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Background: Numerous reports address bariatric outcomes in super-obese or elderly patients, but data addressing this high-risk combination is lacking., Objective: The objective of this study was to assess outcomes of bariatric surgery in the super-obese elderly., Setting: Academic institution, United States., Methods: All primary bariatric cases performed on patients aged 65 years or older with a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 50 kg/m(2) were retrospectively analyzed. Surgical approaches included laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB)., Results: Thirty patients (26 female, 4 male) with a mean age of 67.1 ± 2.7 years and BMI of 55.9 ± 3.9 kg/m(2), who had LRYGB (n = 16), LSG (n = 6), or LAGB (n = 8), were identified. There were no deaths, conversions, or intraoperative complications. Three patients were lost to follow-up after the 3-month visit. The early (<30 d) major morbidity rate was 10.0%. At a median follow-up of 37 (range, 6-95) months, the cohort had a mean BMI of 42.3 ± 6.7 kg/m(2), which corresponded to a mean percent excess weight loss of 44.5% ± 20.5% and mean percent total weight loss of 24.4% ± 12.2%. The most percent excess weight loss was achieved after LRYGB (54.1% ± 19.4%), followed by LSG (48.3% ± 10.2%) and then LAGB (26.2% ± 14.4%). Diabetic medication reduction in number and/or dosage was observed in 40% (6/15) patients, and 33% (5/15) of patients were completely off antidiabetic agents., Conclusions: Although further research is needed, the present data suggest that successful weight loss and metabolic improvement can be achieved safely in the high-risk population of super-obese elderly., (Copyright © 2016 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To determine the 2-year outcomes of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) vs. intensive medical therapy (IMT) on lean body mass, total bone mass, and bone mineral density (BMD) measures from the STAMPEDE trial., Methods: 54 subjects (BMI: 36 ± 1 kg/m(2) , age: 48 ± 4 years) with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) (HbA1c : 9.7 ± 2%) were randomized to IMT, RYGB, or SG and underwent DXA at baseline and at 1 and 2 years., Results: At 2 years, the reduction in BMI was similar after RYGB and SG and was greater than IMT (P < 0.001). Lean mass was reduced by ∼10%, total bone mineral content reduced by ∼8%, and hip BMD reduced by ∼9% in both surgical groups and was significantly greater than IMT despite increases in vitamin D intake in all groups. The change in hip BMD correlated with weight loss (r = 0.84, P < 0.0001) and changes in lean mass (r = 0.74, P < 0.0001) and leptin (r = 0.53, P < 0.0001). Peripheral fractures were self-reported in RYGB (4/18 patients), SG (2/19 patients), and IMT (4/16 patients)., Conclusions: Surgically induced weight loss is associated with modest reductions in lean mass, bone mineral content, and BMD, despite calcium and vitamin D supplementation in patients with T2DM. Awareness for bone loss is indicated for patients undergoing bariatric procedures., (© 2015 The Obesity Society.)

Background: Implementation of a multidisciplinary conference (MC) attended by medical, surgical, nutrition, bioethics, and psychology specialists may help identify treatment plans for bariatric surgery candidates with a high-risk psychiatric profile. Methods: Data were assessed for all bariatric candidates evaluated by the MC in an academic center between January 2009 and December 2010. Results: A total of 134 patients of 2798 patients assessed by four different psychologists were subsequently evaluated by the MC. The most frequent psychiatric diagnoses were mood disorders ( n  = 37, 27.6%), anxiety disorders ( n  = 24, 17.9%), and binge eating disorder ( n  = 19, 14.1%). More than one psychiatric diagnosis was observed in 95.6% of the cohort. Substance abuse issues were present in 25% patients. Fifteen patients (11.2%) were eventually cleared and underwent surgery, 35 (26.1%) left the program before completing their requirements, and 84 patients (62.7%) were still working toward their individualized goals in the program. For those who underwent surgery, mean preoperative management duration was 221 days (range, 111-366) with an average of 11 preoperative psychiatric visits (range, 9-15). Conclusions: Patients with a high-risk psychosocial profile seeking bariatric surgery require multiple visits and resources to determine their candidacy. The majority of these patients are either deemed ineligible for surgery or require prolonged preoperative evaluation.

Background: Gastrogastric fistula (GGF) is a rare complication after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) that can be challenging to treat., Objective: The aim of this study is to examine our surgical experience in the management of GGF after RYGB., Setting: Academic center, United States., Methods: We report a consecutive series of 36 patients who underwent surgery for GGF at our institution between 2005 and 2013., Results: The cohort had a mean age of 48.0±10.8 years, mean body mass index (BMI) of 34.6±11.3 kg/m(2), and an average number of 5.0±2.0 co-morbidities at the time of GGF revision. Of the 36 patients, 16 (44.4%) had previous open RYGB. Endoscopy confirmed GGF in 26 patients (72.2%), whereas upper gastrointestinal (GI) series indicated GGF in 21 of 30 cases (70.0%). The GGF surgery was on average 6.4±3.8 years after the primary procedure. All patients underwent surgical management either in the form of a redo gastrojejunal anastomosis with excision of fistula (77.7%) or a remnant gastrectomy with excision of fistula (22.2%). Mean operative time, blood loss, and length of stay were 248.4±103.3 minutes, 232.7±270.2 mL, and 8.5±8.6 days, respectively. One major intraoperative and 6 early postoperative complications occurred. After a mean follow-up of 38.4±30.0 months, the mean BMI was 35.5±6.2 kg/m(2) in patients with weight regain before GGF revision (P<.05) versus 25.0±6.1 kg/m(2) in patients without weight regain (P = .7)., Conclusion: GGF is a rare complication of RYGB. Surgical treatment should be tailored to the presenting symptoms and associated anatomic abnormality. Anastomotic revisions are associated with higher complication rates., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: Obesity is associated with low-grade chronic inflammation. We hypothesized that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery would reduce activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in metabolically active adipose tissue (AT) of obese rats, and this change would be related to decreases in body weight and improved glycemic control., Methods: Omental, mesenteric and subcutaneous fat depots were collected from Sprague-Dawley rats: Sham control and RYGB; 90-days after surgery. NLRP3, caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and MCP-1 gene and protein expression were quantified. Glucose metabolism was assessed by oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT)., Results: Compared to Sham surgery controls, RYGB surgery decreased IL-6, MCP-1, NLRP3, IL-18, caspase-1 and ASC in omental fat, and decreased IL-6, MCP1, IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1 and ASC gene expression in mesenteric fat. We observed differential gene expression between visceral and subcutaneous fat for IL-6 and IL-1β, both being downregulated by RYGB in visceral, and upregulated in subcutaneous depots. These changes in gene expression were accompanied by a decrease in NLRP3, ASC, IL-18, caspase-1 and IL-1β protein expression in omental tissue. We found a positive correlation between caspase-1, ASC, MCP-1, IL-18 and IL-6 gene expression following surgery and glucose AUC response in omental fat, while the change in glucose AUC response correlated with caspase-1 gene expression in subcutaneous fat., Conclusion: This study demonstrates that bariatric surgery reverses inflammation in visceral adipose tissue by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation. These are the first data to implicate the NLRP3 inflammasome in diabetes remission after RYGB surgery.

