Christine J Ren-Fielding, M.D.

Does adding a lesser-curvature gastrogastric plication suture reduce the need for revision after laparoscopic adjustable gastric band placement?
Zagzag, Jonathan; Schwack, Bradley F; Youn, Heekoung; Fielding, Christine Ren; Fielding, George A; Kurian, Marina S
2012 Feb;26(2):514-517, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: The need for revision after laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) surgery has been reduced over the past 10 years with the introduction of the pars flaccida technique, delicate band tightening, and concurrent hiatal hernia repairs. However, band revision still occurs for as many as 5% of patients. Placement of a lesser-curvature gastrogastric suture distal to the band is one newer technique suggested to lower band slippage. To evaluate the worth of this technique, the authors have investigated two groups of patients in their practice: one group with the plication stitch and one group without it. METHODS: This retrospective review examined data for 1,365 LAGB patients collected prospectively by an institutional review board-approved database between July 2007 and May 2010. One surgeon did not perform the plication stitch (n = 776) and one did (n = 589). The surgical techniques were very similar. The majority of the patients had crural repair at the primary operation. Band revision rates were assessed. RESULTS: For 1,365 patients, LAGB was performed safely. The mean follow-up period was 22 months. The two groups were similar. The no-stitch group consisted of 776 patients (496 women, 64%) with a mean age of 42 years, a mean weight of 278 lb, and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 44.6 kg/m(2). The stitch group consisted of 589 patients (426 woman, 72%) with a mean age of 40 years, a mean weight of 278 lb, and a mean BMI of 44.8 kg/m(2). The no-stitch group had an estimated weight loss (EWL) of 44% at 12 months and 50% EWL at 2 years. The stitch group had 37% EWL at 12 months and 45% EWL at 2 years. Both groups had very low revision rates. The no-stitch group had 4 revisions in 776 patients (0.26%), and the stitch group had 9 revisions in 589 patients (1.5%). CONCLUSION: Adding gastrogastric plication sutures offers no benefit of reducing the rate of revision after LAGB surgery
— id: 149947, year: 2012, vol: 26, page: 514, stat: Journal Article,

Intrahepatic natural killer T cell populations are increased in human hepatic steatosis
Adler, Michael; Taylor, Sarah; Okebugwu, Kamalu; Yee, Herman; Fielding, Christine; Fielding, George; Poles, Michael
2011 Apr 7;17(13):1725-1731, World journal of gastroenterology : WJG
AIM: To determine if natural killer T cell (NKT) populations are affected in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS: Patients undergoing bariatric surgery underwent liver biopsy and blood sampling during surgery. The biopsy was assessed for steatosis and immunocyte infiltration. Intrahepatic lymphocytes (IHLs) were isolated from the remainder of the liver biopsy, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from the blood. Expression of surface proteins on both IHLs and PBMCs were quantified using flow cytometry. RESULTS: Twenty-seven subjects participated in this study. Subjects with moderate or severe steatosis had a higher percentage of intrahepatic CD3+/CD56+ NKT cells (38.6%) than did patients with mild steatosis (24.1%, P = 0.05) or those without steatosis (21.5%, P = 0.03). Patients with moderate to severe steatosis also had a higher percentage of NKT cells in the blood (12.3%) as compared to patients with mild steatosis (2.5% P = 0.02) and those without steatosis (5.1%, P = 0.05). CONCLUSION: NKT cells are significantly increased in the liver and blood of patients with moderate to severe steatosis and support the role of NKT cells in NAFLD
— id: 130915, year: 2011, vol: 17, page: 1725, stat: Journal Article,

Impact of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding on pregnancy, maternal weight, and neonatal health
Carelli, Allison M; Ren, Christine J; Youn, Heekoung Allison; Friedman, Erica B; Finger, Anne E; Lok, Benjamin H; Kurian, Marina S; Fielding, George A
2011 Oct;21(10):1552-1558, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is a proven method for weight reduction. Less is known about pregnancies in patients after LAGB. METHODS: Information was gathered, through database and survey, on women who underwent LAGB at NYU Medical Center between 2001 and 2008 then became pregnant. RESULTS: Pregnancy occurred in 133 women, resulting in 112 babies, including six sets of twins. The average pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) was 32.7. Average weight gain was 11.5 kg, but was higher for those with pre-pregnancy BMI <30.0 compared to BMI >30.0 (16.4 vs 8.6 kg). Of singleton pregnancies, 89% were carried to full term, with cesarean section in 45%. Those with pre-pregnancy BMI <30.0 had a lower rate of cesarean section (35.71%), but it was not statistically significant (p = 0.55). Average birth weight was 3,268.6 g. Eight percent of babies from singleton pregnancies were low birth weight (<2,500 g), and seven percent were high birth weight (>4,000 g). Average Apgar scores at 1 and 5 min were 8.89 and 9.17. Four percent of patients developed gestational diabetes, and 5% developed pre-eclampsia. Band adjustments were performed in 71% of patients. Weight gain was higher in those who had their bands loosened in the first trimester (p = 0.063). Three patients had intrapartum band slips; one required surgery during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: LAGB is tolerable in pregnancy with rare intrapartum band slips. Weight gain is less in those with higher pre-pregnancy BMI and those who had their bands filled or not adjusted. Babies born to these mothers are as healthy as the general population
— id: 138309, year: 2011, vol: 21, page: 1552, stat: Journal Article,

