Abstract Background Dumping syndrome (DS) is a recognised complication of Roux En-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) and rarely Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG). The prevalence of DS is unclear, with current literature ranging from 10-50%. The condition is characterised by gastrointestinal and vasomotor symptoms resulting in a significant impact on quality of life. This study aimed to prospectively utilise Sigstad scoring to evaluate post-operative patients, investigating the timing of symptom onset and its correlation with pre-existing diabetes, revision surgery, and percentage of Total Body Weight Loss (TBWL). Method We used the Sigstad scoring questionnaire, administered by our bariatric Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS) at outpatient clinics to assess patients for DS between January to May 2024. Data collected included patient demographics, surgery type and date, TBWL, Body Mass Index (BMI), and whether the patient had a diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus type II (DMII). A diagnosis of DS was confirmed if a patients score ³7 points on the Sigstad questionnaire. We explored factors influencing the development of DS. Results In total, 64 patients were evaluated for DS of whom 86% were female and the median age was 44 years (IQR: 35-45). Most patients (67%) had undergone primary RYGB, 19% SG, 11% conversion from SG to RYGB and 70% were assessed within one year of surgery. DS symptoms emerged in 25% of patients, predominantly within the first-year post-operation (60%). The median TBWL was 12% (IQR: 9-22%), showing no correlation to DS onset. Patients with DMII exhibited a higher propensity for DS (66% vs 20%, p=0.029). Patients undergoing revisional surgery also had a higher incidence of DS (33% vs 6%, p=0.117). Conclusion A quarter of patients undergoing bariatric surgery will develop DS, most of whom within the first-year post-surgery. Revisional surgery and pre-existing DMII are the primary predictors in developing DS. There was no observed association between TBWL and DS onset. Further extensive studies are needed to confirm these observations.
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