Bariatric Surgery Research Articles

5104 Ectopic Insulinoma- a Rare Presentation of a Rare Tumor

Abstract Disclosure: O. Lavrynenko: None. A. DeMarsilis: None. C. Jiang: None. R. Middelbeek: None. H. Rosen: None. M.E. Patti: None. Background. Insulinoma is a rare, functioning neuroendocrine tumor (NET) typically localized within the pancreas, that secretes insulin, resulting in hypoglycemia. Ectopic insulinoma is even more rare than pancreatic insulinoma and is more difficult to diagnose. Case report. This 31-year-old previously healthy woman, who had an uncomplicated pregnancy and a healthy baby in October 2021, presented with intermittent hypoglycemia for more than 8 months. She denied any prior use of insulin or antidiabetic medications and was not currently taking any medications at all. There is no history of bariatric or other GI surgery. While nursing her baby in early 2022, she was noted to have a capillary blood glucose (BG) between 20-30 mg/dl, and reported both adrenergic and neuroglycopenic symptoms of hypoglycemia; these usually occurred in the morning or before lunch, especially if lunch was delayed. She wore a Libre CGM which revealed episodic hypoglycemia, which correlated with her timeline of symptoms. She reported weight gain of 8 lbs during this period. Laboratory data obtained after a 10-12 hour fast revealed hypoglycemia (venous glucose 39 mg/dL) with inappropriately high plasma insulin (42.3 mIU/ml), C- peptide (3.78 ng/ml), and proinsulin (99 pmol/L). Beta-hydroxybutyrate was 0.05 mmol/L (reference <0.28) and insulin autoantibody and sulfonylurea screen were negative. Various imaging modalities for localization revealed a solitary omental mass outside the pancreas consistent with extra-pancreatic insulinoma. No pancreatic lesion or other findings were observed with MRCP, CT C/A/P or endoscopic ultrasound. The patient underwent CT-guided biopsy of the omental mass, which confirmed a well-differentiated NET, consistent with insulinoma. Due to persistent hypoglycemia, she was started on corn starch and diazoxide. She subsequently underwent laparoscopic resection of the mass. Postoperative pathology revealed a well-differentiated NET staining positive for insulin, consistent with an extra-pancreatic insulinoma. Following surgical resection of the insulinoma, her hypoglycemia resolved even off corn starch and diazoxide. Conclusion. Ectopic insulinoma is a rare insulin-secreting NET. Only 28 ectopic insulinomas have been described in the literature to date1. We describe a patient with symptomatic hypoglycemia who was found to have an omental neuroendocrine tumor; hypoglycemia completely resolved after laparoscopic enucleation of the ectopic insulinoma. 1Fernando Guerrero-Pérez, Nuria Vialarrasa, Lidia V. Huanuco et. al. Ectopic Insulinoma: a systemic review: Reviews in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders, 2023 Presentation: 6/1/2024

Near Complete Biliopancreatic Segment Necrosis: A Rare and Unknown Entity Observed After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass-A Case Report.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the common bariatric surgery procedures performed worldwide. Necrosis of the biliopancreatic or Roux limbs in the late period after RYGB is a rarely observed condition, the most common causes of which are postoperative adhesion, inflammatory entities, volvulus, intussusception, and internal herniations. The goal of surgical treatment is the removal of the necrotic segment and the reconstruction of biliopancreatic or gastric drainage. Here, we present a rare case in which a patient developed complete necrosis of the third and fourth segments of the duodenum and proximal jejunal limb in the postoperative seventh month after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Necrosis occurring after RYGB surgery often affects the Roux limb, though necrosis of the biliopancreatic limb is extremely rare. The goal of surgery is to remove the necrotic segment and reconstruct the drainage. An area of ischemia is often observed in the jejunum, while a large ischemic area was noted in the present case that encompassed the third and fourth parts of the duodenum. Although in general necrosis of the Roux limb occurs due to volvulus, intussusception, or internal herniation following RYGB surgery, it must be taken into account that necrosis of the jejunal, duodenal, or complete biliopancreatic segment may occur in cases in which the underlying etiology cannot be exactly revealed.