Midterm results for gastric banding as salvage procedure for patients with weight loss failure after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Irani, Katayun; Youn, Heekoung A; Ren-Fielding, Christine J; Fielding, George A; Kurian, Marina
2011 Mar-Apr;7(2):219-224, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
BACKGROUND: Studies reporting the revisionary options for weight loss failure after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) have been complex, underpowered, and lacking long-term data. We have previously shown that short-term (12-month) weight loss is achievable with laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) for failed RYGB. To report the midterm outcomes of LAGB after RYGB failure. METHODS: A retrospective review of prospectively collected data before and after RYGB, when available, and before and after LAGB was performed at the New York Langone University Hospital (New York, NY). The data collected included weight, height, body mass index (BMI), gender, race, age, operative time, length of stay, postoperative complications, and the percentage of excess weight loss. RESULTS: A total of 43 patients (9 men and 34 women) underwent LAGB after weight loss failure with RYGB. Of the 43 patients, 27 patients had undergone RYGB at other institutions, and preoperative RYGB data were available for 23 total patients. The average interval to LAGB was 6.6 years. The mean BMI before RYGB was 50.4 kg/m(2) and before LAGB was 43.3 kg/m(2) (%EWL was 17% after RYGB). At follow-up after LAGB, the average BMI was 35.2 kg/m(2), with a %EWL of 38% (calculated from LAGB only) at 26 months (range 6-66). At the 1- and 2-year follow-up visit, the BMI had decreased by 8.7 kg/m(2). The reoperation rate for complications related to LAGB was 10% and included 2 band erosions, 1 band slip, and 1 port flip. CONCLUSION: The results of our study have shown that LAGB had good midterm data as a revisionary procedure for weight loss failure after RYGB
— id: 138308, year: 2011, vol: 7, page: 219, stat: Journal Article,

Potentially reversible pseudoachalasia after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
Khan, Abraham; Ren-Fielding, Christine; Traube, Morris
2011 Oct;45(9):775-779, Journal of clinical gastroenterology
BACKGROUND: Although esophageal dilation after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has been reported, the effect of banding on esophageal peristalsis, including the development of aperistalsis and its potential reversibility, have received only little attention. GOALS: Our aim was to report our experience with 6 patients who developed manometric evidence of esophageal aperistalsis after LAGB. STUDY: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical, manometric, and radiologic data of 6 patients referred between September 2005 and June 2007 to our Center for Esophageal Disease for evaluation of dysphagia or heartburn that developed after LAGB, and in whom manometric studies showed aperistalsis. Patients had the fluid in the band completely removed (N=5) or had the band removed (N=1). Reversibility of esophageal aperistalsis was then assessed. Clinical follow-up was obtained from 2009 to early 2010. RESULTS: Six patients (all female, age range, 37 to 55 y old) were evaluated because of dysphagia or heartburn after LAGB and had complete aperistalsis on manometry. Five of the 6 patients had manometry after removal of all the fluid from the band (N=4) or after surgical removal of the band (N=1). Two patients had partial return of peristalsis, 1 had normal peristalsis, and 2 others had continued aperistalsis but did show clinical improvement. Another patient had improvement of radiologic esophageal dilation but declined repeat manometry. CONCLUSIONS: LAGB can cause an achalasia-like esophageal aperistalsis that may be reversible. Gastroenterologists caring for bariatric patients need be aware of this pseudoachalasia, as the treatment of such patients differs from those with primary achalasia
— id: 137441, year: 2011, vol: 45, page: 775, stat: Journal Article,

