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Background and aims Randomized clinical trials have proven the efficacy and safety of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved anti-obesity medications (AOMs) for long-term use. It is unclear whether these outcomes can be replicated in real-world clinical practice where clinical complexities arise. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and side effects of these medications in real-world multidisciplinary clinical practice settings. Methods We reviewed the electronic medical records (EMR) of patients with obesity who were prescribed an FDA-approved AOM for long-term use in academic and community multidisciplinary weight loss programs between January 2016 and January 2020. Intervention We assessed percentage total body weight loss (%TBWL), metabolic outcomes, and side effect profile up to 24 months after AOM initiation. Results The full cohort consisted of 304 patients (76% women, 95.2% White, median age of 50 years old [IQR, 39-58]). The median follow-up time was 9.1 months [IQR, 4.2-14.1] with a median number of 3 visits [IQR, 2-4]. The most prescribed medication was phentermine/topiramate extended-release (ER) (51%), followed by liraglutide (26.3%), bupropion/naltrexone sustained-release (SR) (16.5%), and lorcaserin (6.2%). %TBWL was 5.0%, 6.8%, 9.3%, 10.3%, and 10.5% at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. 60.2% of the entire cohort achieved at least 5% TBWL. Overall, phentermine/topiramate-ER had the most robust weight loss response during follow-up, with the highest %TBWL at 12 months of 12.0%. Adverse events were reported in 22.4% of patients. Only 9% of patients discontinued the medication due to side effects. Conclusions AOMs resulted in significant long-term weight loss, that was comparable to outcomes previously reported in clinical trials.

Traditional duodenal switch (DS) typically leaves a short common channel and is infrequently performed in part due to increased risk of malnutrition. We compared nutritional deficiencies between DS with a moderate channel length and standard proximal Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). We conducted a retrospective review of 61 matched pairs who underwent DS or RYGB using our institutional database; patients were matched on sex, age, race, and BMI. DS was performed with a common channel length between 120 and 150 cm. Thirty-day complications, total body weight loss (TBWL) %, and nutritional labs up to 24 months were compared using paired t test and Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Weight loss was similar at each time point (all p > 0.1). DS patients had lower vitamin D levels at 6 months, lower calcium levels at 6 and 12 months, and lower hemoglobin at 12 months and otherwise equivalent (all p

The prevalence of class 3 obesity (body mass index ≥40 kg/m2) is 7.7% of the United States adult population; thus, more than 25 million people may be medically appropriate for consideration of bariatric surgery as therapy for severe obesity. Although bariatric surgery is the most effective therapy for patients with severe obesity, the surgery is performed in less than 1% of patients annually for whom it may be appropriate. Patients' and medical professionals' misperceptions about obesity and bariatric surgery create barriers to accessing bariatric surgery that are not given adequate attention and clinical consideration. Commonly cited patient barriers are lack of knowledge about the severity of obesity, the perception that obesity is a lifestyle problem rather than a chronic disease, and fear that bariatric surgery is dangerous. Medical professional barriers include failing to recognize causes of obesity and weight gain, providing recommendations that are inconsistent with current obesity treatment guidelines, and being uncomfortable counseling patients about treatment options for severe obesity. Previous research has revealed that medical professional counseling and accurate perception of the health risks associated with severe obesity are strong predictors of patients' willingness to consider bariatric surgery. This article reviews patient and medical professional barriers to acceptance of bariatric surgery as a treatment of medical necessity and offers practical advice for medical professionals to rethink perspectives about bariatric surgery when it is medically and psychologically appropriate.

Background Cannabis is second only to alcohol as a substance of abuse and dependence in the United States. While there is extensive research examining alcohol use and bariatric surgery, there is currently little research and there are no published guidelines specific to cannabis use and bariatric surgery. Objectives To identify major themes and general guidelines applied by bariatric surgery psychology clinicians. Setting This practice survey was disseminated to bariatric surgery psychologists at various U.S. academic medical centers, hospitals, and private practices. Methods An electronic, 35-question survey was sent to 47 bariatric surgery psychologists to collect information on current clinical practice guidelines regarding cannabis use before and after bariatric surgery. Results The survey questionnaire was completed by 34 (72.34%) bariatric surgery psychologists. The major identified themes included: (1) the lack of a standardized assessment of cannabis use; (2) a requirement for 3 months of abstinence from cannabis before bariatric surgery; (3) recommended lifetime abstinence from cannabis after bariatric surgery; and (4) discussion of cannabis use risks following bariatric surgery, including appetite stimulation, addiction potential, and possible negative impacts on judgment. Conclusion Cannabis use will likely further increase in the United States. This survey highlighted common bariatric surgery psychology practices in the absence of extensive research and published guidelines. These findings suggest a preliminary framework with which to address cannabis use in patients seeking bariatric surgery. It is recommended that professional organizations and societies build on these initial survey findings to develop guidelines for more consistent, evidence-based practice regarding cannabis use and bariatric surgery.

