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The article focuses on the protective effects of semaglutide against adverse outcomes in COVID-19 patients. Topics include semaglutide's role in reducing COVID-19-related serious events and deaths, its impact on weight loss as a factor in improving health outcomes, and its broader benefits in reducing cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular mortality.

The article offers information on the GATEWAY (GAstric bypass to Treat obEse Patients With steAdy hYpertension) trial, comparing bariatric surgery to medical therapy for hypertension in obese patients. Topics include the study design, patient enrollment criteria, and primary outcome measures, such as the reduction in the number of antihypertensive medications and the achievement of hypertension remission.

The article focuses on the evolving perspectives on weight gain and loss, exploring the societal impact and personal struggles associated with body image. Topics include the prevalence of body consciousness, the influence of societal standards on self-esteem, and the potential revolution in weight management through various methods, including pharmaceuticals and medical procedures.

The article offers information on a teenager, Alexandra, considering bariatric surgery to address obesity-related health problems. Topics include Alexandra's struggles with obesity, her attempts at various weight-loss methods, and the challenges she faced due to bullying. The article discusses the prevalence of childhood obesity in the United States, the risks associated with severe obesity, and the rise of pediatric obesity globally, particularly during the pandemic.

The National Cancer Institute is accepting applications for the Mechanisms that Impact Cancer Risk after Bariatric Surgery grant. This grant aims to support studies that investigate how bariatric surgery affects cancer risk. The deadline for proposals is February 5, 2025, and the maximum project period is five years. Eligible applicants include colleges and universities, for-profit organizations, nonprofit organizations, and government entities. The research areas of interest include the examination of cancer risk biomarkers before weight loss, the importance of maximum weight loss or long-term weight loss for cancer risk reduction, and the mechanisms behind the gender differences in the effectiveness of bariatric surgery in reducing cancer risk. More information can be found on the grants.gov website. [Extracted from the article]

This article from Woman's Own tells the story of Gemma Loveden, a woman who lost 16st (224 pounds) and transformed her life. Gemma struggled with her weight for years, but after a wake-up call from a nurse and the passing of a friend, she decided to take action. She underwent weight-loss surgery and successfully lost the weight, gaining confidence and a new lease on life. Gemma is now an active and involved mother to her six children and is proud of her transformation. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on various weight-loss methods, featuring personal experiences with drug treatments, bariatric surgery, and non-invasive procedures. Topics include the impact of Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) on blood sugar and weight loss, the success of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty in treating liver issues and aiding weight loss, and the outcomes and challenges of undergoing non-invasive fat removal with AirSculpt.