The effectiveness of adjustable gastric banding: a retrospective 6-year U.S. follow-up study
Weichman, Katie; Ren, Christine; Kurian, Marina; Heekoung, Allison Youn; Casciano, Roman; Stern, Lee; Fielding, George
2011 Feb;25(2):397-403, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the efficacy of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) during a 6-year follow-up period. METHODS: A retrospective database analysis of patients who underwent LAGB at New York University Medical Center between 1 January 2000 and 29 February 2008 was conducted. Patients were included for the efficacy analysis if they were 18 years old or older at the surgery date and had one or more visits with a recorded weight after surgery. Efficacy was assessed using percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) at 1-year intervals after surgery. Missing weight values were interpolated using a cubic spline function. Linear regression models were used to assess the characteristics that affected the last available %EWL. All patients had implantation of the LAP-BAND system. RESULTS: The inclusion criteria for the efficacy analysis were met by 2,909 patients. The majority of the patients were white (83.3%) and female (68.4%). The mean patient age was 44.6 years, and the mean baseline body mass index (BMI) was 45.3 kg/m2. The %EWL 3 years after surgery was 52.9%, which was sustained thereafter. In multivariate models, increased number of office visits, younger age, female gender, and Caucasian race were significantly associated with a higher maximum %EWL. CONCLUSIONS: The LAP-BAND patients achieved a substantial and sustainable weight loss of approximately 50% at 6 years after surgery
— id: 138310, year: 2011, vol: 25, page: 397, stat: Journal Article,

Safety of the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band: 7-year data from a U.S. center of excellence
Carelli, Allison M; Youn, Heekoung Allison; Kurian, Marina S; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2010 Aug;24(8):1819-1823, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) has become one of the most common weight-loss procedures performed in the United States. The authors' high-volume academic medical center has gathered a database of almost 3,000 patients who have undergone LAGB since January 2001. The goal of this series, the largest to date on LAGB outcomes at a single institution, was to assess complications associated with LAGB. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed using longitudinal data from adult patients who underwent LAGB between 1 January 2001, and 29 February 2008. General and band-related complications were reported for all patients. Death and reoperation for weight gain (LAGB followed by either a second band insertion or a gastric bypass) also were reported. RESULTS: Of the 2,965 patients who received LAGB during the study period, 2,909 met the criteria for inclusion in this analysis, and 363 (12.2%) experienced one or more complications. The most common complications were band slip (4.5%) and port-related problems (3.3%). Other complications were rare. Only seven patients (0.2%) had band erosion. Eleven patients (0.4%) underwent reoperation for weight gain. A total of 10 deaths (0.34%) occurred during the study period. Three patients died within 30 days of surgery. Two of these deaths (0.06%) were related to surgery, and one resulted from a motor vehicle accident. Seven patients died of causes unrelated to surgery during the course of the study. CONCLUSIONS: The LAGB technique is a relatively safe procedure with few early or late complications. Few LAGB patients undergo reoperation for weight gain, and mortality is very rare
— id: 138189, year: 2010, vol: 24, page: 1819, stat: Journal Article,

Evaluating gastric erosion in band management: an algorithm for stratification of risk
Kurian, Marina; Sultan, Sammy; Garg, Karan; Youn, Heekoun; Fielding, George; Ren-Fielding, Christine
2010 Jul-Aug;6(4):386-389, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic gastric banding has several known complications, including gastric erosion. No clear factors have been determined for the development of band erosion, but technical factors such as covering the buckle of the band have been implicated. The objective of the present study was to determine whether band management after surgery, band size, or filling beyond the manufacturer-determined maximal volume has an effect on the incidence of erosion at a university hospital in the United States. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of a prospective institutional review board-approved database. All patients who had been followed from 2002 to 2008 were identified. The maximal band volume was 4 cm(3) for the 9.75-cm/10-cm band and 10 cm(3) for the Vanguard band. The bands were considered overfilled if they had been filled to greater than the maximal volume for >/=3 months. RESULTS: A total of 2437 patients had undergone Lap-Band surgery. Of these 2437 patients, 14 developed erosion (.57%). The primary erosion rate was .39% (9 of 2359). These patients were divided into 3 groups according to the type of band placed: group 1, Vanguard (n = 735); group 2, 9.75-cm/10-cm band (n = 1624); and group 3, revisions to Vanguard, including a band placed around a bypass (n = 78). The incidence of gastric erosion by group was .95% (7 of 735) in group 1, .12% (2 of 1624) in group 2, and 6.41% (5 of 78) in group 3. The difference in the erosion rate among the groups was significant (group 1 versus 2, P = .005; group 3 versus 1, P = .003; and group 3 versus 2, P = .001). Erosions developed in each group without overfilling. Also, comparing the erosion rate in the overfilled versus underfilled bands, statistical significance was found only for group 1 at 3.18% versus .35% (P = .006). The erosion rate in the overfilled versus underfilled was 1.01% versus .07% in group 2 and 11.11% versus 3.92% in group 3. CONCLUSION: A band that needs to be overfilled might be a sign of erosion, and patients should undergo endoscopy. Band revision has a greater rate of erosion than primary banding. The Vanguard band has a greater risk of erosion than the 4-cm(3) bands
— id: 138390, year: 2010, vol: 6, page: 386, stat: Journal Article,

