SICOB-endorsed national Delphi consensus on obesity treatment optimization: focus on diagnosis, pre-operative management, and weight regain/insufficient weight loss approach.

PURPOSE: Overweight and obesity affects 60% of adults causing more than 1.2 million deaths across world every year. Fight against involved different specialist figures and multiple are the approved weapons. Aim of the present survey endorsed by the Italian Society of Bariatric Surgery (SICOB) is to reach a national consensus on obesity treatment optimization through a Delphi process. METHODS: Eleven key opinion leaders (KOLs) identified 22 statements with a major need of clarification and debate. The explored pathways were: (1) Management of patient candidate to bariatric/metabolic surgery (BMS); (2) Management of patient not eligible for BMS; (3) Management of patient with short-term (2 years) weight regain (WR) or insufficient weight loss (IWL); (4) Management of the patient with medium-term (5 years) WR; and (5) Association between drugs and BMS as WR prevention. The questionnaire was distributed to 65 national experts via an online platform with anonymized results. RESULTS: 54 out of 65 invited panelists (83%) respond. Positive consensus was reached for 18/22 statements (82%); while, negative consensus (s20.4; s21.5) and no consensus (s11.5, s17) were reached for 2 statements, respectively (9%). CONCLUSION: The Delphi results underline the importance of first-line interdisciplinary management, with large pre-treatment examination, and establish a common opinion on how to properly manage post-operative IWL/WR. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V: Report of expert committees.

Updating obesity management strategies: an audit of Italian specialists.

Obesity negatively affects physical and psychological health and increases health care costs. Although there is increasing interest in early diagnosis and timely intervention, there are several principles of care included in the current guidelines for clinical management of obesity that can potentially be updated and improved to address the "clinical inertia" and, consequently, to optimize the management of adult obesity. Using an online Delphi-based process, an Italian board of experts involved in the management of obesity discussed the usefulness of a pro-active approach to the care of patients with obesity, providing a consensus document with practical indications to identify risk factors for morbidity and death and raise awareness throughout the treatment continuum, including the early stages of the disease. In clinical practice, it seems inappropriate to delay an intervention that could avoid progression to a more severe level of obesity and/or prevent the onset of obesity-related comorbidities.Level of evidence Level V, report of expert committee.

Corrigendum: Emotion dysregulation links pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits in bariatric surgery candidates.

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1369720.].

Emotion dysregulation links pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits in bariatric surgery candidates.

Objectives: Approximately one-third of bariatric surgery patients experience weight regain or suboptimal weight loss within five years post-surgery. Pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits (e.g., emotion dysregulation) are recognized as potential hindrances to sustain weight loss efforts and are implicated in obesity development. A comprehensive understanding of these variables and their interplays is still lacking, despite their potential significance in developing more effective clinical interventions for bariatric patients. We investigate the prevalence of and interactions between pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits in this population. Materials and methods: 110 bariatric surgery candidates were characterized using the Binge Eating Scale (BES), Hamilton Depression/Anxiety Scales (HAM-D/A), Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), Experiences in Close Relationships (ECR), Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). We analyzed these variables with multiple logistic regression analyses and network analysis. Results: Patients with pathological eating styles showed more pronounced anxiety/depressive symptoms and emotion dysregulation. Network analysis revealed strong connections between BES and DERS, with DERS also displaying robust connections with HAM-A/D and ECR scales. DERS and attention impulsivity (BIS-11-A) emerged as the strongest nodes in the network. Discussion: Our findings demonstrate the mediating role of emotion dysregulation between pathological eating styles and psychopathological traits, supporting existing literature on the association between psychopathological traits, insecure attachment styles, and pathological eating behaviors. This research emphasizes the significance of emotion regulation in the complex network of variables contributing to obesity, and its potential impact on bariatric surgery outcomes. Interventions focusing on emotion regulation may thus lead to improved clinical outcomes for bariatric patients.

Enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery: a comprehensive survey-based analysis of ERABS actual clinical implementation in Italian bariatric centers.

The escalating global prevalence of bariatric procedures necessitates an enhanced focus on optimizing perioperative care for improved patient outcomes. This study focuses on the implementation of Enhanced Recovery After Bariatric Surgery (ERABS) protocols in Italian bariatric centers to optimize perioperative care. An online survey comprising 19 items was conducted in October 2023, targeting managing surgeons in 139 registered bariatric centers. This survey explored geographic and center-type variations, knowledge, and application of ERABS protocols, along with perioperative, intraoperative, and postoperative practices. Statistical analysis employed included one-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc tests. Responses from 72 centers (51.8%) revealed a strong awareness of ERABS protocols among managing surgeons. Adherence rates varied geographically (46.3-63%) and among center types (60.8-56.3%). Perioperative practices, including the abandonment of antibiotics for perioperative prophylaxis by 77.5% of surgeons and the adoption of the TAP block technique in 69% of centers, aligned well with ERABS recommendations. However, inconsistencies were noted in abdominal drain usage (61.5% after SG; 70.5% after RYGB/OAGB), with a substantial percentage not adhering to ERABS guidelines. Intraoperative habits generally adhered to ERABS protocols, yet preferences for certain tests, particularly the methylene blue test (70.4%), deviated. Postoperative practices displayed positive trends, with early reintroduction of oral feeding (71.8%) and opioid-free pain management (71.8%). Variations existed in discharge timing and patient monitoring, indicating areas for further improvement. This study offers a comprehensive snapshot of ERABS protocol adherence in Italy, emphasizing the positive trend toward optimizing recovery and reducing patient stress. Despite variations, a majority of centers demonstrated commitment to ERABS principles. Ongoing education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and nationwide dialogue are essential for standardizing ERABS protocols and advancing bariatric-metabolic surgery outcomes in Italy.

Upcoming Italian clinical practice guidelines on endoscopic bariatric treatment of overweight and obesity: design and methodological aspects.

Obesity/overweight and its complications are a growing problem in many countries. Italian Society of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery for Obesity (Società Italiana di Chirurgia dell'Obesità e delle Malattie Metaboliche-SICOB) decided to develop the first Italian guidelines for the endoscopic bariatric treatment of obesity. The creation of SICOB Guidelines is based on an extended work made by a panel of 44 members and a coordinator. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology has been used to decide the aims, reference population, and target health professionals. Clinical questions have been created using the PICO (patient, intervention, comparison, outcome) conceptual framework. We will perform systematic reviews, formal meta-analyses, and network meta-analyses for each PICO and critical outcomes aimed at assessing and rating the efficacy and safety of endoscopic bariatric procedures in comparison with either no interventions, lifestyle interventions, or approved anti-obesity treatments in trials with a follow-up of at least 52 weeks. For PICO on temporary endoscopic bariatric treatments, we will also consider RCT with a minimum duration of 6 months. The panel proposed 8 questions, organized into four domains: A. Indication for endoscopic bariatric surgery; B. Revisional surgery; C. Temporary gastric and duodenal-jejunal procedures; D. Endoscopic diagnosis/treatment of bariatric and metabolic surgery complications. These guidelines will apply to patients aged ≥ 14 years) with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 27 kg/m2 and requiring endoscopic bariatric surgery or endoscopic diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures. The areas covered by the clinical questions included indications of endoscopic bariatric surgery, types of surgery, revisional surgery, and management of bariatric and metabolic surgery complications.

SICOB Italian clinical practice guidelines for the surgical treatment of obesity and associated diseases using GRADE methodology on bariatric and metabolic surgery.

