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Abstract Background Previous studies indicated that the iron (Fe)/manganese (Mn) ratio in forage of sheep was significantly higher on scrapie-afflicted farms than on farms in other scrapie categories. This study was conducted to examine whether Fe and Mn in forage of sheep varied in general according to the scrapie status of different areas in the country. Copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were also included because of a possible relation to scrapie. Methods The country was subdivided into seven Areas (I-VII). Three Areas (I, IV, VII) were designated scrapie-free (never diagnosed or eradicated) and three as scrapie-endemic (II, III, VI); status of Area V was taken as unsettled. Of the harvest 2007 1552 samples were analysed from 344 farms all over the country, mostly grass silage from plastic bales (>90%) and from the first cut (70% or more). Results were expressed as mg kg-1 dry matter. Results Fe varied enormously from less than 100 mg kg-1 to 5000 mg kg-1. Mn varied nearly thirtyfold (17-470 mg kg-1). Fe concentration was significantly lower in Area I than in Areas II, V and VI. Mn concentration was significantly higher in Areas I, IV and VII than in Areas II, III, V and VI. The Fe/Mn ratio was significantly less in Area I than in the other areas (except Area IV). Mean Cu concentration was 6.6-8.3 mg kg-1 and the mean Zn concentration was 24-29 mg kg-1. They differed significantly in some areas. Conclusions 1) Fe tended to be in lower amounts in sheep forage in scrapie-free than in endemic areas; 2) Mn was in higher amounts in forage in scrapie-free than endemic areas; 3) the Fe/Mn ratio was lower in scrapie-free than in endemic areas; 4) the Fe/Mn ratio may possibly be used as an indicator of scrapie status; 5) Cu and Zn in sheep forage were not related to scrapie; 6) further study on the role of Fe and Mn in the occurrence of scrapie in Iceland is needed.

Abstract Background Preliminary studies indicated decreased glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity in blood of ewes on scrapie-afflicted farms. Other studies have shown decreased GPX activity in brain of prion-infected mice and in prion-infected cells in vitro. The aim of this study was to examine the GPX activity in blood as well as the distribution of GPX-activity levels from ewes on farms in scrapie-afflicted areas in Iceland. Methods Blood samples were collected from 635 ewes (non-pregnant [n = 297] and pregnant [n = 338]) on 40 farms in scrapie-afflicted areas during the years 2001–2005, for analysis of GPX activity. The farms were divided into three categories: 1. Scrapie-free farms (n = 14); 2. Scrapie-prone farms (earlier scrapie-afflicted, restocked farms) (n = 12); 3. Scrapie-afflicted farms (n = 14). For comparison, 121 blood samples were also collected from non-pregnant ewes on one farm (farm A) in a scrapie-free area (scrapie never registered). Chi-square test was used to test for normal distribution of GPX-results, and Kruskal-Wallis test to compare GPX-results between categories. Results The GPX-results appeared to be biphasically distributed in ewes in all three scrapie categories and on farm A. The presumptive breaking point was about 300 units g Hb-1. About 30–50% of the GPX-results from ewes in all three scrapie categories were below 300 units g Hb-1 but only about 13% of the GPX-results from ewes on farm A. The mean GPX activity was highest on farm A, and was significantly lower on scrapie-prone farms than on scrapie-free or scrapie-afflicted farms (non-pregnant and pregnant ewes: P < 0.005, respectively; non-pregnant and pregnant ewes combined: P < 0.0005). Conclusions 1) the distribution of GPX-results in blood of Icelandic ewes apparently has a biphasic character; 2) the GPX-results were higher in ewes on one farm in a scrapie-free area than in ewes on farms in the scrapie-afflicted areas; 3) GPX-activity levels were significantly lowest on earlier scrapie-afflicted, restocked farms, which might have a bearing on the recurrence of sporadic scrapie on these farms; 4) further study on the possible role of GPX activity in the occurrence of scrapie in Iceland is warranted.

