Psychological Scars Shouldn't be Ignored: Addressing Factors Linked to Depression among Individuals with Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Introduction: Although bariatric surgeries have been linked to improved mental health, yet, some individuals develop depression. Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the levels of depression and examine factors linked to depression among individuals with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional design using a digital online survey was used to collect data. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire among individuals with LSG. Results: A total of 344 eligible participants were included in the study. A significant percentage of the participants, almost one-third, were suffering from depression 27% (n = 94). Moderate to severe depression levels among participants were significantly associated with postoperative complications [odds ratio, OR: 2.92 (95% CI: 1.42-6.01, p = .003)] and having preoperative psychological disorders before LSG [OR: 3.68 (95% CI: 1.88-7.26, p < .001)]. In contrast, lower levels of depression were significantly associated with believing LSG has achieved its goals [OR: 0.46 (95% CI: 0.22-0.97, p = .014)] and recommending LSG to family or friends [OR: 0.15 (95% CI: 0.05-0.44, p = .001)]. Conclusion: There is an evident link between depression and experiencing postoperative complications and suffering from psychological disorders before LSG. The findings of the current study would pave the road for the development of psychological strategies designed to break the cyclic pattern of occurrence of depression as well as optimize the success and maintenance of this treatment modality and support recovery for individuals undergoing LSG.

Comparison of the Grades of Fatty Liver Disease With Perioperative Risk Factors in Patients With Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Background Obesity is a global healthcare problem, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a commonly observed comorbid disease in the bariatric population. This study evaluated the relationship between NAFLD and various risk factors, including demographic, biochemical, and comorbid conditions in patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Material and methods This retrospective data analysis study included patients who underwent LSG between August 2023 and 2024. Patient demographic data were collected, such as age, gender, weight, and body mass index (BMI), and NAFLD grade was determined by ultrasonography. Biochemical markers were recorded, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, and vitamin D. The presence of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension (HT) was evaluated and compared with the grade of hepatosteatosis. Results The study included 436 patients, of whom 73.6% (n = 321) were female. The mean age was 37.23 ± 10.49 years, and the mean BMI value was 41.25 ± 6.11 kg/m2. Patients were classified and compared according to their NAFLD grade, revealing statistically significant differences in weight, BMI, ALT, AST, HDL, LDL, TG, total cholesterol, HbA1c, FBG, vitamin D, obesity class, DM, and HT (p < 0.05). HDL and vitamin D showed an inverse correlation with NAFLD. We observed no significant difference in the relationship of NAFLD with age and the presence of gallstone. Logistic regression analysis revealed that ALT, AST, LDL, total cholesterol, and FBG were statistically significantly associated with NAFLD in the multivariate model. Conclusion Hepatosteatosis, T2DM, and HT are frequent comorbid diseases that are common in bariatric patients. Our study shows that ALT, AST, LDL, FBG, and total cholesterol may be used as predictors of NAFLD.

Evaluating the Necessity of Routine Histopathology in Sleeve Gastrectomy Specimens: A Five-Year Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a widely performed bariatric surgery that involves the removal of a portion of the stomach. Routinely, the resected gastric tissue is sent for histopathological examination to screen for malignancies or other significant pathological findings. However, the necessity of this routine practice remains uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the histopathological outcomes of LSG specimens over a five-year period at our institution. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 203 patients who underwent LSG between January 2017 and December 2022 at Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham. Data collected included patient demographics, body mass index (BMI), use of preoperative oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGD), and histopathological findings. Patients with incomplete records or those who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass were excluded from the study. RESULTS: Data were extracted for 310 patients, of whom 107 were excluded. The majority of the 203 patients analyzed were female (83%), with a mean age of 45.7 years and a mean BMI of 45.4 ± 7.3. Preoperative OGD was performed in only 0.5% of cases. Histopathological examination revealed that 81.3% (n=165) of patients had normal gastric mucosa, while 14.3% (n=29) had chronic gastritis. Clinically significant findings were rare, with only 1% (n=2) of patients showing gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) or focal intestinal metaplasia. None of the patients required additional treatment or follow-up based on these histopathological findings. CONCLUSION: Most LSG specimens in our study showed normal or non-significant histopathological findings, raising questions about the routine use of histopathological examination in LSG procedures. It remains unclear whether histopathology is necessary following sleeve gastrectomy. While no patients in our cohort required further treatment or surveillance, there are reports in the literature where surveillance or further treatment was necessary, though the incidence remains low. Given the low incidence of clinically significant pathology, further studies with larger sample sizes and multi-center data are needed to establish clear guidelines on this issue.

