resistance.ConclusionsThe impact of SG on nutritional parameters is affected by MetS. If not treated, preoperative deficiencies can impair postoperative metabolic status and weight loss. MetS should be considered when evaluating bariatric surgery candidates, and preoperative supplementation and long-term nutritional follow-up are required to prevent further nutritional deficiencies.     

Association between hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux symptoms after one-anastomosis/mini gastric bypass

BackgroundOne-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) is an accepted bariatric and metabolic surgery with certain important complications, such as postoperative gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and bile reflux (BR), which are not well addressed in literature.ObjectivesThe present study was conducted to determine the true incidence of postoperative de novo GERD and BR and their associations with a hiatal hernia (HH).SettingThe present research setting comprised the Center of Excellence of the European Branch of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders, Hazrat-e-Rasoul Hospital, Tehran, Iran.MethodsThe present cohort study recruited 200 patients with morbid obesity undergoing OAGB/minigastric bypass from December 2016 to February 2018 without any preoperative GERD symptoms. These patients were followed up for 1 year after the surgery. The incidence of post-OAGB GERD and BR was determined in all the patients using the GERD symptom questionnaire, GerdQ.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 41.0 ± 11.6 years. A hernia was observed in 56 (29.2%) cases and GERD in 37 (19.3%). Hernia was small in 44 (22.9%) cases, medium in 11 (5.7%), and large in 1 (.5%). HH was found to be significantly correlated with GERD (P = .012).ConclusionThe important post-OAGB complications, such as GERD and BR, have not been adequately addressed in literature. The present study found moderate and large HHs to be important factors for de novo GERD and repairing a HH during OAGB may be essential for preventing GERD-like symptoms.     

Perioperative truncal peripheral nerve blocks for bariatric surgery: an opioid reduction strategy

BackgroundBariatric surgical patients are vulnerable to cardiopulmonary depressant effects of opioids. The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol to improve postoperative morbidity recommends regional anesthesia for postoperative pain management. However, there is limited evidence that peripheral nerve blocks (PNB) have added benefit.ObjectiveStudy the effect of PNB on postoperative pain and opioid use following bariatric surgery.SettingAcademic medical center, United States.MethodsWe conducted a cohort study of patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. A total of 44 patients received the control ERAS protocol with preoperative oral extended-release morphine sulfate (MS), while 45 patients underwent a PNB with either intrathecal morphine (IM) or oral MS per local ERAS protocol. The PNB group either underwent preoperative bilateral T7 paravertebral (PVT) PNBs (27 patients) with IM or postoperative transversus abdominis plane (TAP) PNBs (18 patients) with oral MS. The primary outcome compared total opioid consumption between the ERAS control group and the PNB group up to 48 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included comparison by block type and postoperative pain scores.ResultsPVT or TAP PNB patients had a reduction in mean postoperative oral morphine equivalent (OME) requirements compared with the ERAS protocol cohort at 24 hours (93.9 versus 42.8 mg), P < .0001; at 48 hours (72.6 versus 40.5 mg); and in pain scores at 24 hours (5.64/10 versus 4.46/10), P = .02. OME and pain scores were higher in the SG cohort.ConclusionAddition of truncal PNB to standard ERAS protocol for bariatric surgical patients reduces postoperative total opioid consumption.     

Comparison of early type 2 diabetes improvement after gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy: medication cessation at discharge predicts 1-year outcomes

BackgroundAlthough weight loss–dependent type 2 diabetes (T2D) improvement after sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is well documented, whether SG has a weight-independent impact on T2D is less studied.ObjectivesTo evaluate early, weight-independent T2D improvement after SG and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and its relationship to longer-term T2D outcomes.SettingUniversity Hospital, United States.MethodsWe completed a retrospective cohort study of patients with T2D who underwent SG (n = 187) or RYGB (n = 246) from 2010 to 2015. Pre- and postoperative parameters, including demographic characteristics, T2D characteristics, and T2D medication requirements, blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, weight, and body mass index, were reviewed.ResultsT2D improved within days after both SG and RYGB, with more patients off T2D medications after SG than RYGB (39% versus 25%, respectively; P < .01) at the time of discharge (2.5 ± .8 versus 2.7 ± 1 d; P = .04). Over the initial postoperative 12 months, T2D medication cessation rates remained relatively stable after SG but continued to improve after RYGB (at 12 mo: 52% versus 68%, respectively; P < .05). T2D medication cessation at discharge predicts 12-month T2D medication cessation (92% [RYGB] and 78% [SG] positive predictive value). In a mixed-effects regression model adjusting for weight loss and severity of diabetes, discharge T2D medication cessation remained a significant predictor of T2D outcomes after both RYGB (odds ratio, 51; 95% confidence interval, 16.1–161; P < .0001) and SG (6.4; 95% confidence interval, 2.8–14.7; P < .0001).ConclusionsBoth SG and RYGB lead to high rates of T2D medication cessation within days of surgery, suggesting both operations activate weight loss–independent anti-T2D pathways. T2D medication cessation at discharge is predictive of 12-month T2D outcomes, particularly in noninsulin requiring patients. By 1 year after the surgery, RYGB leads to more weight loss and higher rates of T2D medication cessation than SG.     

