Lower levels of plasma syndecan-4 are associated with loss of body weight and fat-free mass after bariatric surgery.

OBJECTIVE: Bariatric surgery induces a significant loss of both fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM). The proteoglycan receptor syndecan-4 (SDC4) plays a crucial role in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle functions. Thus, this study was performed (i) to assess plasma SDC4 levels after both Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) surgeries, and (ii) to explore potential associations with changes in body composition variables. RESULTS: Twenty-six patients (17 females) with severe obesity underwent SG (n = 13) or RYGB (n = 13) and were followed up to 1 year (1Y). Body weight, FM, FFM, and SCD4 were measured at baseline (BL), and at week 11 (W11) and 1Y after surgery. Independently of procedure, there was a significant body weight loss at W11, with an average FM and FFM reduction of 13.7 ± 0.6 kg and 5.3 ± 0.5 kg, respectively. Participants continued to lose weight afterwards, with a total weigth loss of 38.2 ± 1.5 kg at 1Y. No associations were found at BL between SDC4 levels and any anthropometric variable; however, SDC4 levels were lower than BL at both W11 and 1Y, independently of type of surgery. Additionally, changes in SDC4 between BL and 1Y were positively correlated with weight and FFM loss during the same period. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04051190 on 09/08/2019.

One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass vs. Sleeve Gastrectomy in the Remission of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Analysis on 3 Years of Follow-Up.

Background. Obesity is a prevalent condition associated with various comorbidities, impacting mortality, fertility, and quality of life. Its relationship with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DMII) is well established, with nearly 44% prevalence. Bariatric surgery has proven crucial for treating both obesity and DMII. The comparison between surgical techniques, such as sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), remains controversial in terms of glycemic control efficacy. This retrospective study aimed to assess DMII remission efficacy between SG and OAGB after 36 months. Methods. From January 2016 to September 2020, 201 patients who underwent SG and OAGB for morbid obesity associated with DMII were accurately followed-up with for 36 months, focusing on %HbA1c, DMII remission, anthropometric results, and nutrient deficiency. Results. Although DMII remission did not exhibit statistical significance between the groups (82% vs. 93%, SG vs. OAGB, p = 0.051), OAGB demonstrated a more robust association with glycemic control (Odds Ratio 0.51) throughout the entire follow-up and yielded superior anthropometric outcomes. Notably, nutrient deficiencies, excluding cholecalciferol, iron, and riboflavin, did not show significant intergroup differences. Conclusions. This study contributes valuable insights into the extended-term efficacy of SG and OAGB in DMII remission. The nuanced findings underscore the multifaceted nature of metabolic outcomes, suggesting that factors beyond weight loss influence diabetes resolution. Larger comparative studies are warranted to comprehensively address this issue.

Differences in Technical Aspects of Primary Sleeve Gastrectomy Prior to Redo Bariatric Surgery-A Multicenter Cohort Study (PROSS Study).

Background and Objectives: Although the technical simplicity of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is relatively well understood, many parts of the procedure differ according to bariatric surgeons. These technical variations may impact postoperative weight loss or the treatment of comorbidities and lead to qualification for redo procedures. Materials and Methods: A multicenter, observational, retrospective study was conducted among patients undergoing revision procedures. Patients were divided into three groups based on the indications for revisional surgery (insufficient weight loss or obesity-related comorbidities treatment, weight regain and development of complications). Results: The median bougie size was 36 (32-40) with significant difference (p = 0.04). In 246 (51.57%) patients, the resection part of sleeve gastrectomy was started 4 cm from the pylorus without significant difference (p = 0.065). The number of stapler cartridges used during the SG procedure was six staplers in group C (p = 0.529). The number of procedures in which the staple line was reinforced was the highest in group A (29.63%) with a significant difference (0.002). Cruroplasty was performed in 13 patients (p = 0.549). Conclusions: There were no differences between indications to redo surgery in terms of primary surgery parameters such as the number of staplers used or the length from the pylorus to begin resection. The bougie size was smaller in the group of patients with weight regain. Patients who had revision for insufficient weight loss were significantly more likely to have had their staple line oversewn. A potential cause could be a difference in the size of the removed portion of the stomach, but it is difficult to draw unequivocal conclusions within the limitations of our study.