6711 Single Nuclei RNA-seq To Map Adipose Cellular Populations And Senescent Cells In Response To A Lifestyle Or Senolytic Intervention In Older Adults With Obesity: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial

Abstract Disclosure: A. Aslamy: None. G. Connolly: None. J. Nie: None. S. Espinoza: None. M. Serra: None. N. Musi: None. It is well established that obese and older individuals are at significantly increased risk for diabetes and metabolic syndrome. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms by which increased adiposity and aging predisposes individuals to metabolic disease are not well understood. Recent data suggests that variations in adipocyte cellular populations and subpopulations influence whole body metabolism. Particularly, an increased burden of adipocyte senescent cells (cells that are in a state of replicative arrest) have been implicated in metabolic diseases. To investigate the relationship between adipose molecular signatures and cellular senescence on metabolic outcomes, we will use a novel, high-throughput, high-resolution methodology called single nuclei RNA sequencing (SnRNA-seq) to develop a transcriptomic atlas of human adipose tissue and analyze molecular profiles before and after interventions of lifestyle vs. senolytic vs. placebo. We will recruit a cohort of older obese participants (≥65 years of age; BMI = 30-39.9 kg/m2; n = 72), and conduct a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized trial in which we obtain adipose biopsies to analyze cellular/molecular profiling via snRNA-seq as it relates to phenotypic measures of insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, beta cell function, and hepatic lipid content compared to cohorts of younger lean (18-30 years of age; BMI = 18.5-24.9 kg/m2; n = 24) and older lean (≥65 years of age; BMI = 18.5-24.9 kg/m2; n = 24) participants. Older obese participants will be randomized to one of three groups for a 10-week period: lifestyle (diet- and exercise-induced weight loss of 8-10% of body mass), senolytic (dasatinib and quercetin), or placebo. Repeat adipose biopsies and metabolic testing will be analyzed before and after intervention to assess potential changes in gene expression and associated phenotypic measures. Inclusion criteria for the older obese participants are the following: ≥65 years of age, BMI 30-39.9 kg/m2, any sex, race and ethnic group, sedentary (≤1.5h of exercise per week), and nondiabetic. Exclusion criteria include history of diabetes, participation in structured exercise >1.5h per week, chronic inflammatory/neurologic/autoimmune/pulmonary disorders, GI or heart disease, use of anti-arrhythmic or weight altering medications, smoking/alcohol use, previous bariatric surgery, and use of/allergy to senolytic agents. Preliminary snRNA-seq analyses of adipose biopsies from our pilot study with non-diabetic participants identified cells with elevated expression of positive regulators of senescence (CDKN1A, CDKN2A, ARG2); notably, one subpopulation of senescent adipocytes, termed NewA1, was increased with higher BMI. Overall, the findings from this study may help us gain better understanding of the aging process and identify potential molecular targets for prevention of metabolic disease. Presentation: 6/1/2024

7491 Post operative Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis in Type 2 Diabetic patient - A diagnostic challenge