The metabolic profile of patients after a failed surgical weight loss procedure is unknown. Long-term clinical outcomes of 31 obese diabetes patients with post-bariatric surgery excess weight loss of ≤25% were assessed. At a median follow-up of 6 years (range, 5-9 years) after surgery, remission and clinical improvement of diabetes occurred in seven (23%) and 13 (42%) patients, respectively. A long-term mean total weight loss of 7.0±4.7% and excess weight loss of 13.7±8.5% were associated with a mean reduction in fasting blood glucose level, from 158.9±66.7 to 128.4±35.3 mg/dL (P=0.03), and a significant decrease in diabetes medication requirements (P<0.001). A significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (11.1±23.4 mm Hg, P=0.01) and level of circulating triglycerides (35.7±73.4 mg/dL, P=0.04) was also observed after surgery. A modest surgical weight loss in the range of 5-10% of initial weight was associated with significant improvement in cardiometabolic risk factors of morbidly obese diabetes patients. The markedly improved glycemic control (65% remission or clinical improvement) may be partly explained by weight-independent antidiabetes mechanisms of certain bariatric surgical procedures.

Introduction: The utility of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) decompression for inoperable malignant bowel obstruction is well documented. However, there are limited data on decompressive PEG for prolonged ileus, gut dysmotility, and/or complicated nonmalignant bowel obstruction. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and short-term outcomes of decompressive PEG for nonmalignant indications., Subjects and Methods: After Institutional Review Board approval, we retrospectively reviewed and analyzed all PEG insertions completed at our institution between 2009 and 2014 for prolonged ileus, gut dysmotility, or nonmalignant obstruction., Results: We identified 72 patients (42 females, 30 males; mean age, 58.8 ± 15.2 years) who underwent decompressive PEG for nonmalignant indications. There were no procedural complications or mortalities. The mean pre- and postprocedural length of stays were 14.4 ± 10.7 and 7.6 ± 11.1 days, respectively (P = .0003). The 30-day re-admission rate was 12.5% (9 patients; the majority for unrelated issues). Fifty-two (72%) of the 72 patients were discharged with a PEG for decompression for a median of 69.5 (range, 17-316) days; the remaining 20 (28%) patients were lost to follow-up and were assumed to continue follow-up with their primary referring center. Of the 72 patients, 63 (87.5%) were discharged on total parenteral nutrition (TPN); 36 (50%) of those continued to receive TPN for a median of 51 (range, 4-316) days after discharge, and resolution of their mechanical obstruction was ultimately achieved, so that they subsequently resumed enteral nutrition. Twenty-four (33%) patients were lost to follow-up; because they were referred to our tertiary referral center, we assumed they continued follow-up at their referring institution. Three (4%) patients ultimately went on to use TPN indefinitely and thus were considered to be chronically TPN-dependent., Conclusions: Decompressive PEG insertion is safe and effective at alleviating obstructive symptoms in patients with prolonged postoperative ileus, gut dysmotility, and/or complicated nonmalignant obstruction.

Purpose: To evaluate the incidence and outcomes of hiatal hernias (HH) that are repaired concomitantly during bariatric surgery., Methods: We identified patients who had concomitant HH repair during bariatric surgery from 2010 to 2014. Data collected included baseline demographics, perioperative parameters, type of HH repair, and postoperative outcomes., Results: A total of 83 underwent concomitant HH during study period. The male-to-female ratio was 1:8, mean age was 57.2 ± 10.0 years, and mean body mass index was 44.5 ± 7.9 kg/m(2). A total of 61 patients had laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and 22 had laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. HH was diagnosed before bariatric surgery in 32 (39%) subjects, whereas 51 (61%) were diagnosed intraoperatively. Primary hernia repair was performed with anterior reconstruction in 45 (54%) patients, posterior in 21 (25%), and additional mesh placement in 7 (8%). A total of 24 early minor postoperative symptoms were reported. At 12 month follow-up, mean body mass index improved to 30.0 ± 6.2 kg/m(2), and anti-reflux medication was decreased from 84% preoperatively to 52%. Late postoperative complications were observed in 3 patients. A comparative analysis with a matched 1:1 control group displayed no significant differences in operative time (P = .07), duration of stay (P = .9), intraoperative complications, or early (P = .09) and late post-operative symptoms (P = .3). In addition, no differences were noted in terms of weight-loss outcomes., Conclusion: The true incidence of HH may be underestimated before bariatric surgery. Combined repair of HH during bariatric surgery appears safe and feasible., (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Age, superobesity, and cardiopulmonary comorbidities define patients as high risk for bariatric surgery. We evaluated the outcomes following bariatric surgery in extremely high-risk patients., Materials and Methods: Among 3240 patients who underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery at a single academic center from January 2006 through June 2012, extremely high-risk patients were identified using the following criteria: age ≥ 65 years, body mass index (BMI) ≥ 50 kg/m(2), and presence of at least two of six cardiopulmonary comorbidities, including hypertension, ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and history of venous thromboembolism. Perioperative and intermediate-term outcomes were assessed., Results: Forty-four extremely high-risk patients underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 23), adjustable gastric banding (n = 11), or sleeve gastrectomy (n = 10). Patients had a mean age of 67.9 ± 2.7 years, a mean BMI of 54.8 ± 5.5 kg/m(2), and a median of two (range, two to five) cardiopulmonary comorbidities. There was no conversion to laparotomy. Thirteen (29.5%) 30-day postoperative complications occurred; only six were major complications. Thirty-day postoperative re-admission, re-operation, and mortality rates were 15.9%, 2.3%, and 0%, respectively. Within a mean follow-up time of 24.0 ± 18.4 months, late morbidity and mortality rates were 18.2% and 2.3%, respectively. The mean percentage total weight and excess weight losses after at least 1 year of follow-up were 26.7 ± 12.0% and 44.1 ± 20.6%, respectively., Conclusions: Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is safe and can be performed with acceptable perioperative outcomes in extremely high-risk patients. Advanced age, BMI, and severe cardiopulmonary comorbidities should not exclude patients from consideration for bariatric surgery.

