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Background: Several studies have demonstrated the benefits of replacing trans and saturated fats with unsaturated fatty acids on cardiovascular diseases. We aimed to demonstrate the effect of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fat supplementation on the biochemical and endothelial markers of atherosclerotic disease in obese or overweight non-diabetic elderly patients., Method: Seventy-nine patients were randomly divided into three groups: flaxseed oil, olive oil, and sunflower oil; patients in each group received 30 mL of oil for 90 days. Patients were subjected to anthropometric and bioimpedance assessments; biochemical and endothelial evaluations were performed through ultrasonography of the brachial artery and carotid artery for endothelium-dependent dilation and intima-media thickness assessment, respectively, before and after the intervention. The participants' usual diet remained unchanged., Results: The flaxseed oil group had improved ultra-sensitive C-reactive protein levels (p = 0.074) and reduced carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) (p = 0.028); the olive oil group exhibited an improved apolipoprotein (Apo)B/ApoA ratio (p = 0.021), reduced CIMT (p = 0.028), and improved flow-mediated vasodilation (FMV) (p = 0.054); and similarly, the sunflower oil group showed an improved ApoB/ApoA ratio (p = 0.024), reduced CIMT (p = 0.048), and improved FMV (p = 0.001)., Conclusion: Unsaturated fatty acid supplementation using the three vegetable oils attenuated pro-inflammatory properties and improved prothrombotic conditions. Therefore, introducing or replacing saturated and trans fat with unsaturated fatty acids is beneficial for cardiovascular risk reduction in obese or overweight non-diabetic elderly people. Further studies are needed to determine which unsaturated fat best prevents cardiovascular disease in elderly patients.

Young males represent one of the populations with the steepest increases in the incidence of obesity. They are also prone to significant derangements in sexual health and fertility. Despite a growing number of reports about female reproductive health, in the setting of bariatric surgery, males have received much less attention. In the current review of reproductive abnormalities in severe obese males before and after bariatric surgery, erectile function, hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis status, sex hormones, semen quality, fertility and assisted reproductive techniques, along with analysis of adipokines, gut hormones, and environmental factors are addressed. Available evidence about weight loss benefits, both medical and surgical, are highlighted, along with perspectives for future investigations, which may be relevant for the patient, for the couple, and for the community alike.

Background: Patients with postbariatric bacterial overgrowth were reinvestigated after a follow-up of 15 years. It was hypothesized that systemic associations analogous to those reported for whole gut microbiome would be revealed., Methods: Patients (n = 37, 70.3 % females, 42.4 ± 9.9 years old, preoperative BMI 53.5 ± 10.6 kg/m(2), current BMI 32.8 ± 10.8 kg/m(2)), all submitted to RYGB on account of morbid obesity, were followed during 176.8 ± 25.7 months. Blood tests included fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, liver and pancreatic enzymes, and lipid fractions. Bacterial overgrowth was diagnosed by quantitative culture of gastric fluid in both the excluded remnant and the gastric pouch, with the help of double-balloon enteroscopy. Absolute counts of aerobes and anaerobes in both gastric reservoirs were correlated with nutritional and biochemical measurements, aiming to identify clinically meaningful associations., Results: Patients denied diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, or other symptoms related to bacterial overgrowth. Biochemical profile including enzymes was also acceptable, indicating a stable condition. Positive correlation of bacterial count in either segment of the stomach was demonstrated for BMI and gamma-glutamyl transferase, whereas negative correlation occurred regarding fasting blood glucose., Conclusions: An antidiabetic role along with deleterious consequences for weight loss and liver function are possible in such circumstances. Such phenotype is broadly consistent with reported effects for the whole gut microbiome. Prospective controlled studies including molecular analysis of gastrointestinal fluid, and simultaneous profiling of the entire microbiome, are necessary to shed more light on these findings.

Background: To our knowledge, the frequency of serum chromium deficiency in patients awaiting bariatric surgery has not been determined. This study was designed to assess chromium concentration and its association with glycemic levels and lipid profile in patients prior to bariatric surgery., Methods: This study recruited 73 candidates for bariatric surgery between March and September 2012. Their sociodemographic, anthropometric, and biochemical data were collected., Results: Of the 73 patients, 55 (75.3%) were women (75.34%). Mean patient age was 37.20 ± 9.92 years, and mean body mass index was 47.48 kg/m2 (range, 43.59 to 52.50 kg/m2). Chromium deficiency was observed in 64 patients (87.7%). Correlation analysis showed significant negative relationships between chromium concentration and BMI and zinc concentration and a significant positive relationship between chromium and glycated hemoglobin. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that serum chromium concentration was significantly associated with total cholesterol (β = 0.171, p = 0.048) and triglyceride (β = -0.181, p = 0.039) concentrations., Conclusions: Serum chromium deficiency is frequent in candidates for bariatric surgery and is associated with total cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations. Early nutritional interventions are needed to reduce nutritional deficiencies and improve the lipid profile of these patients.

