Unraveling adipose tissue proteomic landscapes in severe obesity: insights into metabolic complications and potential biomarkers.

In this study, we aimed to comprehensively characterize the proteomic landscapes of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in patients with severe obesity, to establish their associations with clinical characteristics, and to identify potential serum protein biomarkers indicative of tissue-specific alterations or metabolic states. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 32 patients with severe obesity (16 males and 16 females) of Central European descent who underwent bariatric surgery. Clinical parameters and body composition were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and bioelectrical impedance, with 15 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and 17 with hypertension. Paired SAT and VAT samples, along with serum samples, were subjected to state-of-the-art proteomics liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Our analysis identified 7,284 proteins across SAT and VAT, with 1,249 differentially expressed proteins between the tissues and 1,206 proteins identified in serum. Correlation analyses between differential protein expression and clinical traits suggest a significant role of SAT in the pathogenesis of obesity and related metabolic complications. Specifically, the SAT proteomic profile revealed marked alterations in metabolic pathways and processes contributing to tissue fibrosis and inflammation. Although we do not establish a definitive causal relationship, it appears that VAT might respond to SAT metabolic dysfunction by potentially enhancing mitochondrial activity and expanding its capacity. However, when this adaptive response is exceeded, it could possibly contribute to insulin resistance (IR) and in some cases, it may be associated with the progression to T2D. Our findings provide critical insights into the molecular foundations of SAT and VAT in obesity and may inform the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study provides insights into distinct proteomic profiles of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and serum in patients with severe obesity and their associations with clinical traits and body composition. It underscores SAT's crucial role in obesity development and related complications, such as insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Our findings emphasize the importance of understanding the SAT and VAT balance in energy homeostasis, proteostasis, and the potential role of SAT capacity in the development of metabolic disorders.

Prevention of sarcopenia in patients with obesity after bariatric and metabolic surgery: The effect of programmed training on the muscle tissue and anthropometric functions - A randomized controlled trial (SarxOb study protocol).

Obesity is a serious metabolic disease that significantly increases cardiovascular risks and other health complications. Sarcopenia is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality in patients suffering from obesity that increases the health risks and is associated with cardiac, respiratory and other diseases.  Bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) leads to significant changes in body composition. Our pilot study showed that bariatric patients are at risk of sarcopenia after BMS. This finding resulted in a hypothesis that an exercise plan in the experimental group will lead to postural stabilization and a lower decline in muscle homotopy, further leading to a greater reduction in fat mass and a positive effect of exercise on skeletal muscle volume and strength and endocrine-metabolic function. The aim of the present study is to determine the effect of programmed aerobic and strength training on muscle function, volume, and morphology in patients after BMS. The study is a single-center, randomized clinical trial after sleeve gastrectomy focused on muscle tissue. The experimental group will perform targeted physical activity once a week for 12 months and the training plan will include anaerobic and aerobic components. Magnetic resonance imaging of skeletal muscles will be correlated with the values of densitometry examination and changes in body composition, certain blood parameters of myokines, biomechanical analysis of movement abnormalities, and behavioral and dietary counseling. This study will address the research questions about the effect of programmed training on muscle tissue and muscular functions after BMS.

Breath Tests Used in the Context of Bariatric Surgery.

This review article focuses on the use of breath tests in the field of bariatrics and obesitology. The first part of the review is an introduction to breath test problematics with a focus on their use in bariatrics. The second part provides a brief history of breath testing. Part three describes how breath tests are used for monitoring certain processes in various organs and various substances in exhaled air and how the results are analyzed and evaluated. The last part covers studies that described the use of breath tests for monitoring patients that underwent bariatric treatments. Although the number of relevant studies is small, this review could promote the future use of breath testing in the context of bariatric treatments.

Methylene blue: a controversial diagnostic acid and medication?

