Selection of Robotic Bariatric Surgery Candidates: a Nationwide Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to identify risk factors associated with 30-day major complications, readmission, and delayed discharge for patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery. METHODS: From the metabolic and bariatric surgery and accreditation quality improvement program (2015-2018) datasets, adult patients who underwent elective robotic bariatric operations were included. Predictors for 30-day major complications, readmission, and delayed discharge (hospital stay ≥ 3 days) were identified using univariable and multivariable analyses. RESULTS: Major complications in patients undergoing robotic bariatric surgery were associated with both pre-operative and intraoperative factors including pre-existing cardiac morbidity (OR = 1.41, CI = [1.09-1.82]), gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD] (OR = 1.23, CI = [1.11-1.38]), pulmonary embolism (OR = 1.51, CI = [1.02-2.22]), prior bariatric surgery (OR = 1.66, CI = [1.43-1.94]), increased operating time (OR = 1.003, CI = [1.002-1.004]), gastric bypass or duodenal switch (OR = 1.58, CI = [1.40-1.79]), and intraoperative drain placement (OR = 1.28, CI = [1.11-1.47]). With regard to 30-day readmission, non-white race (OR = 1.25, CI = [1.14-1.39]), preoperative hyperlipidemia (OR = 1.16, CI = [1.14-1.38]), DVT (OR = 1.48, CI = [1.10-1.99]), therapeutic anticoagulation (OR = 1.48, CI = [1.16-1.89]), limited ambulation (OR = 1.33, CI = [1.01-1.74]), and dialysis (OR = 2.14, CI = [1.13-4.09]) were significantly associated factors. Age ≥ 65 (OR = 1.18, CI = [1.04-1.34]), female gender (OR = 1.21, CI = [1.10-1.32]), hypertension (OR = 1.08, CI = [1.01-1.15]), renal insufficiency (OR = 2.32, CI = [1.69-3.17]), COPD (OR = 1.49, CI = [1.23-1.82]), sleep apnea (OR = 1.10, CI = [1.03-1.18]), oxygen dependence (OR = 1.47, CI = [1.10-2.0]), steroid use (OR = 1.26, CI = [1.02-1.55]), IVC filter (OR = 1.52, CI = [1.15-2.0]), and BMI ≥ 40 (OR = 1.12, CI = [1.04-1.21]) were risk factors associated with delayed discharge. CONCLUSION: When selecting patients for bariatric surgery, surgeons early in their learning curve for utilizing robotics should avoid individuals with pre-existing cardiac or renal morbidities, venous thromboembolism, and limited functional status. Patients who have had previous bariatric surgery or require technically demanding operations are at higher risk for complications. An evidence-based approach in selecting bariatric candidates may potentially minimize the overall costs associated with adopting the technology.

Quantifying physiologic parameters of the gastroesophageal junction during robotic sleeve gastrectomy and identifying predictors of post-sleeve gastroesophageal reflux disease.

BACKGROUND: Sleeve gastrectomy is among the most commonly-performed procedures for morbid obesity. However, patients occasionally develop post-sleeve gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Identifying patients most at risk for this complication remains difficult. We aimed to correlate intra-operative physiologic measurements of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) at the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) during robotic sleeve gastrectomy in an attempt to identify predictors of post-sleeve GERD symptoms. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of a prospectively maintained database identified 28 patients in whom robotic sleeve gastrectomy was performed utilizing EndoFLIP™ technology between January and September 2021. Intraoperative LES measurements at the GEJ including cross-sectional area (CSA), distensibility index (DI), intra-balloon pressure, and high-pressure zone (HPZ length) were correlated with post-operative GERD. RESULTS: GEJ CSA, pressure, and DI increased over the course of the surgery (CSA pre-op: 31 (IQR 19.3-39.5) mm2 vs. post-op: 67 (IQR 40.8-95.8) mm2, p < 0.001; pressure: 25.8 (IQR 20.2-33.1) mmHg vs. 31.5 (IQR 28.9-37.0) mmHg, p = 0.007; DI 1.1 (IQR 0.8-1.8) mm2/mmHg vs. 2.0 (IQR 1.2-3.0) mm2/mmHg, p = < 0.001), whereas HPZ length decreased (2.5 (IQR 2.5-3) cm vs. 2.0 (IQR 1.3-2.5) cm, p = 0.022). Twenty-three patients (82.1%) completed a post-operative GERD questionnaire. Fifteen (65.2%) had no GERD symptoms before or after surgery; 5 (21.7%) reported new post-sleeve GERD symptoms; 3 (13.0%) reported exacerbation of pre-existing GERD symptoms. Patients with new or worsening GERD symptoms had higher post-sleeve DIs (3.2 (IQR 1.9-4.5) mm2/mmHg vs. 1.5 (IQR 1.2-2.4) mm2/mmHg, p = 0.024) and lower post-sleeve LES pressures (29.9 (IQR 26.3-32.9) mmHg vs. 35.2 (IQR 31.0-38.0) mmHg, p = 0.023) than those without. CONCLUSIONS: An increase in GEJ CSA, pressure, and DI, and a decrease in GEJ length can be expected during robotic sleeve gastrectomy. Patients with new or worsening post-sleeve GERD symptoms have higher post-sleeve DI and lower post-sleeve LES pressure than their asymptomatic counterparts.