Purpose: With the global epidemic of obesity, the importance of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is greater than ever before. Performing these surgeries requires academic training and the completion of a dedicated fellowship training program. This study aimed to develop guidelines based on expert consensus using a modified Delphi method to create the criteria for metabolic and bariatric surgeons that must be mastered before obtaining privileges to perform MBS., Methods: Eighty-nine recognized MBS surgeons from 42 countries participated in the Modified Delphi consensus to vote on 30 statements in two rounds. An agreement/disagreement among ≥ 70.0% of the experts was regarded to indicate a consensus., Results: Consensus was reached on 29 out of 30 statements. Most experts agreed that before getting privileges to perform MBS, surgeons must hold a general surgery degree and complete or have completed a dedicated fellowship training program. The experts agreed that the learning curves for the various operative procedures are approximately 25-50 operations for the LSG, 50-75 for the OAGB, and 75-100 for the RYGB. 93.1% of experts agreed that MBS surgeons should diligently record patients' data in their National or Global database., Conclusion: MBS surgeons should have a degree in general surgery and have been enrolled in a dedicated fellowship training program with a structured curriculum. The learning curve of MBS procedures is procedure dependent. MBS surgeons must demonstrate proficiency in managing postoperative complications, collaborate within a multidisciplinary team, commit to a minimum 2-year patient follow-up, and actively engage in national and international MBS societies., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Importance: Results from long-term follow-up after biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (DS) are scarce., Objective: To compare weight loss, health outcomes, and quality of life 10 years or more after Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass (RYGB) and DS surgery in patients with severe obesity-that is, a body mass index (BMI; calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) of 50 to 60., Design, Setting, and Participants: This open-label randomized clinical trial was conducted at 2 academic bariatric centers in Sweden and Norway. Sixty patients with a BMI of 50 to 60 were included from March 1, 2006, to August 31, 2007. Data were analyzed from August 12, 2022, to January 25, 2023., Interventions: Laparoscopic RYGB or laparoscopic DS., Main Outcomes and Measures: The main outcome was change in BMI after 10 or more years. Secondary outcomes included anthropometric measures, lipid and glycemic profiles, bone mass density, adverse events, gastrointestinal tract symptoms, and health-related quality of life., Results: Forty-eight of the original 60 patients (80%) were assessed after a median of 12 (range, 9-13) years (mean [SD] age, 48.0 [6.0] years; 35 women [73%]). At follow-up, the mean BMI reductions were 11.0 (95% CI, 8.3-13.7) for RYGB and 20.3 (95% CI, 17.6-23.0) for DS, with a mean between-group difference of 9.3 (95% CI, 5.4-13.1; P < .001). Total weight loss was 20.0% (95% CI, 15.3%-24.7%) for RYGB and 33.9% (95% CI, 27.8%-40.0%) for DS (P = .001). Mean serum lipid levels, except high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hemoglobin A1c, improved more in the DS group during follow-up. Bone mass was reduced for both groups from 5 to 10 years, with lower bone mass after DS at 10 years. Quality-of-life scores (Obesity-Related Problem Scale and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey) were comparable across groups at 10 years. The total number of adverse events was higher after DS (135 vs 97 for RYGB; P = .02). More patients in the DS group developed vitamin deficiencies (21 vs 11 for RYGB; P = .008) including 25-hydroxyvitamin D deficiency (19 for DS vs 9 for RYGB; P = .005). Four of 29 patients in the DS group (14%) developed severe protein-caloric malnutrition, of whom 3 (10%) underwent revisional surgery., Conclusions and Relevance: In this randomized clinical trial, BMI reduction was greater after DS, but RYGB had a better risk profile over 10 years. Biliopancreatic diversion with DS may not be a better surgical strategy than RYGB for patients with a BMI of 50 to 60., Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00327912.

Background: Mini-gastric bypass is a new surgical method for the treatment of morbid obesity. The method was introduced at Oslo University Hospital in 2016., Material and Method: We performed a retrospective analysis of prospective data collected over a two-year period following mini-gastric bypass between 1 March 2016 and 1 April 2021., Results: Altogether, 241/1611 (15 %) patients who underwent surgery at the Centre for Morbid Obesity in the five-year period received a mini-gastric bypass. A total of 147/241 (61 %) met the inclusion criteria and 125/147 (85 %) were included in the study. Average age was 47.4 years (standard deviation 10.7), and 81/125 (64.8 %) were women. Average weight was 134 (25) kg before and 90 (20) kg after surgery. Total average weight loss two years after surgery was 33.1 % (9.1). Before surgery and two years post-surgery, 20.0 % and 27.2 % had gastroesophageal reflux, 38.3 % and 8.8 % had type II diabetes and 84.8 % and 44.0 % had dyslipidaemia, respectively. Altogether, 12 % developed anaemia, 6.3 % iron deficiency and 23.1 % vitamin D deficiency. Early complications (< 30 days) were recorded in 6/125 (4.8 %) patients and late complications (> 30 days) in 7/125 (5.6 %) patients. The results were comparable to all the quality indicators in the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry Norway., Interpretation: Mini-gastric bypass can be performed with few complications and with a beneficial effect on secondary comorbidity up to two years after surgery.

Background: Chronic abdominal pain (CAP) after bariatric surgery is not extensively explored and may impact the postoperative outcomes., Objective: To compare the prevalence of patient-reported chronic abdominal pain (CAP) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Secondarily, we compared other abdominal and psychological symptoms and quality of life (QoL). Preoperative predictors of postoperative CAP were also explored., Setting: Tertiary referral centers for bariatric surgery in Norway., Methods: Analyses of 2 separate prospective longitudinal cohort studies evaluating CAP, abdominal and psychological symptoms and QoL before and 2 years after RYGB and SG., Results: Follow-ups were attended by 416 patients (85.8%), 300/416 (72.1%) were females and 209/416 (50.2%) were RYGB procedures. At follow-up, the mean age was 44.9 (10.0) years, BMI 29.5 (5.4) kg/m 2 , and total weight loss 31.6 (10.3) %. The prevalence of CAP was 28/236 (11.9%) before and 60/209 (28.7%) after RYGB (P < .001) and 32/223 (14.3%) before and 50/186 (26.9%) after SG (P < .001). Gastrointestinal symptom rating scale scores showed greater deterioration of diarrhea and indigestion after RYGB and reflux after SG. The improvement in depression symptoms was greater after SG, as well as several QoL scores improved more after SG. Patients with CAP after RYGB experienced deterioration in several QoL scores, while these scores improved in patients with CAP after SG. Preoperative hypertension, bothersome reflux symptoms, and CAP predicted postoperative CAP., Conclusions: The prevalence of CAP increased comparably after RYGB and SG, with worsening of gastroesophageal reflux after SG and greater deterioration of diarrhea and indigestion after RYGB. In patients with CAP at follow-up, several QoL scores improved more after SG than RYGB., (Copyright © 2023 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: The aims of this study were to investigate modifications in pain sensitivity after RYGB and to explore associations between pain sensitivity and weight loss, chronic abdominal pain, total body pain, anxiety, depression, and pain catastrophizing., Methods: In total, 163 patients with obesity were examined with a cold pressor test for pain sensitivity before and two years after RYGB. Two aspects of pain sensitivity were registered: Pain intensity (numeric rating scale, range 0-10) and pain tolerance (seconds). Associations between pain sensitivity and the explanatory variables were assessed with linear regression., Results: Two years after RYGB the pain intensity increased (mean ± SD 0.64 ± 1.9 score units, p<0.001). Pain tolerance decreased (7.2 ± 32.4 s, p=0.005). A larger reduction in body mass index was associated with increased pain intensity, β=-0.090 (95 % CI -0.15 to -0.031, p=0.003), and decreased pain tolerance β=1.1 (95 % CI 0.95 to 2.2, p=0.03). Before surgery, participants with chronic abdominal pain reported 1.2 ± 0.5 higher pain intensity (p=0.02) and had 19.2 ± 9.3 s lower pain tolerance (p=0.04) than those without abdominal pain. No differences in pain sensitivity were observed between participants who did or did not develop chronic abdominal pain after RYGB. Pain sensitivity was associated with symptoms of anxiety but not with pain catastrophizing, depression or bodily pain., Conclusions: The pain sensitivity increased after RYGB and was associated with larger weight loss and anxiety symptoms. Changes in pain sensitivity were not associated with development of chronic abdominal pain after RYGB in our study., (© 2023 Walter de Gruyter GmbH, Berlin/Boston.)