Economists utilize Google Trends (GT) to predict present economic activity, a term called nowcasting. Here, GT was used to explore the relationship between current trends in public interest and rates of bariatric operations performed in the United States (US). Public interest search topics, limited to the US, from 2011 to 2017, including "bariatric surgery," "gastric bypass surgery," "sleeve gastrectomy," and "adjustable gastric band," were analyzed using GT. Relative search interest was compared between surgical type, with a subsequent comparison analysis to published bariatric surgery numbers in the US. The rate of sleeve gastrectomy increased from 19.8 to 74.3 percent (ptrend<0.001). The rate of gastric bypass and gastric band fell from 40.8 to 22.3 percent (ptrend<0.001) and 39.4 to 3.5 percent (ptrend<0.001), respectively. Relative search interest in sleeve gastrectomy rose from 9 to 33.8 percent. Relative interest in gastric bypass rose from 46.6 to 61.7 percent, and relative interest in gastric band fell from 44.4 to 9.8 percent. A comparison of trends between search proportions and operations performed demonstrated a significant difference in the trends for gastric bypass (p=0.01). There was no significant difference in trends for sleeve gastrectomy (p=0.99) or gastric band (p=0.15). There exists a disconnect between public interest and the current surgical environment. The reasons underlying this discrepancy are not fully elucidated and highlight an additional investigative opportunity to explore the causative factors driving these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The General Surgery and Foregut Committee of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), established in 2016, aimed to identify the unique diagnostic and treatment strategies required in the management of general surgery and foregut diseases in patients undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery. To achieve this, the committee believed that more data regarding the scope of practice among ASMBS members was needed. Objective: The current study aimed to survey ASMBS members using a standardized survey to assess essential elements of practice in the fields of bariatric, foregut, and general surgery. Methods: A subcommittee was formed to develop the survey. Questions focused on demographics and the scope and volume of members' bariatric, foregut, and general surgical practices. The subcommittee developed and refined the survey, which was then reviewed and approved by the executive committee. In early 2019, surveys containing items on demographic information, members' specializations and accreditations, areas and levels of expertise, volume of procedures, involvement in postgraduate education, and call coverage details were emailed to 1,778 ASMBS members. Results: The response rate was 31.7 percent. Among the 564 ASMBS members who responded, the majority (88%) practiced in cities or suburban areas. Half of the members had performed bariatric surgery for a period of 11 to 20 years. Just over 64 percent of members had completed fellowship training, with 81 percent of these surgeons having specialized in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery. About two-thirds of survey participants (65%) devoted more than half their practice to bariatric surgery, and over half of respondents (52%) were hospital employees. Conclusion: The ASMBS member survey was well received, with nearly one-third of members responding. Members are specialty trained; perform a wide range of bariatric, foregut, and general surgical procedures; and are highly concentrated in urban and suburban areas. The survey results are a representation of contemporary practice patterns of bariatric surgeons and set a baseline for comparison of future practice trends. They can also inform the society on developing strategies and guidelines that are meaningful to our membership based on their existing practice patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines concern that bariatric surgeries designed to help patients lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach could interfere with communication between the brain and the gut. It covers studies that found patients who undergo the surgery displayed hyperactivity in the brain areas associated with communication with the gut.

Objective: Outpatient care coordination phone calls can improve postoperative outcomes in certain surgical specialties but are not well described in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). This quality improvement (QI) initiative evaluated a standardized postoperative MBS phone call intervention on 30-day emergency department (ED) visits and hospital readmissions. Design: A phone call was conducted following MBS to inquire into patients' postoperative recovery and wellbeing. Retrospective chart review was done pre- (1/2019-3/2020) and postintervention (5/2020-6/2021) for variables and outcomes. Two-sample t-tests were used; p-values less than 0.05 were statistically significant. Setting: 532-bed mixed community and academic hospital. Participants: Patients aged 18 years or older undergoing primary or revisional MBS. Measurements: Patient and operative characteristics, monthly ED visit and readmission rates, postoperative day of presentation, and underlying reasons for ED visits and readmissions. Results: Overall, 522 patients were identified (263 preintervention, 259 postintervention) with 32 (6.1%) ED visits (20 preintervention, 12 postintervention) and 23 (4.4%) readmissions (9 preintervention, 14 postintervention). The top three reasons for ED visits were oral intake problems, constipation, and wound problems. The top three reasons for readmissions included surgical complications or issues, oral intake problems, and venous thromboembolism events. Average monthly ED visit rates decreased by 54 percent, from 8.4 to 3.9 percent (pre- and postintervention, respectively), while average monthly readmission rates increased from 3.1 to 3.9 percent (pre- and postintervention, respectively). Conclusion: Standardized MBS phone calls are a promising postoperative care coordination adjunct and might help reduce ED visits. Further QI work will include improving postoperative education, identifying higher risk patients before discharge, and larger scale data collection efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers at Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University conducted a study on the impact of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) on obese patients in China. The study focused on the changes in gut microbiota and their association with metabolic improvements post-surgery. Results showed a significant decrease in Body Mass Index (BMI) and improvements in glucose metabolism, liver function, and serum lipid levels after LSG. The research concluded that LSG not only reduces body weight but also alleviates metabolic syndrome and comorbidities by altering gut microbiota. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Universidad Cientifica del Sur in Lima, Peru, focused on the increasing prevalence of obesity and diabetes in low- and middle-income countries. The study aimed to quantify the number of individuals in Peru eligible for pharmacological and surgical treatments for obesity between 2014 and 2022. Findings revealed that eligibility for obesity management has risen over time, with factors such as female sex, older age, higher socioeconomic status, and study year associated with a higher likelihood of eligibility for treatment. The researchers emphasized the importance of implementing policies to address overweight and obesity in Peru, recognizing the potential benefits of pharmacological and surgical interventions for some individuals. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Porto in Portugal explored the distribution of neurotensin-expressing cells in the small intestine of individuals with and without type 2 diabetes undergoing bariatric surgery for obesity treatment. The research found that the density of these cells increased along the human small intestine, with significantly higher levels observed in individuals with type 2 diabetes. This discovery suggests a potential role for neurotensin in the mechanisms of disease and the observed improvement in type 2 diabetes after bariatric surgery. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from the University of Catania in Italy have conducted a study on the pharmacological treatment of non-responders following bariatric surgery. The study highlights the challenges faced by patients who experience insufficient weight loss or weight regain after bariatric surgery. The research suggests that weight loss medications could be beneficial in managing non-responders to primary bariatric surgery, offering additional options for healthcare providers and patients. This study has been peer-reviewed and provides valuable insights into the long-term management of obesity. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Iran examined the impact of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on self-esteem and depression in patients with obesity. The randomized clinical trial found that significant weight loss after the surgery led to enhanced self-esteem and reduced depression levels. The researchers recommend bariatric surgery for individuals with severe obesity to improve their mental health. [Extracted from the article]