A narrative review of the literature was conducted to determine if the administration of methylene blue (MB) in humans has potential risks. Studies were identified from MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane. MB is a diagnostic substance used during some diagnostic procedures and also a part of the treatment of several diseases including methemoglobinemia, vasoplegic syndrome, fosfamide-induced encephalopathy, and cyanide intoxication, and the detection of leaks or position of parathyroid corpuscles during surgery. Although the use of MB is historically justified, and it ought to be safe, because it originated as a diagnostic material, the basic toxicological characteristics of this substance are unknown. Despite reports of severe adverse effects of MB, which could significantly exceed any possible benefits evaluated for the given indication. Therefore, the clinical use of MB currently represents a controversial problem given the heterogeneity of available data and the lack of preclinical data. This is in conflict with standards of safe use of such substances in human medicinal practice. The toxic effects of the application of MB are dose-dependent and include serious symptoms such as hemolysis, methemoglobinemia, nausea and vomitus, chest pain, dyspnoea, and hypertension. Some countries regard MB as harmful because of the resulting skin irritation and triggering of an adverse inflammatory response. MB induced serotoninergic toxicity clinically manifests as neuromuscular hyperactivity. This review aims to summarize the current understanding concerning the indications for MB administration and define the potential adverse effects of MB.

Current bariatric-metabolic surgery.

Obesity is a well-known phenomenon of recent times in adult and pediatric population, as well. It has been proved, that numerous comorbidities are in a different way connected with obesity. Conservative treatment of obesity is the domain of obesitologists, diabetologists, nutritionists and psychologists, as well. Great part of the conservative treatment of obesity lies on the experts on physical activities. Surgical treatment is dedicated to the patients with severe obesity. It is targeted not only at the weight reduction, but also, or at first, at the impact on comorbidities. There are standard procedures defined and they represent substantial part of performed procedures. Novel surgical and endoscopic procedures are introduced into the practice. There are many of them. So far neither of these procedures achieve comparable effectivity and durability with standard procedures in a long-time horizon. The aim of this paper is to present standard surgical procedures, to mention novel ones, surgical and endoscopic, as well. The procedures are presented with respect to the pediatric population too.

Use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Quantify Fat and Steatosis in the Pancreas in Patients after Bariatric Surgery: a Retrospective Study.

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic steatosis (PS) has both metabolic consequences and local effects on the pancreas itself. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most reliable non-invasive method for diagnosing PS. We investigated the impact of metabolic syndrome (MS) on the presence of PS, differences in individuals with and without PS, and the metabolic effects of bariatric procedures. METHODS: Changes in anthropometric and basic biochemistry values and MS occurrence were evaluated in 34 patients with obesity who underwent a bariatric procedure. After the procedure, patients underwent MRI with manual 3D segmentation mask creation to determine the pancreatic fat content (PFC). We compared the differences in the PFC and the presence of PS in individuals with and without MS and compared patients with and without PS. RESULTS: We found no significant difference in the PFC between the groups with and without MS or in the occurrence of PS. There were significant differences in patients with and without PS, especially in body mass index (BMI), fat mass, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), select adipocytokines, and lipid spectrum with no difference in glycemia levels. Significant metabolic effects of bariatric procedures were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Bariatric procedures can be considered effective in the treatment of obesity, MS, and some of its components. Measuring PFC using MRI did not show any difference in relation to MS, but patients who lost weight to BMI < 30 did not suffer from PS and had lower overall fat mass and VAT. Glycemia levels did not have an impact on the presence of PS.

Proteomic Signatures of Human Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipocytes.

