Sleeve gastrectomy: 5-year outcomes of a single institution

Abstract

Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most recent bariatric surgical procedure to gain universal acceptance by providers and payers. Long-term clinical data on outcomes is limited at this time.

Methods: We retrospectively examined 5-year outcomes (weight loss, complications, and resolution of co-morbid conditions) of patients undergoing SG at our institution.

Results: Our initial SG was performed in 2005, and we operated on 55 consecutive patients who are 5 years out from surgery. Six patients were excluded from the long-term results. Four patients underwent conversion to a duodenal switch, and 2 patients died in the first year outside the perioperative period. Average starting body mass index was 65 kg/m(2). Five-year average percent excess weight loss was 86% (range 50%-103%). Percentage of co-morbidities resolved: hypertension (95%), type 2 diabetes mellitus (100%), hyperlipidemia (100%), and obstructive sleep apnea (100%). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was resolved in 53%, and new GERD symptoms developed in 11% of patients. There was 1 staple line leak (1.9%), no strictures, no gastrointestinal bleeding, and no perioperative deaths.

Conclusion: In this study, SG is a well-tolerated and effective bariatric surgical procedure with good long-term weight loss and resolution of co-morbid medical conditions.