Sleeve gastrectomy with antral resection provides more effective weight loss in patients with super obesity

Obesity is a growing health issue that contributes to numerous diseases and lowers quality of life. In patients with super obesity (BMI > 50 kg/m²), bariatric surgery, particularly laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), is a common treatment option. However, the role of antral resection (AR) in LSG remains unclear, especially in this high-risk population. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of LSG with antral resection (LSG-AR) and LSG with antrum preservation (LSG-AP) on weight loss and postoperative complaints in patients with super obesity.

The medical records of patients with a BMI > 50 kg/m² who underwent LSG between 2016 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Weight data were collected at admission, and at the first, second, and fifth-year follow-up. Patients were divided into two groups based on LSG-AR or LSG-AP procedures.

Seventy-two patients were included. No significant difference was found in postoperative vomiting complaints between the groups (p = 0.67). First-year outcomes showed no significant differences in weight, BMI, or % Total Weight Loss (%TWL). However, second and fifth-year %TWL values were significantly higher in the LSG-AR group (p = 0.003 for both).

LSG-AR provides more effective long-term weight loss in patients with super obesity. Early postoperative vomiting complaints diminish over time, suggesting LSG-AR as a viable one-stage procedure for this patient population.