CONTEXT: Adipose tissue distribution is a key factor influencing metabolic health and risk in obesity-associated comorbidities. OBJECTIVE: Here we aim to compare the proteomic profiles of mature adipocytes from different depots. METHODS: Abdominal subcutaneous (SA) and omental visceral adipocytes (VA) were isolated from paired adipose tissue biopsies obtained during bariatric surgery on 19 severely obese women (body mass index > 30 kg/m2) and analyzed using state-of-the-art mass spectrometry. Differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were performed to investigate proteome signature properties and to examine a possible association of the protein expression with the clinical data. RESULTS: We identified 3686 protein groups and found 1140 differentially expressed proteins (adj. P value < 0.05), of which 576 proteins were upregulated in SA and 564 in VA samples. We provide a global protein profile of abdominal SA and omental VA, present the most differentially expressed pathways and processes distinguishing SA from VA, and correlate them with clinical and body composition data. We show that SA are significantly more active in processes linked to vesicular transport and secretion, and to increased lipid metabolism activity. Conversely, the expression of proteins involved in the mitochondrial energy metabolism and translational or biosynthetic activity is higher in VA. CONCLUSION: Our analysis represents a valuable resource of protein expression profiles in abdominal SA and omental VA, highlighting key differences in their role in obesity.

Endoscopic Treatment of Obesity and Nutritional Aspects of Bariatric Endoscopy.

Obesity is a significant problem worldwide. Several serious diseases that decrease patient quality of life and increase mortality (high blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, type 2 diabetes etc.) are associated with obesity. Obesity treatment is a multidisciplinary and complex process that requires maximum patient compliance. Change of lifestyle is fundamental in the treatment of obesity. While pharmacotherapeutic options are available, their efficacy is limited. Surgical treatment though highly effective, carries the risk of complications and is thus indicated mostly in advanced stages of obesity. Endoscopic treatments of obesity are less invasive than surgical options, and are associated with fewer complications and nutritional deficits. Currently, there is a large spectrum of endoscopic methods based on the principles of gastric volume reduction, size restriction and gastric or small bowel bypass being explored with only few available in routine practice. The aim of this publication is to present an up-to-date summary of available endoscopic methods for the treatment of obesity focusing on their efficacy, safety and nutritional aspects.

The risk of sarcopenia 24 months after bariatric surgery - assessment by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA): a prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Bariatric procedures lead to changes in body composition. Desired fat loss may be accompanied by decrease of muscle mass, thus raising the risk of sarcopenia. AIM: To detect the risk of sarcopenia in patients 24 months after different bariatric/metabolic (B/M) procedures by DEXA. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Consecutive patients scheduled for a B/M procedure underwent DEXA scan and anthropometric assessment before and 24 months after surgery in a prospective manner. Obtained data were tested for significant differences (p < 0.05) to detect body composition changes and occurrence of sarcopenia. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was answered at 24 months to assess physical activity. RESULTS: Nineteen patients were enrolled, with no drop-off at follow-up. Body mass index dropped from 42.4 ±6.3 to 30.3 ±4.9 kg/m2, with excess weight loss of 72 ±25% and substantial improvement of all relevant anthropometric measurements (p < 0.001). Significant changes in DEXA parameters were observed: fat mass index (19.5 ±4.7 vs. 12.1 ±3.7 kg/m2), estimated visceral adipose area (235.8 ±70.0 vs. 126.5 ±50.4 cm2), lean mass index (22.1 ±2.4 vs. 18.1 ±2.3 kg/m2), appendage lean mass index (9.7 ±1.3 vs. 7.7 ±1.1 kg/m2), bone mineral content (1.22 ±0.1 vs. 1.12 ±0.1 kg), Z score (2.32 vs. 0.96) and T score (0.58 vs. -0.58). A low level of physical activity was recorded at 24 months. CONCLUSIONS: B/M procedures lead to significant changes in body composition at 24 months after surgery. DEXA detects these changes effectively. Desired fat loss is associated with significant reduction of skeletal muscle and bone mineral mass. As such, patients after B/M surgery are at risk of sarcopenia. A low level of physical activity may also play a negative role.

Visceral fat and insulin resistance - what we know?