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with increased morbidity and mortality and reduced quality of life. Pharmacotherapy can be associated with life style changes in increasing and maintaining weight loss and ameliorating obesity-related complications and comorbidities. In patients affected by obesity and uncontrolled obesity-associated complications or high degrees of BMI (> 40 Kg/m2), metabolic bariatric surgery can be a valid therapeutic option. Many different types of surgical procedures have been developed in last decades, mainly performed via laparoscopic approaches. However, clinical indications for metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) and the choice of the most appropriate type of procedure have not been clarified so far.The Italian Society of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery for Obesity (Società Italiana di Chirurgia dell'Obesità e delle Malattie Metaboliche-SICOB) decided to design and develop the updated version of the Italian guidelines aimed at assisting healthcare professionals in the choice of the surgical option for the treatment of obesity and related conditions. Between June and October 2022, a panel of 24 experts and an evidence review team (ERT, 10 members), participated in the definition of clinical questions, outcomes, and recommendations and collected and analyzed all the available evidence on the basis of pre-specified search strategies. GRADE methodology and PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) conceptual framework have been adopted for the development of the present guidelines. Aim of the present guideline is to verify indications to surgery with respect to the presence of comorbid conditions, evaluate the different types of surgical approaches and endoscopic bariatric procedure and revise indication to revision surgery and postoperative procedures.

Laparoscopic Microwave Ablation: Which Technologies Improve the Results.

Liver resection is the best treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) when resectable. Unfortunately, many patients with HCC cannot undergo liver resection. Percutaneous thermoablation represents a valid alternative for inoperable neoplasms and for small HCCs, but it is not always possible to accomplish it. In cases where the percutaneous approach is not feasible (not a visible lesion or in hazardous locations), laparoscopic thermoablation may be indicated. HCC diagnosis is commonly obtained from imaging modalities, such as CT and MRI, However, the interpretation of radiological images, which have a two-dimensional appearance, during the surgical procedure and in particular during laparoscopy, can be very difficult in many cases for the surgeon who has to treat the tumor in a three-dimensional environment. In recent years, more technologies have helped surgeons to improve the results after ablative treatments. The three-dimensional reconstruction of the radiological images has allowed the surgeon to assess the exact position of the tumor both before the surgery (virtual reality) and during the surgery with immersive techniques (augmented reality). Furthermore, indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging seems to be a valid tool to enhance the precision of laparoscopic thermoablation. Finally, the association with laparoscopic ultrasound with contrast media could improve the localization and characteristics of tumor lesions. This article describes the use of hepatic three-dimensional modeling, ICG fluorescence imaging and laparoscopic ultrasound examination, convenient for improving the preoperative surgical preparation for personalized laparoscopic approach.

Evolution of Bariatric Surgery in Italy in the Last 11 Years: Data from the SICOB Yearly National Survey.

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery (BS) is a relatively novel surgical field and is in continuous expansion and evolution. PURPOSE: Aim of this study was to report changes in Italian surgical practice in the last decade. METHODS: The Società Italiana di Chirurgia dell'Obesità (SICOB) conducted annual surveys to cense activity of SICOB centers between 2011 and 2021. Primary outcome was to detect differences in frequency of performance of adjustable gastric banding (AGB), sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB), bilio-pancreatic diversion (BPD), and gastric plication (GP). Secondary outcome was to detect differences in performance of main non-malabsorptive procedures (AGB + SG) and overall bypass procedures (RYGB + OAGB). Geographical differences were also investigated. RESULTS: Median response rate was 92%. AGB declined from 36% of procedures in 2011 to 5% in 2021 (p < 0.0001). SG increased from 30% in 2011 to 55% in 2021 (p < 0.0001). RYGB declined from 25 to 12% of procedures (p < 0.0001). OAGB rose from 0% of procedures in 2011 to 15% in 2021 (p < 0.0001). BPD underwent decrease from 6.2 to 0.2% in 2011 and 2021, respectively (p < 0.0001). Main non-malabsorptive procedures significantly decreased while overall bypass procedures remained stable. There were significant differences among regions in performance of SG, RYGB, and OAGB. CONCLUSIONS: BS in Italy evolved significantly during the past 10 years. AGB underwent a decline, as did BPD and GP which are disappearing and RYGB which is giving way to OAGB. The latter is rising and is the second most-performed procedure after SG which has been confirmed as the preferred procedure by Italian bariatric surgeons.