"From Here to the Great Unknown: A Memoir" is a posthumously published memoir by Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough, detailing Lisa Marie's battle with addiction and grief before her death at age 54. The memoir, completed by her daughter Riley, offers a frank and heavy meditation on Lisa Marie's life, including her struggles with abuse, paparazzi, and opioid addiction. Despite the heavy subject matter, the book is described as engrossing and brutally honest, providing a raw look at generational issues of depression and addiction. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from the Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center discusses findings on premature ovarian failure, highlighting the potential benefits of metabolic-bariatric surgery (MBS) for women with ovarian insufficiency. The case study presented a 38-year-old woman who achieved a spontaneous pregnancy following MBS, despite previous unsuccessful assisted reproduction attempts. The research suggests that MBS may increase the chances of spontaneous ovulation and successful pregnancy in women with obesity and idiopathic ovarian insufficiency. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City examined the rates of new-onset type 2 diabetes in individuals who underwent metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) compared to those who did not. The study found that individuals who had MBS were significantly less likely to develop new-onset type 2 diabetes than those who did not have the surgery, especially among individuals with prediabetes at baseline. The research was supported by Intuitive Surgical Inc. and has been published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus focused on the impact of bariatric surgery on obese patients undergoing microvascular breast reconstruction. The study found that bariatric surgery led to a reduction in surgical complications and a remission of type 2 diabetes in some patients. The researchers concluded that metabolic bridge therapy could potentially help reduce complications for obese patients undergoing microvascular breast reconstruction. The study provides valuable insights into the relationship between obesity, diabetes, and surgical outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from the University of Laval explores the impact of bariatric surgery on brain health and metabolic markers in individuals with obesity and diabetes. The research found that sustained improvements in grey and white matter densities were observed up to 24 months post-surgery, with greater preoperative visceral adiposity associated with more significant increases in white matter density. These findings suggest that individuals with excess visceral adiposity may benefit the most from bariatric surgery. The study highlights the potential long-term benefits of bariatric surgery on brain health and metabolic outcomes in individuals with obesity and diabetes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent analysis published in Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews suggests that weight-loss surgery, also known as metabolic-bariatric surgery, may reduce the risk of developing pancreatic cancer in individuals with obesity, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. The study, which included 12 relevant studies involving over 3.7 million adults with obesity, found that surgery was associated with a 44% reduction in pancreatic cancer risk for individuals with obesity but without type 2 diabetes, and a 79% risk reduction for those with both obesity and type 2 diabetes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these findings and explore the broader health benefits of metabolic-bariatric surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A recent analysis published in the journal Surgical Endoscopy found that the cost of weekly injections of popular anti-obesity medications liraglutide (Saxenda) or semaglutide (Wegovy) exceeds that of metabolic and bariatric surgery within a year. Researchers from USF Health Morsani College of Medicine compared the costs of pharmacotherapy with GLP-1 agonists to surgical procedures like sleeve gastrectomy and Rou-en-Y gastric bypass, highlighting the cost considerations of obesity treatment. Metabolic and bariatric surgery has been shown to offer long-term benefits, including significant weight loss and disease resolution, making it a cost-effective option for patients with severe obesity and related conditions. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Department of Surgery in Jackson, Michigan, examined the safety and outcomes of same-day discharge laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) using the MBSAQIP database. The study found that same-day LRYGB is safe and feasible, with comparable complication rates to next-day discharge. The same-day discharge group had a lower readmission rate but a higher need for outpatient intravenous hydration. Further research is needed to determine the selection criteria and optimize postoperative care for outpatient LRYGB. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Signature Healthcare in Brockton, Massachusetts, focuses on the development of a care pathway for the intra-operative management of patients undergoing minimally invasive Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. The study aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for the care of patients during the day of surgery, from the preoperative holding area to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU). The research concludes that this care pathway may serve as a valuable resource for bariatric surgeons and providers involved in RYGB procedures. The study has been peer-reviewed and published in Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Helmholtz Institute for Metabolic has found that the expression of Intelectin-1 (ITLN1), also known as Omentin-1, is related to clinical phenotypes such as overweight, obesity, insulin resistance, and changes after bariatric surgery. ITLN1 is secreted by adipose tissue and plays a crucial role in regulating glucose metabolism, with implications for obesity-associated diseases. The study analyzed ITLN1 expression in different clinical cohorts and found that it differs in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), suggesting that they should be analyzed separately. Additionally, ITLN1 expression is influenced by tissue dysfunction and is associated with local inflammatory processes, regulation of appetite, energy balance, and maintenance of body weight. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study from Josip Juraj Strossmayer University in Osijek, Croatia, explores the molecular mechanisms affecting statin pharmacokinetics after bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery is recommended for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or 35 kg/m2 with weight-related comorbidities. The study found that significant improvements in lipid profiles are observed after surgery, but there is substantial variability in statin pharmacokinetic alterations, making it challenging to establish clear guidelines. The researchers suggest reducing statin dosage to the lowest effective level with continuous monitoring as the optimal approach in clinical practice. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Statistical Division examined the perceptions of former NFL players regarding metabolic surgery and its potential to reduce obesity and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) risk. The study found that most retired players with obesity believed metabolic surgery to be effective and would be more likely to undergo the procedure if it also reduced the risk of CTE. The research suggests that metabolic surgery may have cognitive benefits and could potentially attenuate neurodegeneration associated with CTE. However, despite the positive views on metabolic surgery, the majority of participants were unlikely to elect the procedure for weight management alone. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Mayo Clinic examined the relationship between social determinants of health, race/ethnicity, and traditional surgical risk factors on outcomes following metabolic surgery. The study analyzed data from five accredited bariatric program sites within a national academic health system. The findings showed that higher-risk patients were more likely to come from counties with lower county health rankings (CHR), but CHR was not independently associated with 30-day outcomes after metabolic surgery. Racial disparities in short-term outcomes persisted despite adjustment for CHR tercile. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at University Hospital Pontevedra in Spain aimed to assess the impact of bariatric surgery on obstetric outcomes. The study included 54 pregnancies post-bariatric surgery and 219 pregnancies in non-operated obese women. The results showed that bariatric surgery was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of gestational diabetes and cesarean sections, but also an increased risk of miscarriage and intrauterine growth restriction. The study highlights the importance of specialized obstetric care for pregnant women with a history of bariatric surgery to optimize maternal-fetal outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in China examined the outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with unexpected liver cirrhosis. The study found that bariatric surgery can be safely performed in patients with compensated liver disease, with low postoperative complications and no mortality reported during the one-year follow-up period. The study included 47 patients, with the majority having Child-Pugh class A cirrhosis. The average weight loss one year after surgery was 29.73%, and the remission rates of comorbidities such as dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome were high. This research provides valuable insights into the safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in patients with liver cirrhosis. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by Wayne State University compared the outcomes of two weight loss procedures: Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) and Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG). The study found that ESG was effective in achieving weight loss and improving comorbidities related to obesity. Although LSG resulted in greater weight loss, ESG had a shorter hospital stay and lower rate of complications. The researchers concluded that ESG shows promise for long-term weight loss and health improvement. [Extracted from the article]