One of the most significant challenges of current medicine is the increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide that is accompanied by a wide range of chronic health complications and increased mortality. White adipose tissue actively contributes to metabolic regulation by production of a variety of hormones and cytokines, commonly referred to as adipokines. The spectrum and quantity of adipokines produced by the adipose tissue of obese patients is directly or indirectly involved in much obesity-related pathology (type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory response). One of the underlying mechanisms linking obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular complications is subclinical inflammation, primarily arising in visceral adipose tissue. Adipocyte size, number and polarization of lymphocytes and infiltrated macrophages are closely related to metabolic and obesity-related diseases. The storage capacity of hypertrophic adipocytes in obese patients is limited. This results in chronic energy overload and leads to increased apoptosis of adipocytes that in turn stimulates the infiltration of visceral adipose tissue by immune cells, in particular macrophages. These cells produce many proinflammatory factors; while the overall production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and adipokines is decreased. The constant release of proinflammatory factors into the circulation then contributes to a subclinical systemic inflammation, which is directly linked to the metabolic and cardiovascular complications of obesity.

The efficacy of selected bariatric surgery methods on lipid and glucose metabolism: a retrospective 12-month study.

OBJECTIVE: Approximately 25% of the Czech population is currently obese. Obesity rates are expected to increase in the future. Obesity not only raises the risk of health complications for individuals, but increasing rates also represent a significant and steadily growing economic burden for healthcare systems and society as a whole. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of three methods of bariatric surgery: laparoscopic greater curve plication (LGCP), laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYBG) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). This study examined the influence of bariatric surgery on body weight and BMI, changes in serum glucose and markers of lipid metabolism. METHODS: This study evaluated outcomes in 74 patients with type 2 DM who underwent LGCP, LSG or RYGB. Patient selection followed guidelines of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity, i.e. BMI≥40 kg/m2 or BMI≥35 kg/m2 with associated comorbidities or BMI<35 kg/m2. For each of the procedures, the hypotheses were tested with the Bonferroni method. RESULTS: Statistically significant weight loss, 20.2±9.3 kg on average, occurred by 12 months after surgery, with maximum weight reduction of 38 kg. Over the 12-month period, average fasting glycaemia decreased by 2.58 mmol/L after LGCP, by 2.01 mmol/L after LSG, and by 4.64 mmol/L after RYGB. Triacylglycerol (TGC) values decreased significantly with all procedures. The mean decrease was 1.35 mmol/L after LGCP and 1.06 mmol/L after LSG. The greatest TGC concentration decrease, 1.92 mmol/L, occurred after RYGB. Average concentrations decreased below 1.7 mmol/L. There was a statistically significant difference in body weight and BMI reduction between LGCP and LSG groups, as well as between LGCP and RYGB groups. A significant difference in the glucose decrease was observed between the LSG and RYGB groups, which can be explained by the fact that glycaemia and HbA1c levels were different between these groups prior to surgery. CONCLUSIONS: The best results from the carbohydrate metabolism point reached the malabsorption method RYGB. However, the other two restrictive methods also achieved very good results. In particular, the LGCP method has not only the effect on weight reduction but also on metabolic functions and consequently points to potential healthcare expenditure savings.

Metabolic Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy and Laparoscopic Greater Curvature Plication: an 18-Month Prospective, Observational, Open-Label Study.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic greater curvature plication (LGCP) is an innovative restrictive technique designed to reduce gastric volume by plication at the region of greater curvature. The long-term efficacy, safety, and the metabolic effects of this procedure are the subject of this study. METHODS: One hundred twenty-seven patients were enrolled; 84 underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and 43, LGCP. LSG and LGCP were then compared during long-term follow-ups in terms of glycemic control, hormone and lipid secretion, and changes in body composition. Measured parameters included serum glucose, triglycerides, high- and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, testosterone, estradiol, leptin, adiponectin, ghrelin, fatmass, and lean body mass. RESULTS: Significant weight-loss and a reduced body composition resulted from either procedure vs. baseline (i.e., pre-surgery), with levels of fasting glucose and glycated hemoglobin also showing statistically significant reductions (at 3 and 18 months for either surgery). Intergroup comparisons for glycemic parameters yielded no statistically significant differences. However, a dramatic reduction in ghrelin was detected following LSG, falling from pre-surgery levels of 140.7 to 69.6 ng/L by 6 months (P < 0.001). Subsequently, ghrelin levels increased, reaching 107.8 ng/L by month 12. Conversely, after LGCP, a statistically significant increase in ghrelin was seen, rising from 130.0 ng/L before surgery to 169.0 ng/L by month 12, followed by a slow decline. CONCLUSIONS: Good metabolic outcomes were obtained following LGCP, which might be mediated via altered glucose metabolism and GI hormones. Nevertheless, this method is less effective than LSG, possibly due to its preservation of the entire stomach, including secretory regions.

