Long-term outcome of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy from a single center in mainland China

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is at present the most popular bariatric procedure due to its significant weight loss, remission of co-morbidities, and acceptable morbidity. But, there are not many studies showing its long term efficacy and safety in Chinese patients. The aim of this study is to give five results of LSG in terms of weight loss, co-morbidity (Type 2 diabetes mellitus) resolution and possible complications from a single center in mainland China.

This is a retrospective study of 218 obese patients who underwent LSG by a single surgeon from June 2011 to June 2016. Patients were subjected to standardized perioperative evaluation and education program. Patients were followed up after 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months and yearly thereafter. Long term outcomes in terms of weight loss in kg, % of total weight loss (%TWL), % excess weight loss (%EWL), % resolution of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and % complication rate are studied.

The %TWL was 33.8 ± 5.9, 28.8 ± 8.9, 26.6 ± 6.9, 18.0 ± 7.6, 15.0 ± 7.1 and %EWL was 62.8 ± 16.9 (n-96), 49.5 ± 18.5 (n-43), 39.8 ± 13.1 (n-15), 32.2 ± 2.1 (n-13), 19.5 ± 8.7 (n-2) at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years, respectively. T2DM remission rate was 72.9% at one year. There were no major complications like leak, stricture, staple line bleeding, port site herniation and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). There was no mortality. Most common early complication was port site dehiscence (10%), managed conservatively; none requiring readmission. No reoperation was done for weight regain.

LSG is a safe and effective procedure with good five year results. Weight regain remains a concern two years post surgery. Standardization of LSG is important to reduce major complications.