A Rare Encounter of Postoperative Abscess Not Linked to Staple Line in Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Sleeve gastrectomy is a common bariatric procedure known for its safety and effectiveness, but postoperative complications like abscess formation, though rare, can occur. We report the case of a 37-year-old female who presented with atypical abdominal pain following a sleeve gastrectomy. Imaging revealed an abscess located away from the staple line. Surgical exploration and culture identified Streptococcus anginosus as the causative organism. This case emphasizes the importance of vigilant postoperative monitoring and early intervention to prevent complications. Proper management, including antibiotics and surgical drainage, is crucial for patient recovery.

Migration and section of esophageal thermometer in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: Clinical case of a preventable complication.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is a prevalent bariatric surgery for managing morbid obesity. Despite its efficacy, complications can arise, particularly from intraoperative devices such as esophageal thermometers and orogastric tubes. These devices, if misplaced or inadequately monitored, can migrate and become entrapped or sectioned during surgery, leading to significant morbidity. CASE PRESENTATION: A 49-year-old female with morbid obesity underwent LSG. During surgery, an esophageal thermometer migrated into the stomach and was inadvertently sectioned during the stapling process. This required additional surgical intervention to remove the severed segments and repair the damage. Postoperative recovery was uneventful after corrective measures were taken. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: This case underscores the critical importance of ensuring the proper placement and continuous monitoring of intraoperative devices, such as esophageal thermometers, to prevent similar preventable complications in future surgical procedures. CONCLUSION: The reviewed cases demonstrate that complications from intraoperative device migration and entrapment during bariatric surgery, while rare, are significant and preventable. Adherence to strict protocols, continuous device monitoring, and enhanced team communication are essential to improve patient safety and surgical outcomes. Implementing these measures can prevent avoidable complications and enhance the efficacy of bariatric surgeries. EVIDENCE BASED MEDICINE RANKING: Level IV.

An Incidental Discovery of a Large Falciform Ligament Defect During Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.

The falciform ligament is a thin fold of peritoneum that attaches the liver to the anterior abdominal wall and the diaphragm. Its defect refers to an abnormal opening in the falciform ligament, a very rare condition that can be congenital or due to acquired causes. In this report, we present a case of a 42-year-old patient with a large asymptomatic falciform ligament defect incidentally discovered during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Due to the potential risk of small bowel herniation through the defect, we recommend cutting the remaining ligament to avoid this unwanted complication, as we did here.

Bacterial and clinical metabolic signatures and their interactions in obese patients post-bariatric surgery.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a growing health concern in China, closely linked to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes. Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) is effective in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic outcomes. Emerging evidence highlights the role of gut microbiota in metabolic regulation, yet the specific alterations in gut microbiota and their association with metabolic changes post-surgery in Chinese patients remain unclear. Understanding these shifts could provide key insights into optimizing treatment strategies for metabolic improvement following bariatric surgery. METHODS: Stool samples and clinical data were collected from 30 obese patients before and 6 months after surgery. The composition of the gut microbiota was analyzed through 16S rRNA sequencing, and Spearman correlation analysis was used to determine the association between gut microbiota and clinical indicators. RESULTS: The analysis of 30 patients showed a significant decrease in Body Mass Index (BMI) (36.75 ± 4.09 kg/m2 vs 26.37 ± 3.47 kg/m2, p < 0.0001). Glucose metabolism, including Hemoglobin A1C levels, improved significantly (6.05 ± 0.96 vs 5.05 ± 0.25, p < 0.0001), and liver function as well as serum lipid levels were also notably improved. LSG increased the richness and composition of gut microbiota in obese patients post-surgery. These changes in gut microbiota were closely associated with improved clinical metabolic parameters. CONCLUSION: LSG not only significantly reduces body weight while also alleviating metabolic syndrome and comorbidities by altering gut microbiota.