Background: Mucosal alterations after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for morbid obesity have not been clearly evaluated. This study aims to analyze the mucosal alterations (proliferative status (Ki-67); apoptosis (caspase-3 and BCL-2); hormonal function (gastrin)) in the excluded stomach., Methods: Double-balloon enteroscopy was performed in 35 patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass longer than 36 months. Multiple biopsies of the proximal pouch and the excluded gastric mucosa were collected. Gastric biopsies from 32 non-operated obese patients were utilized as controls. Endoscopic biopsies were cut from tissue blocks fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. Sections 4 μm thick were examined for immunoexpression using the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method., Results: The two groups were comparable for age, gender, gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, and Helicobacter pylori. The mean number of positive gastrin cells was 55.5 (standard deviation (SD) = 11.7) in the control group and 29.6 (SD = 7.9) in the cases, p = 0.0003. Ki-67 proliferative index in cases (body = 24.7%, antrum = 24.9%) was significantly higher compared to controls (body = 15.0% and antrum = 17.7%), p = 0.002 and 0.01, respectively. Caspase-3 immunoexpression was higher in the controls compared to the excluded stomach (46 vs. 31%), p = 0.02. There was no statistical difference between CD3, CD8, and Bcl-2 immunoexpressions in the control and cases., Conclusions: Cell proliferation is increased and apoptosis is downregulated in the excluded gastric mucosa compared to the non-operated obese controls. Alterations in cell turnover and in hormonal secretions in these conditions may be of relevance in long-term follow-up.

Background: Aiming to ascertain whether frequency and severity of knee and foot problems were different between morbid obesity (MO) and superobesity (SO), a prospective clinical study was designed., Methods: Bariatric candidates (N = 81, body mass index 40-81.3 kg/m(2), 43.2 % with SO) were submitted to knee and foot radiologic assessment, baropodometric footprint measurement, and the questionnaires Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS). Main outcome measures were imaging diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis and flatfoot, along with functional impact on activities of daily living estimated by the questionnaires., Results: Knee osteoarthritis was radiologically diagnosed in 74.1 % (60/81), and the entire cohort suffered from flatfoot according to both footprint index and talar-first metatarsal radiographic angle; nevertheless, distribution was not different between SO and MO. However, WOMAC and FAOS scores were markedly worse in SO, affecting joint pain, stiffness, and general mobility. This is the first protocol of our knowledge to address foot and knee derangements in SO., Conclusions: Functional impairment was more severe in SO, despite a morphologic pattern similar to MO. Even though amelioration is probable with weight loss, long-term orthopedic assistance might be required in such circumstances.

There is compelling evidence that bariatric weight loss reduces cardiovascular complications; however, these still tend to be the most common cause of late death after surgical intervention. In a prospective cohort study, correlations of dietary nutrients with indexes of vascular health were sought, with emphasis on vitamin D and calcium. Clinically stable obese outpatient subjects (>60 years old, N = 44) were interviewed about dietary macro and micronutrients. Nutritional assessment targeted anthropometric and bioimpedance analysis (BIA), hematologic counts, lipid profile, glucose homeostasis, and inflammatory markers. Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and brachial flow-mediated dilation (FMD), along with related vascular measurements, were documented, and results were correlated by uni- and multivariate analysis, corrected for known risk factors. IMT, FMD, and also brachial basal flow were positively influenced by vitamin D (P < 0.001). Calcium appeared beneficial for brachial basal flow only (P = 0.010). No association with IMT occurred, and a negative result for FMD was elicited. Also, vitamins A and B12 were advantageous for FMD, whereas iron was deleterious for IMT. Intake of many micronutrients including calcium and vitamin D did not meet recommendations. Vitamin D displayed a beneficial profile regarding vascular health, and more attention to this nutrient should be given, especially concerning obese patients with cardiometabolic risk. Calcium exhibited less straightforward results but deserves focus as well, along with antioxidant vitamin A as well as the B-complex which were mostly deficient in this experience.

Background: Consumption of healthcare has been shown to diminish after bariatric treatment, but utilization of hospital services has not been well documented. Aiming to assess this question, a retrospective study with females was designed., Methods: Yearly outpatient appointments, hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and total biochemical tests during 4 years were registered and compared with the preoperative year. Population (N = 176, all females) comprised 94 bariatric candidates submitted to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB; age 41.4 ± 10.1 years, BMI 52.2 ± 10.6 kg/m(2)), 34 nonoperated obese controls (age 49.4 ± 8.3 years, BMI 33.8 ± 5.5 kg/m(2)), and 48 colorectal surgical controls (age 44.8 ± 8.6 years, BMI 23.8 ± 4.7 kg/m(2)). Nonbariatric obese patients were fairly well-matched, moderate differences involving higher age and comorbidities. Surgical controls were similarly aged but suffered from less comorbidities., Results: Obese nonsurgical participants displayed the highest demand for outpatient visits (10.5 ± 0.9/year, P < 0.001) followed by bariatric and colorectal cases (5.7 ± 0.2 and 3.5 ± 0.8, respectively, P = 0.042). Also biochemical measurements were most often required by clinical controls (61.5 ± 5.1/year, P < 0.001), whereas no difference was detected between bariatric and colorectal patients (28.9 ± 2.2 and 33.8 ± 7.7/year, respectively). Elective and emergency admissions were similar for all groups, and part of the postbariatric assistance was related to plastic surgery., Conclusions: RYGB patients needed 45.8% less outpatient visits and 53.0% less laboratory tests than nonoperated moderately obese cases, even including esthetic operations. Results were comparable to those observed after elective colorectal surgery and remained fairly stable during 4 years.