Implementation of the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program and outcomes of bariatric surgery.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluates the performance of bariatric surgery prior to and after the implementation of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP). METHODS: The eras prior to (2007-2015) and after (2016-2018) the transition to MBSAQIP were compared for patients, operations and outcomes using adjusted logistic regression estimates. RESULTS: Thirty-day surgical (6%vs.2.9%,p < 0.01) and medical (3.4%vs.1.7%,p < 0.01) complications rates were reduced over the period 2007 through 2018. Th use of sleeve gastrectomy has steadily increased from 2010 to 2018 (14%vs.66.6%,p < 0.01). The proportion of patients who were discharged early continued to rise (9.8%vs.46.9%,p < 0.01) from 2007 to 2018. The MBSAQIP period was associated with reduced odds for 30-day surgical (OR = 0.86,CI = [0.81-0.91]) and medical (OR = 0.81,CI = [0.75-0.88]) complications. Implementation of the MBSAQIP was also predictive of early discharge (OR = 1.93,CI = [1.90-2.00]). CONCLUSION: The type of bariatric procedure, in addition to trends in morbidity and hospital stays, gradually changed from 2007 to 2018. Our findings suggest that outcomes of bariatric operations have improved over the past decade. The MBSAQIP era is associated with lower rates of complications and greater likelihood of early discharge, independent of the procedure type.

Predictive Factors for Developing GERD After Sleeve Gastrectomy: Is Preoperative Endoscopy Necessary?

INTRODUCTION: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most common bariatric procedure performed in the USA. There is a concern for new gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Barrett's esophagus after SG. Endoscopic screening before bariatric surgery is controversial. We sought to identify preoperative endoscopic factors that may predict the development of GERD after SG. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated 217 patients undergoing primary robotic-assisted SG. All patients underwent endoscopy before SG and for-cause postoperatively. Patients were followed for the development of GERD, diagnosed by either biopsy-proven reflux esophagitis or a positive esophageal pH test. Patients were separated into 2 groups: Those who developed GERD after surgery (GERD group) and those who did not (No GERD group). Patients with a positive preoperative pH test, LA Grade B or greater esophagitis, or hiatal hernia > 5 cm on preoperative endoscopy were counseled to undergo gastric bypass and excluded. RESULTS: There were more males in the No GERD group (25.6% vs. 8.1%; p = 0.02). More patients had preoperative heartburn symptoms in the GERD group (40.5% vs. 23.9%; p = 0.04). Endoscopically identified esophagitis was more common in the GERD group (29.7% vs. 13.3%; p = 0.01), as was biopsy-proven esophagitis (24.3% vs. 11.1%; p = 0.03). There was no significant difference in the incidence or size of hiatal hernia or in the rate of H. pylori infection between the groups. On multivariate analysis, the strongest predictors of GERD after SG were endoscopically identified esophagitis (odds ratio [OR] 2.79; 95% confidence interval [CI]1.17-6.69; p = 0.02) and biopsy-proven esophagitis (OR 2.80; 95% CI 1.06-7.37; p = 0.04). Male patients were less likely to develop GERD after SG (OR 0.23; 95% CI 0.06-0.85; p = 0.03). CONCLUSION: Our findings strengthen the rationale for routine preoperative endoscopy and highlight critical clinical and endoscopic criteria that should prompt consideration of alternatives to SG for weight loss.