The "Buddy" Study: Are There Benefits to Having Bariatric Surgery With a "Buddy?"
Nekee Pandya, Nekee; Jay, Melanie; Lobach, Iryna; Weinshel, Elizabeth H; Ren-Fielding, Christine
2010 ;138(5 Suppl 1):S481-S481 #T1068, Gastroenterology
— id: 109862, year: 2010, vol: 138, page: S481, stat: Journal Article,

Comment on: outcomes of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in patients with low body mass index
Ren-Fielding, Christine
2010 Jul-Aug;6(4):371-372, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
— id: 134372, year: 2010, vol: 6, page: 371, stat: Journal Article,

Five-year outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
Sultan, Samuel; Gupta, Deepali; Parikh, Manish; Youn, Heekoung; Kurian, Marina; Fielding, George; Ren-Fielding, Christine
2010 Jul-Aug;6(4):373-376, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
BACKGROUND: Evidence of the positive effects of gastric banding on patients with diabetes has continued to increase. The long-term follow-up of such patients, however, has been limited. The purpose of the present study was to provide the long-term outcomes of patients with diabetes undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding at our institution. METHODS: From January 2002 through June 2004, 102 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. The study parameters included preoperative age, gender, race, body mass index, duration of diabetes before surgery, fasting glucose level, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and medications used. Preoperative data from all patients were collected prospectively and entered into an institutional review board-approved database. Beginning in 2008, efforts were made to collect the 5-year follow-up data. RESULTS: Of the 102 patients, 7 were excluded because they had not reached the 5-year follow-up point (2 patients had had the band removed early and 5 patients had died; 2 of cancer and 3 of unknown causes), leaving 95 patients for the present study. The mean preoperative age was 49.3 years (range 21.3-68.4). The mean preoperative body mass index was 46.3 kg/m(2) (range 35.1-71.9) and had decreased to 35.0 kg/m(2) (range 21.1-53.7) by 5 years of follow-up, yielding a mean percentage of excess weight loss of 48.3%. The mean duration of the diabetes diagnosis before surgery was 6.5 years. Of 94 patients, 83 (88.3%) were taking medications preoperatively, with 14.9% overall taking insulin. At 5 years postoperatively, 33 (46.5%) of 71 patients were taking medications, with 8.5% taking insulin. The mean fasting preoperative glucose level was 146.0 mg/dL. The glucose level had decreased to 118.5 mg/dL at 5 years postoperatively (P = .004). The mean HbA1c level was 7.53 preoperatively in 72 patients and was 6.58 at 5 years postoperatively in 64 patients (P <.001). Overall, diabetes had resolved (no medication requirement, with HbA1c <6 and/or glucose <100 mg/dL) in 23 (39.7%) of 58 patients and had improved (use of fewer medications and/or fasting glucose levels of 100-125 mg/dL) in 41 (71.9%) of 57 patients. The combined improvement/remission rate was 80% (64 of 80 patients). CONCLUSION: Our data have demonstrated that laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding results in a substantial sustained positive effect on diabetes in morbidly obese patients, with a significant reduction in HbA1c and an 80% overall rate of improvement/remission
— id: 111359, year: 2010, vol: 6, page: 373, stat: Journal Article,

