Predictors of marginal ulcer after gastric bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Marginal ulcer (MU) is a common complication following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) with an incidence rate of up to 25%. Several studies have evaluated different risk factors associated with MU with inconsistent findings. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to identify the predictors of MU after RYGB.

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases was conducted through April 2022. All studies that used a multivariate model to assess risk factors for MU after RYGB were included. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for risk factors reported in ≥ 3 studies were obtained within a random-effects model.

Fourteen studies with 344,829 patients who underwent RYGB were included. Eleven different risk factors were analyzed. Meta-analysis demonstrated that Helicobacter pylori (HP) infection (OR 4.97 [2.24-10.99]), smoking (OR 2.50 [1.76-3.54]), and diabetes mellitus (OR 1.80 [1.15-2.80]), were significant predictors of MU. Increased age, body mass index, female gender, obstructive sleep apnea, hypertension, and alcohol use were not predictors of MU. There was a trend of an increased risk of MU associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (OR 2.43 [0.72-8.21]) and a lower risk of MU with proton pump inhibitors use (OR 0.44 [0.11-2.11]).

Smoking cessation, optimizing glycemic control, and eradication of HP infection reduce the risk of MU following RYGB. Recognition of predictors of MU after RYGB will allow physicians to identify high-risk patients, improve surgical outcomes, and reduce the risk of MU.