Minimally invasive versus open duodenal switch: a nationwide retrospective analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to characterize the variability in clinical outcomes between open, laparoscopic, and robotic Duodenal Switch (DS). METHODS: From the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and Accreditation Quality Improvement Program, patients who underwent DS (2015-2018) were identified. Open DS was compared to laparoscopic and robotic approaches with for patients factors, perioperative characteristics, and 30-day postoperative outcomes. Logistic regression estimates were used to characterize variables associated with surgical site infections, bleeding, reoperation, readmission, and early discharge (hospital stay of ≤ one day). RESULTS: Of 7649 cases, 411 (5.4%) were open, 5722 (74.8%) were laparoscopic, and 1515 (19.8%) were robotic DS. Open DS patients were more often older (≥ 65 years:4.7% vs. 4.3% vs. 2.1%, p < 0.01) and had lower body mass index (< 40 kg/m2:16.3% vs. 10.5% vs. 9.9%, p < 0.01). The co-morbidities were mainly comparable between the three groups. Open DS was more often without skilled assistance (35.3% vs. 12.1% vs. 5.3%, p < 0.01), revisional (41.4% vs. 20.5% vs. 21.3%, p < 0.01), and performed concurrently with other operations. Robotic DS surgery was more often longer (≥ 140 min:64.4% vs. 39.2% vs. 86.9%, p < 0.01). Post-operatively, open DS was associated with higher rates of surgical site infection (7.1% vs. 2% vs. 2.8%, p < 0.01), bleeding (2.4% vs. 0.7% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.001), reoperation (6.6% vs. 3.6% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.01), and readmission (12.4% vs. 6.8% vs. 8.3%, p = < 0.01). Patients undergoing robotic DS were more often discharged early (0.5% vs. 1% vs. 7.8%, p < 0.01). In the regression analyses, minimally invasive DS was associated with lower odds for wound infections (OR = 0.3,CI = [0.2-0.5]), bleeding (OR = 0.4,CI = [0.2-0.8]), and readmission (OR = 0.6,CI = [0.4-0.8]), as well as greater likelihood of early discharge (OR = 5.6 CI = [1.3-23.0]). CONCLUSION: Open DS is associated with greater risk for complications and excessive resource utilization when compared to minimally invasive approaches. Laparoscopic and robotic techniques should be prioritized in performing DS, despite the complexity of the procedure.

A cost analysis of two- versus three-instrument robotic-assisted inguinal hernia repair with mesh: time is money.

Equipment expenses and operating times can lead to higher costs with robotic surgery. We compared the cost-effectiveness of 2- vs. 3-instrument (2i vs. 3i) approach to robotic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal hernia repair. We conducted a retrospective study of 172 patients, with 86 patients in each group. Procedure cost, operative time, morbidity, length of stay, readmission rate, and hernia recurrence at 90 days were compared. Statistical significance was assigned to p < 0.05. No significant differences in preoperative variables nor in postoperative outcomes were identified. Mean operative time was 6 min longer in the 2i group and this approach cost $300 less. The 2i approach was cost-effective for operating room (OR) costs of less than $50 per minute. Surgeon efficiency and OR dollar-per-minute value influence the potential for cost savings with fewer instruments in robotic herniorrhaphy. There is no difference in outcomes when fewer instruments are used.

Bupivacaine liposome use reduces length of post-anesthesia care unit stay and postoperative narcotic use following robotic inguinal herniorrhaphy.

In the current opioid crisis, multimodal analgesic protocols should be considered to reduce or eliminate narcotic usage in the postoperative period. We assess the impact of bupivacaine liposome used along with a standard analgesia protocol following robotic inguinal hernia repair. A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained data including robotic inguinal hernia repairs (IHR) by two surgeons in the United States was performed. Within a multimodal analgesic protocol, local anesthetic was administered intraoperatively. One group received a mix of bupivacaine and bupivacaine liposome (BL), and one received standard bupivacaine (SB). Recovery room and home opiate doses were recorded. Primary outcomes included length of stay (LOS) and postoperative medication requirements. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test and Mann-Whitney U test as appropriate. 122 robotic IHRs were included; 55 received BL and 67 received SB. Hospital LOS (hours) was reduced in the BL group (2.8 ± 1.1 vs 3.5 ± 1.2; p = 0.0003). There was no significant difference in recovery room parenteral MME requirements between the groups; however, BL group had less oral MME requirements (5.0 ± 6.5 MME vs. 8.1 ± 6.9 MME, p = 0.02). The BL group had a higher rate of zero opiate doses at home (44% vs 5%, p = 0.0005). Of those that did require opiates at home, there was a significant reduction in number of narcotic pills used by the BL compared to the SB group (median 1 vs 5, respectively; p < 0.0001). Intraoperative administration of BL as part of a pain management protocol may decrease length of hospital stay, and reduce or eliminate the need for narcotic analgesic use at home.

