Complications Of Bariatric Surgery Research Articles

High risk and low incidence diseases: Bariatric surgery complications

High risk and low incidence diseases: Bariatric surgery complications

Postprandial hypoglycemia as a complication of bariatric and metabolic surgery: a comprehensive review of literature

Postprandial hypoglycemia as a complication of bariatric and metabolic surgery: a comprehensive review of literature

Development and validation of a novel nomogram to predict worsening of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy using Lasso-logistic regression

Background Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is among the most common complications of bariatric surgery. This study aimed to analyse the risk factors affecting the worsening of GERD symptoms after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and to establish and validate a related nomogram model. Methods The study recruited 236 participants and randomly divided them into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3. LASSO regression technique was used to select the optimal predictive features, and multivariate logistic regression was used to construct the column line graphs. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated and validated by analyzing the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curve, and decision curve. Results In this study, Lasso-logistic regression was applied to select 5 predictors from the relevant variables, which were body mass index (BMI), diabetes, hiatal hernia, GERD, and triglyceride levels. These 5 predictor variables constructed a model with moderate predictive power, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.779 for the training set and 0.796 for the validation set. Decision curve analysis showed that in external validation, if the risk thresholds were between 4 and 98% and 14–95%, then the nomogram can be applied to the clinic. Conclusions We have developed and validated a nomogram that effectively predicts the risk of worsening gastroesophageal reflux symptoms following LSG.

Perioperative Rhabdomyolysis in Obese Individuals Undergoing Bariatric Surgery: Current Status.

One potential complication in bariatric surgery is rhabdomyolysis, which is a condition involving muscle tissue damage that can significantly impact a patient's health. The causes of rhabdomyolysis can be broadly classified into two major categories: traumatic and non-traumatic. Early investigations into the development of intraoperative rhabdomyolysis in bariatric surgery identified the main risk factors as tissue compression-primarily affecting the lower extremities, gluteal muscles, and lumbar region-as well as prolonged periods of immobilization. Clinically, rhabdomyolysis is typically suspected when a patient presents with muscle pain, weakness, and potentially dark urine or even anuria. However, the most reliable biomarker for rhabdomyolysis is elevated serum creatine kinase levels. The primary goal in managing hydration is to correct intravascular volume depletion, with solutions such as Lactated Ringer's or 0.9% saline being appropriate options for resuscitation. Perioperative diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis poses a significant challenge for anesthesiologists, requiring a high degree of clinical suspicion, particularly in bariatric patients. In this vulnerable population, prevention is crucial. The success of treatment depends on its early initiation; however, there are still significant limitations in the therapies available to prevent renal injury secondary to rhabdomyolysis.

9337 Postprandial And “Fasting” Hypoglycemia In A Patient With A History Of Gastric Bypass Surgery And Carcinoid Syndrome

Abstract Disclosure: S. Ntelis: None. M. Pennant: None. Background: Hypoglycemia is an increasingly recognized complication of bariatric surgery that can occur years after the procedure. Episodes most commonly occur 1-3 hours after meals. Fasting hypoglycemia is not typical and raises concerns for other etiologies, including adrenal insufficiency and other causes of endogenous hyperinsulinism. Clinical Case: A 51-year-old woman with a history of carcinoid tumor of unknown origin with liver metastases, treated with monthly octreotide injections, and history of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass presented with multiple episodes of symptomatic hypoglycemia up to 24 mg/dl. Symptoms included tremor and diaphoresis and improved with juice. Morning cortisol was 22.7 mcg/dL (n > 19.4 mc/dL), ruling out adrenal insufficiency. A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) was placed, and she was advised to have frequent low-carbohydrate meals mixed with healthy fats and protein. She was also advised to add cornstarch to meals, until mixed-meal testing could be performed. She was hospitalized for a seizure provoked by hypoglycemia after a heavy high-carbohydrate meal, and treatment with acarbose 25 mg three times daily was started. Mixed-meal testing was consistent with post-prandial hyper-insulinemic hypoglycemia, with elevated insulin (58 mcIU/ml, n: 2.6-24.9 mcIU/ml) and c-peptide (11.2 ng/ml, n: 1.1-4.4 ng/ml) levels during an episode of symptomatic hypoglycemia (glucose 22 mg/dL) 2.5 hours after the patient’s meal. CGM showed hypoglycemia mostly occurring after meals and some episodes of hypoglycemia early in the morning, that occurred after late-night snacks. Clinical picture and laboratory testing were suggestive of post-bariatric surgery hypoglycemia. Poor hepatic glycogen reserve, secondary to the liver metastases, was considered a contributing factor. Interestingly, although hypoglycemia was mediated by hyperinsulinemia, treatment with a somatostatin analogue provided no benefit. The frequency of hypoglycemia decreased with adherence to a low-carbohydrate diet, and episodes mostly occurred when acarbose use was delayed. Octreotide was transitioned to lantreotide. Due to persistence of early-morning low glucose values on follow-up, further work-up was pursued to rule out etiologies of fasting hypoglycemia. Glucose values remained >70 mg/dl during 72 hours of fasting. IGF-I (115 ng/ml, n: 53-287 ng/ml) and IGF-II (608 ng/ml, n: 267-616 ng/ml) levels were normal, and insulin antibodies were undetectable. Post-bariatric surgery hypoglycemia was confirmed and acarbose dose was increased to 50 mg three times daily. Conclusion: Postprandial hypoglycemia is a late complication of bariatric surgery. Early-morning hypoglycemia can also be seen after bariatric surgery in patients who have late-night meals and snacks. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Enhancing referral practices: A bariatric department's education initiative to reduce unnecessary referrals to hematology oncology.

