Surgery for obesity and related diseases : official journal of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery
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Surg Obes Relat Dis · Nov 2012
Multicenter StudyInterim results at 48 weeks of LAP-BAND AP experience (APEX) study: prospective, multicenter, open-label longitudinal patient observational study.
The development of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding marked a breakthrough in minimally invasive bariatric surgery. The unique features of gastric banding, including device adjustability, lack of malabsorption, and easy reversibility, have contributed to its widespread use. Since Food and Drug Administration approval of the first laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, the device design has undergone engineering improvements. The LAP-BAND AP (LBAP) system received Food and Drug Administration approval in 2006. Little is known about the safety and efficacy of this new system. Our objective was to prospectively assess the efficacy and safety of the LBAP system in real-world clinical settings at 50 clinical centers throughout the United States. ⋯ These 48-week interim data demonstrate that the LBAP system offers a safe and effective therapy to reduce weight in severely obese patients.
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Surg Obes Relat Dis · Nov 2012
Multicenter StudyAdding chemoprophylaxis to sequential compression might not reduce risk of venous thromboembolism in bariatric surgery patients.
Anticoagulation, the use of sequential compression devices on the lower extremities perioperatively, and early ambulation are thought to reduce the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) postoperatively and are recommended to reduce VTE risk. However, the evidence on which this recommendation has been based is not particularly strong. We have demonstrated that even a large, multicenter cohort with carefully collected prospective data is inadequate to provide sufficient evidence to support, or refute, this recommendation. ⋯ Sufficient evidence from a clinical trial study to determine whether prophylactic anticoagulation added to compression devices further prevents VTE is not available, and such a trial is likely to be impractical. The data presented are insufficient to make a final recommendation concerning prophylactic treatment to prevent VTE in the 30 days after bariatric surgery.
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Surg Obes Relat Dis · Nov 2012
Randomized Controlled TrialFactors associated with readmission after laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery.
Studies have demonstrated that laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is associated with the greatest readmission rate among bariatric surgeries. Some readmissions might be avoidable. We sought to evaluate the risk factors for readmission in a high-volume bariatric surgery program at a university hospital in the United States. ⋯ Patients with publicly funded insurance are at increased risk of readmission after RYGB. Outpatient mechanisms for managing wound infections and malaise might result in decreased readmissions.
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Surg Obes Relat Dis · Nov 2012
Laparoscopic bariatric surgery for those with body mass index of 70-125 kg/m2.
Data on laparoscopic bariatric surgery in the extremely obese are limited. Technical difficulties, in addition to the patients' severe weight-related co-morbidities, can compromise the safety of bariatric surgery in these patients. Our objectives were to assess the safety and feasibility of laparoscopic bariatric surgery in extremely obese patients and to compare the outcomes of different surgical approaches at a bariatric surgery center of excellence in an academic medical center. ⋯ Laparoscopic bariatric surgery can be performed safely on patients with a BMI of ≥ 70 kg/m(2). A staged approach might offer better weight loss results.
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Surg Obes Relat Dis · Nov 2012
Survey of bariatric surgical patients' experiences with behavioral and psychological services.
Bariatric surgery continues to grow in popularity as a treatment of obesity; however, weight regain and noncompliance with behavioral recommendations remain an issue. Little is known about the type and frequency of services completed by bariatric patients and their satisfaction with these services. However, preliminary research has shown that the use of behavioral and psychological services is less common after surgery. We assessed the behavioral and psychological services completed by bariatric patients before and after surgery, patient satisfaction with the surgery and services, and the relationship between the completed services and the outcomes. The participants were solicited for participation using an on-line support Web site dedicated to obesity and bariatrics. ⋯ The participants in the present sample reported completing few behavioral and psychological services after surgery. However, our findings showed that these services could promote greater weight loss and maintenance. Thus, it is recommended that bariatric facilities and insurance providers consider requiring patients to complete postoperative behavioral modification programs that target improvement in diet and physical activity behaviors.