Results of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a single stage bariatric procedure in Japanese patients

Abstract

AbstractIntroduction: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a quick and relatively simple bariatric operation, which thus far has shown good resolution of comorbidities and weight loss. Here we report on the short‐term outcomes of LSG as a single‐stage bariatric procedure in Japanese cases of morbid obesity.Methods: Between June 2008 and January 2010, seven Japanese morbidly obese patients underwent LSG. The data collected included patient demographics, clinical outcomes, changes in ghrelin, and gastric expressions of ghrelin.Results: Late gastric leak occurred in one patient and was treated with an endoscopic mucosal closure after failed attempts to treat percutaneous abdominal drainage. The median postoperative body weight loss at 6 months and 1 year were 41 kg (range, 22–45 kg) and 55 kg (range, 52–58 kg), respectively. The median percentage excess weight loss at 6 months and 1 year were 56% (range, 42%–70%) and 68% (range, 49%–87%), respectively. Resolution or improvement rates of comorbidities in the five patients followed up for more than 6 months were 100% for type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea syndrome, and dyslipidemia, and 80% for hyperuremia. Plasma ghrelin levels were very low and were not significantly different postoperatively, and the number of ghrelin‐positive cells assessed by immunochemistry of the gastric fundus was similar to that of the control group.Discussion: For Japanese patients with morbid obesity, LSG may represent an effective weight loss method that can resolve comorbidities in a single‐stage bariatric procedure. Further studies are required to determine the long‐term efficacy of LSG in term of weight loss.