Analysis of the risk factors for perioperative morbidity after laparoscopic revisional bariatric procedures: results from the multicenter Polish Revision Obesity Surgery Study.

BACKGROUND: The growing number of primary bariatric operations has led to an increase in demand for revision surgeries. Higher numbers of revisional operations are also observed in Poland, yet their safety and efficacy remain controversial because of a lack of current recommendations and guidelines. OBJECTIVE: To review risk factors influencing perioperative morbidity. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the results of surgical treatment among 12 Polish bariatric centers. Inclusion criteria were laparoscopic revisional bariatric surgeries and patients ≥18 years of age. The study included 795 patients, of whom 621 were female; the mean age was 47 years (range: 40-55 years). RESULTS: Perioperative morbidity occurred in 92 patients (11.6%) enrolled in the study, including 76 women (82.6%). The median age was 45 years (range: 39-54 years). Statistically significant risk factors in univariate logistic regression models for perioperative complications were the duration of obesity, revisional surgery after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or adjustable gastric band (AGB), difference in body mass index before revisional surgery and the lowest achieved after primary surgery, and postoperative morbidity of the primary surgery as the cause for revisional bariatric surgery. These factors were included in the multivariate regression model. Revisional surgery after AGB (odds ratio [OR] = 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-3.69; P = .004), revisional surgery performed after RYGB (OR = 6.52; 95% CI: 1.98-21.49; P = .002), and revisions due to complication of the primary surgery (OR = 1.89; 95% CI: 1.06-3.34; P = .030) remained independent risk factors for perioperative morbidity. CONCLUSION: Revisional operations after RYGB or AGB and those performed because of postoperative morbidity after primary surgery as the main cause for revisional surgery were associated with a significantly increased risk of postoperative morbidity.

A Decision Aid to Help Patients Make Informed Choices Between the Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass or Sleeve Gastrectomy.

PURPOSE: In the Netherlands, patients can often choose between the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) as primary bariatric surgery. Yet, patients confronted with medical options may experience decisional conflict when their stakes are high and outcomes uncertain. This study aimed to assess if a decision aid helps patients make informed choices between two bariatric procedures by lowering the level of decisional conflict. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a single-center comparative cohort of patients who accessed a web-based decision aid (intervention group) and those who did not use the decision aid (control group) to help choose between two bariatric procedures additional to the standard provided care. The primary outcome was the level of decisional conflict in these patients using the decisional conflict scale (DCS). Secondary outcomes were patient satisfaction with the provided information (BODY-QTM-satisfaction with information), preference of involvement in procedure selection, level of shared decision-making (SDM-Q-9 questionnaire), and patient knowledge. RESULTS: The level of decisional conflict assessed with the decisional conflict scale (DCS) showed a significantly lower mean total DCS of 25.5 ± 11.5 for the intervention group vs. 29.1 ± 12.4 in the control group (p = 0.022). Both groups did not significantly differ in satisfaction regarding provided information, involvement in the selection procedure, shared decision-making, and patient knowledge. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the additional use of a decision aid significantly lowers the level of decisional conflict in patients awaiting bariatric surgery. However, the added value should be further investigated.

Analysis of the Factors Contributing to Bariatric Success After Laparoscopic Redo Bariatric Procedures: Results from Multicenter Polish Revision Obesity Surgery Study (PROSS).