Abstract Disclosure: S. Azmat: None. O. Lodhi: None. H. Ashok: None. M.F. Siddiqui: None. Euglycemic Diabetic Ketoacidosis (EDKA) is a rare but potentially fatal condition that is often difficult to diagnose as underlying ketoacidosis is masked by euglycemia. The diagnosis and management of this condition requires a swift and comprehensive approach to avoid delay. We report a case of 66-year-old female with Insulin-dependent Type 2 DM who developed postoperative euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis, highlighting the significance of maintaining a high degree of suspicion for EDKA in postoperative patients, whose surgical course may obscure the underlying diabetic ketoacidosis symptoms. Clinical Case: A 66-year-old female with past medical history of Insulin dependent Type 2 DM presented to the emergency department with severe epigastric pain. CT Abdomen revealed perforated gastric ulcer with pneumoperitoneum requiring urgent laparoscopic graham patch repair. Patient’s outpatient medications include Lantus and metformin. She had mild hyperglycemia on admission with blood glucose of 176 mg/dL (140-160mg/dL) without metabolic abnormality. Insulin administration was omitted due to pre and post operative normoglycemia. The patient was NPO followed by initiation of nasogastric tube feeds. Postoperative course was complicated by hypotension, generalized abdominal discomfort and anion gap metabolic acidosis. Graham patch failure, abdominal infection, and post-surgical complications were systematically ruled out. Patient continued to decline with worsening anion gap metabolic acidosis; pH of 7.18 (7.35-7.45), HCO3 < 10 mEq/L (21 mEq/L - 31 mEq/L), anion gap15 mmol/L (8 to 12 mmol/L), blood sugar (147-208 mg/dl). There was no lactic acidosis or renal impairment. Beta hydroxybutyrate levels were elevated at > 4.5 mmol/L. Thus diagnosis of euglycemic DKA was established and treated with insulin drip per DKA protocol and dextrose fluids. EDKA resolved within five days with clinical improvement. She was transitioned to subcutaneous basal bolus insulin. She remained euglycemic and and had good surgical outcomes.Discussion: Euglycemic DKA is rare with only 2.6% to 3.2% of DKA, presenting as euglycemic. It presents as unique diagnostic challenge due to atypical DKA presentation with blood glucose less than 250 mg/dL. The primary driver for EDKA is either a reduction in hepatic glucose production at times of fasting or the overabundance of counter-regulatory hormones resulting in excess glucosuria. Literature has reported the effects short-term fasting on developing EDKA and starvation induced ketosis secondary to extreme ketogenic diets or bariatric surgery primarily among Type 1 diabetics. Clinically patients may exhibit symptoms similar to classic DKA, however, this classic picture may be confounded in a critically ill post-surgical patient, thus delaying recognition. This emphasizes the importance of including EDKA in differentials while evaluating such patients. Presentation: 6/1/2024

6851 Rapidly Increasing Use of Anti-Obesity Medications among Veterans in the Veterans Health Administration (VA)

Abstract Disclosure: V. Vimalananda: None. S. Qian: None. R. Bolton: None. A. Hung: None. V. Smith: None. M. Maciejewski: None. Introduction: Obesity is a prevalent and costly chronic disease that compromises quality of life; increases risks of cardiometabolic disease, osteoarthritis, and several cancers; and accounts for 28% of U.S. health care costs. Anti-obesity medications (AOMs) may fill the treatment gap given the low uptake of bariatric surgery and limited effectiveness of behavioral interventions, and are guideline-recommended as part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan. The landscape for obesity treatment has changed with introduction of the highly effective and in-demand glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and dual GLP-1 + GIP receptor agonists (GIP/GLP-1 RAs). Given limited knowledge of use patterns, we describe use of AOMs among patients receiving care in the Veterans Health Administration (VA), which is the largest integrated health system in the United States. Methods: In a retrospective cohort study of VA patients from 7/1/2021-6/30/2023, we examined data from the VHA Corporate Data Warehouse separately for patients on AOMs without and with diagnosed diabetes, since the newer AOMs can be used at lower doses for the diabetes indication. Results: There were 31,106 patients without diabetes and at least one AOM prescription in the two year study period, who were 60% male and 62% White. AOM prescriptions from Year 1 to Year 2 among this group increased 215%. Overall, prescriptions were: semaglutide 34%, liraglutide 18%, orlistat 18%, phentermine/topiramate 14%, bupropion/naltrexone 12%, phentermine 4% and tirzepatide 0.03%. Prescribers were physicians 60%, LIPs 25%, and pharmacists 13%. There were 188,017 patients with diagnosed diabetes and at least one AOM prescription, and they were 92% male and 67% white. AOM prescriptions from Year 1 to Year 2 among this group increased 14% and were primarily (87%) for semaglutide. Prescribers were physicians 63%, licensed independent practitioners (LIPs) 23%, and pharmacists 10%. Conclusions AOM use is increasing in VA across all AOM classes, particularly among patients without diabetes, indicating growing interest in medical treatment of obesity. As AOM use spreads, real-world evidence on weight loss and clinical outcomes is needed among patients like those in VA who tend to be older and less healthy than the highly selected patients included in randomized clinical trials. Data is especially needed to guide practice among patients with obesity and without diabetes, given the dramatic increase in use among that group over the past 2 years. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Clinical outcomes of bariatric surgery in patients with obesity and idiopathic intracranial hypertension.