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is rapidly gaining popularity. Estimating the risk of postoperative adverse events can improve surgical decision-making and informed patient consent. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a risk prediction model for early postoperative morbidity and mortality after LSG., Methods: Cases of primary LSG in the American College of Surgeons-National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) data set at year 2012 (n = 5871) and 2011 (n = 3130) were identified to develop and examine the validity of model. The composite primary outcome was defined as presence of any of 14 serious adverse events within the 30-days after LSG. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed and a risk calculator was created to predict the primary outcome., Results: Thirty-day postoperative mortality and composite adverse events rates of 5871 LSG cases were .05% and 2.4%, respectively. Of the 52 examined baseline variables, the final model contained history of congestive heart failure (odds ratio [OR] 6.23; 95% CI 1.25-31.07), chronic steroid use (OR 5.00; 95% CI 2.06-12.15), male sex (OR 1.68; 95% CI 1.03-2.72), diabetes (OR 1.62; 95% CI 1.07-2.48), preoperative serum total bilirubin level (OR 1.57; 95% CI 1.11-2.22), body mass index (OR 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.05), and preoperative hematocrit level (OR .95; 95% CI .89-1.00). The risk model was then validated with the 2011 data set and was used to create an online risk calculator with a relatively good accuracy (c-statistic .682)., Conclusions: This risk assessment scoring system, which specifically estimates serious adverse events after LSG, can contribute to surgical decision-making, informed patient consent, and prediction of surgical risk for patients and referring physicians., (Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: The Internet is an important source of information for morbidly obese patients who are potential candidates for bariatric procedures. Over the past few years, there is growing demand for sleeve gastrectomy because of perceived technical ease balanced with excellent outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the quality and content of available internet information pertaining to sleeve gastrectomy. Our hypothesis is that this information is inconsistent and inaccurate., Methods: A total of 50 websites were analyzed in September 2013. We used the search term "sleeve gastrectomy" to identify sites on the most common internet search engines: Google, Yahoo, Bing, and Ask. Based on popularity of use, 20 websites were obtained through the Google engine and 10 sites by each of the others. Websites were classified as academic, physician, health professional, commercial, social media, and unspecified. Quality of information was evaluated using the DISCERN score, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmark criteria, and the Health on the Net code (HONcode) seal accreditation. The DISCERN score varies from 0-80 points and is based on 16 questions that evaluate publication quality and reliability. The JAMA benchmark criteria range from 0-4 points assessing website authorship, attribution, disclosure, and currency. HONcode certification was assessed as present or absent website accreditation. Duplicate and inaccessible websites were excluded from the analysis., Results: We identified 43 websites from the United States, 6 from Mexico, and 1 from Australia. The average DISCERN and JAMA benchmark scores for all websites were 46.3±14.5 and 1.6±1.1, respectively, with a median DISCERN of 48.5 (range, 16-76) and JAMA score of 2.0 (range, 0-4). Website classification distribution was 21 physician, 11 academic, 7 commercial, 5 social media, 4 unspecified, and 2 health professional. The average DISCERN and JAMA benchmark scores were 55.4±13.4 and 2.4±1.0 in the academic group, 49.5±10.0 and 1.9±.9 in the physician group, 46.9±14.2 and .2±.4 in social media sites, 44.0±2.8 and 1.0±.0 in health professional pages, 41.3±14.2 and 1.0±1.0 in commercial sites, and 39.8±19.5 and 1.0±1.1 in the unspecified group. The HONcode seal was present in 2 (4%) of the websites analyzed., Conclusion: The results of this study suggest poor quality and content of information on the internet viewed by potential bariatric candidates. Only 4% of the websites demonstrated HONcode seal accreditation. The global mean DISCERN and JAMA benchmark scores reported in this study were significantly lower than one would expect. Academic and physician websites offer the best information content whereas the worst was observed in the commercial and unspecified groups., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Obesity is common among systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. An increased perioperative risk after major surgery in SLE has been reported. The aim of this study was to describe postoperative outcomes among SLE patients undergoing bariatric surgery., Methods: Charts were reviewed to identify patients with an active diagnosis of SLE before bariatric surgery. Demographic variables, perioperative data, and SLE-related parameters were extracted., Results: Thirty-one morbidly obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery between 2005 and 2013 had a SLE diagnosis. Twenty-three patients had laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP), 3 underwent laparoscopic revisional surgery for failed bariatric procedure, 3 had laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and 1 underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Mean age, body mass index, and excess weight (kg) at baseline were 52.8±9.4 years, 44.3±9 kg/m(2), and 52.5±25.7 kg, respectively. Of these 31 patients, 24 (77.4%) were taking immunosuppressive medications at the time of surgery. Early major postoperative complications occurred in 4 patients (12.9%), with 3 requiring reoperation (9.6%). Multivariate analysis identified immunosuppressive therapy to be significantly associated with postoperative complications (P = .05). At a mean follow-up of 3 years, 13 patients (42%) showed reduction in the number of immunosuppressive medications and 6 (19.3%) were off steroids completely. After bariatric surgery, mean body mass index decreased to 34.2±8.2 kg/m(2) (P<.005) and excess weight loss was 51.2%± 33.4%., Conclusion: Results suggest that weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with decreased SLE immunosuppression medication requirements; however, the risks are higher. Bariatric surgery in this patient population should be approached with caution., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Placement of an adjustable gastric band (AGB) over the gastric pouch after RYGB failure has had varied results. The aim of this study was to evaluate safety and outcomes of AGB after RYGB failure., Methods: Twenty-eight patients who underwent laparoscopic placement of an AGB around the gastric pouch as a revisional procedure for inadequate weight loss or recidivism after RYGB between 2008-2011 were identified., Results: Twenty-four (86%) patients had a dilated gastric pouch and/or stoma. The mean operative and adhesiolysis times were 137.9±52.3 minutes and 83±51 minutes, respectively. History of a previous open RYGB was associated with a longer adhesiolysis time (P = .03). Three (11%) major intraoperative and 5 (18%) early postoperative complications occurred. Late complications (all requiring band removal) were observed in 6 (21%) patients and included ineffectiveness (n = 2), dysphagia/esophageal dilation (n = 2), band erosion (n = 1), and peritonitis (n = 1). In all 4 patients with a normal-sized pouch and stoma at the time of band placement, the band was removed. After a mean follow-up of 38.3±14.8 months, the mean body mass index (BMI) change and median excess weight loss (EWL) after salvage banding were -3.6±4.5 kg/m(2) and 12.7%, respectively. In the subset of patients with a dilated pouch/stoma, BMI less than 42 kg/m(2) at the time of band placement was associated with a significantly higher EWL (41.4%±37.0%) compared with a baseline BMI>42 kg/m(2) (12.1%±7.2%, P = .03)., Conclusions: Salvage banding is technically challenging due to dense adhesions, carries significant morbidity, and is associated with only 13% additional EWL. However, this approach may still be an option in carefully selected patients, such as those with previous laparoscopic RYGB who have a dilated pouch and/or stoma and lower BMI., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: This study investigated the effect of type 2 diabetes duration on glucose regulation 24 months post-bariatric surgery., Methods: Twenty-seven adults with short- (<5 years) and long-duration (≥10 years) type 2 diabetes received a mixed-meal tolerance test at baseline and 24 months postsurgery. Body weight, insulin sensitivity, first- and second-phase meal-stimulated insulin secretion, disposition index (i.e., DI or pancreatic β-cell function), and incretin responses were examined., Results: Adults with short-duration type 2 diabetes had better HbA(1c), greater insulin secretory capacity, and greater DI compared with adults with long-duration type 2 diabetes, despite similar weight loss and incretin responses. Diabetes duration correlated with smaller improvements in HbA(1c) and DI but not weight loss., Conclusions: Enhanced β-cell function characterizes the effect of bariatric surgery in adults with diabetes for <5 years, independent of weight loss or incretins. Additional therapy postsurgery may be required to improve glycemia for people with long-standing type 2 diabetes., (© 2015 The Obesity Society.)