Objective: Patient satisfaction is viewed as essential for a successful outcome of bariatric surgery. Few studies have explored long-term satisfaction prospectively. This study aimed to examine pre- and post-surgery predictors for satisfaction with follow-up care, and change in outcome satisfaction from one to 5 years after bariatric surgery., Methods: A sample of 210 participants was recruited from a single treatment center. Self-reported and medical record data regarding mental and somatic health, body image, follow-up attendance, and weight loss were obtained before, 1 year, and 5 years after surgery., Results: Over 90% of the participants were satisfied with the results and treatment 1 year after surgery, while 69% had their outcome expectations fulfilled and 62% were satisfied with the follow-up 5 years after surgery. A shift from initial satisfaction to unfulfillment of expectations was predicted by baseline body dissatisfaction, greater percentage of weight regain after initial weight loss, and more discomfort from somatic symptoms 5 years after surgery. In addition to symptom discomfort, worry about surgery predicted satisfaction with follow-up care., Conclusion: At 5 years, one-fifth of those initially satisfied reported that bariatric surgery had failed to meet their expectations. This suggests that outcome expectations related to weight loss, somatic symptoms, and body image need to be addressed both before and after bariatric surgery., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (© 2022 The Authors. Obesity Science & Practice published by World Obesity and The Obesity Society and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is widely applied. Few studies have evaluated patient-reported abdominal symptoms after SG., Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of chronic abdominal pain (CAP) and symptom characteristics after SG., Setting: Oslo University Hospital and Voss Hospital., Methods: We performed a longitudinal prospective cohort study of patients operated on with SG at two tertiary referral centers. For broad assessments of abdominal pain and symptoms, consultations were performed and questionnaires retrieved before and 2 years after SG. The definition of CAP or recurrent abdominal pain lasting for more than 3 months was sustained. Preoperative predictors of CAP were explored., Results: Of 249 patients at baseline, 207 (83.1%) had follow-up consultations. Mean preoperative body mass index was 43.9 (6.0) kg/m 2 , and 181 patients (72.7%) were female. Total weight loss was 31.9% (10.4%). CAP was reported in 32 of 223 patients (14.3%) before and in 50 of 186 patients (26.9%) after SG (P =.002). All mean gastrointestinal symptoms rating scale questionnaire scores increased after SG, and they were higher in patients with CAP. Symptoms of depression decreased but were more prevalent in patients with CAP at follow-up. Most quality-of-life scores increased after SG. However, patients with CAP had lower scores (except for physical functioning). Preoperative bothersome Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale reflux symptoms, study center, and younger age seemed to predict CAP after SG., Conclusion: The prevalence of patient-reported CAP increased after SG. Patients reporting CAP had reduced quality-of-life scores., (Copyright © 2021 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are associated with an increased risk of skeletal fractures despite a normal areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and low bone turnover, possibly due to reduced bone material strength. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) enables a substantial and persistent weight loss and resolution of obesity related comorbidities such as T2D. However, the procedure induces a decrease in aBMD and increased bone turnover and fracture rate. To our knowledge, changes in bone material strength after RYGB have not been explored. This study aimed to evaluate changes in factors influencing bone quality; bone material strength, aBMD and bone turnover markers, in a population with morbid obesity undergoing RYGB and whether these changes differed in participants with and without T2D. We also sought to assess factors associated with bone material strength and bone mineral density in obese subjects before and after RYGB., Methods: We examined 34 participants before and one year after RYGB, of whom 13 had T2D. Bone material strength index (BMSi) was evaluated by impact microindentation, aBMD and body composition by Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, levels of bone turnover markers and calciotropic hormones were estimated from fasting serum samples. Participants with and without T2D were comparable before surgery, with the exception of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA 1c )., Results: Preoperatively, BMSi was inversely associated with BMI, β unadjusted -1.1 (-1.9 to -0.28), R 2 =0.19, p=0.010, and this association remained significant after adjusting for age and gender. After RYGB the participants had lost a mean±SD of 33.9±10.9kg, 48.7±14.2 % of total body fat, increased physical activity, unchanged vitamin D levels, and all but one of the 13 participants with T2D were in diabetes remission. BMSi increased from 78.1±8.5 preoperatively to 82.0±6.4 one year after RYGB, corresponding to an increase of 4.0±9.8 in absolute units or 6.3±14.0 %, p=0.037. The increase was comparable in participants with and without T2D. In subjects with T2D, a larger decrease in HbA 1c was associated with a larger increase in BMSi β unadjusted -9.2 (-16.5 to -1.9), R 2 =0.47, p=0.019. Bone turnover markers (CTX-1 and PINP) increased by 195.1±133.5 % and 109.5±70.6 %, respectively. aBMD decreased by 3.9±5.5 % in the lumbar spine, 8.2±4.6 % in the femoral neck, 11.6±4.9 % in total hip and 9.4±3.8 % in total body., Conclusion: Our findings indicate that bone material strength improves despite an increase in bone turnover and a decrease in aBMD one year after RYGB. Trends were statistically comparable in participants with and without T2D. However, improved glucose control was associated with improved bone material strength in participants with T2D., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a common surgical procedure for treatment of morbid obesity. RYGB induces considerable and sustained weight loss, and remission of obesity related-comorbidities. While studies have suggested negative effects of RYGB on bone health, long-term data are lacking. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of aBMD below the expected range for age, osteopenia, osteoporosis and low-energy fractures in a defined patient cohort 10 years after RYGB. Secondly, we wanted to identify factors associated with increased risk of aBMD z-score or t-score of -1.1 or lower 10 years after RYGB., Methods: Patients undergoing RYGB surgery from June 2004 to December 2006 at the Department of Morbid Obesity and Bariatric Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, a tertiary referral centre for treatment of morbid obesity, were invited to a 10 year follow-up. Follow-up visits included morning fasting blood samples, clinical examination, anthropometric measures and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)., Results: Out of 194 patients eligible for the study, 124 attended the 10 year follow-up and 122 (63%) were examined with DXA. Mean (SD) age was 50.3 (9.0) years, 118 (97%) were of Caucasian ethnicity, 94 were females (77%), of whom 41 (44%) were postmenopausal. Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) was noted in 37 participants (31%) and vitamin D deficiency (value below 50 nmol/L) and insufficiency (value below 75 nmol/L) in 40 (33%) and 91 (75%), respectively. Among the 63 participants who were premenopausal females or males 49 years or younger the prevalence of areal bone mineral density (aBMD) in the lower range of normal (z-score -1.1- to -1.9) was 30% (n = 19) and aBMD below the expected range for age (z-score ≤ -2.0) was noted in 8% (n = 5). Among the 59 participants who were postmenopausal females or males 50 years or older, the prevalence of osteopenia (t-score -1.1 to -2.4) was 51% (n = 30) and osteoporosis (t-score ≤ -2.5) was 27% (n = 16). The bone resorption markers CTX-1 and PINP were higher in participants with aBMD z-score or t-score of -1.1 or lower compared to participants with aBMD z-score or t-score of -1.0 or higher. Preoperative hypothyroidism, or higher age, postmenopausal status, BMI < 35 kg/m 2 , SHPT or higher PINP levels at 10 year follow-up were independently associated with aBMD z-score or t-score of -1.1 or lower 10 years after RYGB. Eighteen participants (15%) reported a clinical low-energy fracture after RYGB. In addition, vertebral fracture assessment by DXA revealed that 10 participants (8%) had experienced at least one moderate to severe morphometric vertebral fracture., Conclusion: Ten years after RYGB 27% of postmenopausal females and males 50 years or older were osteoporotic, and 8% of premenopausal females and males 49 years or younger exhibited aBMD below the expected range for age. The prevalence of fragility fractures was high. SHPT, higher age, postmenopausal status or higher PINP levels at 10 years and preoperative hypothyroidism were all independent risk factors for aBMD z-score or t-score of -1.1 or lower 10 years after RYGB., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Bone marrow adipose tissue (BMAT) has been postulated to mediate skeletal fragility in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) induces a substantial weight loss and resolution of comorbidities. However, the procedure induces increased bone turnover and fracture rates. No previous study has evaluated biopsy-measured BMAT fraction preoperatively and after RYGB. In this study, we aimed to investigate BMAT fraction of the hip in participants with and without T2D preoperatively and 1 year after RYGB and explore factors associated with BMAT change. Patients with morbid obesity scheduled for RYGB were examined preoperatively and 1 year after RYGB. Forty-four participants were included and preoperative examinations were possible in 35. Of these, 33 (94%) met for follow-up, 2 were excluded, and BMAT estimation was not possible in 1. Eighteen (60%) of the participants were females and 11 (37%) had T2D. Preoperative BMAT fraction was positively associated with glycosylated hemoglobin and negatively associated with areal bone mineral density (aBMD). After RYGB, BMAT fraction decreased from 40.4 ± 1.7% to 35.6 ± 12.8%, p = 0.042, or with mean percent change of 10.7% of preoperative BMAT fraction. Change in BMAT fraction was positively associated with change in body mass index (BMI) and total body fat. In females, we observed a mean percent reduction of 22.4 ± 19.6%, whereas in males BMAT increased with a mean percent of 6.8 ± 37.5%, p = 0.009. For males, changes in estradiol were associated with BMAT change; this was not observed for females. In participants with and without T2D, the mean percent BMAT reduction was 5.8 ± 36.9% and 13.5 ± 28.0%, respectively, p = 0.52. We conclude that a high BMAT seems to be associated with lower aBMD and poorer glycemic control in obese subjects. After RYGB, we observed a significant decrease in BMAT. The reduction in BMAT did not differ between participants with and without T2D, but appeared sex specific. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc., (© 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Background: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is associated with increased risk of bone fractures. Malabsorptive procedures may be associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism and detrimental effects on bone health. We aimed to compare the effects of standard and distal gastric bypass on bone turnover markers 2 years after surgery., Methods: Patients with body mass index (BMI) 50-60 kg/m 2 (n = 113) were randomized to standard or distal gastric bypass, 105 patients (95%) completed 2-year follow-up. Serum C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX-1), procollagen type I N-propeptide (PINP), and bone-derived alkaline phosphatase (BALP) was measured at baseline and up to 2 years after surgery. ANCOVA and linear mixed models were used to compare groups., Results: The levels of bone turnover markers increased significantly in both groups, with no statistically significant difference between groups. Two years after standard and distal gastric bypass mean (SD) CTX-1 were 0.81 (0.32) and 0.83 (0.31) μg/L (p = 0.38), mean PINP was 77.6 (23.2) and 77.7 (29.3) μg/L (p = 0.42), and BALP 47.9 (21.9) vs. 50.7 (19.6) μg/L (p = 0.38), respectively. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that PINP and BALP correlated positively (p = 0.01 and p < 0.001) with PTH, but only BALP was significantly higher in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (p = 0.001). Type of surgery, vitamin D serum concentrations, and 2-year BMI were all independently associated with PTH levels., Conclusion: A comparable increase in bone turnover markers 2 years after standard and distal gastric bypass was observed. There was a higher prevalence of secondary hyperparathyroidism after distal gastric bypass, but this did not impact bone turnover markers., Trial Registration: Clinical Trials.gov number NCT00821197.

Background: Bariatric surgery has been performed at Oslo University Hospital since 2004. We wished to describe patient characteristics, use of surgical methods and perioperative complications in the period 2004-14., Material and Method: We performed a retrospective analysis of prospective data collected for the period 2004-14. Complications include events during hospitalisation and up to 6-8 weeks postoperatively., Results: Altogether 2 127 patients underwent surgery for morbid obesity, whereof 1 468 were women. Average age and body mass index were 42 years (range 17-73) and 46.2 kg/m2 (range 26-92). A total of 512 had a body mass index ≥ 50 kg/m2. Obesity-related sequelae were registered in 1 196 patients before surgery. Gastric bypass was performed in 1 966 patients, gastric sleeve resection in 122 (17 of these later underwent duodenal switch) and duodenal switch in 56 patients. All patients were operated laparoscopically, and four procedures were converted to laparotomy. Median hospitalisation time was two days (range 1-78). Complications were registered in 209 patients, 75 of whom had severe complications (grade ≥ IIIb on the Clavien-Dindo classification system). Patients with a body mass index ≥ 50 kg/m2 had a higher incidence of complications (12.5 % vs 8.9 %). Altogether 67 patients underwent further surgery. Six patients died, two of whom more than 30 days after the operation. The incidence of complications was reduced during the period., Interpretation: Bariatric surgery may be performed laparoscopically with a low incidence of complications and short hospitalisation times. A large proportion of the patients who underwent surgery had obesity-related sequalae.

Background: Knowledge of optimal diagnostic workup, etiology, and response to treatment of chronic abdominal pain after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is limited., Objective: To define the etiology of chronic abdominal pain presenting at the 5-year follow-up after RYGB and to evaluate response to treatment., Setting: Oslo University Hospital (tertiary referral center for obesity surgery)., Methods: Of 234 patients operated during a randomly selected 12-month period, 165 (71%) returned for 5-year follow-up, and 160 responded to study questionnaires. Of these, 54 (34%) reported chronic abdominal pain and were invited to participate in a structured diagnostic and treatment algorithm. These patients were contacted for the evaluation of their response to treatment., Results: Fifty-one of 54 patients (94%) reporting chronic abdominal pain at the 5-year follow-up were included in the study. Of the 45 patients with onset of symptoms post-RYGB, 28 (62%) underwent one or more radiologic evaluations, 10 (22%) underwent endoscopy, and 13 (29%) underwent laparoscopy. Diagnosis and treatment were established for 34 patients (76%), whereas 11 (24%) had abdominal pain of unknown cause. The most common etiology was internal herniation (n = 6), dumping (n = 6), food intolerance (n = 6), gallstones (n = 5), and irritable bowel syndrome (n = 4). After a median follow-up of 13.0 months (standard deviation, 11.5), 37 (82%) patients reported remission or improvement of symptoms, 6 had unchanged symptoms, and 2 patients were lost to follow-up., Conclusions: The etiology of long-term chronic abdominal pain post-RYGB is diverse. A multidisciplinary team can help most patients with dedicated follow-up, but a subset of patients has symptoms of unknown etiology., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Objectives: Patients are at risk of anemia post Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). We sought to determine the prevalence of anemia and related nutritional deficiencies 5 years after RYGB and to evaluate adherence to nutritional supplements with iron, vitamin B12, and folate., Material and Methods: Patients operated with RYGB 2004-2006 were eligible for evaluation. Blood samples were collected and use of nutritional supplements was recorded preoperatively, and at outpatients' consultations 1, 2, and 5 years postoperatively. Of 203 patients operated, 184 (91%) completed the 5 year follow-up and were included in the study. Of these, 97% had valid measurements of hemoglobin both at baseline and after 5 years., Results: During the 5 years after RYGB, the prevalence of anemia increased from 4% preoperatively to 24% in females, and from 0% to 7% in males. Ferritin levels decreased gradually in both genders. Iron deficiency increased from 6% preoperatively to 42% at 5 years in females, and from 0% to 9% in males. Vitamin B12 deficiency was not altered while folate deficiency decreased from 10% preoperatively to 1% at 5 years. Five years after surgery 25% reported the use of supplements with iron, while 83% used vitamin B12 and 65% used multivitamins with folate., Conclusions: We observed a long-term increase in anemia and iron deficiency after RYGB in both genders, but most pronounced in women. Our postoperative protocol for prevention of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies appear acceptable. Iron status and iron supplementation seems to need stronger emphasis during follow-up after RYGB.

