Long term predictors of success after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

BACKGROUND: To evaluate early, mid and long term efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a definitive management of morbid obesity and to study factors that may predict its success. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the database of patients who underwent LSG as a definitive bariatric procedure, from April 2005 to March 2013. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed. RESULTS: 1395 patients were included in this study. Mean age was 33 years and women:men ratio was 74:26. The mean preoperative BMI was 46 kg/m(2). Operative time was 113 ± 29 min. Reinforcement of staple line was done only in 447 (32%) cases. 11 (0.79%) cases developed postoperative leak, with total number of complications 72 (5.1%) and 0% mortality. Percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) was 42%, 53%, 61%, 73%, 67%, 61%, 59% and 57% at 6 months, 1-7 years. Remission of diabetes (DM), hypertension (HTN) and hyperlipidaemia (HLP) occurred 69%, 54% and 43% respectively. 56 (4%) patients underwent revision surgery, for insufficient weight loss (n = 37) and severe reflux symptoms (n = 19). Mean follow up was 76 ± 19 (range: 6-103) months. Smaller bougie size and leaving smaller antrum were associated with significant %EWL. Bougie ≤36F remained significant in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: This study supports safety, effectiveness and durability of LSG as a sole definitive bariatric procedure. Smaller bougie size and shorter distance from pylorus were associated with significant %EWL.