82 Background: Bariatric surgery patients face an elevated risk of iron deficiency anemia. Referrals from the Bariatric department to Hematology Oncology for work up of these anemias strain clinic resources and delay timely care for cancer patients. We initiated a targeted education program to reduce unnecessary referrals from the Bariatric department to Hematology Oncology by raising awareness among staff about appropriate referral criteria. Methods: We developed a curriculum highlighting the differences between symptoms of bariatric surgery complications and hematologic malignancies. Interactive training sessions were held with Bariatric department staff, supplemented by informational materials. Case studies and real-world examples reinforced understanding and decision-making. Staff were also educated on managing iron deficiency anemia internally. Referral rates were tracked before and after the intervention. Results: Baseline data were collected from July 2023 to November 2023, showing an average of 17 referrals per month (85 total over 5 months). The educational initiative included three sessions in December 2023 on anemia management and referral criteria. These sessions highlighted the distinction between symptoms of bariatric complications and hematologic malignancies, as well as education to the bariatric surgery providers on management of hematologic diagnoses resulting from bariatric surgery. Post-intervention data from January 2024 to May 2024 showed a substantial reduction in referrals for bariatric-related iron deficiency anemias to an average of 4.4 referrals per month (22 total over 5 months), indicating a 74% reduction. Improved internal management of iron deficiency anemia contributed to this outcome. The percentage of cancer patients receiving a consult within 7 days of referral contemporaneously improved from 85.7% to 88.1%, indicating improved access to oncology care. Conclusions: The educational intervention significantly reduced unnecessary referrals from the Bariatric department to Hematology Oncology, improving access for cancer patients. Empowering staff with the knowledge to make informed referral decisions and manage common hematologic issues internally improved patient care and clinic efficiency, reducing healthcare costs and patient burden in both departments.

High flow nasal cannula versus continuous positive airway pressure on incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications after bariatric surgery

ABSTRACT Background High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) can be used postoperatively to decrease postoperative pulmonary complications. Aim This study evaluated and compared the effect of HFNC versus CPAP on postoperative pulmonary complications in bariatric surgery. Patients and Methods Sixty adult ASA class II and III patients scheduled for bariatric operations were divided into two equal groups: the HFNC and CPAP groups. Results No significant variations in HR and MABP were observed between groups. Mean SpO2% and PaO2/FiO2 readings were lower on ICU admission than pre-induction (p < 0.001). However, after the intervention, readings significantly increased (p < 0.001). Respiratory rate and PaCO2 levels were higher upon ICU admission than pre-induction in both groups (p < 0.001). After the intervention, they decreased significantly during all assessment times compared to ICU admission time (p < 0.001). Both groups had lower lung ultrasound scores at ICU discharge than on admission (p < 0.001). Still, no significant variations in scores observed between groups upon admission and before discharge. No significant variations were found in the incidence of postoperative pulmonary complications and duration of stay in hospital. Conclusion HFNC and CPAP decrease atelectasis and improve respiratory parameters postoperatively in morbidly obese persons after bariatric operation.

Advanced Non-linear Modeling and Explainable Artificial Intelligence Techniques for Predicting 30-Day Complications in Bariatric Surgery: A Single-Center Study.

Metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) became integral to managing severe obesity. Understanding surgical risks associated with MBS is crucial. Different scores, such as the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), aid in patient selection and outcome prediction. This study aims to evaluate machine learning (ML) models performance in predicting 30-day post-operative complications and compare them with the MBSAQIP risk score. We retrospectively evaluated 424 consecutive patients (2006-2020) who underwent MBS, analyzing 30-day surgical complications according to Clavien-Dindo Classification. ML models, including logistic regression, support vector machine, random forest, k-nearest neighbors, multi-layer perceptron, and extreme gradient boosting, were analyzed and compared to MBSAQIP risk score. Performance was measured by area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) analysis. Random forest showed the highest AUROC in the training (AUROC = 0.94) and the validation set (AUROC = 0.88). ML algorithms, particularly random forest, outperformed MBSAQIP in predicting negative 30-day outcomes in both the training and validation sets (AUROC = 0.64, DeLong's Test p < 0.001). The five features that were more relevant for the prediction of the random forest model were serum alkaline phosphatase, platelet count, triglycerides, glycated hemoglobin, and albumin. We developed several ML model that identifies patients at risk for 30-day complications after MBS. Among these, random forest is the most performing one and outperforms the already established MBSAQIP score. This model could increase the identification of high-risk patients before MBS.

Unravelling the mechanics of gastric tissue: A comparison of constitutive models, damage probability and microstructural insights

With the increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide, bariatric surgery is becoming increasingly common. However, the mechanic of the gastric wall related to bariatric surgery complications remains to be investigated. This study aims to understand mechanical behaviour of stomach by developing advanced material laws for gastric tissue incorporating microstructure. A multi-scale characterisation of the porcine stomach wall was performed in the fundus and corpus anatomical regions and in circumferential and longitudinal orientations The protocol included uniaxial tensile testing until damage, survival analysis to provide damage probability, comparison of phenomenological (Fung and Ogden order 1, 2 and 3) and structural (Holzapfel fibre-reinforced) computational models fitted to the experimental data, and quantitative analysis of elastin and collagen fibre structure from histological slides. All constitutive models fitted the experimental data well (r2 > 0.988 and RSME<3.8 kPa). Longitudinal and circumferential elastic modulus in quasi linear phase were respectively 1.75 ± 1.2 MPa, 0.76 ± 0.35 MPa for fundus, and 2.30 ± 0.66 MPa, 1.36 ± 0.89 MPa for corpus, highlighting significant differences between orientations in fundus and corpus, with an overall softer fundus in the circumferential direction. Microstructure analysis illustrated collagen and elastin fibre orientation, dispersion and density. As microstructure appears to play an important role in stomach biomechanics, model incorporating fibre structure such as Holzapfel fibre-reinforced model, seem best suited to describe the material behaviour of the stomach wall. Future research should complement these findings with an expanded sample set in human models.

239 - Demographic risk factors for postoperative complications in primary bariatric surgery: a systematic review with meta-analysis

239 - Demographic risk factors for postoperative complications in primary bariatric surgery: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Analysis of bariatric surgical complications requiring interhospital transfers using a modified Victorian Audit of Surgical Mortality framework.

Surgical audit is key in upholding the standards of surgical care but may be inadequate in capturing morbidity experienced by patients being transferred across different health systems. The aim of this study was to assess the utility of an objective framework in the evaluation of clinical issues surrounding interhospital transfers (IHTs). A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a Victorian state bariatric hospital. Patients transferred with bariatric surgery related complications between 2014 and 2021 were included. Each case was reviewed by two surgeons using an objective framework developed via a modified Delphi-process. Key issues and preventability surrounding each transfer were evaluated. Inter-observer agreement was assessed using weighted Cohen's Kappa coefficient. Seventy-three patients were included. The most common indication for transfer was proximal staple line leak post sleeve gastrectomy (34/73, 46.6%). Length of stay was 38.3 ± 58.8 days. Cost of care amounted to AUD $110 666.18 per patient. Delay in transfer and complication recognition were present in 20% of cases (Cohen's Kappa 0.51;0.61). Human factors and patient related factors were the most common principal underlying causes (Cohen's Kappa 0.59). A third of the complications (n = 25/73, 34.2%), were potentially preventable (Cohen's Kappa 0.58) and more than half (39/73, 53.4%) did not have documented objective feedback to referring clinicians. IHTs associated with bariatric surgery complications have significant morbidity and costs. A structured framework in reviewing IHT can consistently identify potentially modifiable factors that improve clinical outcomes, and constructive feedback to the referring clinician should be actively facilitated and documented.