Robotic-assisted surgery enhances the learning curve while maintaining quality outcomes in sleeve gastrectomy: a preliminary, multicenter study.

BACKGROUND: The frequency of robotic-assisted bariatric surgery has been on the rise. An increasing number of fellowship programs have adopted robotic surgery as part of the curriculum. Our aim was to compare technical efficiency of a surgeon during the first year of practice after completing an advanced minimally invasive fellowship with a mentor surgeon. METHODS: A systematic review of a prospectively maintained database was performed of consecutive patients undergoing robotic-assisted sleeve gastrectomy between 2015 and 2019 at a tertiary-care bariatric center (mentor group) and between 2018 and 2019 at a semi-academic community-based bariatric program (mentee 1 group) and 2019-2020 at a tertiary-care academic center (mentee 2 group). RESULTS: 257 patients in the mentor group, 45 patients in the mentee 1 group, and 11 patients in the mentee 2 group were included. The mentee operative times during the first year in practice were significantly faster than the mentor's times in the first three (mentee 1 group) and two (mentee 2 group) years (P < 0.05) but remained significantly longer than the mentor's times in the last two (mentee 1 group) and one (mentee 2 group) years (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in venothromboembolic events (P = 0.89) or readmission rates (P = 0.93). The mean length of stay was 1.8 ± 0.5 days, 1.3 ± 0.5 days, and 1.5 ± 0.5 days in the mentor, mentee 1, and mentee 2 groups, respectively (P < 0.0001). There were no reoperations, conversion to laparoscopy or open, no staple line leaks, strictures, or deaths in any group. CONCLUSIONS: This is one of the first series to show that the robotic platform can safely be taught and may translate into outcomes consistent with surgeons with more experience while mitigating the learning curve as early as the first year in practice. Long-term follow-up of mentees will be necessary to assess the evolution of fellowship training and outcomes.

Stratification of Readmission after Bariatric Surgery by Day of Post-Discharge Presentation.

INTRODUCTION/PURPOSE: Reasons of postoperative readmissions may vary based on the timing of rehospitalization. This study characterizes predictors and causes for readmission after bariatric surgery on day-to-day basis after discharge. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program data, patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy were identified. Perioperative factors of early readmissions (post-discharge days 0-9) were compared to those of late readmissions (post-discharge days 10-30). Multivariable analysis was conducted to identify predictors of early versus late readmissions. Reasons for readmissions were characterized on day-to-day basis. RESULTS: Of 509,631 operations, 19,061 (3.7%) cases were readmitted. Of these, 9666 (50.7%) were early, while 9395 (49.3%) were late readmissions. White race (OR = 1.2, CI = [1.1-1.3]), revisional surgery (OR = 1.2, CI = [1.1-1.4]), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (OR = 1.2, CI = [1.1-1.3]), pulmonary complication (OR = 1.8, CI = [1.5-2.3]), bleeding (OR = 2, CI = [1.6-2.6]), and post-acute care (OR = 1.8, CI = [1.2-2.6]) were predictors of early readmission. Late readmission was associated with body mass index ≥ 40 (CI = 0.83, OR = [0.77-0.89]), renal/urological complication (OR = 0.6, CI = [0.5-0.8]), and deep vein thrombosis (OR = 0.5, CI = [0.4-0.6]). PO intolerance or dehydration/electrolyte imbalance was the most common readmission reason, peaking on post-discharge days 19-30. Pain, medical complications, obstruction, and bleeding were causes of early readmissions. However, venous thromboembolism readmissions peaked after post-discharge day 9. CONCLUSION: Complex bariatric operations and patients who require post-discharge extended care are associated with early readmissions. Such readmissions are due to early post-discharge complications. However, late readmissions are driven by interrelated risk factors and complications. These findings suggest that targeting patients at risk for delayed rehospitalization is the most efficient approach to minimize readmissions after bariatric surgery.