As the prevalence of obesity has increased, bariatric surgery has become more common because of its proven efficacy at promoting weight loss and improving weight-related medical comorbidities. Although generally successful, bariatric surgery may also lead to complications and negatively affect health. This article highlights some common and rare complications of bariatric surgery. Specifically, it discusses the risk of nutrient deficiencies (which is influenced by surgery type) and their downstream effects, including ill-effects on bone health. Rarer complications, such as postbypass hypoglycemia and alcohol use disorder, are also discussed.

Introduction: Metabolic Syndrome represents a constellation of findings known to increase cardiovascular risk and all-cause mortality and is becoming more frequent in China. Smartphone applications may provide a cost-effective method to engage in weight loss and improve metabolic syndrome components. Methods: Prospective study of changes in weight and metabolic syndrome risk factors at 6 weeks and 6 months using a smartphone application utilizing a wireless scale, meal replacement biscuits and e-coaching in China. All participants had or were at high risk for metabolic syndrome and all interaction was online, without face to face contact. Results: 218 individuals ,55% female, participated. Median weight loss at 6 weeks and 6 months was 7.3kg and 8.4 kg (P Conclusions: A smartphone weight loss platform that utilizes a wireless scale, meal replacement biscuits and e-coaching was associated with significant weight loss and improvement in several metabolic syndrome components at 6 weeks and 6 months. This program may provide a scalable intervention against metabolic syndrome, especially in developing countries such as China.

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are known risk factors for obesity and poor outcomes following weight loss interventions. ACEs are also associated with addictive behaviors and, potentially, food addiction (FA). This study examined the relationship between ACEs and FA, and their association to undergoing bariatric surgery and post-surgical weight loss outcomes. Between June 2013 and January 2016, 1586 bariatric-surgery-seeking patients completed a psychological evaluation. During their evaluation, the patients were administered measures including the ACE questionnaire and the Yale Food Addiction Scale. 19.2% of those seeking bariatric surgery reported being the victim of childhood sexual abuse, and 22.1% reported being the victim of childhood physical abuse. An elevated ACE score corresponded to increased likelihood of screening positive for FA and more severe FA. When the type of ACE was analyzed separately, ACE was not associated with bariatric surgery completion or percent total weight loss (%TWL). Screening positive for FA corresponded to less %TWL 1 year post-surgery as the total number of ACEs increased, yet there was no association with %TWL 2 years post-surgery. The participants were classified into two groups, those positive for an ACE or FA versus those negative for both. Those who screened positive were significantly less likely to undergo bariatric surgery. Screening positive for experiencing ACEs was related to severity of FA, and screening positive for being the victim of either childhood abuse or FA reduced the likelihood of completing bariatric surgery. More research is needed to determine how these psychosocial factors might influence bariatric surgery outcomes.

Background Case reports of inflammatory bowel diseases [IBD] have been reported in patients with a history of bariatric surgery. Our aim was to characterize patients who were diagnosed with IBD after having undergone bariatric surgery. Methods Electronic medical records were reviewed at two institutions to identify patients who developed de-novo Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis [UC] after bariatric surgery. Data on demographics, type of bariatric surgical procedure, IBD subtype, phenotype and medication usage were obtained. The incidence rate of de-novo IBD after bariatric surgery [per 100000 person-years] and standardized incidence ratio [SIR] were estimated from a prospective bariatric surgery database. Results A total of 44 patients with de-novo IBD after bariatric surgery were identified [31 Crohn's disease, 12 UC, one IBD unclassified]. Most patients were female [88.6%], with median age at IBD onset of 44 years [IQR, 37-52] and median time to IBD diagnosis after bariatric surgery of 7 years [IQR, 3-10]. Sixty-eight per cent underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. In the prospective database, the incidence of IBD in patients who underwent bariatric surgery was 26.7 per 100000 person-years [4.5 for UC and 22.3 for Crohn's disease]. The age-adjusted SIR ranged from 3.56 in the 40-49 year age group to 4.73 in the 30-39 year age group. Conclusion We described a case series of patients developing de-novo IBD after bariatric surgery. There appears to be a numerically higher incidence of Crohn's disease in this population. Confirmation of causality is required in larger patient cohorts.