Background: The conversion rate of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has increased during recent years. The safety profile of one-step conversion of LAGB to LSG is not clear from the current literature., Methods: Using the database of the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP), morbidly obese patients undergoing primary LSG and conversion of LAGB to LSG in one-step between 2010 and 2012 were identified. Perioperative outcomes (including 30-day composite rate comprised of 18 postoperative adverse events) were compared between groups using a univariate cross-sectional analysis., Results: Data of 11,320 patients (10,997 primary LSG and 323 LAGB to LSG) were analyzed. The LAGB-to-LSG group had better preoperative health status, including significantly lower body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists scores, and prevalence of diabetes and hypertension. Operative time for the LAGB-to-LSG group (130.0±53.7 min) was significantly longer than primary LSG group (98.5±42.8 min, P<.001). The 30-day composite adverse event rate was 6.8% in the LAGB-to-LSG group and 5.4% in the primary LSG group (P = .29). The rate of minor complications, including urinary tract infection and wound infection were significantly higher in the revisional surgery group. Thirty-day rates of other postoperative complications, reoperation, readmission, mortality, and length of hospital stay were comparable between the 2 groups., Conclusions: This national data suggests that conversion of LAGB to LSG in a single stage has comparable safety to primary LSG. In this study, improved preoperative health status of patients in the revisional group may serve as an equalizer with regards to postoperative outcomes of conversion to LSG., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Chronic renal disease is known to adversely affect the results of bariatric surgery. There is a paucity of literature on the safety and effectiveness of bariatric surgery on dialysis patients who are at very advanced stages in their renal disease. The objective of this study was to determine the safety and effectiveness of bariatric surgery in dialysis patients., Methods: A retrospective review of a prospectively collected database was conducted for dialysis patients who underwent bariatric surgery between January 2006 and January 2012. Age, gender, body mass index (BMI), cause of renal failure, associated co-morbidities, type of surgery, early and late complications, and mortality were collected., Results: Of the 3048 patients undergoing bariatric surgery during the study period, 21 dialysis patients (.7%) were identified. Eighteen patients underwent laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), 2 patients underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and 1 patient underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Mean preoperative BMI was 47.1±5.5 kg/m(2), and BMI decreased to 35.3±8.4 kg/m(2) after a mean follow-up period of 27.6 months (range = 1.4-78.0 mo). Early major complications (<30 days of surgery) occurred in 2 patients (1 anastomotic leak and 1 anastomotic stricture). Four patients had a late complication, including 1 marginal ulcer with bleeding managed endoscopically, 1 small bowel obstruction requiring laparoscopic lysis of adhesions, 1 cholecystitis requiring cholecystectomy, and 1 anastomotic stricture requiring endoscopic dilation. There was 1 death in this cohort, at 45 days after LRYGB, that was unrelated to a surgery., Conclusions: Chronic renal failure requiring dialysis should not be considered a contraindication to bariatric surgery. Our experience with this patient population has shown excellent medium-term weight loss and an acceptable (albeit increased) risk/benefit ratio., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: The risk of venous thromboembolic (VTE) events is increased in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Population studies examining VTE rates after bariatric surgery often lack details and uniformity regarding the prophylactic regimens used. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of VTE in patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery., Methods: Database searches from Cleveland Clinic bariatric surgery programs in Cleveland, OH, and Weston, FL, were conducted from January 2005 to January 2013. Mechanical and chemical prophylaxes were provided for all patients as per protocol. Data on age, gender, body mass index (BMI), interval between procedure and VTE, inpatient versus outpatient status, anticoagulation prophylaxis, type of surgery and mortality were collected., Results: A total of 4,293 patients underwent primary or revisional bariatric surgery during this 8-year time period. VTE events were identified in 57 patients (1.3 %). Pulmonary embolism (PE) was identified in 39 patients (0.9 %), and 15 of these patients had negative duplex studies of the lower extremities. Deep venous thrombosis only was identified in 18 patients (0.4 %). VTE rates for gastric bypass (n = 2,945), sleeve gastrectomy (n = 709), gastric banding (n = 467) and revisional procedures (n = 171) were 1.1, 2.9, 0.2 and 6.4 %, respectively. Eight patients had VTE diagnosed during their inpatient stay. The mean time to VTE diagnosis after surgery was 24 days. Seventeen patients who developed VTE had been prescribed extended prophylaxis for 2-4 weeks after discharge. There was only one VTE-related mortality from PE reported in this cohort (0.02 %). Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed age, BMI, open and revisional surgery as predictive of VTE (p < 0.05)., Conclusion: The risk of VTE among morbidly obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery is persistent despite use of laparoscopy and aggressive prophylactic anticoagulation policy. Patients with advanced age, higher BMI and those undergoing open or revisional surgery are at higher risk of postoperative VTE.

Although recent studies have shown the impressive antidiabetic effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), the safety profile of metabolic/diabetes surgery has been a matter of concern among patients and physicians. Data on patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent LRYGB or one of seven other procedures between January 2007 and December 2012 were retrieved from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database and compared. Of the 66 678 patients included, 16 509 underwent LRYGB. The composite complication rate of 3.4% after LRYGB was similar to those of laparoscopic cholecystectomy and hysterectomy. The mortality rate for LRYGB (0.3%) was similar to that of knee arthroplasty. Patients who underwent LRYGB had significantly better short-term outcomes in all examined variables than patients who underwent coronary bypass, infra-inguinal revascularization and laparoscopic colectomy. In conclusion, LRYGB can be considered a safe procedure in people with diabetes, with similar short-term morbidity to that of common procedures such as cholecystectomy and appendectomy and a mortality rate similar to that of knee arthroplasty. The mortality risk for LRYGB is one-tenth that of cardiovascular surgery and earlier intervention with metabolic surgery to treat diabetes may eliminate the need for some later higher-risk procedures to treat diabetes complications., (© 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Low HDL cholesterol is an independent cardiac risk factor. A general efficacy gradient exists for the resolution of cardiovascular risk factors after bariatric surgery (i.e., biliopancreatic diversion [BPD]>Roux-en-Y gastric bypass [RYGB]>sleeve gastrectomy [SG]>adjustable gastric banding [AGB]). However, a review of high level of evidence clinical studies shows a different hierarchy for the effect of bariatric surgery on HDL (i.e., RYGB=SG>BPD, AGB). Surgically induced weight loss effectively reverses many steps in HDL metabolism that have been altered with obesity. Furthermore, enterocytes contribute to HDL levels through the synthesis of apolipoproteins A-IV and A-I. RYGB and SG that preserve the small intestine (particularly the jejunum) lead to a significant rise in HDL. However, when the small intestinal contribution does not reinforce the weight loss dependent mechanisms (e.g., after BPD and AGB), only a modest rise in HDL occurs. Further experimental and clinical studies are required to better delineate the issue., (Copyright © 2015 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Obesity is successfully treated by bariatric operations, but some patients need reoperations. No large national studies are available to evaluate the safety and efficacy after reoperative bariatric surgery., Methods: Data from June 2007 through March 2012 from the Bariatric Outcomes Longitudinal Database were queried for safety and efficacy of reoperations and compared to those who had initial bariatric operations but did not undergo reoperations. Reoperations were subdivided into corrective operations and conversions., Results: Out of 449,753 bariatric operations, 28,720 (6.3%) underwent reoperations of which 19,970 (69.5%) were corrective and 8,750 (30.5%) were conversions. The conversion group compared to primary operations was older (47.63 ± 10.8 vs. 45.5 ± 11.8 years), had less males (13.5 vs. 21.3%), and had more African Americans (14.6 vs. 12%). Comparing primary operations to corrective and conversions operations, respectively, the following were observed: length of stay (1.78 ± 4.95 vs. 2.04 ± 6.44 and 2.86 ± 4.58 days), severe adverse events at 30 days (1.6 vs. 1.7 and 3.3%), severe adverse events at 1 year (2.15 vs. 1.9 and 3.61%), percent excess weight loss at 1 year (43.2 vs. 35.9 ± 92.4 and 39.3 ± 39.9%), 30-day mortality rate (0.1 vs. 0.12 and 0.21%), and 1-year mortality rate (0.17 vs. 0.24 and 0.31%). Comorbidities were resolved after both primary operations and reoperations., Conclusions: Most bariatric surgery patients do not need reoperations. Among those who do, the complication rate is low and outcomes are clinically comparable to primary procedures.