Safety and effectiveness of bariatric surgery: Roux-en-y gastric bypass is superior to gastric banding in the management of morbidly obese patients: a response
Bhoyrul, Sunil; Dixon, John; Fielding, George; Ren Fielding, Christine; Patterson, Emma; Grossbard, Lee; Shayani, Vafa; Bessler, Marc; Voellinger, David; Billy, Helmuth; Cywes, Robert; Ehrlich, Timothy B; Jones, Daniel B; Watkins, Brad M; Ponce, Jaime; Brengman, Matthew; Schroder, Gregory
2009 ;3(1):17-17, Patient safety in surgery
ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: The recent article by Guller, Klein, Hagen was reviewed and discussed by the authors of this response to critically analyze the validity of the conclusions, at a time when patients and providers depend on peer reviewed data to guide their health care choices. The authors of this response all have high volume bariatric surgery practices encompassing experience with both gastric bypass and gastric banding, and have made significant contributions to the peer reviewed literature. We examined the assumptions of the paper, reviewed the main articles cited, provided more evidence from articles that were included in the materials and methods of the paper, but not cited, and challenge the conclusion that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is superior to gastric banding. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The paper by Guller et al was subject to significant bias. The authors did not demonstrate an understanding of gastric banding, selectively included data with unfavorable results towards gastric banding, did not provide equal critique to the literature on gastric bypass, and deliberately excluded much of the favorable data on gastric banding. CONCLUSION: The paper's conclusion that gastric bypass is the procedure of choice is biased, unsubstantiated, not supported by the current literature and represents a disservice to the scientific and health care community
— id: 109864, year: 2009, vol: 3, page: 17, stat: Journal Article,

A Comparison of the Percent Excess Weight Loss with the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) Among Patients with and Without Diabetes: A Retrospective Study in Five Centers
Fielding, G; Ren, C; Woodman, G; Morton, C; Barsoumian, R; Geiss, A; Ehrlich, T; Kurian, M; Malangone, E; Hale, B
2009 AUG ;19(8):969-969, Obesity surgery
— id: 101240, year: 2009, vol: 19, page: 969, stat: Journal Article,

The Efficacy and Safety of the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB) at Two Years: A Retrospective Study in Five Centers
Geiss, A; Barsoumian, R; Ehrlich, T; Morton, C; Ren, C; Fielding, G; Woodman, G; Kurian, M; Stem, L; Hale, B
2009 AUG ;19(8):961-962, Obesity surgery
— id: 101239, year: 2009, vol: 19, page: 961, stat: Journal Article,

A Reversible Achalasia-Like Disorder Aft er Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
Khan, A; Ren, C; Traube, M
2009 OCT ;104(2):S15-S15, American journal of gastroenterology
— id: 106463, year: 2009, vol: 104, page: S15, stat: Journal Article,

5-7 Year Us Outcomes with Gastric Banding: Sustainability of a Procedure
Kurian, M; Youn, H; Fielding, G; Ren, C
2009 AUG ;19(8):955-955, Obesity surgery
— id: 101238, year: 2009, vol: 19, page: 955, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding for morbidly obese adolescents affects android fat loss, resolution of comorbidities, and improved metabolic status
Nadler, Evan P; Reddy, Shivani; Isenalumhe, Anthony; Youn, Heekoung A; Peck, Valerie; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2009 Nov;209(5):638-644, Journal of the American College of Surgeons
BACKGROUND: The distribution of weight loss and its impact on metabolic health has not been documented for laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in the adolescent population. We hypothesized that LAGB in obese adolescents would result in loss of android fat mass, resolution of comorbidities, and improvement in metabolic status. STUDY DESIGN: Adolescents ages 14 to 17 who met criteria for bariatric surgery were enrolled in our FDA-approved LAGB trial. Demographic data, body mass index, body composition and bone density, laboratory evaluations, and comorbid conditions were assessed pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: Forty-five patients had complete 1-year followup and 41 patients had complete 2-year followup. Mean preoperative weight was 299 + or - 57 lb and body mass index was 48 + or - 6.4 kg/m(2). The percent excess weight losses at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years were 31 + or - 16, 46 + or - 21, and 47 + or - 22, respectively. At 1-year followup, patients after LAGB had a significant decrease in their total and android fat mass. In addition, 47 of 85 identified comorbidities (55%) were completely resolved and 25 (29%) were improved in comparison with baseline. Improvements in alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, hemoglobin A1c, fasting insulin, triglycerides, and high density lipoprotein, were also seen. CONCLUSIONS: The percent excess weight loss after LAGB in morbidly obese adolescents is approximately 45% at 1- and 2-year followup, with the majority of weight loss consisting of android fat mass. Resolution or improvement of comorbidities is seen, and improved metabolic status, as demonstrated by liver function tests, lipid levels, and measures of glucose homeostasis, may be expected. These data support LAGB as an appropriate surgical option for morbidly obese adolescents
— id: 104905, year: 2009, vol: 209, page: 638, stat: Journal Article,