Partial jejunal diversion using an incisionless magnetic anastomosis system: 1-year interim results in patients with obesity and diabetes.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Most patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus have obesity. Studies show that bariatric surgery is superior to medical treatment for remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nevertheless, very few patients undergo surgery, and a less-invasive endoscopic alternative is desirable. METHODS: This was a single-arm first-in-human pilot study designed to evaluate the technical feasibility, safety, and clinical performance of the incisionless magnetic anastomosis system (IMAS) to create a partial jejunal diversion (PJD). Ten patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus, prediabetes, or no diabetes were enrolled. A PJD to the ileum was attempted in all patients under general anesthesia. The IMAS was delivered through the working channel of a colonoscope, with laparoscopic supervision. The patients were not required to participate in an intensive lifestyle/diet management program. Endoscopic visualization of the anastomosis was obtained at 2, 6, and 12 months. Patient weight, glycemic profile, and metabolic panels were acquired at 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. RESULTS: A PJD was created in all patients with no device-related serious adverse events. The anastomosis remained widely patent in all patients at 1 year. Average total weight loss was 14.6% (40.2% excess weight loss at 12 months). A significant reduction in glycated hemoglobin level was observed in all diabetic (1.9%) and prediabetic (1.0%) patients, while reducing or eliminating the use of diabetes medications. CONCLUSIONS: Permanent anastomosis for PJD was created in all patients with the IMAS. This resulted in improvement in measures of hyperglycemia and progressive weight loss. (Clinical trial registration number: NCT02839512.).

The influence of methods of bariatric surgery for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The constantly growing incidence of obesity represents a risk of health complications for individuals, and is a growing economic burden for health care systems and society. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of bariatric surgery, specifically laparoscopic greater curve plication, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The effect of bariatric surgery on the changes in blood pressure before, and 12 months after, surgery and in pharmacotherapy in the 12 months after surgery was analyzed. For achieving this purpose, 74 patients from the Obesity and Surgery Department of Vitkovice Hospital in Ostrava in the Czech Republic, were monitored. They were operated in 2011 and 2012. The Bonferroni method was used to test hypotheses about the impact of surgery on blood pressure and pharmacotherapy. One year after the surgery, systolic and diastolic blood pressure values decreased, both with no statistically significant difference between surgery types. Improvement was observed in 68% of cases, with 25% of patients discontinuing pharmacotherapy entirely.

Elipse™, a Procedureless Gastric Balloon for Weight Loss: a Proof-of-Concept Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Endoscopic gastric balloons have been used effectively as weight loss devices for decades, but the requirement for endoscopy and sedation poses several limitations. The goal of this pilot study was to evaluate the safety and performance of a prototype version of Elipse™, a procedureless gastric balloon. METHODS: Eight patients (mean BMI = 31.0 kg/m(2)) participated in this study. Each patient swallowed one Elipse™ balloon intended to remain in the stomach for 6 weeks, self-empty, and then pass. Each balloon was filled with 450 mL of filling fluid. Patients returned every 2 weeks for abdominal ultrasound. No specific diet or exercise plan was prescribed. RESULTS: All eight patients successfully swallowed the device. The most common adverse events were nausea and vomiting. There were no serious adverse events, and all balloons were excreted safely. Despite not being prescribed a diet or exercise plan, all eight patients lost weight. In 6/8 patients, the balloon remained full through 6 weeks, self-emptied, and passed. In one patient, the balloon appeared partially collapsed on ultrasound after 11 days and was endoscopically punctured. One asymptomatic patient elected to have the balloon endoscopically punctured after 19 days. Both balloons passed in the stool after 4 days. In both cases, endoscopic examination of the upper GI tract showed no abnormalities. CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study demonstrates the safety and performance of Elipse™, a procedureless gastric balloon for weight loss. Future studies will test a commercial design filled to 550 mL intended to last in the stomach for at least 12 weeks.