Bariatric Surgery for Patients with Overweight/Obesity. A Comprehensive Grading Methodology and Network Metanalysis of Randomized Controlled Trials on Weight Loss Outcomes and Adverse Events.

This study aims to compare different types of metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) with lifestyle intervention/medical therapy (LSI/MT) for the treatment of overweight/obesity. The present and network meta-analysis (NMA) includes randomized trials. MBS was associated with a reduction of BMI, body weight, and percent weight loss, when compared to LSI/MT, and also with a significant reduction of HbA1c and a higher remission of diabetes. Meta-regression analyses revealed that BMI, a higher proportion of women, and a longer duration of trial were associated with greater effects of MBS. The NMA showed that all surgical procedures included (except greater curvature plication) were associated with a reduction of BMI. MBS is an effective option for the treatment of obesity. The choice of BMI thresholds for eligibility for surgery of patients with different complications should be performed making an evaluation of risks and benefits in each BMI category.

Laparoscopic management of pathologic gastroesophageal reflux after sleeve gastrectomy using the magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device-a Video Vignette.

PURPOSE: The development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has been shown to be not infrequent after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Management may vary from medical therapy to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) conversion. Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) device has been shown to be a promising option with excellent results. The purpose of this video was to demonstrate the laparoscopic management of post-LSG GERD with MSA device implant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An intraoperative video has been edited to demonstrate the MSA device placement after LSG for the treatment of pathologic GERD. RESULTS: The procedure started with the lysis of the perigastric adhesions to free the distal esophagus circumferentially. The posterior vagus nerve was identified, and a small window was created between the posterior esophageal wall anteriorly and the vagus nerve posteriorly. A hiatoplasty was performed using two non-resorbable interrupted 2.0 Prolene® sutures. The system's sizer was placed to measure the junctional circumference. A 15-mm MSA device was implanted. CONCLUSION: MSA device placement seems technically feasible and safe with promising results in term of improved LES resting pressure and esophageal acid exposure. While future studies are necessary to corroborate these preliminary indications, MSA device may possibly become a valid option in surgeon armamentarium.

Staple Line Reinforcement During Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

PURPOSE: Staple line reinforcement (SLR) during laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is controversial. The purpose of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the most commonly utilized techniques for SLR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare no reinforcement (NR), suture oversewing (SR), glue reinforcement (GR), bioabsorbable staple line reinforcement (Gore® Seamguard®) (GoR), and clips reinforcement (CR). Risk Ratio (RR), weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% credible intervals (CrI) were used as pooled effect size measures. RESULTS: Overall, 3994 patients (17 RCTs) were included. Of those, 1641 (41.1%) underwent NR, 1507 (37.7%) SR, 689 (17.2%) GR, 107 (2.7%) GoR, and 50 (1.3%) CR. SR was associated with a significantly reduced risk of bleeding (RR=0.51; 95% CrI 0.31-0.88), staple line leak (RR=0.56; 95% CrI 0.32-0.99), and overall complications (RR=0.50; 95% CrI 0.30-0.88) compared to NR while no differences were found vs. GR, GoR, and CR. Operative time was significantly longer for SR (WMD=16.2; 95% CrI 10.8-21.7), GR (WMD=15.0; 95% CrI 7.7-22.4), and GoR (WMD=15.5; 95% CrI 5.6-25.4) compared to NR. Among treatments, there were no significant differences for surgical site infection (SSI), sleeve stenosis, reoperation, hospital length of stay, and 30-day mortality. CONCLUSIONS: SR seems associated with a reduced risk of bleeding, leak, and overall complications compared to NR while no differences were found vs. GR, GoR, and CR. Data regarding GoR and CR are limited while further trials reporting outcomes for these techniques are warranted.