Positive end-expiratory pressure and postoperative pulmonary complications in laparoscopic bariatric surgery: systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThis study compares the effect of positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) on postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) in patients with obesity undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery (LBS) under general anesthesia with mechanical ventilation.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, China National Knowledge Internet, Wanfang database, and Google Scholar for studies published up to July 29, 2023, without time or language restrictions. The search terms included “PEEP,” “laparoscopic,” and “bariatric surgery.” Randomized controlled trials comparing different levels of PEEP or PEEP with zero-PEEP (ZEEP) in patients with obesity undergoing LBS were included. The primary outcome was a composite of PPCs, and the secondary outcomes were intraoperative oxygenation, respiratory compliance, and mean arterial pressure (MAP). A fixed-effect or random-effect model was selected for meta-analysis based on the heterogeneity of the included studies.ResultsThirteen randomized controlled trials with a total of 708 participants were included for analysis. No statistically significant difference in PPCs was found between the PEEP and ZEEP groups (risk ratio = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.05–1.60; p = 0.15). However, high PEEP ≥ 10 cm H2O significantly decreased PPCs compared with low PEEP < 10 cm H2O (risk ratio = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05–0.89; p = 0.03). The included studies showed no significant heterogeneity (I2 = 20% & 0%). Compared with ZEEP, PEEP significantly increased intraoperative oxygenation and respiratory compliance (WMD = 74.97 mm Hg, 95% CI: 41.74-108.21; p < 0.001 & WMD = 9.40 ml cm H2O− 1, 95% CI: 0.65–18.16; p = 0.04). High PEEP significantly improved intraoperative oxygenation and respiratory compliance during pneumoperitoneum compared with low PEEP (WMD = 66.81 mm Hg, 95% CI: 25.85-107.78; p = 0.001 & WMD = 8.03 ml cm H2O− 1, 95% CI: 4.70-11.36; p < 0.001). Importantly, PEEP did not impair hemodynamic status in LBS.ConclusionsIn patients with obesity undergoing LBS, high PEEP ≥ 10 cm H2O could decrease PPCs compared with low PEEP < 10 cm H2O, while there was a similar incidence of PPCs between PEEP (8–10 cm H2O) and the ZEEP group. The application of PEEP in ventilation strategies increased intraoperative oxygenation and respiratory compliance without affecting intraoperative MAP. A PEEP of at least 10 cm H2O is recommended to reduce PPCs in patients with obesity undergoing LBS.Registration numberCRD42023391178 in PROSPERO.

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.

Portomesenteric Venous Thrombosis after Bariatric Surgery: A Case Series and Systematic Review Comparing LSG and LRYGB.

(1) Background: Portomesenteric Venous Thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare but serious complication of Metabolic Bariatric Surgery (MBS). Although more frequently reported after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), the risk factors for PMVT remain unclear. This study aims to compare the incidence and determinants of PMVT between LSG and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). (2) Methods: A retrospective analysis of 5235 MBSs conducted at our institution between 2015 and 2023 identified five cases of PMVT. Additionally, a systematic review in March 2023, covering PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, was performed. Several data were analyzed regarding risk factors. (3) Results: In our case series, the incidence of PMVT was 0.1%. The five cases described involved four females with a BMI between 39.7 and 56.0 kg/m2. Their comorbidities were associated with metabolic syndrome, all women used oral contraceptive and two patients were diagnosed with thrombophilia or pulmonary embolism. Per protocol, thromboprophylaxis was administered to all patients. Diagnosis was made at a median of 16 days post-surgery, with abdominal pain being the main presenting symptom. Acute cases were managed with enoxaparin, unfractionated heparin and fibrinolysis. One patient required surgery. Ten studies were included in the systematic review and 205 patients with PMVT were identified: 193 (94.1%) post-LSG and 12 post-LRYGB. The most common comorbidities were dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea and liver disorders; (4) Conclusions: PMVT is a potentially life-threatening complication after MBS, requiring preventive measures, timely diagnosis and several treatments. Our findings suggest a higher occurrence in women with an elevated BMI and post-LSG. Tailored thromboprophylaxis for MBS patients at risk of PMVT may be warranted.