Percent Excess Weight Loss with the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band (LAGB): a Retrospective Study in Five Centers
Ren, C; Fielding, G; Ehrlich, T; Morton, C; Geiss, A; Barsoumian, R; Woodman, G; Kurian, M; Hale, B; Malangone, E
2009 AUG ;19(8):995-996, Obesity surgery
— id: 101241, year: 2009, vol: 19, page: 995, stat: Journal Article,

Early U.S. outcomes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in patients with a body mass index less than 35 kg/m2
Sultan, Samuel; Parikh, Manish; Youn, Heekoung; Kurian, Marina; Fielding, George; Ren, Christine
2009 Jul;23(7):1569-1573, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: Many mildly to moderately obese individuals with a body mass index (BMI) lower than 35 kg/m(2) have serious diseases related to their obesity. Nonsurgical therapy is ineffective in the long term, yet surgery has never been made widely available to this population. METHODS: Between 2002 and 2007, 53 patients with a BMI lower than 35 kg/m(2) underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding at our institution. Data on all these patients were collected prospectively and entered into an institutional review board-approved electronic registry. The study parameters included preoperative age, gender, BMI, presence of comorbidities, percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), and resolution of comorbidities. RESULTS: The mean preoperative age of the patients was 46.9 years (range, 16-68 years), and the mean preoperative BMI was 33.1 kg/m(2) (range, 28.2-35.0 kg/m(2)). Of the 53 patients, 49 (92%) had at least one obesity-related comorbidity. The mean BMI decreased to 28.1 +/- 2.4 kg/m(2), 25.8 +/- 2.9 kg/m(2), and 25.8 +/- 3.1 kg/m(2) and mean %EWL was 48.3 +/- 17.6, 69.9 +/- 28.0, and 69.7 +/- 31.7 at 0.5, 1, and 2 years, respectively. Substantial improvement occurred for the following comorbidities evaluated: hypertension, depression, diabetes, asthma, hypertriglyceridemia, obstructive sleep apnea, hypercholesterolemia, and osteoarthritis. There was one slip, two cases of band obstruction (from food), two cases of esophagitis, and two port leaks, but no mortality. CONCLUSION: The authors are very encouraged by this series of low-BMI patients who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding. Their weight loss has been excellent, and their complications have been acceptable. Their comorbidities have partially or wholly resolved. With further study, it is reasonable to expect alteration of the weight guidelines for bariatric surgery to include patients with a BMI lower than 35 kg/m(2)
— id: 100185, year: 2009, vol: 23, page: 1569, stat: Journal Article,

The obesity epidemic, bariatric surgery, and the role of the practictioner
Fielding, Christine Ren; Fielding, George
2008 ;15(8):40-41, Primary Psychiatry
Obesity is about to surpass cigarette smoking as the number one preventable cause of death in the United States. In the year 2000, data showed that 435,000 Americans died from cigarette smoke and 400,000 from obesity. This represents 18,1% and 16.6%, respectively, of all deaths in the US. Greater than 33% of US adults (>72 million people) were obese in 2005-2006. Obesity in children and adolescents is also on the rise and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in adult life.
— id: 100657, year: 2008, vol: 15, page: 40, stat: Journal Article,

Lap-band impact on the function of the esophagus
Gamagaris, Zoi; Patterson, Carlie; Schaye, Verity; Francois, Fritz; Traube, Morris; Fielding, Christine J; Fielding, George A; Youn, Allison Heekoung; Weinshel, Elizabeth H
2008 Oct;18(10):1268-1272, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) has been widely used to treat morbid obesity. There is conflicting data on its long-term effect on esophageal function. Our aim was to assess the long-term impact of the LAGB on esophageal motility and pH-metry in patients who had LAGB who had normal and abnormal esophageal function at baseline. METHODS: Consecutive patients referred for bariatric surgery were prospectively enrolled. A detailed medical history was obtained, and esophageal manometric and 24-h pH evaluations were performed in standard fashion preoperatively and 6 and 12 months postoperatively; patients served as their own controls. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients completed manometric evaluation. Ten patients had normal manometric parameters at baseline; at 6 months, mean lower esophageal sphincter (LES) residual pressure increased significantly from baseline (3.9 +/- 2 vs. 8.9 +/- 4 mmHg, p = 0.014). At 12 months, the mean peristaltic wave duration increased from 3.6 +/- 1 at baseline to 6.8 +/- 2 s, p = 0.025 and wave amplitude decreased during the same period (98.7 +/- 22 vs. 52.3 +/- 24, p = 0.013). LES pressure and percent peristalsis did not differ significantly pre- and post-LAGB. Twelve patients had one or more abnormal manometric findings at baseline; at 12 months, LES pressure in these 12 patients decreased significantly (31.1 +/- 10 vs 23.6 +/- 7, p = 0.011) and wave amplitude was significantly reduced (125.9 +/- 117 vs 103 +/- 107, p = 0.039). LES residual pressure did not change significantly pre- and post-LAGB. Twenty-two individuals were evaluated for impact of Lap-Band on esophageal acid exposure. Sixteen of these patients had normal esophageal pH-metry values at baseline and had no significant changes in 12 months in any pH-metry measurement. Six patients had abnormal pH-metry values at baseline. Among these patients, time with pH < 4.0 and Johnson/DeMeester score did not change significantly during follow-up. There was a significant decrease in the number of reflux episodes from baseline to 6 months (159 +/- 48 vs. 81 +/- 61, p = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Abnormal manometric findings are frequently encountered post-LAGB. Increases in LES residual pressure and peristaltic wave duration were the most significant changes. LAGB is not associated with an increase in total esophageal acidification time. Further evaluation of the clinical significance of manometric abnormalities is warranted
— id: 91869, year: 2008, vol: 18, page: 1268, stat: Journal Article,