Comparing the effects of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass versus laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on weight loss and comorbidity resolution: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG) and Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) are the most common bariatric modalities. There is ongoing debate on the two modalities' long-term effects on weight loss and comorbidity resolution.PubMed, EMbase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing LRYGB versus LSG were searched by March 2024. Quality assessment was conducted by Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) guidelines, following the procedures outlined in the Cochrane Collaborations tool (RoB 2.0 Assessment Form).In total, 13 datasets were included from 10 RCTs that involved 1106 individuals. Both the percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) and percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) were greater in LRYGB compared to LSG at 3 years (MD: 13.04, 95%CI: 6.95-19.13; P < 0.0001) and 1 year (MD: 5.97, 95%CI: 5.23-6.71; P < 0.00001), respectively. When comparing LRYGB to LSG, the remission percentage for type 2 diabetes mellitus was greater at one (RR: 0.15, 95%CI: 0.03-0.27; P = 0.02) and 3 years (RR: 0.17, 95 % CI: 0.07-0.28; P = 0.001). Moreover, early (RR: 1.72, 95%CI: 1.19-2.46; P = 0.003) and late (RR: 1.40, 95%CI: 1.15-1.71; P = 0.001) adverse events were more common with LRYGB. Regarding remission from obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, no significant changes were seen. LRYGB and LSG are both viable bariatric surgery options for resolving long-term comorbidities. While the rate of adverse events is greater with LRYGB than LSG, the former may provide more long-term sustainable weight reduction.Additional research of a higher quality is necessary.

Comparison of Early Postoperative Outcomes of Omentopexy and Clips along the Staple Line During Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Randomized Study.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to compare the omentopexy and clipping reinforcement methods performed along the staple line during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in terms of the effectiveness on postoperative bleeding. METHODS: In this prospective randomized controlled study, patients were divided into two groups: clips group (CG) and omentopexy group (OG). The groups were compared in terms of postoperative bleeding, duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, hospital readmissions in the postoperative first 30-days. RESULTS: A total of 148 patients were included in the study. Postoperative bleeding was observed in 11 patients (14.9%) of CG and 2 patients (2.7%) of the OG, and the difference between the groups was found to be significant (p = 0.009). Similarly, the number of patients with bleeding that did not require intervention was 9 (12.2%) in CG and 2 (2.7%) in OG, and the difference between the groups was also significant (p = 0.028). The duration of surgery in the CG was 30 (27 to 36) minutes, whereas in the OG, it was 43 (39 to 45) minutes, with a significant difference noted (p < 0.001). Additionally, the rate of patients readmitted to the hospital within the first 30 days was 16 (21.6%) in the CG and 7 (9.5%) in the OG, with a significant difference observed (p = 0.041). CONCLUSION: In terms of bleeding requiring intervention, there was no difference between omentopexy and clipping techniques. In addition, omentopexy showed more satisfactory results than clipping in terms of non-interventional bleeding, but its clinical significance is unclear.

The Effect of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on Body Mass Index and the Resolution of Other Metabolic Syndrome Components in Patients over 50 Years Old during a Two Year Follow-Up.

Background/Objectives: Metabolic syndrome, defined by the coexistence of central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance, is a significant contributor to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in the aging population. We aimed to determine whether age influences the efficacy of LSG in treating obesity-related comorbidities. Methods: A retrospective analysis of lipid profiles, glycemic and clinical parameters was conducted in a group of 786 patients in two age groups (under 50 years old and over 50 years old) who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy with follow-ups 1, 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after surgery. Results: There was a significant improvement in lipid metabolism with no significant differences between the two age groups in these parameters throughout the observation period. Furthermore, there was significant weight loss (54.82 kg vs. 54.56 kg) and BMI reductions (47.71 kg/m2 vs. 47.01 kg/m2 to 29.03 kg/m2 vs. 30.73 kg/m2). Total cholesterol decreased from 198 mg/dL to 184.9 mg/dL (<50 years old) and from 206.4 mg/dL to 193 mg/dL (>50 years old). LDL dropped from 136.2 mg/dL to 116.7 mg/dL and from 141.0 mg/dL to 121.0 mg/dL. Mean HbA1c decreased to comparable levels (5.66% vs. 5.53%). Both groups showed similar rates of remission for type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that LSG is an effective method for treating components of metabolic syndrome regardless of age, supporting its use as a therapeutic tool for older patients.