Background: Accumulated fat is an accepted trigger of inflammation and metabolic syndrome but specific biochemical associations in males and females are still debated. In a prospective study, multiple variables were analyzed to search for gender-related correlations., Methods: Bariatric candidates (n = 94) were consecutively investigated. Age was 34.9 ± 10.4 years (68.1% females) and body mass index (BMI) was 40.8 ± 4.6 kg/m(2). Methods included anthropometrics, inflammatory indices (C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell count (WBC), ferritin) and general biochemical profile., Results: Ferritin, but not CRP or WBC, was substantially more elevated in males. Serum albumin, uric acid, creatinine, and liver enzymes AST and ALT were also higher in men. Even after BMI was adjusted, all differences remained significant, and several, notably ferritin, withstood waist circumference control. Ferritin and CRP correlated with anthropometrics, glucose-related measurements, and liver enzymes, whereas WBC was only associated with triglycerides in females., Conclusions: (1) Males displayed more severe inflammation according to ferritin profile, and also more signs of liver derangement; (2) all differences continued after BMI discrepancies were adjusted for, and ferritin was significant also after control of waist girth; (3) in both genders inflammatory markers often correlated with different anthropometrics, liver enzymes, and markers of glucose homeostasis; and (4) inflammatory and biochemical gender-related dissimilarities might have prognostic implications for cardiovascular risk and other comorbidities, and deserve additional studies.

Background: Obesity can negatively affect pulmonary function tests, with or without clinical symptoms, but the impact of bariatric weight loss is still debated. Aiming to document such profile in a consecutive homogeneous population, a prospective cohort study was undertaken., Methods: Sixty-one patients (100% females, age 40 +/- 8 years, BMI 49 +/- 5 kg/m(2) and without respiratory disease) were enrolled. Spirometric analysis was carried out to compare preoperative respiratory pattern with outcome after 6 and 12 months. Variables included vital capacity (VC), expiratory reserve volume (ERV), forced expiratory volume (1 s) (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV). Correlation of results with weight loss was examined., Results: The following initial variables exhibited significant difference when compared to the 12-month postoperative control: FVC (P = 0.0308), FEV1/FVC (P = 0.1998), MVV (P = 0.0004) and ERV (P = 0.2124). Recovery of FVC and FEV1/FVC occurred earlier by 6 months. The most seriously depressed preoperative finding was ERV, which even after 1 year still remained inadequate., Conclusions: (1) Pulmonary limitations were diagnosed in approximately one third of the population. (2) Changes were demonstrated for FVC, FEV1/FVC, ERV and MVV. (3) FEV1 and FEV1/FVC were acceptable due to the absence of an obstructive pattern. (4) Two variables increased by 6 months (FEV1/FVC and ERV), whereas recovery for others was confirmed after 1 year. (5) The only exception was ERV which continued below the acceptable range.

Severe obesity has been associated with adverse effects on physical capacity. In a prospective study, the aerobic capacity of severely obese patients was measured in order to observe the physiological response to weight loss from bariatric surgery. Sixty-five consecutive patients (40.4 +/- 8.4 years old; 93.8% female; body mass index = 49.4 +/- 5.4 kg/m(2)) were evaluated before bariatric surgery and then 6 and 12 months after surgery. Aerobic capacity was assessed with a scientific treadmill to measure maximal oxygen consumption (VO(2max)), heart rate, blood pressure, time on the treadmill, and distance walked (modified Bruce test). For the three observational periods, VO(2max) was 25.4 +/- 9.3, 29.8 +/- 8.1, and 36.7 +/- 8.3 ml/kg/min; time on the treadmill was 5.4 +/- 1.4, 6.4 +/- 1.6, and 8.8 +/- 1.0 min; and distance walked was 401.8 +/- 139.1, 513.4 +/- 159.9, and 690.5 +/- 76.2 m. For these variables, significant results (p = 0.0000) were observed for the two postoperative periods in relation to the preoperative period. Severely obese individuals increased their aerobic capacity after successful bariatric surgery. The data also suggests that a positive and progressive relationship between weight loss and improvement in fitness as a moderate loss of weight 6 months after surgery already showed some benefit and an additional reduction in weight was associated with a better performance in the aerobic capacity tests at the 12-month follow-up.