Obesity is a major risk factor for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Effective therapeutics for preventing disease progression and alleviating symptoms are limited. This study aims to examine the effects of bariatric surgery on clinical outcomes of IIH. We retrospectively collected data from the medical record of 97 patients with obesity and an existing diagnosis of IIH who underwent primary bariatric surgery at the Cleveland Clinic health system in the USA between 2005 and 2023. Pre- and postoperative data on presence of symptoms and clinical markers of IIH (headaches, visual field defects, papilledema, visual symptoms), intracranial pressure, andusage of IIH medications were compared. A total of 97 patients (98% female, median age 46.7years, median BMI 48.3kg/m2) with IIH who underwent bariatric surgery including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 66, 68%), sleeve gastrectomy (n = 27, 27.8%), and gastric banding (n = 4, 4.1%) were analyzed. In a median follow-up time of 3.0years, the median total weight loss was 24% (interquartile range, 13-33%). There was a significant improvement in headache, papilledema, visual field deficits, and visual symptoms after bariatric surgery. The mean lumbar opening pressure before and after bariatric surgery was 34.8 ± 8.2cm CSF and 24.2 ± 7.6cm CSF, respectively, with a mean reduction of 10.7 cm CSF (95% confidence interval, 4.7 to 16.6), p = 0.003. The dosage of acetazolamide and topiramate, as well as the number of medications taken for IIH, decreased significantly after bariatric surgery (p < 0.001). For patients who have obesity, bariatric surgery is a viable treatment modality for alleviation or improvement of symptoms of IIH.

Post Bariatric Surgery Nursing Care

Morbid obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) above 40 or having a BMI of 35 and comorbidities along with obesity. Bariatric surgeries can be grouped into three. These are restrictive surgeries, malabsorption (impairing absorption) surgeries, and both restrictive and malabsorption surgeries. In bariatric surgery, restrictive surgeries such as vertical band gastroplasty (VGB), adjustable gastric banding (AGB) surgeries, malabsorption surgeries such as biliopancreatic diversion (BPD)/duodenal switch (DS) surgeries, and both restrictive and malabsorption surgeries such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgeries, are commonly performed. Post-bariatric surgery care should include a multidisciplinary team consisting of a surgeon, an endocrinologist, a psychiatrist, a dietitian, and a nurse specializing in bariatric surgery. Nursing care after obesity surgery is evaluated as early postoperative care (1-3 days) and late postoperative care. Close observation, careful and complete evaluation are important in the specialist nursing care of bariatric surgery patients. In bariatric surgery, patients are provided with routine post-operative nursing care such as oxygen and hemodynamic monitoring, pain management, mobilization, wound care, deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis, early and frequent ambulation, drain care, fluid balance nutrition, training, and emotional support.

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.

Predictors of postoperative bleeding after minimally invasive bariatric surgery.

Minimally invasive bariatric surgeries provide effective weight loss with fewer complications. However, postoperative bleeding remains a significant concern due to its potential for serious morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify factors predicting postoperative bleeding following laparoscopic and robotic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). We analyzed patients who underwent SG and RYGB using the MBSAQIP database from 2015 to 2021. Four multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between postoperative bleeding and 24 independent factors for laparoscopic SG (lapSG), robotic SG (rSG), laparoscopic RYGB (lapRYGB), and robotic RYGB (rRYGB). We analyzed 659,294 lapSG, 53,548 rSG, 267,171 lapRYGB, and 22,492 rRYGB patients. In lapSG, the most significant factors included anticoagulation (OR 3.76; 95% CI 3.13-4.51), renal insufficiency (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.37-3.09), history of DVT (OR 1.87; 95% CI 1.23-2.85), history of PE (OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.04-2.76, and BMI ≤ 40 (OR 1.22; 95% CI 1.09-1.38). In the rSG group, anticoagulation (OR 4.95; 95% CI 2.83-8.66), COPD (OR 2.80; 95% CI 1.29-6.05), and hyperlipidemia (OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.29-6.05) were significant factors. In lapRYGB, the most significant factors included anticoagulation (OR 3.68; 95% CI 3.11-4.35), renal insufficiency (OR 1.60; 95% CI 1.04-2.44), history of DVT (OR 1.70; 95% CI 1.09-2.07), cardiac stent (OR 1.51; 95% CI 1.09-2.07), and BMI ≤ 40 (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.03-1.29). For rRYGB, anticoagulation (OR 4.69; 95% CI 2.86-7.70), history of PE (OR 4.28; 95% CI 1.53-12.00), and cardiac stent (OR 2.15; 95% CI 0.06-4.34) were significant. Preoperative anticoagulation, renal insufficiency, history of DVT and PE, a cardiac stent, and BMI ≤ 40 are associated with an increased risk of postoperative bleeding. The predictive factors were consistent across laparoscopic and robotic approaches in SG and RYGB procedures.