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

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

Outcomes in racial minorities after robotic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy: a retrospective review of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program database

BackgroundThe rate of robotic-assisted metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is increasing. While discord remains about racial disparity in primary MBS, there are no data on robotic MBS outcomes in racial cohorts.ObjectivesTo determine whether outcomes following robotic-assisted Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are mediated by race or ethnicity.SettingUniversity Hospital, United States.MethodsRobotic RYGB and SG cases were identified from the 2015–2017 Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) databases using Current Procedure Terminology codes 43644, 43645, and 43775. Selected cases were stratified by race and ethnicity. Case-control matched and logistic regression analyses were performed.ResultsMatched analyses compared outcomes in 2666 RYGB cases of Black versus White patients and 1794 RYGB cases of Hispanic versus White patients. Black RYGB patients had longer operative lengths (OLs; P = .0008) and postoperative lengths of stay (P = .001), and a higher rate of pulmonary embolism (P = .05). Hispanic (versus White) RYGB patients had longer lengths of stay (P = .007). All other outcomes were similar between RYGB racial and ethnic cohorts. Matched analyses also compared outcomes of 8328 SG cases in Black versus White patients and 4852 SG cases in Hispanic versus White patients. Black patients had longer OLs (P = .004), had longer lengths of stay (P < .0001), had higher overall morbidity (P = .02), had higher bariatric-related morbidity (P = .02), had higher rates of readmission (P = .009), and were more likely to have an operative drain present at 30 days (P = .001). All other outcome measures were similar between racial/ethnic SG cohorts.ConclusionRobotic-assisted SG is associated with higher overall and bariatric-related morbidity, but not mortality. However, robotic-assisted RYGB and SG remain safe, with lower rates of mortality and morbidity.     

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as day-case surgery: a case-matched study

BackgroundFew series have demonstrated the feasibility of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) as day-case surgery (DCS).ObjectiveCompare the outcomes and healthcare costs of SG performed as DCS or as an inpatient procedure.SettingUniversity Hospital, France, public practice.MethodsThis was a prospective, nonrandomized study of 250 consecutive patients undergoing day-case SG from May 2011 to June 2017. Each patient in the DCS group (n = 250) was manually paired by sex, age, body mass index, preoperative co-morbidities, and year of surgery with 1 patient undergoing SG as an inpatient procedure (SG control group, n = 250). Patients in the SG control group were excluded from DCS on the basis of DCS criteria. The primary endpoint of this study was the clinical and economic impact of performing SG as DCS compared with inpatient management. The secondary endpoints were related to DCS, DCS satisfaction rate, comparison of outcomes and costs between DCS and inpatient procedures, and the changing modalities of SG as DCS in our institution (by comparing the first 100 patients to the last 150 patients).ResultsA total of 1573 patients underwent SG during the period, 250 patients underwent SG as DCS (15.9%) and 554 patients were excluded on the basis of DCS criteria. No postoperative deaths, 19 overnight admissions (7.6%), 16 unscheduled consultations (6.4%), and 12 unscheduled hospitalizations (4.8%) were observed in the DCS group. No significant differences were observed in postoperative complications. Readmission was higher in the DCS group (5.6% versus 4%; P < .001), while the length of rehospitalization was shorter in the DCS group (5.8 versus 10.8 d; P < .001). Overall cost and cost per patient were significantly lower in the DCS group (P < .001).ConclusionDay-case SG on selected patients was not associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates and was cost-effective due to the low cost of management of postoperative complications.     

Varying marginal ulcer rates in patients undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity versus gastroesophageal reflux disease: Is the acid pocket to blame?