Laparoscopic gastric plication and its effect on saccharide and lipid metabolism: a 12-month prospective study.

INTRODUCTION: Laparoscopic greater curvature plication (LGCP) is a novel restrictive technique that reduces gastric volume by plication of the greater curvature. The advantage of LGCP is its reversibility in comparison to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Nowadays, the long-term LGCP efficacy, safety and metabolic effect are being investigated. AIM: To assess body composition, clinical complications and metabolic changes in obese patients 6 and 12 months after laparoscopic greater curvature plication. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 70 subjects underwent LGCP; 52 of them (33 women and 19 men) completed 1-year follow-up study. Anthropometry and biochemical parameters (glucose, glycated haemoglobin, lipids, ghrelin, leptin, adiponectin and fibroblast growth factor 21 [FGF-21]) were assessed before and 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: All study participants exhibited statistically significant weight loss at both 6 and 12 months following the LGCP compared to baseline, with significant reductions in body composition - body weight, body mass index, percentage excess weight loss (%EWL), and percentage excess BMI loss (%EBL) (p ≤ 0.001). Moreover, significant lowering of glucose and glycated haemoglobin, triacylglycerols and leptin was observed 12 months after LGCP. On the other hand, plasma concentrations of ghrelin, adiponectin and LDL cholesterol increased significantly. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and FGF-21 levels did not change significantly. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic greater curvature plication appears to be a procedure with good restriction results, which might be mediated through alteration in incretin metabolism. Technical aspects and standardization of the procedure still remain to be worked out.

Bone mineral density and body composition after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in men: A short-term longitudinal study.

INTRODUCTION: Longitudinal changes in bone and body composition occurring in obese men after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been evaluated. METHODS: In short-term longitudinal study, 25 obese men in mean baseline age 44.8 ± 10.9 years and mean body mass index (BMI) 43.3 ± 4.4 kg/m(2)were assessed after undergoing LSG for obesity. Bone mineral density (BMD) (spine, femoral neck [FN], total hip [TH], and total body [TB]) and body composition (TB bone mineral content [BMC], fat, % of fat, lean, lean BMC, total mass) were assessed at baseline, and after three and six months. RESULTS: Mean body measurements, including weight, BMI, waist and hips, decreased significantly over the study period (p < 0.0001). FN BMD (p < 0.01) and TH BMD (p < 0.001) decreased, and spine BMD increased significantly (p < 0.001). TB BMD did not change. Weight decreased by 21.3 ± 7.3%, BMI by 21.2 ± 7.3%, FN BMD by 3.32 ± 6.35%, TH BMD by 3.51 ± 3.95% whereas spine BMD increased by 2.89 ± 5.1%. TB BMC increased by 2.4 ± 4.62%; all other variables relating to body composition decreased: fat by 33.0 ± 9.6%, lean mass by 12.8 ± 6.1%, lean BMC by 12.3 ± 5.9%, total mass by 20.1 ± 6.4%, and % fat by 15.8 ± 7.2%. CONCLUSIONS: After LSG, body size and variables related to body composition (except for TB BMC) decreased with an accompanying decrease in FN BMD in the men in this study. Spine BMD increased, and TB BMD did not change.

Retroperitoneoscopic Adrenalectomy in Obese Patients: Is It Suitable?

