Long-Term Outcomes and Weight Loss After Bariatric Embolization of the Left Gastric Artery

Abstract

Objectives: Bariatric embolization of the left gastric artery is a promising technique to induce weight loss in obese patients. We aimed to assess long-term effects.

Methods: Patients with severe obesity were recruited to undergo left gastric artery embolization via transradial access. We report clinical outcomes and weight loss up to 2 years.

Results: We completed 7 procedures successfully in 7 men with severe obesity after diagnostic coronary angiography. Median weight was 160 kg (interquartile range, 140.0-180.0 kg) and body mass index was 49.4 kg/m² (interquartile range, 43.2-61.7 kg/m²). Acutely, no adverse events were reported other than mild epigastric pain, which subsided within 24 hours with proton pump inhibitors. No delayed gastrointestinal complications were reported up to 2 years after index procedure. One patient died of pulmonary embolism 18 months after the procedure. One patient underwent a second embolization procedure after it was shown that the left gastric artery was patent 18 months after the initial procedure. Compared with baseline in the 6 surviving patients, overall weight loss was 7.7% (range, 3.2%-14.1%).

Conclusions: Bariatric embolization of the left gastric artery may induce weight loss, which appears sustained up to 2 years. Spontaneous recanalization of the left gastric artery may pave the way for repeat procedures and other interventions. Further research is necessary to define the benefits, safety, and indications for this technique.

Keywords: bariatric embolization; cardiovascular prevention; obesity.