Background: Fatty liver disease is a problem in both bariatric patients and in patients with moderate obesity. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha has been frequently measured in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with or without diabetes, but less is known about interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10., Methods: Moderately obese patients (n = 80) with histologically proven steatosis (n = 29) and NASH (n = 51) were recruited. Serum levels of cytokines were documented along with clinical information. The aim was to identify the correlates of such biomolecules in a stable population., Results: Diabetes tended to be more associated with NASH (52.5% instead of 41.4%, P = 0.015), with no difference of age, gender, or body mass index regarding steatosis. For the entire population, cytokine changes were not significant, including TNF-alpha and IL-6. In diabetics only, all markers tended to diminish with NASH, especially IL-10 (P = 0.000). IL-10 correlated with homeostatic model assessment index (P = 0.000) and other variables of glucose homeostasis in diabetes, thus representing a major marker of the disease., Conclusions: (1) Generally inconsistent changes in pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines occurred when NASH was globally compared to steatosis. (2) In contrast, downregulation of IL-6 and IL-10 was perceived in diabetics with NASH. (3) Arterial hypertension did not play a role in these circumstances. (4) IL-10 maintained strong correlations with glucose metabolism indices. (5) TNF-alpha could not be incriminated for progressive liver damage, as values failed to increase in NASH. (6) Investigations of IL-10 and other counterregulatory cytokines are lacking in this context and deserve further studies.

Background: Collapsed skin folds after bariatric weight loss are often managed by plastic procedures, but changes in dermal composition and architecture have rarely been documented. Given the potential consequences on surgical outcome, a prospective histochemical study was designed. The hypothesis was that a deranged dermal fiber pattern would accompany major changes in adipose tissue., Methods: Female surgical candidates undergoing postbariatric abdominoplasty (n=40) and never obese women submitted to control procedures (n=40) were submitted to double abdominal biopsy, respectively in the epigastrium and hypogastrium. Histomorphometric assessment of collagen and elastic fibers was executed by the Image Analyzer System (Kontron Electronic 300, Zeiss, Germany)., Results: Depletion of collagen, but not of elastic fibers, in cases with massive weight loss was confirmed. Changes were somewhat more severe in epigastrium (P=0.001) than hypogastrium (P=0.007). Correlation with age did not occur., Conclusions: (1) Patients displayed lax, soft skin lacking sufficient collagen fiber network. (2) Elastic fiber content was not damaged, and was even moderately increased in epigastrium; (3) Preoperative obesity negatively correlated with hypogastric collagen concentration; (4) Future studies should pinpoint the roles of obesity, and especially of massive weight loss, on dermal architecture and response to surgery.

Background: Weight loss and nutritional status 5 or more years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was prospectively documented. The hypothesis was that even after clinical adaptation, imbalances might still occur., Methods: Seventy-five consecutive patients (age 49.3 +/- 10.6 years, 89.3% females) were recruited 83.4 +/- 14.3 months after the intervention. Weight loss and nutritional abnormalities were registered., Results: Body mass index (BMI) was 56.5 +/- 10.0 preoperatively, 29.4 +/- 6. 2 by 24 months and 34.4 +/- 14.6 when last seen. Major current deficit occurred for magnesium (32.1% of the patients), hemoglobin (50.8%), iron (29.8%), ferritin (36.0%), zinc (40.5%), vitamin B(12) (61.8%), vitamin D(3) (60.5%), and beta-carotene (56.8%). Low preoperative measurements had already been unveiled for iron, transferrin, zinc, and vitamin B(12). Total drug consumption tended to decrease after operation, and present findings correlated with excess weight loss (EWL). Also presence of diabetes and BMI value were predictors of long-term EWL, along with biochemical profile by 2 years. Multivitamin supplementation and gastrointestinal complaints partially correlated with nutritional results., Conclusions: (1) Good initial weight loss with moderate late regain, anemia, and multiple nutrient deficits was the common pattern. (2) Massive weight loss, frequent vomiting, dumping syndrome, and women in reproductive age were risk factors for hemoglobin or vitamin deficits, whereas superobesity, diabetes, and use of multiple drugs were associated with EWL result. (3) Most laboratory tests became stable by 2 years and along with BMI correlated with late EWL. (4) Two-year nutritional investigation is especially recommended because of its long-term predictive value.