Aim: To identify the metabolic determinants of type 2 diabetes non-remission status after bariatric surgery at 12 and 24 months., Methods: A total of 40 adults [mean ± sd body mass index 36 ± 3 kg/m(2) , age 48 ± 9 years, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 9.7 ± 2%) undergoing bariatric surgery [Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG)] were enrolled in the present study, the Surgical Treatment and Medication Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently (STAMPEDE) trial. Type 2 diabetes remission was defined as HbA1c <6.5% and fasting glucose <126 mg/dl (i.e. <7 mmol/l) without antidiabetic medication. Indices of insulin secretion and sensitivity were calculated from plasma glucose, insulin and C-peptide values during a 120-min mixed-meal tolerance test. Body fat, incretins (glucagon-like polypeptide-1, gastric inhibitory peptide, ghrelin) and adipokines [adiponectin, leptin, tumour necrosis factor-α, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)] were also assessed., Results: At 24 months, 37 patients had available follow-up data (RYGB, n = 18; SG, n = 19). Bariatric surgery induced type 2 diabetes remission rates of 40 and 27% at 12 and 24 months, respectively. Total fat/abdominal fat loss, insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity and β-cell function (C-peptide0-120 /glucose0-120 × Matsuda index) improved more in those with remission at 12 and 24 months than in those without remission. Incretin levels were unrelated to type 2 diabetes remission, but, compared with those without remission, hs-CRP decreased and adiponectin increased more in those with remission. Only baseline adiponectin level predicted lower HbA1c levels at 12 and 24 months, and elevated adiponectin correlated with enhanced β-cell function, lower triglyceride levels and fat loss., Conclusions: Smaller rises in adiponectin level, a mediator of insulin action and adipose mass, characterize type 2 diabetes non-remission up to 2 years after bariatric surgery. Adjunctive strategies promoting greater fat loss and/or raising adiponectin may be key to achieving higher type 2 diabetes remission rates after bariatric surgery., (© 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Although the marked and durable effects of bariatric surgery on early type 2 diabetes is known, there are limited data on the impact of surgery in patients with reduced beta-cell function/reserve. Clinical outcomes of 15 morbidly obese patients with poorly controlled diabetes who underwent bariatric surgery in a 10-year period and had a baseline fasting serum c-peptide ≤0.5 ng/mL were assessed. All patients had glycated hemoglobin >7 % and were on insulin before surgery. Surgical procedures included laparoscopic gastric bypass (n = 9), sleeve (n = 5), and banding (n = 1) without any intraoperative complications. At a mean follow-up of 39.6 ± 22.9 months, a mean reduction in body mass index of 25.1 ± 9.2 % and a mean percent excess weight loss of 61.5 ± 19.7 % were associated with a significant improvement in daily insulin requirement and lipid profile. At the last follow-up point, three patients (20 %) were off insulin, five patients (33.3 %) had a glycated hemoglobin ≤7 %, and one patient (6.7 %) had remission of diabetes. Hypertension resolved or improved in 5 of 11 (45.5 %) hypertensive patients. In conclusion, bariatric surgery can result in improvement of glycemic status and comorbid conditions of obese diabetic patients with diminished beta-cell reserve and may facilitate medical management of diabetes.

Background: Obesity is a risk factor for the development of gout. An increased incidence of early gouty attacks after bariatric surgery has been reported, but the data is sparse. The effect of weight loss surgery on the behavior of gout beyond the immediate postoperative phase remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pre- and postoperative frequency and features of gouty attacks in bariatric surgery patients., Methods: Charts were reviewed to identify patients who had gout before bariatric surgery. Demographic and gout-related parameters were recorded. The comparison group consisted of obese individuals with gout who underwent nonbariatric upper abdominal procedures., Results: Ninety-nine morbidly obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery had gout. The comparison group consisted of 56 patients. The incidence of early gouty attack in the first month after surgery was significantly higher in the bariatric group than the nonbariatric group (17.5% versus 1.8%, P = .003). In the bariatric group, 23.8% of patients had at least one gouty attack during the 12-month period before surgery, which dropped to 8.0% during postoperative months 1-13 (P = .005). There was no significant difference in the number of gouty attacks in the comparison group before and after surgery (18.2% versus 11.1%, P = .33). There was a significant reduction in uric acid levels 13-months after bariatric surgery compared with baseline values (9.1±2.0 versus 5.6±2.5 mg/dL, P = .007)., Conclusion: The frequency of early postoperative gout attacks after bariatric surgery is significantly higher than that of patients undergoing other procedures. However, the incidence decreases significantly after the first postoperative month up to 1 year., (Copyright © 2014 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The number of times an article has been cited reflects its influence in a specific field. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize the most highly cited articles published on bariatric and metabolic surgery., Methods: The 50 most frequently cited articles in bariatric and metabolic surgery were identified from the Scopus database in December 2013., Results: The median number of citations was 383.5 (range 275-2482). Most of the articles were published from 2000-2012 (n = 35), followed by 1990-1999 (n = 12), then before 1990 (n = 3). These citation classics came from 8 countries, with the majority originating from the United States (n = 34), followed by Sweden (n = 4) and Australia (n = 4). The 50 articles were published in 20 journals, led by New England Journal of Medicine (n = 9) and Annals of Surgery (n = 9). Only 10 of the articles were published in obesity-specific journals. The level of evidence of the 49 clinical publications and 1 animal study consisted of level I (n = 5), II (n = 11), III (n = 9), IV (n = 19), and V (n = 6). Meta-analyses were 16% of the total citations. Metabolic (n = 12) and survival (n = 6) effects of surgery were among the most common fields of study., Conclusion: Extending from the early 1950s through the voluminous growth period of the early 2000s, the field of bariatric and metabolic surgery led to the emergence of many top-cited scientific articles. These articles have provided the scientific basis for the only currently effective treatment for severe obesity. Articles published in high-impact journals, innovative observational studies, meta-analyses, survival analyses, and research on postoperative metabolic changes are most likely to be cited in the field of bariatric surgery., (Copyright © 2014 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Reoperative bariatric surgery has become a common practice in many bariatric surgery programs. There is currently little evidence-based guidance regarding specific indications and outcomes for reoperative bariatric surgery. A task force was convened to review the current evidence regarding reoperative bariatric surgery. The aim of the review was to identify procedure-specific indications and outcomes for reoperative procedures., Methods: Literature search was conducted to identify studies reporting indications for and outcomes after reoperative bariatric surgery. Specifically, operations to treat complications, failed weight loss, and weight regain were evaluated. Abstract and manuscript reviews were completed by the task force members to identify, grade, and categorize relevant studies., Results: A total of 819 articles were identified in the initial search. After review for inclusion criteria and data quality, 175 articles were included in the systematic review and analysis. The majority of published studies are single center retrospective reviews. The evidence supporting reoperative surgery for acute and chronic complications is described. The evidence regarding reoperative surgery for failed weight loss and weight regain generally demonstrates improved weight loss and co-morbidity reduction after reintervention. Procedure-specific outcomes are described. Complication rates are generally reported to be higher after reoperative surgery compared to primary surgery., Conclusion: The indications and outcomes for reoperative bariatric surgery are procedure-specific but the current evidence does support additional treatment for persistent obesity, co-morbid disease, and complications., (Copyright © 2014 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery has been shown to have favorable effects on components of metabolic syndrome. However, the long-term effect of RYGB on predicted risk of end-organ complications is less clear. The objective of this study was to examine long-term changes in predicted risk of metabolic syndrome-related complications after RYGB., Methods: The predicted risk of metabolic syndrome-related complications in a cohort of 131 diabetic patients was compared between baseline and last follow-up points after RYGB using validated risk assessment tools., Results: After a median postsurgical follow-up time of 6 years (range, 5-9), a mean percent excess weight loss of 60.7 ± 25.1% was associated with a diabetes remission rate of 61%. At long-term follow-up, the levels of glycated hemoglobin, low-density lipoprotein, and blood pressure were within the recommended American Diabetes Association's goals in 85%, 73%, and 63% of patients, respectively (P<.001). RYGB was associated with a relative risk reduction of 27% for 10-year overall risk of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, and peripheral vascular disease; 20% for 10-year risk of CHD; 40% for 10-year risk of myocardial infarction; 42% for 10-year risk of stroke; 47% for 4-year risk of intermittent claudication; 45% for 5-year risk of moderate-severe kidney disease; and 18% for 5-year risk of cardiovascular mortality. Four-year risk of diabetic retinopathy was also significantly decreased., Conclusion: RYGB in diabetic patients results in remarkable control of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, and is associated with a significant reduction in predicted risk of major complications including nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease and mortality in the range of 18-47% at long-term follow-up., (Copyright © 2014 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background and Objectives: The robust volume of bariatric surgical procedures has led to significant numbers of patients requiring reoperative surgery because of undesirable results from primary operations. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of the third bariatric procedure after previous attempts resulted in inadequate results., Methods: We retrospectively identified patients who underwent a third bariatric procedure for inadequate weight loss or significant weight regain after the second operation. Data were analyzed to establish patient demographic characteristics, perioperative parameters, and postoperative outcomes., Results: A total of 12 patients were identified. Before the first, second, and third procedures, patients had a mean body mass index of 67.1±29.3 kg/m2, 60.9±28.3 kg/m2, and 49.4±19.8 kg/m2, respectively. The third operations (laparoscopic in 10 and open in 2) included Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n=5), revision of pouch and/or stoma of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n=3), limb lengthening after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n=3), and sleeve gastrectomy (n=1). We encountered 5 early complications in 4 patients, and early reoperative intervention was needed in 2 patients. At 1-year follow-up, the excess weight loss of the cohort was 49.4%±33.8%. After a mean follow-up time of 43.0±28.6 months, the body mass index of the cohort reached 39.9±20.8 kg/m2, which corresponded to a mean excess weight loss of 54.4%±44.0% from the third operation. At the latest follow-up, 64% of patients had excess weight loss>50% and 45% had excess weight loss>80%., Conclusion: Reoperative bariatric surgery can be carried out successfully (often laparoscopically), even after 2 previous weight loss procedures.