Background: The preferred surgical procedure for treating morbid obesity is debated. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are relevant for evaluation of the optimal bariatric procedure., Methods: A total of 113 patients with BMI from 50 to 60 were randomly assigned to standard (n = 57) or distal (n = 56) Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Validated PROMS questionnaires were completed at baseline and 2 years after surgery. Data were analyzed using mixed models for repeated measures and the results are expressed as estimated means and mean changes., Results: Obesity-related quality of life improved significantly after both procedures, without significant between-group differences (- 0.4 (95% CI = - 8.4, 7.2) points, p = 0.88, ES = 0.06). Both groups had significant reductions in the number of weight-related symptoms and symptom distress score, with a mean group difference (95% CI) of 1.4 (- 0.3, 3.3) symptoms and 5.0 (2.9. 12.8) symptom distress score points. There were no between-group differences for uncontrolled eating (22.0 (17.2-26.7) vs. 28.9 (23.3-34.5) points), cognitive restraint (57.4 (52.0-62.7) vs. 62.1 (57.9-66.2) points), and emotional eating (26.8 (20.5-33.1) vs. 32.6 (25.5-39.7) points). The prevalence of anxiety was 33% after standard and 25% after distal RYGB (p = 0.53), and for depression 12 and 9%, respectively (p = 0.76)., Conclusions: There were no statistically significant differences between standard and distal RYGB 2 years post surgery regarding weight loss, obesity-related quality of life, weight-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, or eating behavior., Trial Registration: Clinical Trials.gov number NCT00821197.

Background: Bile acids have been proposed as key mediators of the metabolic effects after bariatric surgery. Currently no reports on bile acid profiles after duodenal switch exist, and long-term data after gastric bypass are lacking., Objective: To investigate bile acid profiles up to 5 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch and to explore the relationship among bile acids and weight loss, lipid profile, and glucose metabolism., Settings: Two Scandinavian University Hospitals., Methods: We present data from a randomized clinical trial of 60 patients with body mass index 50-60 kg/m 2 operated with gastric bypass or duodenal switch. Repeated measurements of total and individual bile acids from fasting serum during 5 years after surgery were performed., Results: Mean concentrations of total bile acids increased from 2.3 µmol/L (95% confidence interval [CI], -.1 to 4.7) at baseline to 5.9 µmol/L (3.5-8.3) 5 years after gastric bypass and from 1.0 µmol/L (95% CI, -1.4 to 3.5) to 9.5 µmol/L (95% CI, 7.1-11.9) after duodenal switch; mean between-group difference was -4.8 µmol/L (95% CI, -9.3 to -.3), P = .036. Mean concentrations of primary bile acids increased more after duodenal switch, whereas secondary bile acids increased proportionally across the groups. Higher levels of total bile acids at 5 years were associated with lower body mass index, greater weight loss, and lower total cholesterol., Conclusions: Total bile acid concentrations increased substantially over 5 years after both gastric bypass and duodenal switch, with greater increases in total and primary bile acids after duodenal switch. (Surg Obes Relat Dis 2017;0:000-000.) © 2017 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. All rights reserved., (Copyright © 2017 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Importance: Up to one-third of patients undergoing bariatric surgery have a body mass index (BMI) of more than 50. Following standard gastric bypass, many of these patients still have a BMI greater than 40 after peak weight loss., Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of standard gastric bypass vs distal gastric bypass in patients with a BMI of 50 to 60., Design, Setting, and Participants: Double-blind, randomized clinical parallel-group trial at 2 tertiary care centers in Norway (Oslo University Hospital and Vestfold Hospital Trust) between May 2011 and April 2013. The study included 113 patients with a BMI of 50 to 60 aged 20 to 60 years. The 2-year follow-up was completed in May 2015., Interventions: Standard gastric bypass (alimentary limb, 150 cm) and distal gastric bypass (common channel, 150 cm), both with a biliopancreatic limb of 50 cm and a gastric pouch of about 25 mL., Main Outcomes and Measures: Primary outcome was the change in BMI from baseline until 2 years after surgery. Secondary outcomes were cardiometabolic risk factors, nutritional outcomes, adverse events, gastrointestinal symptoms, and health-related quality of life., Results: At baseline, the mean age of the patients was 40 years (95% CI, 38-41 years), 65% were women, mean BMI was 53.5 (95% CI, 52.9-54.0), and mean weight was 158.8 kg (95% CI, 155.3-162.3 kg). The mean reduction in BMI was 17.8 (95% CI, 16.9-18.6) after standard gastric bypass and 17.2 (95% CI, 16.3-18.0) after distal gastric bypass, and the mean between-group difference was 0.6 (95% CI, -0.6 to 1.8; P = .32). Reductions in mean levels of total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were greater after distal gastric bypass than standard gastric bypass, and between-group differences were 19 mg/dL (95% CI, 11-27 mg/dL ) and 28 mg/dL (95% CI, 21 to 34 mg/dL), respectively (P < .001 for both). Reductions in fasting glucose levels and hemoglobin A1c were greater after distal gastric bypass. Secondary hyperparathyroidism and loose stools were more frequent after distal gastric bypass. The number of adverse events and changes in health-related quality of life did not differ between the groups. Importantly, 1 patient developed liver failure and 2 patients developed protein-caloric malnutrition treated by elongation of the common channel following distal gastric bypass., Conclusions and Relevance: Distal gastric bypass was not associated with a greater BMI reduction than standard gastric bypass 2 years after surgery. However, we observed different changes in cardiometabolic risk factors and nutritional markers between the groups., Trial Registration: Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00821197.