Background: Maternal metabolic profile and nutritional course of pregnancy after bariatric interventions is incompletely known. Their impact on birth weight has also not been hitherto addressed. Aiming to document such variables, a retrospective study was undertaken., Methods: Women previously submitted to silastic ring Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, who conceived after 0-5 years (n = 14), were investigated. Intake of selected macro- and micronutrients, representative laboratory measurements, and correlation of these findings with birth weight and time to conception was documented., Results: Mean calorie intake was restricted to about 1,800 kcal/day. Protein (71 +/- 17 g/day) and supplementary iron (60 mg/day) were barely adequate, and calcium and vitamin B(12) did not meet current recommendations, only folic acid being optimal. Biochemical monitoring reflected these inconsistencies, with occasional low values for serum albumin (4.1 +/- 0.4 g/dL), hemoglobin (11.4 +/- 1.5 g/dL), iron (78 +/- 50 mug/dL) and vitamin B(12) (193 +/- 102 pg/mL) but not folate. Lipids, glucose, and uric acid were much better than before the anti-obesity intervention. Reduced plasma lipids, glucose, and uric acid were associated with larger birth weight, albeit within the normal range., Conclusions: (1) Anemia as well as additional nutritional deficits during pregnancy were not totally eliminated, despite dietary guidance and micronutrient supplementation; (2) alleviation of metabolic comorbidities was demonstrated, and improved normalization predicted higher birth weight; (3) energy and folate intake was sufficient, but other nutrients probably did not reach ideal levels; (4) recent dietary guidelines for this population represent a step forward, but additional studies are needed.

Background: Systemic inflammation is a hallmark of obesity as well as of other chronic diseases, usually indicating increased cardiovascular risk; however, studies with arterial documentation in morbid obesity are extremely scarce. Aiming to analyze correlation between inflammatory markers, pulse-wave velocity (PWV), and intima-media thickness (IMT), a prospective study was designed., Methods: Morbidly obese patients [n = 29, age 46.3 +/- 5.2 years, 82.8% females (24/29), BMI 44.9 +/- 5.2 kg/m(2)] with C-reactive protein/CRP > 5 mg/l but free from trauma, infection, inflammation, or cancer were enrolled in this study. All were clinically stable candidates for elective bariatric operation. Variables included comorbidities, metabolic profile, inflammatory and coagulatory markers, and arterial morpho-functional indices., Results: Patients suffered from arterial hypertension (72.4%), metabolic syndrome (58.6%), and other comorbidities, but PWV and IMT were less aberrant than expected. Univariate correlation confirmed worse prognosis for those with metabolic syndrome and other accepted clinical risk factors. Multivariate confirmation was achieved for triglycerides (PWV) and D-dimer (IMT), but not for CRP, serum amyloid A, or neutrophil count, which were reversed in certain circumstances., Conclusions: (1) Metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, hypertriglyceridemia and D-dimer were positively correlated with arterial measurements, whereas inflammatory and coagulatory markers often exhibited paradoxical association; (2) stratification confirmed that at certain levels of systemic inflammation or body mass index, acute phase proteins and other markers became unreliable or shifted signals; (3) when controlled for blood pressure, PWV was only moderately elevated, and IMT remained normal; (4) taken together, these findings are consistent with a unique interaction between adiposity, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk in seriously obese subjects.

Background: Abdominal skin overhang is not unusual after massive weight loss induced by antiobesity interventions, and poor quality of life should be feared in such circumstances, especially in women. However, long-term results of quality of life have not been often documented in this setting. With the purpose of addressing this question, a prospective study was designed., Methods: Patients (n = 16, 100% females, age 40.1 +/- 8.0 years) submitted to standard or combined circumferential abdominoplasty were recruited for this study. All had undergone open Roux-en-Y gastric bypass between 24 and 48 months earlier with stable weight in the last 12 months. Quality of life was assessed by a trained psychologist employing of a semistructured interview, the Adaptative Operationalized Diagnostic Scale (AODS), covering affectivity/personal relations, productivity, social/cultural performance, and organic/somatic health., Results: Circumferential abdominoplasty was followed by few problems (serous fluid collections in 18.8%, anemia because of blood loss in 6.3%). The best overall response to the AODS questionnaire corresponded to the social and cultural domain where 81.3% of the patients had excellent adaptation (level 1). For the other three domains, results were remarkably similar with 62.5% of the tests displaying the highest value of adaptation and rare total failures., Conclusions: (1) The current operation corresponded to the expectations of the patients with few complications and favorable body contouring result. (2) Quality of life, quantified by means of adaptation and social adjustment scores, was adequate in most circumstances. (3) Outstanding responses for social/cultural performance were registered with encouraging findings for affectivity/personal relations, productivity, and organic/somatic health as well.