Gastric banding as a salvage procedure for patients with weight loss failure after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Gobble, Ryan M; Parikh, Manish S; Greives, Matthew R; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2008 Apr;22(4):1019-1022, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: This study reviews outcomes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) placement in patients with weight loss failure after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP). METHODS: All data was prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Characteristics evaluated for this study included pre-operative age and body mass index (BMI), gender, conversion rate, operative (OR) time, length of stay (LOS), percentage excess weight loss (EWL), and postoperative complications. RESULTS: 11 patients (seven females, four males) were referred to our program for weight loss failure after RYGBP (six open, five laparoscopic). Mean age and BMI pre-RYGBP were 39.5 years (24-58 years) and 53.2 kg/m(2) (41.2-71 kg/m(2)), respectively. Mean EWL after RYGBP was 38% (19-49%). All patients were referred to us for persistent morbid obesity due to weight loss failure or weight regain. The average time between RYGBP and LAGB was 5.5 years (1.8-20 years). Mean age and BMI pre-LAGB were 46.1 years (29-61 years) and 43.4 kg/m(2) (36-57 kg/m(2)), respectively. Vanguard (VG) bands were placed laparoscopically in most patients. There was one conversion to open. Mean OR time and LOS were 76 minutes and 29 hours, respectively. The 30-day complication rate was 0% and mortality was 0%. There were no band slips or erosions; however, one patient required reoperation for a flipped port. The average follow-up after LAGB was 13 months (2-32 months) with a mean BMI of 37.1 kg/m(2 )(22.7-54.5 kg/m(2)) and an overall mean EWL of 59% (7-96%). Patients undergoing LAGB after failed RYGBP lost an additional 20.8% EWL (6-58%). CONCLUSION: Our experience shows that LAGB is a safe and effective solution to failed RYGBP
— id: 79291, year: 2008, vol: 22, page: 1019, stat: Journal Article,

Hiatal hernia repair at the initial laparoscopic adjustable gastric band operation reduces the need for reoperation
Gulkarov, Iosif; Wetterau, Meredith; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2008 Apr;22(4):1035-1041, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: Intractable reflux, either due to gastric prolapse or concentric pouch dilatation has been the most common indication for reoperation or band removal after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). We have previously found that a simple hiatal hernia repair (HHR) leads to remission of these symptoms minimizing the need for band removal. We have subsequently added crural repair/HHR at the initial operation, where indicated. In this study compare the rate of reoperation in patients who underwent LAGB alone, or with concurrent HHR. METHODS: A retrospective review of a prospective database of all patients undergoing LAGB was performed to determine the incidence of reoperation in the two groups. RESULTS: Between July 2001 and August of 2006, 1298 patients underwent LAGB and 520 patients underwent LAGB with concurrent HHR (LAGB/HHR). The mean initial weight and BMI were 128 kg (range, 71.1-245.7 kg) and 45.4 kg/m(2) (range, 28-75 kg/m(2)). Average follow-up for the LAGB and LAGB/HHR groups was 24.8 and 20.5 months, respectively. Rate of reoperation for HHR alone, or with band slip or concentric pouch dilatation, for LAGB and LAGB/HHR groups was 5.6% and 1.7% respectively (p < 0.001). Total reoperation rate for slip, HHR and pouch dilatation was 7.9% and 3.5%, respectively (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in rate of slip repair alone between the two groups: 2.3% and 1.7%, respectively (p < 0.44). CONCLUSIONS: Adding HHR to LAGB where indicated significantly reduces reoperation rate. Every effort should be made to detect and repair HHR during placement of the band, as it will decrease future need for reoperation
— id: 79294, year: 2008, vol: 22, page: 1035, stat: Journal Article,

