Safety and effectiveness of conversion from sleeve gastrectomy to banded Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Abstract Background Weight recurrence, suboptimal clinical response and functional disorder (such as reflux) after a Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) are problems that may require conversional surgery. For reflux, conversion to Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is considered effective. Regarding treatment for suboptimal clinical response, the technique of choice remains a subject of debate. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of conversion from SG to banded RYGB (BRYGB). Methods All laparoscopic SG to BRYGB conversions performed between January 2016 and January 2022 were included. Primary outcome was percentage total weight loss (%TWL) after 1-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes consisted of cumulative %TWL, complications (with a focus on ring-related complications), and resolution of associated medical problems. Results We included 50 patients of whom 44 were female. Mean pre-conversion BMI was 37.6 kg/m2. All patients have reached the 1-year follow-up point, however 10 were lost to follow-up. After 1-year mean TWL was 17.8% while mean cumulative TWL, calculated from primary SG, was 32%. A total of 10 complications occurred in 8 patients within 30 days, 6 of which were ≤ CD3a and 4 ≥ CD3b. One MiniMizer was removed for complaints of severe dysphagia. Of the 35 obesity associated medical problems present at screening 5 remained unchanged(14.2%), 15 improved(42.9%) and 15 achieved remission(42.9%). Conclusion Our series of 50 patients undergoing conversion from SG to BRYGB is safe and successful regarding additional weight loss 1 year after conversion, cumulative weight loss and achievement of improvement or remission of comorbidities. Short term complications are comparable to current literature.