Weight gain accompanied by an increased tendency for central fat distribution is common among women in midlife. These changes are a result of aging, decreasing estrogen levels after menopause, and other unique influences in menopausal women that interfere with the adoption of healthy lifestyle measures. Central obesity, in particular, results in several adverse metabolic consequences, including dysglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Given that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in postmenopausal women, the importance of weight management in midlife cannot be overemphasized. In addition, weight gain in midlife contributes to other health risks including cancer, arthritis, mood disorders, and sexual dysfunction. It is imperative that primary care physicians screen midlife women for overweight/obesity and offer appropriate advice and referral. In addition to counseling regarding lifestyle change, behavioral modification, and psychological support, it is important to address the unique barriers to adoption of healthy lifestyle measures in postmenopausal women, including the presence of vasomotor symptoms, mood disorders, and sleep disturbance. When indicated, menopausal hormone therapy should be considered to manage bothersome symptoms. Despite its favorable influence on body fat distribution, menopausal hormone therapy cannot be recommended as a treatment for central obesity in midlife women.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Many patients who undergo bariatric surgery will experience weight regain and effective strategies are needed to help these patients. A dilated gastrojejunal anastomosis (GJA) has been associated with weight recidivism after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB). Endoscopic transoral outlet reduction (TORe) with a full thickness endoscopic suturing device (Overstitch, Apollo Endosurgery, Austin, TX) is a minimally invasive therapeutic option. The primary aim of this project was to examine the safety and long-term efficacy data from three bariatric surgery centers and to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing literature. METHODS: Patients who underwent TORe with the Overstitch device from Jan 2013 to Nov 2016 at 3 participating bariatric surgery centers were included in the multicenter analysis. For the systematic review and meta-analysis, a comprehensive search of multiple English databases was conducted. Random effects model was used. RESULTS: 130 consecutive patients across three centers underwent TORe with an endolumenal suturing device. These patients (mean age 47; mean BMI 36.8) had experienced 24.6% weight regain from nadir weight after RYGB. Average weight lost at 6, 12, and 18 months after TORe was 9.31 ± 6.7 kg (N = 84), 7.75 ± 8.4 kg (N = 70), 8 ± 8.8 kg (N = 46) (p < 0.01 for all three time points), respectively. The meta-analysis included 330 patients. The pooled weight lost at 12 months was 8.4 kg (95% CI 6.5–10.3) with no significant heterogeneity across included studies (p = 0.07). Overall, 14% of patients experienced nausea, 18% had pain and 8% required a repeat EGD. No serious adverse events reported. CONCLUSION: When implemented as part of a multidisciplinary intervention, TORe using endolumenal suturing is safe, reproducible, and effective approach to manage weight recidivism after RYGB and should be utilized early in the management algorithm of these patients.

Introduction Severe obesity is a growing epidemic that causes significant morbidity and mortality, and is particularly difficult to reverse. Efficacious and cost-effective interventions are needed to combat this epidemic. This study hypothesized that obese people (body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m 2 ) using a remote weight-loss program combining a mobile application, wireless scales, and low-calorie meal replacement would experience clinically significant weight loss. Methods This study was a retrospective observational analysis of 8275 individuals with a baseline BMI ≥35 kg/m 2 who used a remote weight-loss program combining mobile applications, frequent self-weighing, and calorie restriction via meal replacement for a minimum of 35 days. Weight changes were evaluated at multiple intervals (42, 60, 90, and 120 days), and weight loss was evaluated for all and for pre-specified subgroups based on demographic features and frequency of self-weighing. Results Mean weight loss at 42 days ( N = 6781) was 8.1 kg (margin of error (MOE) = 0.126 kg) with 73.6% of users experiencing >5% total body weight loss. Both men (9.1 kg; MOE = 0.172 kg; 7.9% from baseline) and women (7.1 kg; MOE = 0.179 kg; 7.2% from baseline) experienced significant weight loss. At the 120-day interval ( N = 2914), mean weight loss was 14 kg (MOE = 0.340 kg), 13% total body weight loss from baseline, and 82.3% of participants had lost >5% of their initial body weight. The decrease in body-fat percent correlated well with weight loss ( R = 0.92; p

Metabolic Syndrome represents a constellation of findings known to increase cardiovascular risk and all-cause mortality and is becoming more frequent in China. Smartphone applications may provide a cost-effective method to engage in weight loss and improve metabolic syndrome components. A

Obesity has become a global epidemic. Bariatric surgery remains the most successful modality for producing sustained weight loss. Attrition rates after bariatric surgery are currently reported between 3 and 63% depending on the type of bariatric operation and the length of follow-up provided by the bariatric surgery team. It is currently unknown if patient attrition from bariatric surgery programs impact clinical outcomes. The availability of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) and the Mayo Clinic Midwest unified electronic medical record (EMR) provide a unique opportunity to explore this topic. Raw data was downloaded from MBSAQIP database for all laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) cases between May 1, 2008 and January 8, 2015 (N = 1242). Baseline weight and preexisting comorbidities (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia) were recorded using the MBSAQIP database and the EMR. Current weight and comorbidity data (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia) were subsequently collected at the time closest to the patient’s surgical anniversary dates during the following assessment periods: years 1, 2, and 3 after surgery. Mean percentage total weight loss (TWL) was calculated at each time frame for each patient. Data was summarized using descriptive statistics, including counts and percentages for categorical variables by either year or year and location. The number of patients seen by the bariatric surgery practice (BSP) compared to those seen by other providers within our practice (attrition to bariatric surgery practice (ABSP)) was highest in year 1 and reduced each subsequent year (year 1: BSP N = 740, ABSP N = 166, year 2: BSP N = 425, ABSP N = 309, and year 3: BSP N = 235, ABSP N = 325). The mean TWL in the BSP and ABSP groups at year 1 was 31.84% versus 30.19%, at year 2 was 31.34% versus 29.67%, and at year 3 was 29.01% versus 27.71% respectively. Differences were statistically significant between groups at years 1 and 2 (p