INTRODUCTION: With continuously growing number of redo bariatric surgeries (RBS), it is necessary to look for factors determining success of redo-surgeries. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective cohort study analyzed consecutive patients who underwent RBS in 12 referral bariatric centers in Poland from 2010 to 2020. The study included 529 patients. The efficacy endpoints were percentage of excessive weight loss (%EWL) and remission of hypertension (HT) and/or type 2 diabetes (T2D). RESULTS: Group 1: weight regain Two hundred thirty-eight of 352 patients (67.6%) exceeded 50% EWL after RBS. The difference in body mass index (BMI) pre-RBS and lowest after primary procedure < 10.6 kg/m2 (OR 2.33, 95% CI: 1.43-3.80, p = 0.001) was independent factor contributing to bariatric success after RBS, i.e., > 50% EWL. Group 2: insufficient weight loss One hundred thirty of 177 patients (73.4%) exceeded 50% EWL after RBS. The difference in BMI pre-RBS and lowest after primary procedure (OR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.64-0.89, p = 0.001) was independent factors lowering odds for bariatric success. Group 3: insufficient control of obesity-related diseases Forty-three of 87 patients (49.4%) achieved remission of hypertension and/or type 2 diabetes. One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB) as RBS was independent factor contributing to bariatric success (OR 7.23, 95% CI: 1.67-31.33, p = 0.008), i.e., complete remission of HT and/or T2D. CONCLUSIONS: RBS is an effective method of treatment for obesity-related morbidity. Greater weight regain before RBS was minimizing odds for bariatric success in patients operated due to weight regain or insufficient weight loss. OAGB was associated with greater chance of complete remission of hypertension and/or diabetes.

Efficacy of intraperitoneal bupivacaine in laparoscopic bariatric surgery.

A best evidence topic has been constructed using a described protocol. The three-part question addressed was: In [patients undergoing bariatric surgery], is [intraperitoneal local bupivacaine during the operation ] associated with [ lower pain score and decrease in post operative pain medications]? The search has been done and six randomized trial studies are considered to be appropriate to answer this question. The outcome assessed is the value of intraperitoneal bupivacaine in bariatric surgery in terms of effect on the pain score and post operative analgesia. We concluded that intraperitoneal bupivacaine causes improvement in both the pain score and post operative analgesia.

Psychological Outcomes and Predictors of Weight Loss in Adolescents With Severe Obesity Following a Reversible Endoscopic Bariatric Procedure.

Introduction: Adolescent and children obesity is a growing concern worldwide. Bariatric surgery is used as an effective treatment for adolescents with obesity and provides physical and mental health benefits. Application of alternative, minimally invasive, safe, and reversible endoscopic procedures, such as the Duodenojejunal bypass liner (DJBL), has been recently suggested as an effective treatment for adolescents with obesity. We explored specific psychological outcomes of adolescents with obesity during a year of follow-up after undergoing a reversible endoscopic bariatric procedure, and a year after removal. We were also interested in identifying psychological factors that could predict successful weight loss after the procedure. Methods: Nineteen adolescent with severe obesity undergoing DJBL procedure were psychologically assessed in an open-label, prospective clinical trial (NTC0218393), at the implantation of device and at the removal of device after 12 months. Control group of 26 adolescents with severe obesity were recruited from the same outpatient clinic undergoing only conservative treatment. In addition, adolescents from the intervention group were followed for 12 months after the removal of the device. The Youth Self Report (YSR) was used to assess adolescents' emotional and behavioural problems; The Multidimensional Body-Self Relations Questionnaire (MBSRQ) to assess body image and The Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) to assess attitudes and behaviours related to eating disorder. Results: Significant improvements in somatic complain (F = 12.478, p = 0.001), emotional and behavioural problems (F = 7.169, p = 0.011) and food restraining (F = 9.605, p = 0.004) were found in the intervention group at device removal compared to the control group. Moreover, at the time of device removal compared to baseline, improvements in several psychological outcomes were found (F = 32.178 p = 0.000 for emotional and behavioural problems). Adolescents also became more satisfied with their appearance (F = 6.789, p = 0.019). Majority of observed changes remained stable at the next follow up a year after the device removal. Significant predictors of successful weight loss at device removal were fewer overeating episodes (B = 0.147, p = 0.022) and lower body satisfaction (B = 0.932, p = 0.013). Discussion: Following a reversible bariatric procedure, improvements of psychological (emotional and behavioural) factors were found in adolescents with severe obesity. Psychological predictors of successful weight loss were identified, showing the greatest importance of eating behaviour and body satisfaction in successful weight loss.