Development of the Italian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery: Design and Methodological Aspects.

Development of the Italian clinical practice guidelines on bariatric and metabolic surgery, as well as design and methodological aspects. BACKGROUND: Obesity and its complications are a growing problem in many countries. Italian Society of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery for Obesity (Società Italiana di Chirurgia dell'Obesità e delle Malattie Metaboliche-SICOB) developed the first Italian guidelines for the treatment of obesity. METHODS: The creation of SICOB Guidelines is based on an extended work made by a panel of 24 members and a coordinator. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) methodology has been used to decide the aims, reference population, and target health professionals. Clinical questions have been created using the PICO (Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) conceptual framework. The definition of questions used the two-step web-based Delphi method, made by repeated rounds of questionnaires and a consensus opinion from the panel. RESULTS: The panel proposed 37 questions. A consensus was immediately reached for 33 (89.2%), with 31 approved, two rejected and three which did not reach an immediate consensus. The further discussion allowed a consensus with one approved and two rejected. CONCLUSIONS: The areas covered by the clinical questions included indications of metabolic/bariatric surgery, types of surgery, and surgical management. The choice of a surgical or a non-surgical approach has been debated for the determination of the therapeutic strategy and the correct indications.

Advice of General Practitioner, of Surgeon, of Endocrinologist, and Self-determination: the Italian Road to Bariatric Surgery.

PURPOSE: Bariatric surgery (BS) is considered the most efficient treatment for severe obesity. International guidelines recommend multidisciplinary approach to BS (general practitioners, endocrinologists, surgeons, psychologists, or psychiatrists), and access to BS should be the final part of a protocol of treatment of obesity. However, there are indications that general practitioners (GPs) are not fully aware of the possible benefits of BS, that specialty physicians are reluctant to refer their patients to surgeons, and that patients with obesity choose self-management of their own obesity, including internet-based choices. There are no data on the pathways chosen by physicians and patients to undergo BS in the real world in Italy. METHODS: An exploratory exam was performed for 6 months in three pilot regions (Lombardy, Lazio, Campania) in twenty-three tertiary centers for the treatment of morbid obesity, to describe the real pathways to BS in Italy. RESULTS: Charts of 2686 patients (788 men and 1895 women, 75.5% in the age range 30-59 years) were evaluated by physicians and surgeons of the participating centers. A chronic condition of obesity was evident for the majority of patients, as indicated by duration of obesity, by presence of several associated medical problems, and by frequency of previous dietary attempts to weight loss. The vast majority (75.8%) patients were self-presenting or referred by bariatric surgeons, 24.2% patients referred by GPs and other specialists. Self-presenting patients were younger, more educated, more professional, and more mobile than patients referred by other physicians. Patients above the age of 40 years or with a duration of obesity greater than 10 years had a higher prevalence of all associated medical problems. CONCLUSIONS: The majority of patients referred to a tertiary center for the treatment of morbid obesity have a valid indication for BS. Most patients self-refer to the centers, with a minority referred by a GP or by specialists. Self-presenting patients are younger, more educated, more professional, and more mobile than patients referred by other physicians. Older patients and with a longer duration of obesity are probably representative of the conservative approach to BS, often regarded as the last resort in an endless story.

Treatment of band erosion: feasibility and safety of endoscopic band removal.