1225 Endoluminal Stenting for Sleeve Gastrectomy Leak: Case Report, Literature Review and Atlas of Endoscopic Management

Abstract Introduction One of the most serious complications of bariatric surgery is post-operative leak and it can result in significant risk on the patient. Early detection and management of postoperative leak is essential to reduce the morbidities and mortality of such complication. Endoluminal Stent placement is a less invasive alternative to surgical intervention for management of bariatric surgical leak. We are reporting a case of post sleeve gastrectomy leak that has been managed by inserting self-expandable metal stents (SEMS) via endoscopy. Case presentation A 55-year-old woman presented with gradual onset of epigastric pain and high temperature with reduced oral intake. She had had a Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy done in another country as a form of “medical tourism” 10 days ago. She had a CT scan revealed an irregular 4.5 cm paraoesophageal collection suggesting post-operative leakage. Discussion Endoscopic management of GI leaks provides a minimally invasive, safe, and efficient alternative for surgery in selected cases. Endoscopic management is then proven to be the least invasive method to control and repair post LSG leak. Conclusions The clinical presentation of post LSG leak can vary from mild abdominal pain to severe sepsis. Endoscopic management, with its different types, has been widely used because its less invasive yet very effective way of managing such feared complication.

When It Rains It Pours...: Wernicke Encephalopathy with Sudden Blindness after Bariatric Surgery in a Patient with Congenital Deafness.

Malabsorption syndromes are known chronic complications of bariatric surgery. Therefore, it is recommended to take oral supplementation with multivitamins. Wernicke's encephalopathy represents an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome associated with alcoholism or severe malnutrition; sporadic cases of this potential complication related to bariatric surgery are described in the literature. We present a case of Wernicke's encephalopathy due to severe vitamin B1 deficiency after bariatric surgery. A 31-year-old woman with deaf-mutism from the age of 3 years old, operated 3 months before with a mini-gastric bypass for severe obesity, was transferred to our unit after accessing the emergency room. In the immediate medical history, there was the sudden and rapid decline in vision, leading to complete loss of vision, marked asthenia, and paresthesia in the four limbs. Considering the previous bariatric surgery, the diagnosis of non-alcoholic Wernicke's syndrome was suspected, for which IV therapy with Vitamin B1 was started at a dosage of 5 vials of 200 mg in 100 cc of saline solution (three times a day for the first 72 hours, subsequently 1 once/day). After 12 hours, there was an improvement in visual acuity, and the symptoms completely resolved within 48 hours. She was discharged with complete resolution of all symptoms after 1 month. Initial vision loss without confusion or encephalopathy is one atypical presentation of Wernicke syndrome. Clinical suspicion must be high in case of alcoholism or post-bariatric surgery. Early recognition of atypical symptoms, including vision loss, and timely administration of therapy improves the prognosis of this potentially reversible but time-dependent neurological emergency.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Background. GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common problem among obese and overweight people, including as a complication of bariatric surgery, Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG). Aim. To conduct a retrospective analysis of the frequency of GERD in patients with morbid obesity after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Materials and Methods. In this retrospective study, data from 152 patients who underwent LSG were analyzed. All patients were diagnosed with morbid obesity and were deemed suitable for surgery. The minimum follow-up period was twelve months. All patients were assessed preoperatively for the severity of GERD using 24-hour pH monitoring, and upper gastrointestinal tract examination via FibroGastroDuodenoScopy (FGDS) to identify signs of reflux disease, esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus and GERD-HRQL (Health-Related Quality of Life) questionnaire. Results. During the study, out of 152 patients without GERD (DeMeester Index (DMI) was 6.87±3.38), 23 (15.1%) of them within 12 months after LSG developed de novo GERD (DMI 9.12±8.87, p=0.04). In four patients with de novo GERD, esophagitis grade A was detected. The pathomechanism of GERD following LSG was multifactorial, caused by a combination of anatomical, physiological, and physical factors. Contributing factors included the shape of the sleeve, damage to the lower esophageal sphincter, and esophageal motility disorders. Conclusions. LSG is effective in promoting weight loss, but poses a significant risk of developing GERD. Our study found a 15.1% incidence of GERD after LRH, which is lower than other studies, probably due to the routine use of 24-hour pH monitoring to identify patients with asymptomatic GERD. Anatomical changes due to LSG, in particular resection of the gastric fundus and dissection in the area of the angle of His, increase the temporary relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, contributing to the development of GERD. Keywords: bariatric surgery, morbid obesity, GERD.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