Distress intolerance is characterized by a low threshold for negative emotional experiences and lack of emotion regulation and has been shown to predict various health outcomes. As such, the primary aim of this study was to determine the association between distress tolerance and psychological variables (eating behaviors, mood, substance use, trauma history), completion of bariatric surgery, and post-bariatric surgery weight loss outcomes and follow up with a provider. Two hundred forty-eight patients (75 % female, 89 % Caucasian) underwent a multidisciplinary evaluation for bariatric surgery and were assessed for psychiatric disorders via semi-structured clinical interview and psychometric questionnaires. Low distress tolerance was associated with symptoms of depression (p ≤ 0.001), anxiety (p ≤ 0.001), disordered eating behaviors (p ≤ 0.001), substance abuse (p ≤ 0.001), a history of being the victim of childhood sexual abuse (p ≤ 0.001), and with high BMI (p

Bariatric surgery is the most effective means of long-term weight loss. Knowledge gaps and lack of engagement in pre-operative patients can result in suboptimal outcome after surgery. Mobile technology, utilizing ecological momentary assessment (EMA)/intervention (EMI), has shown tremendous promise in changing behaviors. The primary objective of the study is to assess feasibility of using smartphone app with EMA/EMI functionality to prepare patients for bariatric surgery. Subjects seeking primary bariatric surgery were provided a smartphone app containing video-based education modules with linked assessments to evaluate mastery of topic. Subjects received algorithmic EMA text messages soliciting a response regarding lifestyle behavior. Upon answering, subjects received tailored EMI text messaging supporting healthy lifestyle. Thirty subjects (27 female and 3 male), with age of 41.3 ± 11.4 years and BMI of 46.3 ± 7.4 kg/m2 were enrolled. Twenty subjects completed the study. Ten subjects withdrew. On average, seven out of nine education modules were completed (70.9 ± 27.3 %), and 37.8/123 EMA were answered (30.7 ± 21.7 %), with response time of 17.4 ± 4.4 min. Subjects reported high satisfaction with the app. Many felt that the app fit into their routine “somewhat easily” or “very easily” (n = 12), had “perfect” amount of EMA messages (n = 8), and was very helpful in preparing for surgery (n = 7). This study is the first to reveal the feasibility of using a smartphone app in the education and engagement of patients prior to bariatric surgery. The app was well-received based on subject satisfaction scores and revealed trends toward positive behavior change and increased weight loss. Randomized trials are necessary to delineate true efficacy.

Objective To report the impact of bariatric surgery on metabolic outcomes in patients with type 1 diabetes (DM1) versus insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes mellitus (IRDM2). Methods Ten subjects with DM1 were compared with 118 subjects with IRDM2 at baseline and at 1 and 2 years post-bariatric surgery for: anthropometric measures, HbA1c, and number of medications (anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypertensive, lipid-lowering). Results DM1 and IRDM2 groups lost similar amounts of weight 2 years post-bariatric surgery (39.5 ± 14.7 kg vs. 40.3 ± 24.4 kg). IRDM2 subjects had significant improvements in HbA1c (7.8% ± 1.4% vs. 6.8% ± 1.4%, P value

The prevalence of obesity is 33 % and is expected to reach 50 % based on current US trends. Bariatric surgery is effective in producing long-term weight loss, yet it requires adherence to the recommended diet and physical activity. This study assessed whether the short-form International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF) data at 1 year postbariatric surgery would correlate with success (defined as more than 50 % excess weight loss (EWL)) after surgery. The IPAQ-SF questionnaire provided assessment of subjects’ activity level over the last 7 days, in four separate activity domains: vigorous, moderate, walking, and sitting. Questionnaires were completed and collected at the 1-year postbariatric surgery group visit. Then, 118 subjects who completed the IPAQ-SF were subdivided based on loss of greater than or less than 50 % of their excess weight, which in turn was based on ideal body weight. In subjects with ≥50% EWL (n = 49), we noted 67.1 ± 8.8 % EWL versus 33.2 ± 9.4 % in those with