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy for patients with morbid obesity. METHODS: This retrospective clinical cohort study included patients who underwent elective posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy. Intraoperative (operative time, blood loss, intraoperative complications, conversion rate) and postoperative (hospital stay, morbidity, mortality) parameters were compared between the two study subgroups: obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m(2)) and non-obese patients (BMI <30 kg/m(2)). RESULTS: A total of 137 subsequent patients were enrolled in the study (41 obese and 96 non-obese patients). Mean tumour size was 5.2 ± 2.2 cm; aldosteronism and incidentaloma were the most frequent indications. Operative time was significantly longer (87 vs. 65 min; P = 0.0006) in obese patients. There was no difference in operative blood loss. One conversion was necessary. Overall, the 30-day postoperative morbidity was significantly higher in obese patients (26.8 vs. 11.5 %; P = 0.025). The hospital stay was significantly longer in obese patients (3.1 vs. 2.5 days; P = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: Dorsal retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy can be safely performed in morbidly obese patients, maintaining the advantages of minimally invasive surgery. Avoiding an abdominal approach is beneficial for patients. There is a more favourable postoperative course, shorter hospital stay, better cosmetic outcome and quicker recovery with dorsal retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy. The prolonged operative time, longer hospital stay and higher risk of postoperative complications that occurred in obese patients were acceptable in light of the generally higher risk associated with surgeries performed in obese patients.

Effects of the intragastric balloon MedSil on weight loss, fat tissue, lipid metabolism, and hormones involved in energy balance.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of obesity continues to increase worldwide. Because obesity is associated with a number health-related problems as well as a shortened life span, treating obesity is an important clinical concern. Although various treatments are currently available, many are not efficacious in the long term. Therefore, additional medical treatment options for morbidly obese individuals must be explored. In this study, we examined the effects of the intragastric balloon MedSil on anthropometric measures and hormones associated with lipid and energy metabolism. METHODS: Twenty-two obese patients underwent insertion of the intragastric balloon MedSil following a clinical exam, body composition scan, and collection of blood samples. Six months following implantation of the balloon, additional anthropometric and serological measures were taken. RESULTS: Six months following insertion of the MedSil balloon, we observed significant decreases in body weight, body mass index, and fat mass. Compared with baseline levels, ghrelin serum levels were increased significantly, while leptin, FGF21, and glycated hemoglobin levels significantly decreased, 6 months after balloon insertion. CONCLUSIONS: The MedSil intragastric balloon is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity, with positive effects on anthropometric measures and lipid metabolism.

Dietary intake and ghrelin and leptin changes after sleeve gastrectomy.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical intervention in obesity is today the most effective treatment method in high level obesity management. Bariatric interventions not only ensure body weight reduction, but may influence dietary habits. AIM: To assess changes in adipose hormones and dietary habits in obese patients after sleeve gastrectomy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study set comprised 37 subjects (29 females and 8 males) 24 to 68 years old with body mass index 43.0 ±4.9 kg/m(2). Pre-operative examination included baseline measurements of body composition. Dietary habits and intake frequency were monitored by a questionnaire method. Follow-up examinations were carried out in a scope identical to the pre-operative examination, 6 and 12 months after surgery, respectively. RESULTS: The average patient weight loss 12 months after surgery was 31.7 kg. Excess weight loss was 55.2 ±20.6%. Patients reported reduced appetite (p < 0.001), increasingly regular food intake (p < 0.001), intake of more meal portions per day (p = 0.003) and a decrease in consuming the largest portions during the afternoon and evening (p = 0.030). Plasma levels of fasting glucose, leptin and ghrelin significantly decreased (p = 0.006; p = 0.0.043); in contrast, the level of adiponectin significantly increased (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Sleeve gastrectomy and follow-up nutritional therapy resulted in a significant body weight reduction within 1 year after surgery. An improvement of certain dietary habits in patients was registered. At 12 months after surgery, there were no statistically significant differences in decreases in ghrelin and leptin concentrations between patients without changed appetite and those reporting decreased appetite.