Background: In short-term randomized trials (duration, 1 to 2 years), bariatric surgery has been associated with improvement in type 2 diabetes mellitus., Methods: We assessed outcomes 3 years after the randomization of 150 obese patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes to receive either intensive medical therapy alone or intensive medical therapy plus Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. The primary end point was a glycated hemoglobin level of 6.0% or less., Results: The mean (±SD) age of the patients at baseline was 48±8 years, 68% were women, the mean baseline glycated hemoglobin level was 9.3±1.5%, and the mean baseline body-mass index (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) was 36.0±3.5. A total of 91% of the patients completed 36 months of follow-up. At 3 years, the criterion for the primary end point was met by 5% of the patients in the medical-therapy group, as compared with 38% of those in the gastric-bypass group (P<0.001) and 24% of those in the sleeve-gastrectomy group (P=0.01). The use of glucose-lowering medications, including insulin, was lower in the surgical groups than in the medical-therapy group. Patients in the surgical groups had greater mean percentage reductions in weight from baseline, with reductions of 24.5±9.1% in the gastric-bypass group and 21.1±8.9% in the sleeve-gastrectomy group, as compared with a reduction of 4.2±8.3% in the medical-therapy group (P<0.001 for both comparisons). Quality-of-life measures were significantly better in the two surgical groups than in the medical-therapy group. There were no major late surgical complications., Conclusions: Among obese patients with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, 3 years of intensive medical therapy plus bariatric surgery resulted in glycemic control in significantly more patients than did medical therapy alone. Analyses of secondary end points, including body weight, use of glucose-lowering medications, and quality of life, also showed favorable results at 3 years in the surgical groups, as compared with the group receiving medical therapy alone. (Funded by Ethicon and others; STAMPEDE ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00432809.).

Objective: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) produces more durable glycemic control than sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or intensive medical therapy (IMT). However, the contribution of acylated ghrelin (AG), a gluco-regulatory/appetite hormone, to improve glucose metabolism and body composition in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) following RYGB is unknown., Design: STAMPEDE (Surgical Treatment and Medication Potentially Eradicate Diabetes Efficiently) was a prospective, randomized controlled trial., Subjects: Fifty-three (body mass index: 36±3 kg m(-2), age: 49±9 years) poorly controlled patients with T2D (HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin): 9.7±2%) were randomized to IMT, IMT+RYGB or IMT+SG and underwent a mixed-meal tolerance test at baseline, 12, and 24 months for evaluation of AG suppression (postprandial minus fasting) and beta-cell function (oral disposition index; glucose-stimulated insulin secretion × Matsuda index). Total/android body fat (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) was also assessed., Results: RYGB and SG reduced body fat comparably (15-23 kg) at 12 and 24 months, whereas IMT had no effect. Beta-cell function increased 5.8-fold in RYGB and was greater than IMT at 24 months (P<0.001). However, there was no difference in insulin secretion between SG vs IMT at 24 months (P=0.32). Fasting AG was reduced fourfold following SG (P<0.01) and did not change with RYGB or IMT at 24 months. AG suppression improved more following RYGB than SG or IMT at 24 months (P=0.01 vs SG, P=0.07 vs IMT). At 24 months, AG suppression was associated with increased postprandial glucagon-like peptide-1 (r=-0.32, P<0.02) and decreased android fat (r=0.38; P<0.006)., Conclusions: Enhanced AG suppression persists for up to 2 years after RYGB, and this effect is associated with decreased android obesity and improved insulin secretion. Together, these findings suggest that AG suppression is partly responsible for the improved glucose control after RYGB surgery.