Obesity is a risk factor for heart failure (HF), but the benefit of weight loss in HF is unknown. We assessed the effects of bariatric surgery (BSx) compared to non-operative treatment for morbid obesity on overall quality of life (QoL), functional capacity, and symptoms in 13 HF patients undergoing BSx and six HF patients treated without surgery. In the BSx group, median age was 62, body mass index (BMI) was 55 kg/m(2), and 5/13 were males; in the non-operative group, median age was 69, BMI was 42 kg/m(2), and 1/6 were male. Median follow-up was 4.3 and 2.7 years, respectively. At follow-up, BMI was less in the BSx group (35 vs 47 kg/m(2), p0.001); QoL (p0.01), frequency of exertional dyspnea (p = 0.01), and leg edema (p = 0.04) improved only in the BSx group. BSx induced weight loss and improved QoL and symptoms in morbidly obese patients with HF.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is associated with nutrient deficiencies, but the optimal supplement regimen remains unclear. We assessed patient-reported adherence to and efficacy of Mayo Clinic's post-RYGB vitamin/mineral supplement protocol and the related incidence of common nutrient deficiencies.Data were collected on 287 obese patients who underwent RYGB. Patient-reported supplement adherence was assessed via medication/supplement lists generated by medication reconciliation in hospital dismissal summaries and clinic notes at 6, 12, and 18-36 months postsurgery. Deficiencies were assessed via measurements of hemoglobin, ferritin, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and vitamins A, E, and BPatient-reported adherence to multivitamin/minerals and subcutaneous vitamin BCompared to previous reports, we found a lower prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies and excellent patient-reported adherence to a standardized multivitamin/mineral and vitamin B

Bariatric surgery (BSx) produces clinically relevant weight loss that translates into improved quality of life, decreased mortality, and reduction in medical comorbidities, including cardiovascular (CV) risk. Little is known about patients' decision-making process to undergo BSx, but risk perception is known to influence medical decision-making. This study examined CV and BSx risk perception in obese subjects undergoing BSx (n = 268) versus those managed medically (MM) (n = 273). This retrospective population-based survey of subjects evaluated for BSx had 148 (55%) and 88 (32%) responders in the BSx and MM groups, respectively. Survey questions assessed risk perceptions and habits prior to weight loss intervention. CV risk was calculated using the Framingham Risk Score (FRS). At baseline, BSx subjects had a greater body mass index and greater prevalence of diabetes and depression. Follow-up mean weight loss was greater in the BSx group. BSx subjects perceived obesity as a greater risk to their overall health than the surgical risk. FRS declined in the BSx group (10 to 5%; p 0.001) while there was no change in the MM group (8 to 8%; p = 0.54). Those without a measurable decrease in CV risk had a greater tendency to perceive the risk of BSx as greater than that of obesity. Obese subjects undergoing BSx are more likely than MM subjects to perceive obesity as a greater risk to their health than BSx. MM subjects generally underestimate their CV risk and overestimate the risk of BSx. Active discussion of CV risk using the FRS and the perception of risk associated with bariatric surgery can enhance patients' ability to make an informed decision regarding their management.

Background Hyperoxaluria and increased calcium oxalate stone formation occur after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery for morbid obesity. The etiology of this hyperoxaluria is unknown. We hypothesized that after bariatric surgery, intestinal hyperabsorption of oxalate contributes to increases in plasma oxalate and urinary calcium oxalate supersaturation. Methods We prospectively examined oxalate metabolism in 11 morbidly obese subjects before and 6 and 12 months after RYGB ( n = 9) and biliopancreatic diversion-duodenal switch (BPD-DS) ( n = 2). We measured 24-hour urinary supersaturations for calcium oxalate, apatite, brushite, uric acid, and sodium urate; fasting plasma oxalate; 72-hour fecal fat; and increases in urine oxalate following an oral oxalate load. Results Six and 12 months after RYGB, plasma oxalate and urine calcium oxalate supersaturation increased significantly compared with similar measurements obtained before surgery (all P ≤ .02). Fecal fat excretion at 6 and 12 months was increased ( P = .026 and .055, 0 vs 6 and 12 months). An increase in urine oxalate excretion after an oral dose of oxalate was observed at 6 and 12 months (all P ≤ .02). Therefore, after bariatric surgery, increases in fecal fat excretion, urinary oxalate excretion after an oral oxalate load, plasma oxalate, and urinary calcium oxalate supersaturation values were observed. Conclusion Enteric hyperoxaluria is often present in patients after the operations of RYGB and BPD-DS that utilize an element of intestinal malabsorption as a mechanism for weight loss.