A new study on cholangitis, a condition involving inflammation of the bile ducts, has been conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch. The study focuses on the challenges of performing endoscopy in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery, specifically vertical band gastroplasty. The researchers present a case study of a patient with cholangitis and a vertical band stenosis, highlighting the successful use of a lumen-apposing metal stent. This research provides valuable insights into the management of cholangitis in patients with altered gastrointestinal anatomy. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, Maryland, compared the outcomes of bariatric surgery with concurrent ventral hernia repair with mesh versus bariatric surgery alone. The study used the 2015-2022 MBSAQIP database to identify patients who underwent minimally invasive sleeve gastrectomy or Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with or without concurrent ventral hernia repair with mesh. The study found that the concurrent approach did not excessively prolong operative times and had similar 30-day outcomes and bariatric-specific complications compared to bariatric surgery alone. However, patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with ventral hernia repair had a higher rate of reoperations, suggesting a staged approach may be recommended. The study concluded that concurrent sleeve gastrectomy and ventral hernia repair with mesh may be beneficial after an appropriate individualized risk stratification assessment. [Extracted from the article]

This document provides information about a clinical trial that aims to improve oral hygiene and dental health in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. The trial involves three interventions: group-based teaching, a website with information and recommendations, and the distribution of dental hygiene samples. The trial is not yet recruiting participants and aims to enroll 300 individuals. The study is being conducted in collaboration with several hospitals and the principal investigator is Magnus N Strommen from St. Olavs Hospital. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial has been launched to evaluate the effectiveness of fundoplication with stomach exclusion in treating disabling gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) that requires surgery. The trial aims to assess the long-term efficacy of this procedure in patients who have undergone one anastomosis gastric bypass. The study will include adult patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery and fundoplication of the excluded stomach for the treatment of post-bypass GERD that is resistant to medical treatment. The trial is currently in the recruitment phase and will be conducted in France. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted in Lubin, Poland examined the factors that influence weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), a surgical treatment for obesity. The study analyzed various patient- and surgeon-related factors, such as gender, age, preoperative and postoperative weight, obesity-related diseases, and the number of surgeons involved in the surgery. The results showed that preoperative weight loss did not impact weight loss after LSG, and the number of surgeons in the operating team did not affect surgery time, length of hospital stay, or weight loss. The study concluded that preoperative comorbidities, surgeons' experience, and the number of surgeons did not impact the complication rate, length of hospital stay, operative time, or postoperative weight loss after LSG. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Houston Methodist Hospital examined the impact of elevated Hb A1C levels on postoperative complications in patients undergoing revisional bariatric surgery. The researchers found that elevated Hb A1C levels were not associated with increased complications in these patients. The study suggests that previous literature on primary bariatric surgery may not apply to the higher-risk revisional surgery cohort. Further prospective studies are needed to investigate this topic. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Columbia University in New York City evaluated the use of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols in adolescents undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery. The study found that patients who participated in the ERAS protocol had shorter time to oral intake, lower opioid requirements, and shorter hospital stays compared to the control group. There were no significant differences in return visits to the emergency department or readmissions between the two groups. The researchers concluded that the ERAS protocol is safe and effective in adolescents undergoing laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy. [Extracted from the article]