Background: Little is known about the psychological prerequisites for weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery. A first step in investigating whether existing knowledge of conservative weight loss treatment is applicable for lifestyle interventions postoperatively is to compare specific psychological characteristics at baseline. The aim of this study was to compare patients scheduled for bariatric surgery with patients receiving conservative treatment for morbid obesity on measures of behavioral and psychosocial characteristics considered predictors of their adoption of and adherence to long-term lifestyle recommendations., Methods: Baseline clinical and questionnaire data from the prospective "Oslo Bariatric Surgery Study" were used to examine potential differences between bariatric surgery patients (n = 301) and patients receiving conservative weight loss treatment (n = 261)., Results: The surgical group was characterized by their younger age (43.8 vs. 46.2 years, p <0.01), higher percentage of women (79.1 vs. 70.1 %, p <0.05), and higher Body Mass Index (BMI; 45.0 vs. 41.9 kg/m(2), p <0.001). A multiple logistic regression analysis, adjusting for group differences in BMI, gender, and age, showed that the surgical group had higher self-efficacy (Odds ratio; OR = 3.44, 95 % Confidence interval; CI 1.65, 7.14), more positive outcome expectations (OR = 1.53, 95 % CI 1.23, 1.89), and plans that were more explicit for changing their eating behaviors (OR = 1.80, 95 % CI 1.06, 1.93). The surgical patients were also less ready to change physical activity levels (OR = 0.59, 95 % CI 0.48, 0.73), had tried more types of unhealthy weight loss methods in the past (OR = 1.16, 95 % CI 1.01, 1.33), drank soda more frequently (OR = 1.24, 95 % CI 1.02, 1.50), had fewer binge eating episodes (OR = 0.38, 95 % CI 0.20, 0.71), and had more depressive symptoms (OR = 1.19, 95 % CI 1.09, 1.29)., Conclusions: Patients opting for bariatric surgery had more positive expectations of the treatment outcomes and stronger beliefs in their ability to achieve these outcomes. Those starting conservative treatment had stronger beliefs in readiness to change physical activity levels. Future studies should explore the effect of interventions for bariatric surgery patients, promoting postoperative physical activity and stress realistic outcome expectations. The potential effects of incorporating this knowledge in intervention strategies remain to be explored.

Background: We describe an evaluation of the effects of partial Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) reversal on postprandial hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia, insulin and GLP-1 levels., Case Summary: A 37 year old man was admitted with neuroglycopenia (plasma-glucose 1.6mmol/l) 18 months after RYGB, with normal 72h fasting test and abdominal CT. Despite dietary modifications and medical treatment, the hypoglycaemic episodes escalated in frequency. Feeding by a gastrostomy tube positioned in the gastric remnant did not prevent severe episodes of hypoglycaemia. A modified reversal of the RYGB was performed. Mixed meal tests were done perorally (PO), through the gastrostomy tube 1 (GT1), 4 weeks (GT2) after placement and 4 weeks after reversal (POr), with assessment of glucose, insulin and GLP-1 levels., Results: Plasma-glucose increased to a maximum of 9.6, 5.4, 6.5 and 5.8mmol/l at the PO, GT1, GT2 and POr tests respectively. The corresponding insulin levels were 2939, 731, 725 and 463pmol/l. A decrease of plasma-glucose followed: 2.2, 3.0, 3.9 and 2.9mmol/l respectively and insulin levels were suppressed at 150min: 45, 22, 21 and 14pmol/l, respectively. GLP-1 levels increased in the PO test (60min: 122pmol/l, 21 fold of basal), but was attenuated in the two latter tests (12-23pmol/l at 60min)., Conclusions: Reduction of plasma-glucose, insulin and GLP-1 excursions and symptoms were seen after gastric tube placement and partial RYGB reversal. This attenuation of GLP-1 response to feeding could reflect an adaptation to nutrients., (Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: A substantial proportion of severely obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery have not developed disease as a consequence of obesity. Little is known about the effects of bariatric surgery on health-related quality of life (HRQL) in this patient group. In a prospective study at a public hospital, we compared HRQL in gastric bypass patients with and without obesity-related disease before and 2 years after surgery., Methods: HRQL was assessed in 232 severely obese patients before, 1 year, and 2 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. We used a general HRQL questionnaire, the Short Form 36, and an obesity-specific questionnaire, the Obesity-related Problems scale. The patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of obesity-related disease (n = 146) or not (n = 86) before surgery. We defined obesity-related disease as having at least one of the following conditions: type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, coronary heart disease, obstructive sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or osteoarthritis. Linear mixed models were used to analyze the HRQL outcomes., Results: Before surgery, patients with no obesity-related disease reported equal HRQL compared with patients with obesity-related disease. Two years after gastric bypass, substantial improvements in all subscales of Short Form 36 and in Obesity-related Problems scale were observed in both groups, and the improvements were similar in 7 out of 8 subscales of Short Form 36 as well as for the Obesity-related Problems scale., Conclusions: Baseline HRQL was similar in patients with and without obesity-related disease prior to gastric bypass. After surgery, patients with no comorbidity had similar positive changes in HRQL as patients with one or several comorbidities. These findings indicate that other factors than obesity-related disease are at least as important for severely obese patients' impaired HRQL.