BackgroundNissen fundoplication failure rates are increased in obese patients; however, conversion to laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) can resolve or improve gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. Acid pockets near the gastroesophageal junction may influence these surgical outcomes. Our objective was to compare the outcomes for patients who underwent LRYGB for morbid obesity (MO) versus GERD.MethodsA retrospective review of our institution’s bariatric database was completed. Statistical analysis included t test and χ² test.ResultsLRYGBs were performed from 2001–2011 for MO and 2009–2010 for GERD. Eighty-three percent of patients in the GERD group had undergone previous antireflux surgery. The median time from initial presentation to LRYGB was significantly shorter in the GERD versus the MO group (105 days versus 241 days; P = .009). There was an increased rate of marginal ulcers in the GERD group compared with the MO group, at 50% versus 4.5%, respectively (P = .001). Stomal stenosis was also increased in the GERD group compared with the MO group, at 8.3% and .7%, respectively (P = .091). There were no in-hospital or 30-day mortalities.ConclusionPatients undergoing LRYGB for GERD had a shorter interval to surgery and an increased rate of marginal ulcers compared with those undergoing LRYGB for MO. Operative time was longest among patients in the GERD group. The acid pocket may explain the increased ulcer rate in the GERD population. Use of a smaller sized pouch may improve this outcome.     

Hospital utilization 4 years after bariatric surgery: sleeve gastrectomy versus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BackgroundWhile sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has lower perioperative risk compared with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), long-term data about their differential impact on overall health are unclear. Hospital use after bariatric surgery is an important parameter for improving peri- and postoperative care.ObjectiveThis present study was aimed to compare SG and RYGB in terms of their effect on long-term hospital-based healthcare utilization.SettingMulticenter, statewide database.MethodsA retrospective cohort study of adult patients who underwent SG and RYGB between 2009 and 2011, with follow-up until 2015 and 2-year presurgery information. Propensity score–matched SG and RYGB groups were created using preoperative demographic characteristics, co-morbidities, and presurgery hospital use, measured by cumulative length of stay (LOS) and frequency of emergency department visits. Postsurgery yearly LOS, incidence of hospital visits, and the reason for the visit were compared. Primary outcomes included postoperative hospital visits during years 1 to 4 after bariatric surgery and cumulative LOS. Secondary outcomes included specific reasons for hospital use.ResultsThere were 3540 SG and 13,587 RYGB patients, whose mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) LOS was 1.3 (1.3–1.4), .9 (.8–1), 1 (.9–1.1), and 1.2 (1–1.3) days at years 1 through 4, respectively. Postoperative yearly LOS was similar between the 2 propensity-matched groups. The risk of hospitalizations (odd ratio .73, 95% CI .64–.84, P < .0001) and emergency department visits (odds ratio .84, 95% CI .75–.95, P = .005) was significantly lower for SG, during the first postoperative year. The reverse was seen at the fourth postoperative year, with higher risk of emergency department use after SG (odds ratio 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.33, P = .035).ConclusionPostoperative 4-year hospital utilization remains low for both SG and RYGB. The previously established lower early perioperative risk of SG was not appreciated for longer-term hospital use compared with RYGB.     

The impact of severe postoperative complications on outcomes of bariatric surgery—multicenter case-matched study

BackgroundBariatric surgery has relatively low complication rates, especially severe postoperative complications (defined by Clavien–Dindo classification as types 3 and 4), but these rates cannot be ignored. In other than bariatric surgical disciplines, complications affect not only short-term but also long-term results. In the field of bariatric surgery, this topic has not been extensively studied.ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to assess the outcomes of bariatric treatment in patients with obesity and severe postoperative complications in comparison to patients with a noneventful perioperative course.SettingSix surgical units at Polish public hospitals.MethodsWe performed a multicenter propensity score matched analysis of 206 patients from 6 Polish surgical units and assessed the outcomes of bariatric procedures. A total of 103 patients with severe postoperative complications (70 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy [SG] and 33 with laparoscopic Roux en Y gastric bypass [RYGB]) were compared to 103 patients with no severe complications in terms of peri- and postoperative outcomes.ResultsThe outcomes of bariatric treatment did not differ between compared groups. Median percentage of total weight loss 12 months after the surgery was 28.8% in the group with complications and 27.9% in patients with no severe complications (P = 0.993). Remission rates of both type 2 diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension showed no significant difference between SG and RYGB (36% versus 42%, P = 0.927, and 41% versus 46%, P = 0.575. respectively).ConclusionsThe study suggests that severe postoperative complications had no significant influence either on weight loss effects or obesity-related diseases remission.     