Routine Histopathology in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Over 10 Years.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is one of the world's most commonly performed types of bariatric surgery. Routine histopathology of the surgical specimen is undertaken at most institutions, regardless of the lack of clinical suspicion of any sinister pathology. We evaluated the histopathology reports of LSG cases done for morbid obesity at our hospital over 10 years to determine the distribution of gastric changes and the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection in these specimens. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted. All LSGs performed at Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan, from July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2024, were assessed. A total of 538 cases were included. Histopathology reports were reviewed for all these patients, and the histopathological diagnosis and the presence or absence of H. pylori infection were recorded. RESULTS: The mean age was 36.9 ± 11.4 years. There were 201 (37.4%) males. No abnormality was found in 105 (19.5%) cases. Gastritis was present in 433 (80.5%) cases. Intestinal metaplasia was present in eight (1.5%) cases in a background of gastritis. There were no cases of gastric atrophy or dysplasia. There was one case of submucosal lipoma (0.2%) and one case of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) (0.2%). Both cases were associated with gastritis. H. pylori infection was present in 140 (26.0%) cases. All of these were associated with gastritis. Among the gastritis cases, 319 (73.7%) had chronic gastritis, while 114 (26.3%) had both active and chronic gastritis. The severity of gastritis, as designated by the histopathologist in their report, was minimal in 24 (4.5%) cases, mild in 228 (42.4%), moderate in 176 (32.7%), and severe in five (0.9%). There was one case of granulomatous gastritis (non-caseating) (0.2%). There was no difference in the prevalence of gastritis or H. pylori infection based on age or gender. CONCLUSION: Histopathological examination of the LSG specimen revealed a very high prevalence of gastritis, with normal findings in less than a fifth of all cases. The prevalence of H. pylori infection (26.0%) is much higher in comparison to other studies. Routine histopathology of LSG specimens should continue to be performed in every case.

Dexmedetomidine Versus Fentanyl on Time to Extubation in Patients with Morbid Obesity Undergoing Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Background: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is an effective method for managing obesity. While opioids are used for their hemodynamic stability and their ability to reduce intraoperative stress, they also have reported side effects. Dexmedetomidine (DEX), an α2 adrenergic receptor agonist, is noted for its analgesic and anesthetic-sparing effects, leading to a higher quality of recovery. Objectives: The study aims to compare the effects of fentanyl and dexmedetomidine (DEX) on the recovery of morbidly obese patients following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Methods: This randomized, double-blind study involved 64 patients, equally divided into two groups. The Dexmedetomidine group (Group D) received an intravenous (IV) loading dose of dexmedetomidine (1 µg/kg) over 15 minutes before anesthesia induction, followed by a 10 mL saline 0.9% infusion over 60 seconds during induction. Post-intubation, dexmedetomidine was administered at 0.5 µg/kg/h. The Fentanyl group (Group F) received a volume-matched saline 0.9% IV over 15 minutes pre-induction and fentanyl (1 µg/kg) diluted in 10 ml saline 0.9% IV over 60 seconds during induction. After intubation, a continuous fentanyl infusion was maintained at a rate of 1 µg/kg/hr. Results: Extubation time was significantly shorter in the Dexmedetomidine group (Group D) at 8.25 ± 2.7 minutes compared to the Fentanyl group (Group F) at 10.47 ± 2.17 minutes, with a P-value of 0.001. Intraoperative heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure were also significantly lower in Group D than in Group F. Visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores were significantly lower in Group D compared to Group F upon arrival at the post-anesthesia care unit and at 2 hours postoperatively (P-value < 0.05). Additionally, the morphine dose consumed in the first 12 hours after surgery was significantly lower in Group D (5.75 ± 2.20 mg) compared to Group F (8 ± 2.38 mg), with a P-value of 0.001. Conclusions: For morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, dexmedetomidine (DEX) proves to be an effective anesthetic choice. It not only reduces extubation time but also lowers early postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores and opioid consumption within the first 12 hours following surgery.