Background: Potential mechanisms underlying the antidiabetic effects of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) include altered nutrient exposure in the gut. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of selective gut stimulation on glucose metabolism in an obese diabetic rat model., Methods: Sixteen male Zucker diabetic fatty rats were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: RYGB with gastrostomy tube (GT) insertion into the excluded stomach or a control group with GT insertion into the stomach. An insulin tolerance test (ITT), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and mixed meal tolerance test (MMTT) were performed before and 14-28 days after surgery. A glucose tolerance test via GT (GTT-GT) and MMTT via GT were performed postoperatively., Results: Postoperatively, the RYGB group had significant decreases in weight and food intake. Both the ITT and OGTT tests revealed significantly improved glucose tolerance after RYGB. The GTT-GT showed a reversal of the improved glucose tolerance in the RYGB group. In response to meal stimulation, postoperatively, the RYGB group increased glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) secretion via the oral route and peptide YY secretion by both oral and GT routes., Conclusion: When foregut exposure to nutrients was reversed after RYGB, the improvement in glucose metabolism was abrogated. This model can be extended to identify the role of gut in glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetes., (Copyright © 2014 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: There are growing numbers of patients who require revisional bariatric surgery due to the undesirable results of their primary procedures. The aim of this study was to review our experience with bariatric patients undergoing revisional surgery., Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis to review the indications for revisional bariatric procedures and assess their postoperative outcomes., Results: From 04/04 to 01/11, 2,918 patients underwent bariatric surgery at our institution. A total of 154 patients (5.3%) of these cases were coded as revisional procedures. The mean age at revision was 49.1 ± 11.3 and the mean BMI was 44.0 ± 13.7 kg/m2. Revisional surgery was performed laparoscopically in 121 patients (78.6%). Laparoscopic revisions had less blood loss, shorter length of hospital stay, and fewer complications compared to open revisions. Two groups (A and B) were defined by the indication for revision: patients with unsuccessful weight loss (group A, n = 106) and patients with complications of their primary procedures (group B, n = 48). In group A, 74.5% of the patients were revised to a bypass procedure and 25.5% to a restrictive procedure. Mean excess weight loss was 53.7 ± 29.3% after revision of primary restrictive procedures and 37.6 ± 35.1% after revision of bypass procedures at >1-year follow-up (p < 0.05). In group B, the complications prompting revision were effectively treated by revisional surgery., Conclusions: Revisional bariatric surgery effectively treated the undesirable results from primary bariatric surgery. Laparoscopic revisional surgery can be performed after both failed open and laparoscopic bariatric procedures without a prohibitive complication rate. Carefully selected patients undergoing revision for weight regain have satisfactory additional weight loss.

Objective: Evaluate the long-term effects of bariatric surgery on type 2 diabetes (T2DM) remission and metabolic risk factors., Background: Although the impressive antidiabetic effects of bariatric surgery have been shown in short- and medium-term studies, the durability of these effects is uncertain. Specifically, long-term remission rates following bariatric surgery are largely unknown., Methods: Clinical outcomes of 217 patients with T2DM who underwent bariatric surgery between 2004 and 2007 and had at least 5-year follow-up were assessed. Complete remission was defined as glycated hemoglobin (A1C) less than 6% and fasting blood glucose (FBG) less than 100 mg/dL off diabetic medications. Changes in other metabolic comorbidities, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetic nephropathy, were assessed., Results: At a median follow-up of 6 years (range: 5-9) after surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, n = 162; gastric banding, n = 32; sleeve gastrectomy, n = 23), a mean excess weight loss (EWL) of 55% was associated with mean reductions in A1C from 7.5% ± 1.5% to 6.5% ± 1.2% (P < 0.001) and FBG from 155.9 ± 59.5 mg/dL to 114.8 ± 40.2 mg/dL (P < 0.001). Long-term complete and partial remission rates were 24% and 26%, respectively, whereas 34% improved (>1% decrease in A1C without remission) from baseline and 16% remained unchanged. Shorter duration of T2DM (P < 0.001) and higher long-term EWL (P = 0.006) predicted long-term remission. Recurrence of T2DM after initial remission occurred in 19% and was associated with longer duration of T2DM (P = 0.03), less EWL (P = 0.02), and weight regain (P = 0.015). Long-term control rates of low high-density lipoprotein, high low-density lipoprotein, high triglyceridemia, and hypertension were 73%, 72%, 80%, and 62%, respectively. Diabetic nephropathy regressed (53%) or stabilized (47%)., Conclusions: Bariatric surgery can induce a significant and sustainable remission and improvement of T2DM and other metabolic risk factors in severely obese patients. Surgical intervention within 5 years of diagnosis is associated with a high rate of long-term remission.

Background: Limited data are available regarding early postoperative small bowel obstruction (SBO) after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). The aim of the present study was to review our experience with early SBO after LRYGB. The setting was a tertiary referral bariatric center., Methods: We reviewed a prospectively maintained database to assess the diagnosis, management, and outcomes of patients who underwent surgery for SBO within 30 days of LRYGB., Results: From April 2004 to December 2011, 2126 patients underwent LRYGB. Of these patients, 11 (.5%) required surgical management for early SBO. Of the 11 patients, 9 were women and 2 were men. with a mean age of 53 years (range 35-70) and mean body mass index of 45 kg/m(2) (range 38-65). The average interval from LRYGB to the presentation of SBO was 5.0 days (range 2-15). All early SBOs were diagnosed by computed tomography with oral contrast. The causes of early SBO included kinking at the jejunojejunostomy in 4, an intraluminal blood clot near the jejunojejunostomy in 2, angulation of the Roux limb in 1, mesenteric hematoma in 1, intra-abdominal hematoma in 1, obstruction of common channel in 1, and pelvic adhesions from previous surgery in 1. Diagnostic laparoscopy was attempted in all patients. Four patients required conversion to open surgery. Postoperative complications developed in 5 patients; no patient died. Laparoscopic management of early SBO resulted in fewer complications than the open approach., Conclusion: Early SBO after LRYGB is uncommon; however, a prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are important to prevent additional morbidity. The ability to complete the reoperation laparoscopically varies with the etiology and location of the obstruction., (Copyright © 2013 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The purpose of this article is to assess normal imaging findings and complications after laparoscopic greater curvature plication on luminal upper gastrointestinal studies and CT., Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of 24 adults who underwent laparoscopic greater curvature plication between 2008 and 2011. Seventeen patients (70.8%) underwent postoperative luminal upper gastrointestinal studies, and four (16.7%) underwent postoperative CT. Normal imaging features and complications were recorded. The percentage of intraluminal gastric diameter occupied by the plicated segment and the percentage of greater curvature involved on postoperative upper gastrointestinal luminal studies were determined., Results: A multilobular intraluminal filling defect reflecting the surgical plication occupied the proximal third of the greater curvature in 16 of 17 patients (94%), extending to the mid portion in 10 of 17 patients (59%) and to the distal third in one of 17 patients (6%). There was luminal narrowing of 50-75% in 14 of 17 patients (82%) and narrowing of 25-50% in two patients (12%). In 14 of 17 patients (82%), the plication involved 50-75% of the greater curvature length and 25-50% in the remaining three patients (18%). In four patients who underwent CT, a central low-attenuation stripe accompanied the plication. Five of 24 patients (21%) had complications, including extraluminal gastric leak (n = 1), gastric outlet obstruction (n = 2), and plication suture failure (n = 2)., Conclusion: Laparoscopic greater curvature plication is seen as multilobular filling defects most commonly along the proximal greater curvature with 50-75% narrowing of the gastric lumen. A linear low-attenuation stripe accompanies the filling defect on CT.

Complications of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) include band slippage, material infection, and band erosion. Band erosion can lead to chronic infection, obstruction, delayed perforation, and ineffectiveness; therefore, removal is indicated. A myriad of approaches exist for band removal and many authors have described novel techniques. A minimally invasive approach, including laparoscopic or endoscopic assistance, is favored given the reduction of postoperative complications compared with laparotomy. We present a novel approach to band retrieval following partial erosion involving a complete endoscopic/transgastric technique. Perioperative management and a review of the literature also are described.