Obesity causes hyperfiltration. Patients lose a substantial amount of weight after bariatric surgery. This weight loss includes a decrease in muscle mass, as evidenced by a decrease in creatinine excretion. Hyperfiltration also improves but is not detected by changes in serum creatinine due to concurrent decreases in creatinine generation.

Introduction—Previously we showed that peripheral neuropathy occurs after bariatric surgery and was associated with malnutrition (mainly sensory polyneuropathy). This study asks whether a multidisciplinary approach to bariatric surgery lowers risk for developing peripheral neuropathy. Methods—We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients with bariatric surgery at Mayo Clinic between 1985 and 2002. Patients underwent intensive nutritional management before and after surgery. Potential risk factors were analyzed using life-table methods (Cox regression). Results—Univariate analysis showed the following risk factors: increased serum glycosylated hemoglobin and triglycerides, prolonged hospitalization, postoperative gastrointestinal symptoms, nausea and vomiting. Peripheral neuropathy occurred less frequently (7% vs. 13%, p

INTRODUCTION:Obesity is associated with postnatal depression; however, the prevalence of postnatal depression in women after bariatric surgery has not been further evaluated.METHODS:For this observational investigation, women, ages 18-45 years, with pregnancy from 1989-2015 and bariatric surgery wer

Background: Eating behaviors often predict outcomes after bariatric surgery, and in this regard, self-efficacy has been shown to predict long-term behavior. We examined current eating self-efficacy in post-bariatric surgery patients comparing them to obese non-surgery patients to determine whether weight loss is associated with increased self-efficacy in post-bariatric surgery patients. Methods: We performed a population-based study of patients evaluated for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and administered a survey using the Weight Efficacy Lifestyle (WEL) Questionnaire. There were 148 surgical and 88 non-operative patients who responded. Overall WEL score was assessed using linear regression models. Predictors of an increased self-efficacy score were also examined. Results: Follow-up was 4.0 and 3.8 years in the operative and non-operative groups, respectively. Operative responders were slightly older and had a lesser BMI compared to non-responders, otherwise the demographics were similar. Difference in overall WEL between groups was 25.5 ± 5.3 points on a 0–180 scale. A 25% change in weight was associated with a difference of 15.4 points on the total WEL between groups. Current self-efficacy scores were highly related to weight loss and correlated to quality of life at follow-up (ρ = 0.36). Conclusion: Profound weight loss after bariatric surgery is associated with increased eating self-efficacy in a population of obese adults seeking medical treatment for obesity.

To assess the effect of weight loss by bariatric surgery on the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and to examine predictors of MetS resolution.We performed a population-based, retrospective study of patients evaluated for bariatric surgery between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2003, who had MetS as defined by the American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (increased triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein, increased blood pressure, increased fasting glucose, and a measure of obesity). Of these patients, 180 underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and 157 were assessed in a weight-reduction program but did not undergo surgery. We determined the change in MetS prevalence and used logistic regression models to determine predictors of MetS resolution. Mean follow-up was 3.4 years.In the surgical group, all MetS components improved, and medication use decreased. Nonsurgical patients showed improvements in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. After bariatric surgery, the number of patients with MetS decreased from 156 (87%) of 180 patients to 53 (29%); of the 157 nonsurgical patients, MetS prevalence decreased from 133 patients (85%) to 117 (75%). A relative risk reduction of 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.48-0.67; P.001) was observed in patients who underwent bariatric surgery and had MetS at follow-up. The number needed to treat with surgery to resolve 1 case of MetS was 2.1. Results were similar after excluding patients with diabetes or cardiovascular disease or after using diagnostic criteria other than body mass index for MetS. Significant predictors of MetS resolution included a 5% loss in excess weight (odds ratio, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.19-1.34; P.001) and diabetes mellitus (odds ratio, 0.32; 95% CI, 0.15-0.68; P=.003).Roux-en-Y gastric bypass induces considerable and persistent improvement in MetS prevalence. Our results suggest that reversibility of MetS depends more on the amount of excess weight lost than on other parameters.

Aims To assess long-term changes in left atrial (LA) volume in patients with morbid obesity [body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2 with co-morbidities] and extreme obesity (BMI ≥40 kg/m2), after surgically-induced weight loss (WL) after gastric bypass surgery. Methods and results We reviewed 57 patients who underwent gastric bypass surgery and had echocardiograms both before and after the operation. A control group was frequency-matched for BMI, sex, age, and for duration of follow-up. After a mean follow-up of 3.6 years, LA volume did not change significantly in patients who underwent bariatric surgery, but increased in the control group by 15 ± 28 ml ( P < 0.0001), and 0.1 ± 0.2 ml ( P < 0.0001) for height-indexed LA volume, with a difference between cases and controls that remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders ( P = 0.01). In the study population as a whole, there was a positive correlation between change in body weight and change in LA volume ( r = 0.22, P = 0.006) independent of clinical conditions associated with LA enlargement. Conclusion Change in body weight is associated with change in LA size independent of obesity-associated co-morbidities. Successful WL induced by bariatric surgery prevents the progressive increase in LA volume.