Third bariatric procedure for insufficient weight loss or weight regain: how far should we go?

BACKGROUND: Revisional procedures in bariatric surgery are increasing with several debated failure risk factors, such as super obesity and old age. No study has yet evaluated the outcomes and risks of a third bariatric procedure indicated for weight loss failure or weight regain. OBJECTIVES: To assess failure risks of a third bariatric procedure according to Reinhold's criteria (percentage excess weight loss [%EWL] ≤50% and/or body mass index [BMI] ≥35 kg/m2). SETTING: A university-affiliated tertiary care center, France. METHODS: From 2009 to 2019, clinical data and weight loss results of patients who benefited from 3 bariatric procedures for weight loss failure or weight regain were collected prospectively and analyzed using a binary logistic regression. Weight loss failure was defined according to Reinhold's criteria. RESULTS: Among 1401 bariatric procedures performed, 336 patients benefited from 2 or more procedures, and 45 had a third surgery. Eleven patients that were reoperated on because of malnutrition or gastroesophageal reflux disease were excluded from the final analysis. Among 34 patients with 3 procedures because of weight loss failure or regain, mean BMI was 48.3 ± 8.3 kg/m2, and mean age was 30 ± 10.7 years. Three out of 34 patients (9%) presented a severe complication (Dindo-Clavien IIIb) and 2 (6%) had a minor one. Achieving Reinhold's weight loss criteria after the second bariatric procedure was a significant predictor of success of the third procedure (ß = 2.9 ± 1.3 S.E.). CONCLUSION: Not reaching Reinhold's criteria after a second bariatric procedure was identified as a significant risk factor of failure of a third procedure. A third surgery should be carefully discussed especially in case of primary failure of previous procedures.

Relevant Weight Reduction and Reversed Metabolic Co-morbidities Can Be Achieved by Duodenojejunal Bypass Liner in Adolescents with Morbid Obesity.

BACKGROUND: Duodenojejunal bypass liner (DJBL) is an endoscopic, reversible bariatric procedure resulting in weight loss and metabolic co-morbidities improvements in the adults. OBJECTIVES: To determine safety and effectiveness of 12-month treatment with DJBL in adolescents with severe obesity (BMI > 35 kg/m2) and co-morbidities. METHODS: Post-pubertal subjects were treated with DJBL in an open-label, prospective clinical trial (NTC0218393). They were examined at 3 monthly intervals during the 12 months of DJBL treatment and 12 months of follow-up. RESULTS: DJBL was successfully placed in 19/22 adolescents (13 females, mean age (95%CI); 17.3 (16.7-17.9) years, BMI-SDS 3.7 (3.6-3.9)). There were no serious device-related adverse effects. Clinically relevant percent total weight loss (%TWL) (mean (95%CI)) 11.4 (7.4-15.3) % and BMI decrease - 4.9 (- 2.4 to - 7.4) kg/m2 was observed at DJBL removal (n = 19). At 12 months after device removal, %TWL was 4.1 (- 2.6-10.8) % and BMI decrease - 2.6 (0.2 to - 5.4) kg/m2 when compared with values at baseline (n = 13). HOMA-IR (- 2.1 (- 3 to - 1.3), WBISI 1.15 (0.23 to 2.07), total cholesterol, LDL-c, and triglycerides levels also improved during DJBL treatment and relapsed similarly to weight at 12-month follow-up. A decrease in iron stores, Zn, and Se levels was determined during DJBL treatment and spontaneously improved at follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Twelve months of DJBL treatment was safe and effective in adolescents with morbid obesity. Weight regain following device removal and relapse of metabolic complications should be expected.