Robotic-assisted approaches to GERD following sleeve gastrectomy.

BACKGROUND: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most common bariatric operation in the United States but increases the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The aim of our study was to describe our experience with robotic-assisted management of intractable GERD after SG. METHODS: A systematic review of a prospectively maintained database was performed of consecutive patients undergoing robotic-assisted magnetic sphincter augmentation placement after sleeve gastrectomy (MSA-S group) or conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB group) for GERD from 2015 to 2019 at our tertiary- care bariatric center. These were compared to a consecutive group of patients undergoing robotic-assisted magnetic sphincter augmentation placement (MSA group) for GERD without a history of bariatric surgery from 2016 to 2019. The primary outcome was perioperative morbidity. Secondary outcomes were operative time (OT), 90-day re-intervention rate, length of stay, symptom resolution and weight change. RESULTS: There were 51 patients included in this study; 18 patients in the MSA group, 13 patients in the MSA-S group, and 20 patients in the RYGB group. There was no significant difference in age, gender, ASA score, preoperative endoscopic findings, or DeMeester scores (P > 0.05). BMI was significantly higher in patients undergoing RYGB compared to MSA or MSA-S (P < 0.0001). There were significant differences in OT between the MSA and RYGB groups (P < 0.0001) and MSA-S and RYGB groups (P = 0.009), but not MSA group to MSA-S group (P = 0.51). There was no significant difference in intraoperative and postoperative morbidity (P = 1.0 and P = 0.60, respectively). 30-day morbidity: 5.6% (MSA), 15.4% (MSA-S) and 15% (RYGB). There was no difference on PPI discontinuation among groups, with more than 80% success rate in all. CONCLUSIONS: The use of the robotic platform in the different approaches available for treatment of GERD after SG appears to be a feasible option with low morbidity and high success rate. Further data is needed to support our findings.

Safety and Efficacy of Bedside Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Placement in the COVID-19 Era: Initial Experience at a New York City Hospital.

INTRODUCTION: Acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) is common in critically ill patients with COVID-19. Unparalleled numbers of patients with AKI and shortage of dialysis machines and operative resources prompted consideration of expanded use of urgent-start peritoneal dialysis (PD) and evaluation of the safety and efficacy of bedside surgical placement of PD catheters. STUDY DESIGN: Bedside, open PD catheter insertions were performed in early April 2020, at a large academic center in New York City. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and AKI and ambulatory patients with chronic kidney disease and impending need for RRT were included. Detailed surgical technique is described. RESULTS: Fourteen catheters were placed at the bedside over 2 weeks, 11 in critically ill COVID-19 patients and three in ambulatory patients. Mean patient age was 61.9 years (43-83), and mean body mass index was 27.1 (20-37.6); four patients had prior abdominal surgery. All catheters were placed successfully without routine radiographic studies or intraoperative complications. One patient (7%) experienced primary nonfunction of the catheter requiring HD. One patient had limited intraperitoneal bleeding while anticoagulated, which was managed by mechanical compression of the abdominal wall and temporarily holding anticoagulation. All other catheters had an adequate function at 3-18 days of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Bedside placement of PD catheters is safe and effective in ICU and outpatient clinic settings. Our surgical protocols allowed for optimization of critical hospital resources, minimization of hazardous exposure to healthcare providers and a broader application of urgent-start PD in selected patients. Long-term follow-up is warranted.

Perioperative Outcomes of Laparoscopic and Robotic Revisional Bariatric Surgery in a Complex Patient Population.

