Gastric bypass reversal: Surgical indications and results

Abstract

Introduction: Due to its efficacy in the treatment of morbid obesity, roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB) continues to be a frequently performed intervention. However, a small group of patients may develop nutritional and metabolic complications that cannot be controlled with optimal medical treatment. In these cases, it may be necessary to reestablish the continuity of the gastrointestinal tract by reversing the RYGB (R-RYGB).

Aim: To present the indications and results obtained in a series of patients who underwent to R-RYGB.

Materials and Method: Identification and retrospective evaluation of all patients who underwent consecutive R-RYGB in our institution. Demographic and anthropometric characteristics of the original surgery and at the time of the reversal were recorded. Complications were classified according to Clavien-Dindo classification.

Results: Seven patients were identified in whom an R-RYGB was performed. In 2 cases the reversal was due to short bowel syndrome, in 3 cases due to severe hypoglycemia refractory to medical treatment and in 2 cases due to chronic diarrhea. The median age at the time of the reversal was 55 years. The median time from primary surgery to reversal was 77 months. The median hospital stay was 6 days. There were no Clavien-Dindo complications ≥ III. The R-RYGB was able to reverse nutritional and metabolic complications in all cases.

Conclusion: Restoring the continuity of the gastrointestinal tract allows control of nutritional and metabolic complications.