The effect of preadmission education given to bariatric surgery patients on postoperative recovery: A randomized controlled study.

AIM: To investigate the effect of preadmission education given to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patients on preoperative and postoperative anxiety, postoperative pain, and patient vital signs. METHODS: The study was designed as randomized, controlled, experimental, and single-blind. This study was conducted with 68 patients who met the inclusion criteria and underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in the general surgery clinic of a university hospital between December 2022 and October 2023. Data were collected using the 'Perioperative Form,' 'Visual Analog Scale,' and 'State Anxiety Scale I-II.' Intervention group patients were informed and educated about the surgical process in the outpatient clinic. The anxiety levels of all patients were determined with the State Anxiety Scale the day before surgery. In the postoperative period, vital signs (once), anxiety (on the first day after surgery), and pain levels (eight times during 48 h) were measured. RESULTS: In the analysis between the groups, the difference between the duration of postoperative hospital stay (p = 0.007), pain (p = 0.000 for all measured), and anxiety levels (p = 0.000) was statistically significant. There were also significant differences in the diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.007), body temperature (p = 0.000), and saturation values (p = 0.000). Patients' readiness level for surgery was the most influential factor in postoperative pain levels (p = 0.000). CONCLUSION: The education given to the patients before hospitalization decreased preoperative and postoperative anxiety levels, postoperative hospital stay and pain levels, and positively affected diastolic blood pressure, body temperature and saturation levels. One-to-one education given to patients in the outpatient clinic also contributes positively to their readiness for surgery. This study provides valuable evidence to the wider global clinical community by demonstrating the important benefits of preadmission education for patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Implementation of similar educational interventions in diverse healthcare settings worldwide may lead to increased postoperative recovery and improved overall patient well-being after bariatric surgery.

Spontaneous splenic rupture two days after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

IntroductionSleeve gastrectomy is a common bariatric procedure to manage morbid obesity. Splenic injury such as splenic rupture after sleeve gastrectomy is a rare complication which can be treated both with a splenectomy or conservative approach, called spleen-preserving surgery.Patients and methodsA 42 year old male, in whom we performed a sleeve gastrectomy, presented with splenic rupture, within 48 hours postoperative, for which spleen-preserving surgery was performed. As splenic rupture is a very rare complication, we performed an extensive literature search in PubMed database. After obtaining patient informed consent, we aim to describe a sixth presentation of this rare surgical complication.ResultTo the best of our knowledge, only five cases of splenic rupture after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy have been described before, all treated with a splenectomy. Furthermore, we are the first to describe spleen-preserving surgery.ConclusionWe present the sixth case of spontaneous splenic rupture after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and the first to treat it with spleen-preserving surgery.

GLP-1 receptor agonists and the risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a single-center, retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Whether preoperative exposure to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are associated with postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) remains unclear. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the association between preoperative GLP-1RAs exposure and PONV after LSG. SETTING: University Hospital, China. METHODS: We reviewed a retrospective cohort of patients underwent LSG between January 1, 2017, and December 30, 2021 at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, dividing the patients into 2 groups on the basis of whether they were exposed to GLP-1RAs preoperatively. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed to balance the characteristics between the groups. Associations between GLP-1RAs exposure and PONV were determined by logistic regressions. RESULTS: A total of 564 eligible patients underwent LSG, 351 (62.2%, 95% CI 58.2-66.1) of whom had PONV. In total cohort, PONV occurred in 72(84.7%) patients exposed to GLP-1RAs preoperatively and 279 (58.2%) patients not exposed to GLP-1RAs (adjusted odds ratio 6.782, 95% confidence interval 3.307-13.907, P < .001). In the 158 matched patients, PONV occurred in 66 (83.5%) patients exposed to GLP-1RAs preoperatively and 48 (60.8%) matched patients not exposed to GLP-1RAs (adjusted odds ratio 3.830, 95% confidence interval 1.461-10.036, P = .006). Subgroup analysis by dosage forms and doses revealed a positive association between greater doses and an increased risk of PONV after LSG for both once-daily and once-weekly formulations. CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative exposure to GLP-1RAs is associated with an increased risk of PONV in patients undergoing LSG, particularly at higher doses of exposure.