Bone loss after bariatric surgery is observed mainly in the hip trabecular compartment and after hypoabsorptive techniques

We evaluated the impact of bariatric surgery on bone mineral density (BMD) and microarchitecture over one year using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the trabecular bone score (TBS), and 3D-DXA to assess changes after different surgical techniques. This prospective, single-center study of 153 patients with severe obesity contrasts the effects on bone health of sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and duodenal switch/single anastomosis duodeno-ileostomy with sleeve gastrectomy (DS/SADIS). To our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate patients undergoing DS/SADIS and to incorporate 3D-DXA analysis in the assessment of bone loss.Patients were 81 % female with a mean age of 50 ± 9 years. Fifty-four per cent underwent SG; 16 %, RYGB; and 30 %, DS/SADIS. Our findings revealed a significant decrease in areal BMD at the LS (−3.49 ± 5.44 %), FN (−5.24 ± 5.86 %), and TH (−8.06 ± 5.14 %) one year after bariatric surgery. Bone microarchitecture at the LS assessed by TBS was degraded in 30 % of patients. Proximal femur 3D-DXA analysis showed that surgery-induced bone loss predominantly affects the trabecular compartment (Trabecular volumetric (v) BMD: −8.00 ± 6.57 %) rather than the cortical compartment (Cortical vBMD: −1.37 ± 2.79 %).These results suggest hypoabsorptive and mixed techniques (DS/SADIS and RYGB) were associated with greater BMD loss and deterioration of microarchitecture than restrictive techniques (SG).The primary determinants of bone density and impairment of microarchitecture were the extent of weight loss and the type of surgical procedure. Despite overall bone loss, Z-score assessments indicated that post-surgical bone status remained within or above the average ranges compared to a healthy population, except for TH following DS/SADIS.In conclusion, our research shows differences in the impact of bariatric surgery techniques on bone density and microarchitecture, emphasizing the need for careful postoperative monitoring of bone health, particularly in patients undergoing hypoabsorptive and mixed procedures.

Physical Activity before and After Bariatric Surgery.

Lifestyle changes including reduced calorie intake and increased physical activity (PA) improve the prognosis associated with bariatric surgery (BS) and metabolic indices. Early implementation of exercise leads to improved physical performance, better glycemic control and lipid profile, reduces the risks associated with anesthesia, and accelerates recovery from surgery. Undertaking systematic exercise after BS is associated with a better quality of life, improves insulin sensitivity, results in additional weight loss, reduces adverse effects on bone mass, and results in better body composition. The aim of this review was to summarize recommendations for physical activity in patients undergoing BS and to highlight the key role of physical activity in this patient group.

Cost-effectiveness of surgical interventions in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and critical analysis of recent evidence

BackgroundCost-effectiveness evidence is a critical tool to support resource allocation decisions. There is growing recognition that the development of benefit packages for surgical care should be guided by such evidence,...