Importance: There is no consensus as to which bariatric procedure is preferred to reduce weight and improve health in patients with a body mass index higher than 50., Objective: To compare 5-year outcomes after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (gastric bypass) and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (duodenal switch)., Design, Setting, and Participants: Randomized clinical open-label trial at Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway, and Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden. Participants were recruited between March 17, 2006, and August 20, 2007, and included 60 patients aged 20 to 50 years with a body mass index of 50 to 60. The current study provides the 5-year follow-up analyses by intent to treat, excluding one participant accepted for inclusion who declined being operated on prior to knowing to what group he was randomized., Interventions: Laparoscopic gastric bypass and laparoscopic duodenal switch., Main Outcomes and Measures: Body mass index and secondary outcomes including anthropometric measures, cardiometabolic risk factors, pulmonary function, vitamin status, gastrointestinal symptoms, health-related quality of life, and adverse events., Results: Sixty patients were randomly assigned and operated on with gastric bypass (n = 31) and duodenal switch (n = 29). Fifty-five patients (92%) completed the study. Five years after surgery, the mean reductions in body mass index were 13.6 (95% CI, 11.0-16.1) and 22.1 (95% CI, 19.5-24.7) after gastric bypass and duodenal switch, respectively. The mean between-group difference was 8.5 (95% CI, 4.9-12.2; P < .001). Remission rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome and changes in blood pressure and lung function were similar between groups. Reductions in total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and fasting glucose were significantly greater after duodenal switch compared with gastric bypass. Serum concentrations of vitamin A and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were significantly reduced after duodenal switch compared with gastric bypass. Duodenal switch was associated with more gastrointestinal adverse effects. Health-related quality of life was similar between groups. Patients with duodenal switch underwent more surgical procedures related to the initial procedure (13 [44.8%] vs 3 [9.7%] patients; P = .002) and had significantly more hospital admissions compared with patients with gastric bypass., Conclusions and Relevance: In patients with a body mass index of 50 to 60, duodenal switch resulted in greater weight loss and greater improvements in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, and glucose levels 5 years after surgery compared with gastric bypass while improvements in health-related quality of life were similar. However, duodenal switch was associated with more surgical, nutritional, and gastrointestinal adverse effects., Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00327912.

Background: Few long-term reports with high rates of follow-up are available after gastric bypass. We report changes in weight, co-morbidity, cardiovascular risk, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) 5 years after gastric bypass., Methods: Patients who had gastric bypass (2004-2006) were included. Prospective data were reviewed. Long-term complications, cardiovascular risk factors, and HRQoL were evaluated, and the 10-year risk for coronary heart disease was estimated (Framingham risk score). Outcomes were compared in patients with body mass index (BMI)<50 and ≥50 kg/m(2)., Results: A total of 184 of 203 patients (91%) met to follow-up. The mean ± SD preoperative BMI was 46 ± 5 kg/m(2), and the mean ± SD age was 38 ± 9 years; 75% were women. Thirty-two percent of the patients had a BMI ≥50 kg/m(2), and 30% had type 2 diabetes. Follow-up was 63 ± 5 months. After 5 years, total weight loss was 27% ± 11%. Remission of type 2 diabetes had occurred in 67%. The prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidemia, sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome had decreased. HRQoL was improved. The Framingham risk score was reduced (5.6% versus 4.6%; P = .021). Sixty-one patients (33%) had long-term complications, most commonly chronic abdominal pain (10%). BMI was 33 ± 5 and 37 ± 7 kg/m(2) in patients with preoperative BMI<50 and ≥50 kg/m(2), but changes in metabolic, cardiovascular risk profile and HRQoL were broadly similar., Conclusions: Beneficial effects on weight loss, cardiovascular risk, and HRQoL were documented 5 years after gastric bypass in morbidly and super-obese patients., (Copyright © 2014 American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA) have introduced specific criteria to define the 'optimization' of the metabolic state and glycaemic 'remission' of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) after bariatric surgery, respectively. Our objective was to assess the percentage of patients achieving these criteria. Data were collected for body mass index, glycaemic markers, lipids, blood pressure, hypoglycaemia and medication usage from 396 morbidly obese T2DM patients who underwent bariatric surgery in two centres and followed up for 2 years. At year 1, 14% of patients achieved the IDF criteria and 38% the ADA criteria, whereas at 2 years 8 and 9% satisfied these criteria, respectively. A relatively low proportion of patients achieved optimization of the metabolic state and T2DM remission. These patients may potentially benefit from the combination of bariatric surgery and adjuvant medical therapy to achieve optimal metabolic outcomes., (© 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)