Development and validation of a novel nomogram to predict worsening of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy using Lasso-logistic regression.

Background Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is among the most common complications of bariatric surgery. This study aimed to analyse the risk factors affecting the worsening of GERD symptoms after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and to establish and validate a related nomogram model. Methods The study recruited 236 participants and randomly divided them into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3. LASSO regression technique was used to select the optimal predictive features, and multivariate logistic regression was used to construct the column line graphs. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated and validated by analyzing the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve. Results In this study, Lasso-logistic regression was applied to select 5 predictors from the relevant variables, which were body mass index (BMI), diabetes, hiatal hernia, GERD, and triglyceride levels. These 5 predictor variables constructed a model with moderate predictive power, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.779 for the training set and 0.796 for the validation set. Decision curve analysis showed that in external validation, if the risk thresholds were between 4 and 98% and 14-95%, then the nomogram can be applied to the clinic. Conclusions We have developed and validated a nomogram that effectively predicts the risk of worsening gastroesophageal reflux symptoms following LSG.

Endoscopic Outcomes Before and Five Years After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Is There a Significant Impact?

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a popular bariatric procedure with significant effects on weight and metabolic health. However, its impact on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophageal symptoms remains debated. This study aims to evaluate the endoscopic changes five years post-LSG. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent LSG at our center between June 2017 and June 2019. Inclusion criteria included preoperative and at least five-year follow-up esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). We analyzed demographic factors, esophageal symptoms, and endoscopic findings. Out of 118 patients who underwent LSG, 24 met the inclusion criteria. Two patients were excluded due to conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The final cohort included 22 patients with a mean age of 42 ± 10 years and a mean BMI of 45 ± 7 kg/m². Preoperative EGD showed no GERD in 21 patients (95.5%) and GERD in 1 patient (4.5%). At five-year follow-up, 14 patients (63.6%) had no GERD, 7 (31.8%) had GERD A, and 1 (4.5%) had GERD B. Esophageal symptoms included heartburn (54.5%), nausea (36.4%), regurgitation (31.8%), and epigastric pain (22.7%). PPI or antacid use was reported in 10 patients (45.5%). Extra-esophageal symptoms were rare. BMI was significantly higher in patients with GERD (34.5 ± 6.3 kg/m²) compared to those without GERD (30.2 ± 5.1 kg/m², p = 0.04). LSG may lead to the development or worsening of GERD in a subset of patients, despite the majority showing no significant GERD changes over five years. Continuous monitoring and tailored management strategies are essential for optimizing outcomes.

Impact of Patient- and Surgeon-Related Factors on Weight Loss after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy-A Single-Center Study.

Background and Objectives: Surgical treatment for obesity is becoming increasingly popular. Surgeons have been trying to find a simple way to predict the type of surgical intervention that is best for a specific patient. This study aimed to determine the patient- and surgeon-related factors that affect weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Materials and Methods: A total of 129 patients underwent LSG in one surgical department. The following factors were analyzed: gender; age; highest preoperative and 6-month postoperative weight; the occurrence of obesity-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension; the number of surgeons involved in the surgery; and who performed the surgery, a resident or specialist. The outcomes also included length of hospital stay, operative time and complications. Statistical significance was defined as p ≤ 0.05. Results: A total of 129 patients (94 female) with a median age of 43 years and BMI of 43.1 kg/m2 underwent LSG, while a total of 109 (84.5%) patients achieved ≥50% of excess BMI loss (%EBMIL). Preoperative weight loss had no impact on %EBMIL (p = 0.95), operative time (p = 0.31) and length of hospital stay (p = 0.2). Two versus three surgeons in the operating team had no impact on surgery time (p = 0.1), length of stay (p = 0.98) and %EBMIL (p = 0.14). The operative time and length of hospital stay were similar for specialists and surgeons in training. %EBMIL was higher in the residents' surgery without statistical significance (p = 0.19). Complications occurred in 3.9% without mortality or leaks. Conclusions: Preoperative comorbidities, surgeons' experience and the number of surgeons in the operating team do not impact the complication rate, length of hospital stay, operative time and postoperative weight loss after LSG.

Comparable improvement and resolution of obesity-related comorbidities in endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty vs laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: single-center study.