Gendered Innovations in the Study of Cardiovascular Diseases.

The chapter summarizes modern knowledge on gender aspects of major cardiovascular diseases starting from basic research. It covers arterial hypertension along with treatment aspects in males and females, as well as menopausal replacement therapy and testosterone use. Authors analyze both literature and original data on obesity and metabolic syndrome, coronary artery disease, arrhythmias including gender aspects of sudden cardiac death, cardiomyopathies, and diseases of aorta and aortic valve. A significant part deals with cardiac imaging and sex differences.

Lipids and bariatric procedures part 1 of 2: Scientific statement from the National Lipid Association, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and Obesity Medicine Association: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.

Bariatric procedures often improve lipid levels in patients with obesity. This 2-part scientific statement examines the potential lipid benefits of bariatric procedures and represents contributions from authors representing the National Lipid Association, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and the Obesity Medicine Association. The foundation for this scientific statement was based on data published through June 2015. Part 1 of this 2-part scientific statement provides an overview of: (1) adipose tissue, cholesterol metabolism, and lipids; (2) bariatric procedures, cholesterol metabolism, and lipids; (3) endocrine factors relevant to lipid influx, synthesis, metabolism, and efflux; (4) immune factors relevant to lipid influx, synthesis, metabolism, and efflux; (5) bariatric procedures, bile acid metabolism, and lipids; and (6) bariatric procedures, intestinal microbiota, and lipids, with specific emphasis on how the alterations in the microbiome by bariatric procedures influence obesity, bile acids, and inflammation, which in turn, may all affect lipid levels. Included in part 2 of this comprehensive scientific statement will be a review of: (1) the importance of nutrients (fats, carbohydrates, and proteins) and their absorption on lipid levels; (2) the effects of bariatric procedures on gut hormones and lipid levels; (3) the effects of bariatric procedures on nonlipid cardiovascular disease risk factors; (4) the effects of bariatric procedures on lipid levels; (5) effects of bariatric procedures on cardiovascular disease; and finally (6) the potential lipid effects of vitamin, mineral, and trace element deficiencies that may occur after bariatric procedures. This document represents the executive summary of part 1.

Lipids and bariatric procedures part 1 of 2: Scientific statement from the National Lipid Association, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and Obesity Medicine Association: FULL REPORT.

Bariatric procedures often improve lipid levels in patients with obesity. This 2 part scientific statement examines the potential lipid benefits of bariatric procedures and represents the contributions from authors representing the National Lipid Association, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and the Obesity Medicine Association. The foundation for this scientific statement was based on published data through June 2015. Part 1 of this 2 part scientific statement provides an overview of: (1) adipose tissue, cholesterol metabolism, and lipids; (2) bariatric procedures, cholesterol metabolism, and lipids; (3) endocrine factors relevant to lipid influx, synthesis, metabolism, and efflux; (4) immune factors relevant to lipid influx, synthesis, metabolism, and efflux; (5) bariatric procedures, bile acid metabolism, and lipids; and (6) bariatric procedures, intestinal microbiota, and lipids, with specific emphasis on how the alterations in the microbiome by bariatric procedures influence obesity, bile acids, and inflammation, which in turn, may all affect lipid levels. Included in part 2 of this comprehensive scientific statement will be a review of (1) the importance of nutrients (fats, carbohydrates, and proteins) and their absorption on lipid levels; (2) the effects of bariatric procedures on gut hormones and lipid levels; (3) the effects of bariatric procedures on nonlipid cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors; (4) the effects of bariatric procedures on lipid levels; (5) effects of bariatric procedures on CVD; and finally, (6) the potential lipid effects of vitamin, mineral, and trace element deficiencies that may occur after bariatric procedures. This document represents the full report of part 1.

Laparoscopic conversion of failed vertical banded gastroplasty to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or biliopancreatic diversion.