Background: The normal stomach is virtually sterile but the effect of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) on bacterial flora in the used (very small proximal pouch) and unused (large bypassed) gastric chambers is not known. In a prospective study, this variable was documented., Methods: Bariatric subjects (n=37) were submitted to endoscopic examination of both gastric reservoirs via FUJINON enteroscope model EN-450P5, 7.3 +/- 1.4 years after RYGBP. Age was 42.4 +/- 9.9 years (70.2% females), preoperative BMI was 53.5 +/- 10.6, and current BMI was 32.6 +/- 7.8 kg/m2. Methods included quantitative culture of gastric secretion along with gastric pH and lactulose/hydrogen breath test., Results: None of the subjects displayed diarrhea, malabsorption or other complaints suggestive of GI bacterial overgrowth. Elevated counts of bacteria and fungi were identified in both chambers, with predominance of aerobes and anaerobes, but not molds and yeasts, in the proximal stomach. Gram-positive cocci, bacilli and coccobacilli represented the majority of the isolates. Gastric pH was neutral (pH 7.0 +/- 0.2) in the proximal pouch, whereas the distal chamber mostly but not always conserved the expected acidity (pH 3.3 +/- 2.2, P<0.001). The breath test for bacterial overgrowth was positive in 40.5% of the population., Conclusions: 1) Frequent colonization of both gastric chambers was detected; 2) Aerobes, anaerobes and fungi were represented in both situations; 3) Gastric pH as well as bacterial count was higher in the functioning proximal stomach; 4) Breath test was positive in 40.5% of the subjects; 5) Clinical manifestation such as diarrhea, malabsorption or pneumonia were not demonstrated; 6) Further histologic and microbiologic studies of both the stomach and the small bowel are recommended.

Background: Morbidly obese patients frequently display asymptomatic chronic activation of acute phase response, with potentially adverse metabolic and cardiovascular consequences. Nutritional preparations to improve this phenomenon have rarely been administered. Aiming to investigate the supplementation of flaxseed flour, a source of omega-3 fatty acids, a prospective randomized double-blind cross-over study was designed., Methods: Outpatient obese subjects (n=41) were clinically and biochemically screened, and results for 24 randomized subjects are shown. Age was 40.8 +/- 11.6 years (83.3% females) and body mass index (BMI) was 47.1 +/- 7.2 kg/m2. Flaxseed flour (Farinha de Linhaca Dourada LinoLive, Cisbra, Brazil) in the amount of 30 g/day (5 g of alpha-linolenic acid - omega-3) and an equal mass of placebo (manioc flour) were administered for 2 weeks each. Variables included general biochemical investigation, white blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA) and fibronectin., Results: No intolerance was registered. Body weight and general biochemical indices remained stable. Initial CRP and SAA were elevated (13.7 +/- 9.9 and 17.4 +/- 8.0 ). WBC (8100 +/- 2100/mm3) and fibronectin (463.2 +/- 61.3 mg/dL) were acceptable but in the upper normal range. Corresponding findings after supplementation of flaxseed were 10.6 +/- 6.2 mg/L, 14.3 +/- 9.2 mg/L, 7300 +/- 1800/mm3 and 412.8 +/- 38.6 respectively (P<0.05). No change during the control period regarding baseline occurred when placebo was randomized to be given first; however, when it followed omega-3 supplementation, CRP and SAA recovered, whereas WBC and fibronection remained depressed during those 2 weeks (7500 +/- 2100/mm3 and 393.2 +/- 75.8 mg/dL, P<0.05)., Conclusions: 1) Various inflammatory markers were elevated in the studied population, although not necessarily exceeding the normal range; 2) Significant reduction could be demonstrated; 3) Some persistent effects of flaxseed supplement 2 weeks after discontinuation were observed.

Background: Few studies have investigated the influence of obesity on the structural and functional performance of the feet, and its potential implications for the musculoskeletal system. Computerized baropodometric analysis (CPA) is a new investigation for the center of pressure, plantar surface area and plantar pressure while standing on the platform of a specialized apparatus. CPA is relevant to gait and posture, and may be important as well for postoperative musculoskeletal disorders. We investigated the biomechanical dysfunctions of foot pressure by means of CPA in bariatric and non-bariatric subjects., Methods: Subjects (n=67, 71.6% females, age 40.8 +/- 13.8 years, BMI 31.4 +/- 11.0 kg/m(2)) included obese (BMI 30.0-60.0 kg/m(2), n=27), overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m(2), n=12) and normal-weight controls (BMI 20.0-24.9 kg/m(2), n=28) of equivalent age and gender. Variables included center of pressure location, plantar ground contact area and pressure, and pressure patterns (maximum and average) in different regions of the foot, during quiet standing on the platform of the baropodometer., Results: A significant increase was detected for peak pressure on forefoot and plantar ground contact area in the obese group, compared to control and overweight cases, during quiet standing., Conclusion: Excessive forefoot pressure and enlarged support area were a consequence of obesity, mirroring the efforts of the obese subject to acquire a wider and stronger support base. Although this is originally a physiological change, it may result in maladaptative and degenerative musculoskeletal consequences. Re-education exercises may be advised, in combination with bariatric surgery in the morbidly obese, aiming at restoration of normal gait and posture, as well as at minimization of stress damage to bones and joints in the axial skeleton.