Early morbidity and mortality of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass in the elderly: a NSQIP analysis

BackgroundEven though the U.S. population is aging, outcomes of bariatric surgery in the elderly are not well defined. Current literature mostly evaluates the effects of gastric bypass (RYGB), with paucity of data on sleeve gastrectomy (SG). The objective of this study was to assess 30-day morbidity and mortality associated with laparoscopic SG in patients aged 65 years and over, in comparison to RYGB.MethodsThe National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database was queried for all patients aged 65 and over who underwent laparoscopic RYGB and SG between 2010 and 2011. Baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared. P value<.05 was considered significant. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were reported when applicable.ResultsWe identified 1005 patients. Mean body mass index was 44±7. SG was performed in 155 patients (15.4%). The American Society of Anesthesiology physical classification of 3 or 4 was similar between the 2 groups (82.6% versus 86.7%, P = .173). Diabetes was more frequent in the RYGB group (43.2% versus 55.6%, P = .004). 30-day mortality (0.6% versus 0.6%, OR 1.1, 95% CI .11–9.49), serious morbidity (5.2% versus 5.6%, OR .91, 95% CI .42–0.96), and overall morbidity (9% versus 9.1%, OR 1.0, 95% CI .55–1.81) were similar.ConclusionIn elderly patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery, SG is not associated with significantly different 30-day outcomes compared to RYGB. Both procedures are followed by acceptably low morbidity and mortality.     

Clinical significance of diabetes control before metabolic surgery

BackgroundEven though observational studies have suggested that poor preoperative diabetes control increases risk after major abdominal surgery, it is unclear whether this effect is seen in metabolic surgery patients.ObjectivesTo determine whether poor preoperative diabetes control is associated with worse outcomes in patients with obesity and diabetes undergoing metabolic surgery.SettingMetabolic and Bariatric Surgery Quality Improvement Project (MBSAQIP) database.MethodsUsing the MBSAQIP 2017 and 2018 database and preoperative glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C) as a diabetes control surrogate, we examined the association between diabetes control and major outcomes of primary laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in patients with diabetes and obesity. Multivariate logistic regression modeling examined five 30-day postoperative outcomes: composite serious complications (composite of 10 adverse events), composite infection (composite of 7 infectious complications), length of stay >5 days, reoperation, and readmission. Models were adjusted for multiple covariates.ResultsIn total, 26,674 patients with HbA1C data available within 30 days before metabolic surgery were included in the primary analysis and 35,884 patients with HbA1C data within 90 days before surgery were included in the sensitivity analysis. The mean body mass index (BMI) and preoperative HbA1C were 45.6 ± 8.2 kg/m² and 8.2 ± 2.7%, respectively. The incidence of 30-day postoperative infections and serious complications were 1.62% and 1.35%, respectively. Neither primary analysis nor sensitivity analysis demonstrated any association between higher HbA1C and worsening of 5 primary outcomes of interest. The odds ratio of an overall effect for SG was 1.01 (95% CI .98–1.03; P = .58) and for RYGB was .99 (95% CI .96–1.02; P = .41).ConclusionSuboptimal preoperative diabetes control is not associated with increased adverse events and should not delay metabolic surgery, as metabolic surgery is generally a safe procedure and intrinsically improves diabetes control.     

Impact of concurrent hiatal hernia repair during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on patient-reported gastroesophageal reflux symptoms: a state-wide analysis

BackgroundConcurrent hiatal hernia repair (HHR) during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) may improve gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. However, patient-reported outcomes are limited, and the influence of surgeon technique remains unclear.ObjectivesTo assess patient-reported GERD severity before and after LSG with and without concomitant HHR.SettingTeaching and non-teaching hospitals participating in a state-wide quality improvement collaborative.MethodsUsing a state-wide bariatric-specific data registry, all patients who underwent a primary LSG between 2015 and 2019 who completed a baseline and 1 year validated GERD health related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) survey were identified (n = 11,742). GERD severity at 1 year as well as 30-day risk-adjusted adverse events was compared between patients who underwent LSG with or without HHR. Results were also stratified by anterior versus posterior HHR.ResultsA total of 4015 patients underwent a LSG-HHR (34%). Compared to patients who underwent LSG without HHR, LSG-HHR patients were older (47.8 yr versus 44.6 yr; P < .0001), had a lower preoperative body mass index (BMI) (45.8 kg/m² versus 48 kg/m²; P < .0001) and more likely to be female (85.2% versus 77.6%, P < .0001). Patients who underwent a posterior HHR (n = 3205) experienced higher rates of symptom improvement (69.5% versus 64.0%, P = .0014) and lower rates of new onset symptoms at 1 year (28.2% versus 30.2%, P = .0500). Patients who underwent an anterior HHR (n = 496) experienced higher rates of hemorrhage and readmissions with no significant difference in symptom improvement.ConclusionsConcurrent posterior hiatal HHR at the time of sleeve gastrectomy can improve reflux symptoms. Patients undergoing anterior repair derive no benefit and should be avoided.