Background: Obesity is still considered a relative contraindication to laparoscopic splenectomy (LS)., Methods: All patients undergoing LS at our institution were classified as obese or nonobese (group A, body mass index [BMI] >30; group B, BMI <30). Primary end points included conversion rate, operative complications, length of stay, operative time, and estimated blood loss (EBL)., Results: Three hundred seventy patients who underwent LS were included. Baseline characteristics were similar in groups A (n = 127; mean BMI, 36.2 ± 6.9 kg/m²) and B (n = 243; mean BMI, 24.6 ± 2.9 kg/m²). Conversion rates and overall morbidity were similar in both groups (9% vs 11% for conversion to open procedures, P = .621; 16% vs 16% for morbidity rates, P = .940). Length of hospital stay and EBL were also comparable (P = .643 and P = .544, respectively). Mean operative time was significantly increased in the obese group on multivariate analysis (170 vs 151 minutes, P = .021)., Conclusions: Obesity does not adversely affect outcomes after LS. The laparoscopic approach is the optimal technique for splenectomy regardless of the patient's weight., (Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery achieves high remission rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus in obese diabetic patients. It has been hypothesized that the changes in bowel nutrient exposure after RYGB results in altered release of gut hormones and improved glucose homeostasis. Our objective was to assess the feasibility of, and report on, our technique and initial experience with selective gut stimulation in a gastric bypass rat model at an academic medical center in the United States., Methods: We performed RYGB with simultaneous placement of a gastrostomy tube in the excluded gastric remnant in 8 obese Sprague-Dawley rats. A second group of 8 obese Sprague-Dawley rats underwent gastrostomy tube placement without gastric bypass and served as the controls. Each rat was tested for oral glucose tolerance preoperatively. On postoperative days 14 and 28, glucose tolerance was re-evaluated using the oral and gastrostomy tube routes., Results: The gastrostomy tubes were successfully inserted in all the rats with no tube-related complications. The area under the curve after oral glucose gavage decreased significantly after gastric bypass (P = .01 at 14 d and P = .003 at 28 d). The gastric remnant glucose gavage after RYGB essentially reversed the effects of surgery on glucose metabolism. The areas under the curve showed no significant differences in the control group between the preoperative and postoperative oral or tube results., Conclusion: Placing a gastrostomy tube into the gastric remnant at RYGB in a rat model is technically feasible. Our initial findings support the role of duodenal exclusion in improving glucose metabolism after RYGB., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: Obesity-associated hyperlipidemia and hyperlipoproteinemia are risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Recently, ceramide-derived sphingolipids were identified as a novel independent CVD risk factor. We hypothesized that the beneficial effect of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on CVD risk is related to ceramide-mediated improvement in lipoprotein profile., Methods: A prospective study of patients undergoing RYGB was conducted. The patients' clinical data and biochemical markers related to cardiovascular risk were documented. Plasma ceramide subspecies (C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, C18:1, C20:0, C24:0, and C24:1), apolipoprotein (Apo)B100 and ApoA1 were quantified preoperatively and 3 and 6 months after RYGB, as was the Framingham risk score. Brachial artery reactivity testing was performed before and 6 months after RYGB., Results: Ten patients (9 women; age 48.6 ± 9.6 yr; body mass index, 48.5 ± 5.8 kg/m(2)) were included in the present study. At 6 months postoperatively, the mean body mass index had decreased to 35.7 ± 5.0 kg/m(2), corresponding to 51.3% ± 10.0% excess weight loss. The fasting total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, free fatty acids, ApoB100, ApoB100/ApoA1 ratio and insulin resistance estimated from Homeostasis Model of Assessment of Insulin Resistance were significantly reduced compared with the preoperative values. The ApoB100/ApoA1 ratio correlated with a reduction in ceramide subspecies (C18:0, C18:1, C20:0, C24:0, and C24:1; P < .05). ApoB100 and the ApoB100/ApoA1 ratio also correlated positively with the reduction in triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, and Homeostasis Model of Assessment of Insulin Resistance (P < .05). Brachial artery reactivity testing correlated inversely with ApoB100 and total ceramide (P = .05). Furthermore, the change in brachial artery reactivity testing correlated with the decrease in C16:0 (P < .03)., Conclusion: Our data suggest that improvements in lipid profiles and CVD risk factors after gastric bypass surgery could be linked to changes in ceramide lipids. Mechanistic studies are needed to determine whether this link is causative or purely correlative., (Copyright © 2013 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Studies have reported that the benefits of bariatric surgery extend beyond durable weight loss and include significant improvement in glycemic control. We hypothesized that improving diabetes control may have positive effects on end-organ complications of this disease, such as diabetic nephropathy (DN)., Methods: We identified all patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who underwent bariatric surgery at our institution and had completed a 5-year follow-up. Patients' current diabetes status (remission, improvement, or no change) was determined by biochemical analyses and medication review. The presence of DN, preoperatively and postoperatively, was determined by urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (uACR)., Results: Fifty-two T2DM patients underwent bariatric surgery and had completed 5-year follow-up, including serial uACR measurements (25% male; age 51.2 ± 10.1 years). Preoperative body mass index (BMI) was 49 ± 8.7 kg/m(2), mean duration of T2DM was 8.6 years (range .3-39), and baseline HbA(1c) was 7.7% ± 1.4%. DN, as indicated by microalbuminuria (30-300 mg/g) or macroalbuminuria (>300 mg/g), was present in 37.6% preoperatively. Of these, DN resolved in 58.3% at a mean follow-up of 66 months (range 60-92 ). Among those with no evidence of DN preoperatively, albuminuria proceeded to develop 5 years later in only 25%. The 5-year remission and improvement rates for T2DM were 44% and 33%, respectively. Mean reductions in fasting glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)) were 36.6 mg/dL and 1.2%, respectively., Conclusion: Bariatric surgery can induce a significant and sustainable improvement in T2DM and improve or halt the development of microvascular complications such as nephropathy. Considering that diabetes is often a progressive disease, these results are clinically important and warrant further investigation., (Copyright © 2013 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Data regarding the management of bariatric patients with cirrhosis are scarce, and there is no strong evidence that supports a specific approach for this group of patients. The aim of this study was to review our experience with cirrhotic patients undergoing bariatric surgery., Methods: A prospectively maintained database was reviewed to assess the outcomes of bariatric surgery for patients with known cirrhosis and for patients with cirrhosis discovered at surgery (unknown cirrhosis)., Results: From April 2004 to September 2011, 23 patients (12 with known cirrhosis and 11 with unknown cirrhosis) met inclusion criteria. There were 14 females and 9 males with a mean age of 51.5 ± 8.3 and a mean body mass index of 48.2 ± 8.6 kg/m2. Child-Pugh classes were A (n = 22) and B (n = 1). Patients had a high frequency of diabetes (83%), dyslipidemia (61%), and hypertension (83%). Procedures performed were laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) (n = 14), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) (n = 8), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (n = 1). Two patients underwent LSG successfully after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Mean length of hospital stay was 4.3 ± 2.7 days. Complications developed in 8 patients. One patient died of unknown cause 9 months after surgery. No patients had liver decompensation after surgery. The patients lost 67.4% ± 30.9% of their excess weight at 12 months follow-up and 67.7% ± 24.8% at 37 months follow-up., Conclusion: LRYGB and LSG can be performed without prohibitive complication rates in carefully selected patients with cirrhosis. In our experience, bariatric patients with cirrhosis achieved excellent weight loss and improvement in obesity-related co-morbidities., (Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Inc.)