Clinical evidence of low-calorie and ketogenic nutrological therapy before, during and after bariatric surgery: a systematic review

Introduction: Obesity is a multifactorial disease that causes serious comorbidities. There are more than 2.2 billion overweight and obese people in the world. Obese patients tend to be predisposed to micronutrient deficiency even before bariatric surgery, therefore, it is imperative to supplement nutrients orally, enterally, or parenterally, according to the indications of each patient. Objective: It was highlighted the importance of low-calorie and ketogenic nutritional therapy before, during, and after bariatric surgery through the systematic analysis of clinical studies. Methods: The systematic review rules of the PRISMA Platform were followed. The search was conducted from June to July 2024 in the Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: 119 articles were found. A total of 40 articles were fully evaluated and 34 were included and developed in the present systematic review study. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 23 studies with a high risk of bias and 27 that did not meet GRADE and AMSTAR-2. Most studies presented homogeneity in their results, with X2=76.5%&gt;50%. It was concluded that nutrological therapy strategies could represent a possible alternative to other methodologies, especially when it is recommended to improve patient adherence to following the prescribed diet before bariatric surgery. Weight loss induced by the ketogenic diet before bariatric surgery has beneficial effects on reducing liver volume, metabolic profile, and intra- and postoperative complications. Knowledge of the type of bariatric surgery performed and an understanding of its anatomy and physiology are useful to provide optimal care to patients, especially in nutritional complications. Nutritional deficiencies and metabolic disorders result from “malabsorption” procedures such as RYGB. Immediate administration of thiamine is essential. Dextrose should be avoided in intravenous hydration until thiamine is adequately replaced. For all bariatric patients, a protein intake of 60-70 g/d and a multivitamin with iron and vitamin B12 supplementation is recommended. Daily calcium and vitamin D supplementation is also encouraged. In addition, serum micronutrient levels should be monitored regularly and additional supplementation should be prescribed as indicated.

B-140 Use of the metabolic health index for correlation with comorbidity reduction for patients undergoing bariatric surgery

Abstract Background Bariatric surgery is a commonly performed procedure aimed at addressing obesity and its associated health issues. However, while weight loss is often a primary focus, the broader improvements in metabolic health, including reductions in conditions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and dyslipidemia, are not consistently quantified. The recent development of the Metabolic Health Index (MHI) by van Loon et al. provides a potential laboratory index that encompasses various metabolic parameters to predict improvements in comorbidities post-surgery. Our study aimed to assess the utility of MHI in correlating with changes in metabolic health status among patients undergoing bariatric surgery at a U.S. medical center. Methods In our current study, we conducted a retrospective analysis of 300 patients who had undergone bariatric surgery between 2012 and 2019 at the University of Minnesota. We selected patients who had both baseline and one-year post-surgery laboratory values available, including age, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), triglycerides, potassium, and creatinine for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which were necessary for calculating MHI using the equation of van Loon et al. Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria and their eGFRs were calculated using the 2021 CKD-EPI equation. Using the published formulae, we calculated the MHI for each patient before and after surgery. Patients were stratified based on improvements in diabetic (T2DM) and dyslipidemic status, with lower stratification numbers indicating better outcomes. We then conducted correlation analyses to examine the relationship between changes in MHI, individual components of MHI, BMI, and the reduction in the two comorbidities. We also examined if any of the initial values of MHI, its components and BMI correlated with the magnitude of reduction in the two comorbidities. Results In the patient cohort examined, initially 46.7% of the population were non-diabetic and this changed to 53.3% one year after surgery. The number of patients with diabetes decreased from 33.3% to 13.3%, indicating a benefit of bariatric surgery in alleviating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Dyslipidemia decreased from 36.7% to 13.3% post-surgery. Most of the patients had reductions in both the BMI and MHI scales and a linear relationship between the two values was observed. A Spearman correlation analysis revealed that the values of HbA1c (rho= 0.56, p = 0.0014)) and MHI (rho = 0.5, p = 0.005) had a correlation with the reduction in T2DM and the reduction in triglycerides (rho= 0.73, p= 0.0) correlated with reduction in dyslipidemia. On the other hand, the reduction in BMI did not correlate with the improvement in the comorbidities examined. It was determined that the initial values of MHI, its components, and BMI had no correlation to the degree of reduction in comorbidities. Conclusions Our findings suggest that MHI and HbA1C may serve as valuable indicators of metabolic health improvements following bariatric surgery, while BMI changes alone may not fully capture these improvements. Laboratory-based measurements such as MHI offer a promising approach for assessing and monitoring metabolic health outcomes in bariatric surgery patients, providing insights beyond traditional weight-based metrics.