BACKGROUND: Utilization of the robotic platform has become more common in bariatric applications. We aim to show that robotic revisional bariatric surgery (RRBS) can be safely performed in a complex patient population with perioperative outcomes equivalent to laparoscopic revisional bariatric surgery (LRBS). METHODS: Retrospective review was conducted of adult patients undergoing laparoscopic revisional bariatric surgery (LRBS) or robotic revisional bariatric surgery (RRBS) at our institution from September 2007 to December 2016. Patients undergoing planned two-stage bariatric procedures were excluded. RESULTS: A total of 84 patients who underwent LRBS (n = 66) or RRBS (n = 18) were included. The index operation was adjustable gastric banding (AGB) in 39/84 (46%), sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) in 23/84 (27%), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) in 13/84 (16%), and vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) in 9/84 (11%). For patients undergoing conversion from AGB (n = 39), there was no difference in operative time, length of stay, or complications by surgical approach. For patients undergoing conversion from a stapled procedure (n = 45), the robotic approach was associated with a shorter length of stay (5.8 ± 3.3 vs 3.7 ± 1.7 days, p = 0.04) with equivalent operative time and post-operative complications. There were three leaks in the LRBS group and none in the RRBS group (p = 0.36). Major complications occurred in 3/39 (8%) of patients undergoing conversion from AGB and 2/45 (4%) of patients undergoing conversion from a stapled procedure (p = 0.53) with no difference by surgical approach. CONCLUSIONS: RRBS is associated with a shorter length of stay than LRBS in complex procedures and has at least an equivalent safety profile. Long-term follow-up data is needed.

Increased Metabolic Benefit for Obese, Elderly Patients Undergoing Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass vs Sleeve Gastrectomy.

PURPOSE: We sought to assess outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) vs laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in a cohort of morbidly obese, elderly patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective review was conducted of all patients age 60 years or greater undergoing LSG or LRYGB at our institution between 2007 and 2014. RESULTS: A total of 134 patients who underwent LSG (n = 65) or LRYGB (n = 69) were identified. Groups were similar with respect to age (64 years, range 60-75 years), BMI (44.0 ± 6.1), and ASA score (91% ≥ ASA 3). There were no differences in major post-operative complications (3, 4.7% LSG vs 4, 5.8% LRYGB, p = 0.75). Median follow-up was 39 months (IQR 14-64 months) with no patients lost to follow-up. Patients undergoing LRYGB had improvement in each of diabetes mellitus 2 (DM2), hypertension (HTN), hyperlipidemia (HL), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as well as a significant decrease in insulin use (16/47, 34.0% pre-operatively vs 7/47, 15.2% post-operatively; p = 0.03). Patients undergoing LSG had improvement in DM2 and HTN but not in HL or GERD; there was no reduction in insulin dependence. Weight loss was not significantly different between groups; mean percent total weight loss at 36 months was 26.9 ± 9.0% in the LSG group and 23.9 ± 9.3% in the LRYGB group, p = 0.24. CONCLUSIONS: Both LSG and RYGB can be safely performed on morbidly obese, elderly adults. At intermediate follow-up, there is an increased metabolic benefit for elderly patients undergoing LRYGB over LSG.

Giant type III well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor of the stomach: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: We describe a case of a large type III neuroendocrine tumor of the stomach. Management and current literature are reviewed. PRESENTATION OF CASE: A 37year old female presented with upper gastrointestinal bleed and epigastric pain. Further workup demonstrated a large ulcerated gastric mass near the GE junction. Computer tomography scan and endoscopic ultrasound showed a 10cm mass with no evidence of distant disease. Fine needle aspiration pathology was consistent with a well differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (Ki67 index<2%), with elevated levels of chromogranin A and serotonin levels but normal gastrin. The patient underwent an uneventful total gastrectomy. Final pathology analysis reported a higher KI67 index (7.54%) and a final pathology of grade 2 type III, T3 N3, neuroendocrine tumor of the stomach. The chromogranin levels normalized and no recurrent disease has been detected in one year follow up. DISCUSSION: Gastric neuroendocrine tumors are extremely rare, accounting for 4% of all neuroendocrine tumors of the body and 1% of all neoplasms of the stomach. Based on histomorphologic characteristics and pathogenesis, gastric neuroendocrine tumors are classified into four types with differing prognosis and behavior. Current literature describes type 3 gastric neuroendocrine tumors as larger than 2cm. However, there is no precedent in the literature for a tumor of this size. CONCLUSION: The incidence of gastric neuroendocrine tumors has been increasing during the last decade, underscoring the need to improve our understanding of their biology and behavior. When identified histologically, patient outcomes depend on appropriate determination of tumor biology and subsequent choice of treatment.

