Severe erosive esophagitis after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy associated with hiatal hernia

TAIWAN: According to a study published in Obesity Surgery, the male population and post-operative hiatal hernia are independent variables for an increased severity of erosive esophagitis (EE) following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

Modern-day obesity is a global problem that has a negative influence on health and the economy.

In bariatric surgery, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is frequently done. Uncertainty persists regarding the frequency and risk factors of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms following LSG.

"Losing weight reduces gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), however laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), which alters the stomach's anatomy, may make GERD worse," Chao-Hung Kuo, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Municipal Siaogang Hospital and team wrote.

The goal of the researchers was to identify the elements contributing to EE's increasing severity one year following LSG.

Between February 2007 and March 2016, data on patients who underwent LSG were examined. Anthropometric measurements both before and after surgery were taken, along with endoscopic findings. There were 316 patients enrolled in total. 96 patients (30.4%) had grade A or B EE prior to LSG. The Los Angeles grading system was used to determine the degree of EE severity; grade C or D esophagitis was considered severe EE.