BACKGROUND: Band erosion is reported with a highly variable incidence (0.3-14%) after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Removal of the band is mandatory because the patient regains weight and may become symptomatic, but no consensus exists about the best method, surgical or endoscopic, for this purpose. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of endoscopic management of band erosion. METHODS: In this study, 23 patients were treated for band erosion after gastric banding: 8 from the authors' series of 951 patients (incidence, 0.84%) and 15 referred to the authors' surgical department from other hospitals. The endoscopic method of band removal was used in 20 cases. Because of complications associated with erosion, three patients were submitted instead to laparoscopic removal. RESULTS: Endoscopic removal of the band was successful for 16 of 20 patients. Four cases required conversion of the procedure to surgery: in one case due to complications with the endoscopic cutting wire and in the three remaining cases due to dense perigastric adhesions blocking the band. The follow-up evaluation of the patients who had the endoscopic removal was uneventful, with quick discharge at resumption of oral feeding. The patients who underwent laparoscopic removal had a longer hospital stay, and one patient had a leak from the anterior gastrotomy. CONCLUSIONS: Despite a few complications, endoscopic removal seems to be the procedure of choice for the treatment of band erosion. It allows quick resumption of oral feeding and rapid discharge of patients and appears to be safer and more effective than laparoscopic removal. Conversion to surgery is unlikely but possible. Therefore, the authors always recommend that the procedure be performed in the operating room.

Functional Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass with Fundectomy and Gastric Remnant Exploration (LRYGBfse)-a Video Vignette.

BACKGROUND: The laparoscopic Roux en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is performed worldwide and is considered by many the gold standard treatment for morbid obesity. However, the difficult access to the gastric remnant and duodenum represents intrinsic limitations. The functional laparoscopic gastric bypass with fundectomy and gastric remnant exploration (LRYGBfse) is a new technique described in attempt to overcome the limitations of the LRYGB. The purpose of this video was to demonstrate the LRYGBfse in a 48-year-old man with type II diabetes and hypertension. METHODS: An intraoperative video has been anonymized and edited to demonstrate the feasibility of LRYGBfse. RESULTS: The operation started with the opening of the gastrocolic ligament. Staying close to the gastric wall, the stomach is prepared up to the angle of His. After the placement of a 36-Fr orogastric probe, gastric fundectomy is completed in order to create a 30cc gastric pouch. A polytetrafluoroethylene banding (ePTFE) is placed at the gastro-gastric communication, 7cm below the cardia, and gently closed after bougie retraction. The bypass is completed by the creation of an antecolic Roux-en-Y 150cm alimentary and 150cm biliopancreatic limb. CONCLUSION: The LRYGBfse is a feasible and safe technique. The possibility to endoscopically explore the excluded stomach with an easy access to the Vater's papilla is a major advantage. Further studies are warranted to deeply explore and compare outcomes with the standard LRYGB.

Guidelines Adaptation to the COVID-19 Outbreak for the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Background: COVID-19 pandemic rendered the surgical approach as well as the surgical indication very complex due to the outstanding consumption of public health system' resources, especially in the intensive care subdivision. A multidisciplinary team-based strategy is necessary to adapt guidelines and medical practices to the actual situation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the changes in the therapeutic algorithm in a small group of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) enlisted for surgery during the COVID-19 outbreak. Materials and Methods: A multidisciplinary strategy has been adopted to allocate HCC patients to a treatment that permitted to reduce the risk of complications and the hospital stay, thus preventing contamination by the virus. Nasopharyngeal swab and a chest radiograph were performed in all patients within 48 hours before the surgical procedure: in the suspected cases with negative COVID tests, we prudently postponed surgery and repeated the diagnostic tests after 15 days. Results: During the emergency state, 11 HCC patients were treated (8 laparoscopic ablations and 3 hepatic resections). We reported only 1 postoperative complication (hemothorax) and 1 death during the follow-up for COVID pneumonia. Comparing our performances with those in the same time frame in the past 4 years, we treated a similar number of HCC patients, obtaining a decrease in operative timing (P = .0409) and hospital stay (P = .0412) (Fig. 2b) with similar rates of immediate postoperative complications, without ICU admissions. Conclusions: An adapted algorithm for the treatment of HCC to COVID outbreak permitted to manage safely these patients by identifying those most at risk of evolution of the neoplastic disease.

Micronvasive behaviour of single small hepatocellular carcinoma: which treatment?