Training model for laparoscopic Heller and Dor fundoplication: a tool for laparoscopic skills training and assessment-construct validity using the GOALS score.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic training demands practice. The transfer of laparoscopic skills from training models to real surgical procedures has been proven. The global operative assessment of laparoscopic skills (GOALS) score is a 5-item global rating scale developed to evaluate laparoscopic skills by direct observation. This scale has been used to demonstrate construct validity of several laparoscopic training models. Here, we present a low-cost model of laparoscopic Heller-Dor for advanced laparoscopic training. The aim of this study was to determine the capability of a training model for laparoscopic Heller-Dor to discriminate between different levels of laparoscopic expertise. METHODS: The performance of two groups with different levels of expertise, novices (<30 laparoscopic procedures PGY1-2) and experts (>300 laparoscopic procedures PGY4-5) was assessed. All participants were instructed to perform two tasks (esophageal myotomy and fundoplication). All the performances were recorded in a digital format. A laparoscopic expert who was blinded to subject's identity evaluated the recordings using the GOALS score. Autonomy, one of the five items of GOALS, was removed since the evaluator and the trainee did not have interaction. The time required to finish each task was also recorded. Performance was compared using the Mann-Whitney U test (p < 0.05 was significant). RESULTS: Twenty subjects were evaluated: ten in each group, using the GOALS score. The mean total GOALS score for novices was 7.5 points (SD: 1.64) and 13.9 points (SD: 1.66) for experts (p < 0.05).The expert group was superior in each domain of the GOALS score compared to novices: depth perception (mean: 3.3 vs 2 p < 0.05), bimanual dexterity (mean 3.4 vs 2.1 p < 0.05), efficiency (mean 3.4 vs 1.7 p < 0.05) and tissue handling (mean 3.6 vs 1.7 p < 0.05). With regard to time, experts were superior in task 1 (mean 9.7 vs 14.9 min p < 0.05) and task 2 (mean 24 vs 47.1 min p < 0.05) compared to novices. CONCLUSIONS: The laparoscopic Heller-Dor training model has construct validity. The model may be used as a tool for training of the surgical resident.

Gastrojejunal Anastomosis Perforation after Gastric Bypass on a Patient with Underlying Pancreatic Cancer: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.

Introduction. We describe a case of gastrojejunal anastomosis perforation after gastric bypass on a patient with underlying pancreatic cancer. Case Description. A 54-year-old female with past surgical history of gastric bypass for morbid obesity and recent diagnosis of unresectable pancreatic cancer presents with abdominal pain, peritonitis, and sepsis. Computerized axial tomography scan shows large amount of intraperitoneal free air. The gastric remnant is markedly distended and a large pancreatic head mass is seen. Intraoperative findings were consistent with a perforated ulcer located at the gastrojejunal anastomosis and a distended gastric remnant caused by a pancreatic mass invading and obstructing the second portion of the duodenum. The gastrojejunal perforation was repaired using an omental patch. A gastrostomy for decompression of the remnant was also performed. The patient had a satisfactory postoperative period and was discharged on day 7. Discussion. Perforation of the gastrojejunal anastomosis after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is an unusual complication. There is no correlation between the perforation and the presence of pancreatic cancer. They represent two different conditions that coexisted. The presence of a gastrojejunal perforation made the surgeon aware of the advanced stage of the pancreatic cancer.

Surgical management of gastrointestinal stromal tumors of the stomach.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopy has emerged as the "gold standard" procedure for many diseases that require surgical treatment. Our goal was to assess the outcomes of laparoscopic vs open partial gastrectomies for the management of gastrointestinal stromal tumors of the stomach (gGIST) using a national database. METHODS: Using the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) database (2006-2009), we identified patients who underwent laparoscopic and open partial gastrectomy gGIST. Overall morbidity and mortality were assessed. The relationships between anesthesia time, operative duration, surgical site infection (SSI), and hospital stay were also examined. Two-sample t tests were used. RESULTS: Of 486 patients, 146 (30%) underwent laparoscopic resection (LR) and 340 (70%) underwent open resection (OR). Patients who underwent LP were older (mean: 65 vs 62 years; P = .062). Patients treated with LR experienced shorter anesthesia time (mean: 183 vs 212 minutes; P < .05) and shorter operative time (mean: 119 vs 149 minutes; P < .05) compared with those who underwent OR. All patients treated with LR had fewer SSIs compared with those who underwent OR (0.68% vs 6.7%; P < .001). Patients treated with LR were less likely to experience an overall morbidity (mean: 3.9% vs 11.7%; P < .001) or mortality (mean: 0.23% vs 0.72%; P < .001) and shorter total hospital stay (mean: 3.17 vs 7.50 days; P < .001) compared with those who underwent OR. CONCLUSIONS: In ACS NSQIP hospitals, laparoscopic resection of gGIST appears to be preferable to open surgery. However, prospective studies with large sample sizes comparing both surgical approaches with size-matched tumors are strongly suggested.