The Effects of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy on Body Mass Index (BMI) and Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) Levels.

Background and significance Bariatric surgery is an effective surgical intervention for weight loss and metabolic improvement. Articles tackling obesity and bariatric surgery with its preoperative preferences and postoperative findings are needed. From that stance, we aim to accurately document the impact of bariatric surgery, particularly laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), on body mass index (BMI) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Patients and methods We present a retrospective cohort study conducted on 111 LSG patients from a total of 1633 patients who underwent bariatric surgery from January 23, 2018, to December 31, 2019, at King Saud University Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Patients were divided into three groups: nondiabetics, prediabetics, and diabetics. For each group, demographic characteristics as well as preoperative and postoperative BMI and HbA1c values were collected. Results The mean patient age was 41.35±11.8 years, with 56.8% being female. Our analysis showed that BMI values for all three groups had a significant and nearly similar overall decrease in value postoperatively (mean difference: 14.43, p<0.001). HbA1c levels also significantly improved, with the largest reduction seen in the diabetic group (from 8.7±1.5 to 6.6±1.4, p<0.001), followed by the prediabetic group (from 5.9±0.2 to 5.4±0.3, p<0.001) and the nondiabetic group (from 5.4±0.1 to 5.2±0.3, p=0.003). Conclusion LSG leads to significant improvements in BMI and HbA1c levels. Postoperatively, diabetic patients showed the greatest reduction in HbA1c percentage, supporting LSG's role in enhancing metabolic health.

Iron Treatment in Patients with Iron Deficiency Before and After Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: A Narrative Review.

Iron is an essential nutrient in living organisms with multiple vital functions. Iron deficiency (ID) can cause long term health consequences beyond iron deficiency anemia (IDA). The high prevalence of ID and its long-term effects in patients with obesity and after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is recognized. Nevertheless, there is limited knowledge of the optimal route or dose for treatment of patients with obesity and post-MBS, and an evidence-based universal guideline for prevention and treatment of ID in short- and long-term post-MBS (PMBS) is not yet available. ID in the general population is currently treated with oral or parenteral iron, where oral iron treatment is considered the preferred option with parenteral iron as a second-line treatment in case there is intolerance or lack of response to oral iron. In patients with obesity with chronic low-grade inflammation and PMBS patients with altered gut anatomy and function, there are also alterations in the bioavailability and higher risks of side effects of available oral irons. The conclusions of current studies exploring effective treatment of iron deficiency in this population have been inconsistent and further well-planned randomized and prospective studies are needed. This is a narrative review of the literature on the available treatment options and strategies for treatment of ID in PMBS patients to recognize the knowledge gaps and provides topics of future research.

Metabolic surgery in severely obese adolescents: which technique provides the best benefits?

Obesity is a public health and global health problem due to the disease burden it generates across all age groups, as well as being a pandemic due to its high prevalence worldwide. Bariatric surgery has traditionally been described as an aggressive option in the adolescent population. However, as the evolution of these patients over time and the improvement in health outcomes have been rigorously analyzed, it is positioned as an effective and safe intervention. Recently, novel high-quality evidence has emerged, sparking international scientific discourse on which techniques provide the most benefits and are safer in bariatric surgery for adolescents with severe obesity. Then, the aim of this review was to analyze the most recent clinical evidence, based on study designs, regarding clinical and surgical outcomes obtained by surgical techniques used during bariatric surgery in the management of severe obesity in adolescents. After the literature review, it was identified that surgical resolution for severe obesity in adolescents is effective and safe, with better benefits observed when using Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. There is a similar frequency of adverse events compared to sleeve gastrectomy and gastric banding. Micronutrient deficiency is the primary adverse event, which is potentially preventable and treatable.

Redefining Surgical Boundaries for Obese Patients? Full Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy Proves Equally Effective With Shorter Hospital Stay in Obese Patients.