Background: Mild lymphedema of lower limbs and eventually abdomen is not exceedingly rare in morbid obesity. However, few large symptomatic masses have been reported. In a consecutive series of patients, all requiring resection of the lesion before bariatric treatment, clinical features and surgical findings are described, aiming to clarify the nature of this intricate problem., Methods: Subjects (n=4, 50% females, age 34.0+/-13.7 years (19-53), BMI 56.4+/-10.5 kg/m(2) (44.1-73.1) displayed lesions on the anteromedial aspect of the thigh (n=3) and hypogastrium (n=1). All reported episodes of intertrigo of local skin-folds in the preceding years, managed by local care and antibiotics. The mass was described as a serious nuisance, impairing walking, dressing and personal hygiene., Results: The mass was surgically removed without requirement for blood transfusion except in the case of one huge mass. Complications were relatively minor and consisted of partial skin dehiscence and lymph leakage for 2-3 weeks. Histologically, a complex pattern was observed including skin hypertrophy, edema, fibrosis, foci of microabscesses and dilated blood vessels, along with the pathognomonic lymphangiectasia. On follow-up to 6 months, improvement or restoration of the ability to walk occurred, with no additional skin infection and no recurrence., Conclusions: 1) Surgical treatment was effective. 2) Functional rehabilitation was achieved. 3) No recurrence was observed within the follow-up period.

Background: Rhabdomyolysis (RML) is a recently recognized complication of bariatric operations, but it is not known whether creatine kinase (CK) levels along with clinical markers are able to define the course and outcome., Methods: Bariatric patients (n=324) were reviewed retrospectively. Substantially elevated plasma CK after operation was identified in 4.9% (16/324). The affected population was divided into Group I (n=11, 68.8%) with CK 1050-8000 IU/L and no conspicuous muscle pain, weakness or swelling, and Group II (n=5, 31.2%) displaying CK >8000 IU/L and severe pain and dysfunction. The main outcome measures were CK concentration, frequency of renal failure, need for hemodialysis and mortality., Results: Group I subjects compared to Group II were younger (37.7 +/- 10.9 vs 44.0 +/- 5.5 years, P<0.05) and predominantly females (72.7% vs 40.0%, P<0.05). Peak CK values were definitely lower (2811 +/- 952 vs 28136 +/- 19000 IU/L, P<0.001), and none progressed to renal failure (0% vs 40.0%, P<0.05). No difference was detected regarding preoperative BMI (50.8 +/- 8.1 vs 54.6 +/- 7.0 kg/m(2), NS), duration of operation (5.3 +/- 1.6 vs 5.6 +/- 2.1 hours, NS) or types of anesthetic drugs (basically fentanyl, nitrogen oxide and halothane/isoflurane)., Conclusions: 1) Demographic features, nominally gender and age, were different between the two degrees of RML; 2) Renal failure and hemodialysis were a danger only in patients with massive CK elevation and muscle pain; 3) Moderate CK increase was very well tolerated and rarely entailed major clinical symptoms; 4) Early diagnosis, fluid replenishment and general supportive therapy probably contributed to avert mortality.

Background: Functional co-morbidities of excess body weight such as gait problems are never life-threatening like those associated with certain metabolic sequelae. Nevertheless, they may interfere with quality of life and also act as a mirror of muscle, bone and joint stress. In this prospective study, the goal was to document dynamic aspects of gait in severely obese subjects., Methods: An outpatient population (age 47.2+/-12.9 years, 94.1% females, BMI 40.1+/-6.0 kg/m2, n=34) had their gait analyzed by an experienced physical therapist. Variables included speed, cadence, stride, support base and foot angle, which were compared to reference values for the Brazilian population., Results: All variables were significantly lower in the obese patients, except for support base which was increased. Speed was 73.3+/-16.3 vs 130 cm/s, cadence was 1.4+/-0.2 vs 1.8 steps/s, stride was 106.8+/-13.1 vs 132.0 cm, and support was 12.5+/-3.5 vs 10.0 cm (P<0.05)., Conclusions: 1) Widespread cinematic impairment was the rule in the studied population. 2) These findings are consistent with poor skeletal muscle performance, high metabolic expenditure and constant physical exhaustion. 3) Attention should be paid not only to the metabolic management but also to the physical rehabilitation required in cases of advanced obesity.