Body mass index (BMI) is the most widely used measure to diagnose obesity. However, the accuracy of BMI in detecting excess body adiposity in the adult general population is largely unknown. A cross-sectional design of 13 601 subjects (age 20–79.9 years; 49% men) from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was used to estimate body fat percent (BF%). We assessed the diagnostic performance of BMI using the World Health Organization reference standard for obesity of BF%>25% in men and>35% in women. We tested the correlation between BMI and both BF% and lean mass by sex and age groups adjusted for race. BMI-defined obesity (⩾30 kg m−2) was present in 19.1% of men and 24.7% of women, while BF%-defined obesity was present in 43.9% of men and 52.3% of women. A BMI⩾30 had a high specificity (men=95%, 95% confidence interval (CI), 94–96 and women=99%, 95% CI, 98–100), but a poor sensitivity (men=36%, 95% CI, 35–37 and women=49%, 95% CI, 48–50) to detect BF%-defined obesity. The diagnostic performance of BMI diminished as age increased. In men, BMI had a better correlation with lean mass than with BF%, while in women BMI correlated better with BF% than with lean mass. However, in the intermediate range of BMI (25–29.9 kg m−2), BMI failed to discriminate between BF% and lean mass in both sexes. The accuracy of BMI in diagnosing obesity is limited, particularly for individuals in the intermediate BMI ranges, in men and in the elderly. A BMI cutoff of⩾30 kg m−2 has good specificity but misses more than half of people with excess fat. These results may help to explain the unexpected better survival in overweight/mild obese patients.

BATSIS, JOHN A., ABEL ROMERO-CORRAL, MARIA L. COLLAZO-CLAVELL, MICHAEL G. SARR, VIREND K. SOMERS, LEE BREKKE, AND FRANCISCO LOPEZJIMENEZ. Effect of weight loss on predicted cardiovascular risk: change in cardiac risk after bariatric surgery. Obesity. 2007;15:772–784. Objective: Our goal was to assess the effect of bariatric surgery on cardiovascular risk estimations of preventable, long-term adverse outcomes. Research Methods and Procedures: We performed a population-based, historical cohort study between 1990 and 2003 of 197 consecutive patients from Olmsted County, MN, with Class II to III obesity (defined as BMI 35 kg/m 2 ) treated with Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and 163 non-operative patients assessed in a weight-reduction program. We used the observed change in cardiovascular risk factors and risk models derived from data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) I and the NHANES I Epidemiological Follow-up Study (NHEFS) to calculate the predicted impact on cardiovascular events and mortality for the operative and non-operative groups. Results: Mean follow-up was 3.3 years. Hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia all improved after bariatric surgery. The estimated 10-year risk for cardiovascular events for the operative group decreased from 37% at baseline to 18% at follow-up, while the estimated risk for the nonoperative group did not change from 30% at baseline to 30% at follow-up. Risk modeling to predict 10-year outcomes estimated 4 overall deaths and 16 cardiovascular events prevented by bariatric surgery per 100 patients compared with the non-operative group. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery induces an improvement in cardiovascular risk factors in patients with Class II to III obesity. Weight loss predicts a major, 10-year reduction in cardiovascular events and deaths. Bariatric surgery should be considered as an alternative approach to reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with Class II to III obesity.

Obesity is a major cardiovascular (CV) risk factor. Bariatric surgery (BSx) is an approved therapeutic alternative for class II-III obesity, but little evidence focuses on older adults. We assessed the effect of BSx on cardiometabolic variables and long-term CV risk in older adults.We carried out a population-based, observational study from 1990-2009, of 40 consecutive elderly (age ≥60 years) residents of Olmsted County, MN, USA, with class II-III obesity treated with BSx at a University-based, academic health center. Data were obtained from the Rochester Epidemiology Project. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was defined using American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, Blood Institute (AHA/NHLBI) criteria (increased triglycerides, low high-density lipoprotein, increased blood pressure, increased glucose and body mass index as a modified measure of obesity instead of waist circumference). Change in CV risk factors, MetS prevalence, and impact on predicted CV risk using the Framingham risk score was ascertained at 1 year postoperatively and assessed statistically.Mean age and body mass index were 64.4 ± 3.7 and 45.0 ± 6.3 kg/m(2) , respectively, and 28 out of 40 (70%) were women. One participant died during the 11-month study period after BSx from respiratory complications related to BSx, and one participant died at 2 years. Percentage of excess weight loss decreased by 57.5% at 1 year. Prevalence 1 year after BSx decreased for diabetes (57.5% to 22.5%; P 0.03), hypertension 87.5% to 73.7% (P = 0.003), dyslipidemia (80% to 42.5%; P 0.001) and sleep apnea (62.5% to 23.7%; P 0.001).MetS prevalence decreased from 80% to 45% (P 0.002). Baseline risk was 14.1%, which changed at follow up at 8.2%.In older adults, BSx induces considerable weight loss, improves CV risk factors, decreases MetS prevalence and is an effective treatment in this population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 618-624.