This cohort study aims to evaluate the impact of obesity on the outcomes of full endoscopic lumbar discectomy (FELD) in patients with lumbar disc herniation. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 156 adult patients who underwent FELD for lumbar disc herniation from January 2015 to February 2023. Patients were divided into 3 groups: obese endoscopic (n = 71), obese open surgery (n = 31), and nonobese endoscopic (n = 54). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale for leg and back pain, the Oswestry Disability Index, and patient satisfaction rates. Operative time, hospital stay duration, and complication rates were also analyzed. No significant differences were observed in patient-reported outcome measures, operative time, or complication rates between obese and nonobese patients undergoing FELD. The mean operative time was longer in the endoscopic group compared with the open surgery group (70.2 vs 59.8 minutes), but the hospital stay was significantly shorter for endoscopic patients (1.7 vs 2.4 nights, P = 0.0006). Both obese and nonobese groups showed significant improvements in visual analog scale and Oswestry Disability Index scores at the final follow-up, with satisfaction rates of 85.7% in the endoscopic group reporting good to excellent outcomes. FELD is a viable and effective alternative to traditional open surgery for obese patients, offering comparable clinical outcomes and the added benefit of a shorter hospital stay. These findings suggest that obesity does not inherently affect surgical outcomes, underscoring the need for further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods. FELD offers a viable and effective surgical option for obese patients, with outcomes comparable to traditional surgery but with the added benefit of shorter hospital stays.

Research progress of probiotics regulating intestinal micro-ecological environment in obese patients after bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery may cause intestinal microecological environment imbalance due to changes in gastrointestinal anatomy. Some patients may have compli-cations, even regain weight. Probiotics can act on intestinal mucosa, epithelium and gut-associated lymphoid tissue to improve the intestinal microecological environment of obese patients after bariatric surgery. Probiotics can promote the production of short-chain fatty acids, stimulate intestinal cells to release glucagon-like peptide-1, peptide tyrosine-tyrosine, insulin and other endocrine hormones, affect the function of the central nervous system through the gut-brain axis, make patients after bariatric surgery feel full, and reduce blood sugar at the same time. Probiotics can produce lactic acid, acetic acid and lactase, to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and to improve gastrointestinal symptoms of patients after bariatric surgery. Probiotics can activate the AMP-activated protein kinase signaling pathway, improve lipid metabolism, and promote the recovery of symptom indicators of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease after bariatric surgery. Probiotics can regulate the release of neurotransmitters or metabolites by the microbiota through the gut-brain axis to affect brain activity and behavior, thus helping patients improve negative emotions after bariatric surgery. This article describes the intestinal microecological environment of obese patients and mechanism of the change after bariatric surgery and summarizes the effects and possible mechanisms of probiotics in improving the intestinal microecological environment of obese patients after bariatric surgery, to provide references for promoting the clinical application of probiotics.

"Metabolic Bridge Therapy Prior to Microvascular Breast Reconstruction in the Morbidly Obese: A Proof-of-Concept Risk Analysis".

Obese patients experience more complications after autologous breast reconstruction. This study evaluates how bariatric surgery modulates risk of complications in the setting of microvascular breast reconstruction. Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) databases were queried for patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m2 undergoing bariatric surgery from 2017-2022. Outcomes included BMI and obesity-related comorbidities before and 1 year after bariatric surgery. Paired Breast Reconstruction Risk Assessment (BRA) scores were analyzed to evaluate risk modulation before and after bariatric surgery in the setting of microvascular breast reconstruction. A total of 1,026 patients were included with an average age of 47 and BMI of 44.7 kg/m2. Comorbidities included hypertension (601, 59%), type 2 diabetes (291, 28%), and cardiovascular disease (10, 1%). One-year outcomes after bariatric surgery included an average BMI of 32.7 kg/m2, with remission of type 2 diabetes in 29% of patients. Paired BRA risk analysis for microvascular breast reconstruction before and after bariatric surgery showed reduction in 30-day surgical complications (40.4% vs. 24.8%, P<0.0001), with an absolute risk reduction (ARR) of 15%, relative risk reduction (RRR) of 36%, and a number needed to treat (NNT) of 7. Each 1 kg/m2 reduction in preoperative BMI was associated with a 3.4% reduction in surgical complications (P<0.0001). There is potential efficacy for metabolic bridge therapy in reducing complications for obese patients undergoing microvascular breast reconstruction.