BACKGROUND: Microinvasion (MI), defined as infiltration of the portal or hepatic vein or bile duct and intrahepatic metastasis are accurate indicators of a poor prognosis for mall hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). A previous study showed that intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) definition of MI-HCC had a high concordance with histological findings. Aim of this study is to evaluate overall survival and recurrence patterns of patients with MI-HCC submitted to hepatic resection (HR) or laparoscopic ablation therapies (LAT). METHODS: A total of 171 consecutive patients (78 h; 93 LAT) with single, small HCC (< 3 cm) with a MI pattern at IOUS examination were compared analyzing overall survival and recurrence patterns using univariate and multivariate analysis and weighting by propensity score. RESULTS: Overall recurrences were similar in the 2 groups (HR: 51 patients (65%); LAT: 66 patients (71%)). The rate of local tumor progression in the HR group was very low (5 pts; 6%) in comparison to LAT group (22 pts; 24%; p = 0.002). The overall survival curves of HR are significantly better than that of the LAT group (p = 0.0039). On the propensity score Cox model, overall mortality was predicted by the surgical treatment with a Hazard ratio 1.68 (1.08-2.623) (p = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS: If technically feasible and in patients fit for surgery, HR with an adequate tumor margin should be preferred to LAT in patients with MI-HCC at IOUS evaluation, to eradicate MI features near the main nodule, which are relatively frequent even in small HCC (< 3 cm).

Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation Placement for Recalcitrant Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Following Bariatric Procedures: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Meta-Analysis.

Background: This study aims to consolidate all available articles on this topic and evaluate MSA effectiveness in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Matherials and Methods: We conducted an electronic systematic search using MEDLINE databases (PubMed), EMBASE, and Web of Science. An electronic systematic search of articles comparing preoperative and postoperative health-related quality of life (GERD-HRQL) scores in patients who underwent MSA placement for management of GERD following bariatric surgery was performed. Three retrospective studies totaling 33 patients met the inclusion criteria and were included in this meta-analysis. Results: The pooled mean difference in change from preoperative GERD-HRQL score was 17.5 (95% CrI; -22.88 to -12.20) and it was statistically significant. The between-study variability is 3.621 (95% HPD; 1.39 4.99) with low heterogeneity (I2 = 15%; 95% HPD; 2.1 26.2%). Conclusions: MSA for refractory GERD following bariatric surgery appears feasible. Prospective randomized controlled with standardized surgical technique and objective follow-up evaluation is needed to better assess short- and long-term efficacy.

Laparoscopic Heller Myotomy and Dor Fundoplication for the Treatment of Esophageal Achalasia After Sleeve Gastrectomy-a Video Vignette.

PURPOSE: Esophageal dysmotility and disorders of the lower esophageal sphincter are well documented in morbidly obese patients. Esophageal achalasia has been reported in up to 1% of obese patients but the development of such esophageal motility disorder after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is extremely rare. The purpose of this video was to demonstrate the management of a type II esophageal achalasia diagnosed in a 46-year-old female patient 4-year after LSG. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An intraoperative video has been anonymized and edited to demonstrate the feasibility of laparoscopic Heller myotomy and anterior Dor fundoplication on the mentioned patient. RESULTS: The operation started with the section of the perigastric adhesions. Proceeding in a clockwise direction, the esophagogastric junction, the anterior esophageal wall, and the His angle were freed. A residual slightly dilated fundus was found and isolated. After mobilization of the distal esophagus and identification of the anterior vagus nerve, a "hockey stick" myotomy was carried out for 6 cm on the esophagus and for 2 cm on the gastric side. An anterior Dor fundoplication was fashioned using the residual gastric fundus. CONCLUSION: Esophageal achalasia in patients that previously underwent LSG is exceptional but should always be suspected in case of pathognomonic symptoms onset. In tertiary referral centers, laparoscopic Heller myotomy and, if technically feasible, an anterior Dor fundoplication seem safe and effective to relieve gastroesophageal outflow obstruction and prevent gastroesophageal reflux.