BACKGROUND: The Silastic ring vertical gastroplasty (SRVG), a modification of Mason's vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG), was the restrictive procedure of choice for many bariatric surgeons. The reoperation rate for failure/complications reported in long-term studies is approximately 50%. OBJECTIVE: We report our experience in laparoscopic conversion of failed SRVG to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD). SETTING: A single surgeon's experience at a university-affiliated hospital. METHODS: Between March 2006 and April 2014, 39 patients underwent conversion of SRVG to laparoscopic RYGB (n = 25) or BPD (n = 14). The outcomes were retrieved from a prospectively collected database and analyzed. RESULTS: Most (89%) of the conversions were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 195 and 200 min for RYGB and BPD, respectively. There was no mortality. Complications occurred in 11 patients (28%), 5 in RYGB (19%) and 6 in BPD (42%). At the 3-year follow-up, the mean body mass index decreased from 47±8 kg/m(2) to 26±4 kg/m(2) for BPD, and from 43 kg/m(2) to 34 kg/m(2) (P = .05) for RYGB. Weight (kg) decreased from 110 to 84 and to 92, and from 123 to 81 and 68, at 1 and 3 years for RYGB and BPD, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The weight loss for RYGB and BPD was equal at 1 year but tended to be better for BPD at 3 years postoperatively. Laparoscopic conversion of failed VBG to RYGB or BPD was feasible, but it was followed by prohibitively high complication rates in BPD patients. The risk:benefit ratio of these procedures in this series is questionable.

Efficacy and safety of laparoscopic mini gastric bypass. A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass (LMGB) is a relatively new bariatric procedure; published studies are accumulating in various settings. The objective of this study was to summarize the available evidence about the efficacy and safety of LMGB. METHODS: A systematic search in the literature was performed , and PubMed and reference lists were scrutinized (end-of-search date: July 15, 2013). For the assessment of the eligible articles, the Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale was used. RESULTS: Ten eligible studies were included in this study, reporting data on 4,899 patients. According to all included studies, LMGB induced substantial weight and body mass index reduction, as well as substantial excess weight loss. Moreover, resolution or improvement in all major associated medical illnesses and improvement in overall Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index score were recorded. Major bleeding and anastomotic ulcer were the most commonly reported complications. Readmission rate ranged from 0%- 11%, whereas the rate of revision operations ranged from .3%- 6%. The latter were conducted due to a variety of medical reasons such as inadequate or excessive weight loss, malnutrition, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Finally, the mortality rate ranged between 0% and .5% among primary LMGB procedures. CONCLUSION: LMGB represents an effective bariatric procedure; its safety and minimal postoperative morbidity seem remarkable. Randomized comparative studies seem mandatory for the further evaluation of LMGB.

Review of long-term weight loss results after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has gained enormous popularity both as a first-stage procedure in high-risk super-obese patients and as a stand-alone procedure. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term weight loss results after SG published in the literature and compare them with the well-documented short-term and mid-term weight loss results. A detailed search in PubMed using the keywords "sleeve gastrectomy" and "long-term results" found 16 studies fulfilling the criteria of this study. A total of 492 patients were analyzed, with a follow-up of at least 5 years after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) (373 at 5 years, 72 at 6 years, 13 at 7 years, and 34 at 8 or more years). Of the total number of patients, 71.1% were women (15 studies, n = 432 patients). Mean patient age was 45.1 years (15 studies, n = 432 patients). Mean preoperative body mass index in all 16 studies was 49.2 kg/m(2). The mean percentage excess weight loss (%EWL) was 62.3%, 53.8%, 43%, and 54.8% at 5, 6, 7, and 8 or more years after LSG, respectively. The overall mean %EWL (defined as the average %EWL at 5 or more years after LSG) was 59.3% (12 studies, n = 377 patients). The overall attrition rate was 31.2% (13 studies). LSG seems to maintain its well-documented weight loss outcome at 5 or more years postoperatively, with the overall mean %EWL at 5 or more years after LSG still remaining>50%. The existing data support the role of LSG in the treatment of morbid obesity.