Background: Postural deviations in morbidly obese individuals may contribute to low self-esteem and to long-term adverse effects on bones and joints. In a case-control study, the axial skeleton was investigated, to disclose the main abnormalities found in obese compared to non-obese groups., Methods: 2 groups were compared. Group 1, severely obese patients (n= 32), age 41.5 +/- 8.2 years, BMI 49.4 +/- 6.6 kg/m2, 93.8% females, and group 2 non-obese (n= 30), age 43.5 +/- 5.8 years, BMI 24.6 +/- 5.1 kg/m2, 96.7% females, had their posture analyzed through clinical examination and radiological imaging. Variables measured were anterior, lateral and posterior angular deviation from the vertical body axis at the head, shoulders, pelvis, Thales triangle, spine, knees, ankles and feet. Data are shown as a percentage of abnormal angles in the 2 groups., Results: On anterior analysis of the 2 groups, disturbances affected head (37.5% vs 13.3%), Thales angle (78.1% vs 53.3%), knees (84.4% vs 33.3%), legs (59.4% vs 30.0%) and support base (59.4% vs 26.7%) (P<0.05). On posterior view, the spine was the deranged segment (87.5% vs 36.7%) (P<0.05), and on lateral assessment, 100% of the results were abnormal., Conclusions: 1) Individuals with morbid obesity present important postural alterations. 2) Seriously altered posture was the rule for the obese population in this study, especially in the spine, knees and feet. 3) Most patients had compatible clinical complaints, but they rarely associated the bone and joint pain with the obesity and axial skeleton deviations. 4) Planned physical activity should be part of the treatment of severe obesity, in order to correct deviations, prevent new ones, and improve quality of life.

Background: Pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains incompletely known, and oxidative stress is one of the mechanisms incriminated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of liver oxidative stress in NAFLD affecting morbidly obese patients., Methods: 39 consecutive patients with BMI >40 kg/m2 submitted to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass were enrolled, and wedge liver biopsy was obtained during operation. Oxidative stress was measured by concentration of hydroperoxides (CEOOH) in liver tissue., Results: Female gender was dominant (89.7%) and median age was 43.6 +/- 11.1 years. Histology showed fatty liver in 92.3%, including 43.6% with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), 48.7% with isolated steatosis and just 7.7% with normal liver. Liver cirrhosis was present in 11.7% of those with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Concentration of CEOOH was increased in the liver of patients with NASH when compared to isolated steatosis and normal liver (0.26+/- 0.17, 0.20+/- 0.01 and 0.14+/- 0.00 nmol/mg protein, respectively) (P < 0.01). Liver biochemical variables were normal in 92.3% of all cases, and no difference between NASH and isolated steatosis could be demonstrated., Conclusions: 1) Nonalcoholic steatosis, steatohepatitis and cirrhosis were identified in substantial numbers of morbidly obese patients; 2) Concentration of hydroperoxides was increased in steatohepatitis, consistent with a pathogenetic role for oxidative stress in this condition.

Background: Serious nutritional complications after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) are infrequent. In a retrospective study of patients operated during a 68-month period, malnutrition was investigated to analyze circumstances associated with nutritional failure., Methods: In 236 consecutive RYGBPs, 11 patients with severe malnutrition were identified (4.7%) with age 45.1 +/- 10.6 years (10 females/1 male) and initial BMI 54.6 +/- 8.4 kg/m(2)., Results: In these 11 patients, the derangement was diagnosed 17.9 +/- 15.8 months after RYGBP, following defined events in 63.6% (gastric stenosis, associated diseases ) or mostly exaggeration of expected symptoms in 36.4% (vomiting without endoscopic abnormalities). BMI then was 31.4 +/- 8.6 kg/m(2) (42.5 +/- 9.9% total reduction, or 2.4 +/- 2.1% decrease/month), and serum albumin and hemoglobin were 24.0 +/- 8.2 g/L and 97.0 +/- 23.0 g/L respectively. Edema was present in 45.4% (5/11), hospitalization was required in 54.5% (6/11), and 18.2% (2/11) eventually died., Conclusions: Serious malnutrition was unusual but not exceedingly rare in this series. Exogenous precipitating factors were clearly identified in 63.6% of the patients. Careful clinical and nutritional follow-up is recommended to prevent these uncommon but potentially dangerous complications.

Background: Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome and peripheral neuropathy are very uncommon in bariatric surgical practice. The literature indicates that these complications tend to strike patients receiving unbalanced diets or undergoing rapid weight-loss., Methods: In a retrospective analysis of the initial experience of a bariatric team in the city of Belem, Pará, in northern Brazil, 5 cases were diagnosed in the first year, 4 of them following gastric bypass and the last one after therapy with an intragastric balloon., Results: All episodes followed periods of severe vomiting, which certainly interfered with intake of food as well as of routine vitamin supplements, resulting in severe polyneuropathy and other neurologic manifestions, mostly damaging motility of lower limbs. Therapy consisted of pharmacologic doses of vitamin B1 along with restoration of adequate diet and multivitamin prescriptions. Physical therapy was employed to prevent atrophy and accelerate normalization of muscle strength. All patients responded to this program after variable intervals without significant sequelae., Conclusions: Thiamine-related neurologic derangements were a cause for much concern and prolonged morbidity in this series, but responded to vitamin B1 replenishment. A high degree of clinical suspicion in bariatric patients and urgent therapeutic intervention whenever postoperative vomiting persists for several days, especially during the first 2-3 months after operation, are the safest approach to these uncommon episodes. It is speculated whether peculiarities in the regional diet of this area in Brazil could have influenced the high incidence of the neurologic aberrations.