BACKGROUND: Despite excellent surgical outcomes, a minority of qualified patients undergo weight loss surgery. Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG), an incisionless procedure, has proven to be effective in achieving weight loss and comorbidity improvement. We aim to compare outcomes of ESG to those of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG). METHOD: A retrospective review of a prospective database of patients who underwent ESG and LSG at NorthShore University HealthSystem from 2016 to 2023 was completed. Demographic and outcome data were analyzed. Pre- and post-surgical data were compared using chi-square and two-sample t tests. Improvement or resolution of obesity-related comorbidities were also assessed. RESULTS: A total of 212 LSG and 68 ESG patients were reviewed. ESG patients were older (47 ± 10 vs. 43 ± 12, p = 0.006) and less obese (BMI 37.0 ± 5.5 vs. 45.8 ± 0.4, p < 0.001) than LSG patients. Median length of stay after ESG was 0 days and after LSG 1 day (p < 0.001). Severe adverse events were seen less frequent after ESG (1.47%, vs 3.77%). LSG achieved more significant %TBWL at 6 months (25.2 ± 8.9 vs 14.9 ± 7.4), 1 year (27.5 ± 10.8 vs 14.1 ± 9.8), and 2 years (25.7 ± 10.8 vs 10.5 ± 8.8, all p < 0.001) after surgery when compared to ESG. LSG achieved significantly greater %EWL compared to ESG at 6 months (57.0 ± 20.7 vs 50.4 ± 29.2, p = 0.137), 1 year (61.4 ± 24.6 vs 46.5 ± 34.0, p = 0.026), and 2 years postoperatively (59.7 ± 25.5 vs 32.6 ± 28.2, p = 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in rates of improvement or resolution of diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, hyperlipidemia, or hypertension. CONCLUSION: ESG is an effective procedure for weight loss and comorbidity resolution. Obesity-related comorbidities are comparably improved and resolved following ESG vs LSG. Although the weight loss in LSG is significantly higher, patients can expect a shorter hospital length of stay and a lower rate of complications after ESG. ESG continues to show promise for long-term weight loss and improvement in health.

A comparison of efficacy of erector spinae plane block versus serratus anterior plane block plus subcostal transversus abdominus plane block for bariatric laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery: study protocol for a randomised clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a rapidly growing global health concern. Limited long-term success of diet, behavioural modification and medical therapy have led to the increased performance of bariatric surgery. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, which permanently reduces the size of the stomach, has been shown to cause considerable weight loss, as well as improving or even eliminating obesity related medical comorbidities such as diabetes, obstructive sleep apnoea and hypertension. Unfortunately, this surgery can also result in significant postoperative pain which, when combined with the dangers of perioperative opioid administration for bariatric patients, can lead to a significantly reduced quality of recovery. Opioid-sparing analgesia has been widely recommended for perioperative bariatric patients, but research into the optimum regional analgesia approach for this surgery is lacking, with no trials to date comparing different regional analgesic techniques. This study protocol describes a randomised clinical trial aimed at answering this question, comparing the quality of recovery after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for patients who receive erector spinae plane block, versus those who receive serratus anterior plane block plus subcostal TAP block. METHODS: We propose a prospective, randomised, blinded (investigator) clinical trial in a tertiary hospital in Ireland. Seventy patients presenting for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy will be randomised to two study groups-group A will receive bilateral erector spinae blockade; group B will receive left sided serratus anterior plane block plus subcostal TAP blocks. Both groups will receive the same dose of the same local anaesthetic and the different regional technique performed will be the only difference in their care. The primary outcome will be QoR-15 scores at 24 h postoperatively, a validated international tool for assessing a patient's overall postoperative recovery. DISCUSSION: Regional analgesia should be a mainstay of perioperative opioid-sparing analgesia where possible. This is especially important in the bariatric cohort who are particularly susceptible to the complications of perioperative opioid administration. To the best of our knowledge, this trial will be the first to compare efficacy of two different regional analgesia techniques for bariatric patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This trial was pre-registered on clinicaltrials.gov, registration number NCT05839704, on March 5, 2023. All items from the World Health Organisation Trial Registration Data Set have been included.