Background. GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common problem among obese and overweight people, including as a complication of bariatric surgery, Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (LSG). Aim. To conduct a retrospective analysis of the frequency of GERD in patients with morbid obesity after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Materials and Methods. In this retrospective study, data from 152 patients who underwent LSG were analyzed. All patients were diagnosed with morbid obesity and were deemed suitable for surgery. The minimum follow-up period was twelve months. All patients were assessed preoperatively for the severity of GERD using 24-hour pH monitoring, and upper gastrointestinal tract examination via FibroGastroDuodenoScopy (FGDS) to identify signs of reflux disease, esophagitis and Barrett's esophagus and GERD-HRQL (Health-Related Quality of Life) questionnaire. Results. During the study, out of 152 patients without GERD (DeMeester Index (DMI) was 6.87±3.38), 23 (15.1%) of them within 12 months after LSG developed de novo GERD (DMI 9.12±8.87, p=0.04). In four patients with de novo GERD, esophagitis grade A was detected. The pathomechanism of GERD following LSG was multifactorial, caused by a combination of anatomical, physiological, and physical factors. Contributing factors included the shape of the sleeve, damage to the lower esophageal sphincter, and esophageal motility disorders. Conclusions. LSG is effective in promoting weight loss, but poses a significant risk of developing GERD. Our study found a 15.1% incidence of GERD after LRH, which is lower than other studies, probably due to the routine use of 24-hour pH monitoring to identify patients with asymptomatic GERD. Anatomical changes due to LSG, in particular resection of the gastric fundus and dissection in the area of the angle of His, increase the temporary relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, contributing to the development of GERD. Keywords: bariatric surgery, morbid obesity, GERD.

Endoscopic therapies for bariatric surgery complications.

The aim of this review is to present the current state of the field, highlight recent developments, and describe the clinical outcomes of endoscopic therapies for bariatric surgery complications. The field of interventional endoscopy now presents a range of minimally invasive procedures for addressing postbariatric complications. Lumen-opposing metal stents have emerged as a reliable solution for managing gastrojejunal strictures following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, whether with or without associated leaks. Additionally, they serve as a conduit for performing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) post-RYGB via EUS-directed ERCP (EDGE). Gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy, originally designed for gastroparesis, has demonstrated effectiveness in treating postgastric sleeve stenosis, particularly the challenging helical stenosis cases. Furthermore, innovative endoscopic antireflux techniques are showing encouraging outcomes in addressing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) following sleeve gastrectomy. Additionally, several modifications have been proposed to enhance the efficacy of transoral outlet reduction (TORe), originally developed to treat weight regain due to gastrojejunal anastomotic issues post-RYGB. Endoscopic management of bariatric surgery complications is continuously evolving. The development of new techniques and devices allows endoscopists to provide novel, minimally invasive alternatives that were not possible in the near past. Many techniques, however, are limited to expert centers because they are technically demanding, and specialized training in bariatric endoscopy is still required.

Post bariatric surgery complications, nutritional and psychological status.

Bariatric surgery becomes the final option for managing severe obesity. This study aims to identify the complications, changes in anthropometry, adherence to dietary recommendations, and psychological well-being of post-bariatric surgery patients. An observational study was conducted on 63 post-bariatric surgery patients who had undergone bariatric surgery between two weeks and five years after surgery. The participants were assessed for the complications experienced, current comorbidities, anthropometric changes, dietary intake, and psychological well-being. A three-day, 24-hour diet recall was done to assess the dietary intake of the patients. The mean macronutrient and micronutrient intakes were compared to several available recommendations. The DASS-21 questionnaire was administered to determine the psychological well-being of the participants. The most common complications experienced by patients after bariatric surgery were hair loss (50.8%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) (49.2%), and vomiting (41.3%). There were significant differences in mean weight before (129.5 (33.0) kg/m2) and after (85.0 (32.0) kg/m2) bariatric surgery (p<0.001). The prevalence of clinically severe obesity declined by 55%. Overall, patients had insufficient intake of some nutrients such as protein, fat, calcium, and iron. Majority of the patients experienced a normal level of stress, anxiety, and depression, but some had mild (3.2%), moderate (4.8%), and severe anxiety (1.6%). There were drastic improvements in patients' weight following bariatric surgery. However, there were several complications including nutrient deficiencies. Due to the anatomical changes in the gastrointestinal tract, patients must comply with the dietary and lifestyle changes and follow up with the healthcare professional. A nutrition module will be helpful for patients to prepare for and adapt to the changes after bariatric surgery.