Onset of lupus like syndrome in patients with spondyloarthritis treated with anti-TNF-α.

BACKGROUND: The anti-TNFα therapy has been since its approval by the FDA, along with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), one of the most important therapies for control of spondyloarthritis (SpA). The onset of Lupus Like Syndrome (LLS) has been described in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with anti-TNFα therapy but there is little literature on the occurrence of this entity in patients with SpA. METHODS: We studied 57 patients with SpA who received more than 1 year of anti-TNFα therapy (infliximab, adalimumab or etanercept). Patients were analyzed for the development of LLS, in addition to measuring ANA levels ≥ 1:160 and Anti-dsDNA (measured by IIF). RESULTS: In total, 7.01% of patients treated with anti-TNFα had titers of ANA ≥ 1:160, whereas 3.5% of patients had serum levels of dsDNA. However, only one patient (1.75%; n = 1) experienced clinical symptoms of LLS; this was a female patient with a history of psoriatic arthritis. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of LLS secondary to anti-TNFα therapy in patients with SpA is observed less frequently compared with patients with RA. LLS was only detected in a patient with a history of psoriasis since youth, who developed psoriatic arthritis after 27 years of age and had received anti-TNFα therapy for > 2 years. This may be because LLS is an entity clearly associated with innate immunity, with little central role of B and T cells.

Understanding the significance, reasons and patterns of abnormal vital signs after gastric bypass for morbid obesity.

Anastomotic leaks and bleeding are the two most feared major complications in patients undergoing laparoscopic gastric bypass (LRYGB). This study was designed to evaluate if there is a clinical correlation between abnormal vital signs and postoperative leaks and bleeding. After IRB approval and adherence to HIPAA guidelines, a retrospective review of medical records was performed on 518 patients who underwent LRYGB between October 2002 and October 2006. Vital signs from each patient were monitored hourly. Eight patients out of 518 (1.54%) were discovered to have anastomotic leak. A marked increase in heart rate up to 120 bpm at 20 h after surgery occurred in five of eight patients (62.5%). Of the eight patients who had a leak, seven (87.5%) experienced sustained tachycardia above 120 bpm. On the other hand, 20 patients out of 518 (3.86%) were discovered to have postoperative bleeding. A gradual rather than a dramatic increase in heart rate was recorded in 17 of 20 patients (85%) starting 8 h after surgery. Five patients (25%) had unsustained tachycardia above 120 bpm. Twelve patients in this group (60%) were seen to have cyclical tachycardia that never exceeded 120 bpm at any point during hospitalization. Marginal hypotension was found in seven patients (35%) in this group. Sustained tachycardia with a heart rate exceeding 120 bpm appears to be an indicator of anastomotic leak. Tachycardia less than 120 bpm that has occurred in a cyclical pattern strongly pointed toward postoperative bleeding. Anastomotic leaks and bleeding are the two most feared major complications in patients undergoing LRYGB. This study was designed to evaluate if there is a clinical correlation between abnormal vital signs and postoperative leaks and bleeding.

Laparoscopic common bile duct exploration in patients with gallstones and choledocholithiasis.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effectiveness of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration in patients with failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). METHODS: This is a descriptive, comparative study. Patients with an indication of common bile duct exploration between February 2005 and October 2008 were included. We studied 2 groups: Group A: patients with failed ERCP who underwent LCBDE plus LC. Group B: patients with common bile duct stones managed with the 1-step approach (LCBDE + LC) with no prior ERCP. RESULTS: Twenty-five patients were included. Group A: 9 patients, group B: 16 patients. Success rate, operative time, and hospital stay were as follows: group A 66% vs group B 87.5%; group A 187 minutes vs 106 minutes; group A 4.5 days vs 2.3 days; respectively. CONCLUSION: Patients with failed ERCP should be considered as high-complex cases in which the laparoscopic procedure success rate decreases, and the conversion rate increases considerably.