To determine the safety and efficacy of bariatric surgery in obese patients with documented coronary artery disease (CAD).Among patients with class II or III obesity who underwent bariatric surgery between March 1995 and January 2002 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn, the rates of major in-hospital cardiovascular complications and mortality of 52 patients with clinical CAD were compared with those of 507 patients without CAD. The efficacy of bariatric surgery was measured by changes in body weight and other cardiovascular risk factors at follow-up.There were no in-hospital deaths in either group. Three patients with documented CAD (5.8%; 95% confidence interval, 0%-12.2%) and 7 patients without CAD (1.4%; 95% confidence interval, 0.4%-2.4%) had cardiovascular complications (P=.06). After a mean follow-up of 2.5 years (range, 77-2403 days) of patients with CAD, the following values decreased postoperatively (all at P.001): weight, from 147+/-36 kg to 103+/-22 kg; body mass index, from 50+/-11 kg/m2 to 36+/-9 kg/m2; fasting serum glucose, from 149+/-52 mg/dL to 113+/-31 mg/dL; glycosylated hemoglobin, from 9%+/-3% to 6%+/-2%; and blood pressure, from 142/82 mm Hg to 132/73 mm Hg. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased postoperatively from 116+/-31 mg/dL to 75+/-26 mg/dL, and triglycerides decreased from 198+/-85 mg/dL to 119+/-52 mg/dL (P.01 for both).Bariatric surgery should be considered for treating patients with CAD and class II or III obesity.

Although peripheral neuropathy (PN) occurs after bariatric surgery (BS), a causal association has not been established.To ascertain whether PN occurs more frequently following BS vs another abdominal surgery, to characterize the clinical patterns of PN, to identify risk factors for PN, and to assess if nerve biopsy provides pathophysiologic insight.Retrospective review identified patients with PN after BS. The frequency of PN was compared with that of an age- and gender-matched, retrospectively evaluated cohort of obese patients undergoing cholecystectomy.Of 435 patients who had BS, 71 (16%) developed PN. Patients developed PN more often after BS than after cholecystectomy (4/126; 3%) (p0.001). The clinical patterns of PN were polyneuropathy (n = 27), mononeuropathy (n = 39), and radiculoplexus neuropathy (n = 5). Risk factors included rate and absolute amount of weight loss, prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms, not attending a nutritional clinic after BS, reduced serum albumin and transferrin after BS, postoperative surgical complications requiring hospitalization, and having jejunoileal bypass. Most risk factors were associated with the polyneuropathy group. Sural nerve biopsies showed prominent axonal degeneration and perivascular inflammation.Peripheral neuropathy (PN) occurs more frequently after bariatric surgery (BS) than after another abdominal surgery. The three clinical patterns of PN after BS are sensory-predominant polyneuropathy, mononeuropathy, and radiculoplexus neuropathy. Malnutrition may be the most important risk factor, and patients should attend nutritional clinics. Inflammation and altered immunity may play a role in the pathogenesis, but further study is needed.

Background Food addiction (FA) may be related to poor weight loss outcomes; however, the literature on food addiction in bariatric surgery-seeking populations is limited. Objectives The aim of the present study was to identify the prevalence of FA in a bariatric surgery-seeking population and its association with mood, problematic eating behaviors, and substance use. The relationship between prebariatric surgery food addiction screening and postsurgical outcomes was assessed. Setting Academic medical center. Methods Adult outpatients (n = 923) seeking bariatric surgery underwent psychological evaluation between January 2012 and May 2014. Patients were administered the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) to assess FA. Of the original sample, 195 patients underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Patients returned for medical follow-up at 6 (n = 169) and 12 (n = 113) months postsurgery; 26 (13%) patients at 6 months and 82 (42%) patients at 12 months were lost to follow-up or had not reached 1 year postsurgery. Results Fourteen percent of patients met FA criteria. Patients positive for FA were more likely to endorse greater levels of depression, anxiety, binge eating episodes, nighttime eating syndrome, and low eating self-efficacy. No relationship was observed between FA and current substance use. FA did not predict postoperative outcomes including weight loss, rehospitalization, or attendance at follow-up medical appointments. Conclusions FA is related to psychological distress and eating disordered behaviors among bariatric patients. However, FA was not predictive of short-term (6–12 mo) bariatric surgery outcomes. Future research should determine how FA affects long-term postoperative outcomes and mood stability.