An update on 73 US obese pediatric patients treated with laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: comorbidity resolution and compliance data
Nadler, Evan P; Youn, Heekoung A; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2008 Jan;43(1):141-146, Journal of pediatric surgery
BACKGROUND: Adolescent obesity continues to present one of the most difficult and important challenges for both the pediatric and adult medical communities. Evidence is mounting that bariatric surgery is the only reliable method for substantial and sustainable weight loss; however, the debate continues with regard to the optimal surgical procedure for both adolescents and adults. Although most US adult bariatric surgeons prefer the gastric bypass, our institution has demonstrated equivalent weight loss with significantly less morbidity using laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in both adults and adolescents. This analysis is an update of our results in our first 73 patients, including resolution of comorbid conditions and compliance data. METHODS: All adolescents aged 13 to 17 years who have undergone LAGB at our institution have been entered into our prospectively collected database since September 2001 and were reviewed. Data collected preoperatively included age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), and presence of comorbid conditions. Postoperatively recorded data included length of stay, operative morbidity, need for reoperation, percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), and BMI at 3-month intervals; status of any comorbid conditions, and number of postoperative visits and band adjustments. RESULTS: Seventy-three adolescents aged 13 to 17 years (mean, 15.8 +/- 1.2 years) have undergone LAGB at our institution since September, 2001. Of these, 54 were female and 19 were male. The mean preoperative weight was 298 lb, with a BMI of 48 kg/m(2). The %EWL at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively was 35% +/- 16%, 57% +/- 23%, and 61% +/- 27%, respectively. One patient experienced a gastric perforation after a reoperation for band replacement because of a slip. One additional patient requested band removal because of restriction intolerance after a slip. A total of 6 patients developed band slippage, and 3 patients developed symptomatic hiatal hernias. Nutritional complications included asymptomatic iron deficiency in 13 patients, asymptomatic vitamin D deficiency in 4 patients, and mild subjective hair loss in 14 patients. In 21 patients who entered our Food and Drug Administration-approved study and had reached 1-year follow-up, there were 51 identified comorbid conditions. Of these, 35 (68.5%) were completely resolved, 9 (17.5%) were improved, 5 (10%) were unchanged, and 2 (4%) were aggravated after 1 year. Of 50 initial patients who underwent surgery more than 1 year ago, 2 patients lived a large distance from our institution, where band maintenance is being performed locally, and thus, the patients were excluded from the analysis. Two patients were lost to follow-up in the first year, and 3 patients were lost to follow-up in the second year, for an overall compliance rate of at least 89.5%. The mean number of office visits was 10 +/- 3 in the first year, and the mean number of adjustments was 6 +/- 2. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding continues to represent an attractive treatment strategy for morbidly obese pediatric patients with a %EWL of more than 55% at both 1- and 2-year follow-up, with minimal morbidity compared with the gastric bypass. Furthermore, the weight loss associated with LAGB provides excellent resolution or improvement of comorbid conditions. Although there is a necessary commitment by the patient that involves frequent office visits and band adjustments, adolescents are entirely capable of this commitment, and noncompliance should not be a reason to dissuade adolescents from having LAGB. It remains, in our opinion, the optimal surgical option for pediatric patients with morbid obesity
— id: 76089, year: 2008, vol: 43, page: 141, stat: Journal Article,

The Effect of Laparoscopic Gastric Banding Surgery on Plasma Levels of Appetite-Control, Insulinotropic, and Digestive Hormones
Shak, Joshua R; Roper, Jatin; Perez-Perez, Guillermo I; Tseng, Chi-hong; Francois, Fritz; Gamagaris, Zoi; Patterson, Carlie; Weinshel, Elizabeth; Fielding, George A; Ren, Christine; Blaser, Martin J
2008 Sep;18(9):1089-1096, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: We hypothesized that laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) reduces weight and modulates ghrelin production, but largely spares gastrointestinal endocrine function. To examine this hypothesis, we determined plasma concentrations of appetite-control, insulinotropic, and digestive hormones in relation to LAGB. METHODS: Twenty-four patients undergoing LAGB were prospectively enrolled. Body mass index (BMI) was measured and blood samples obtained at baseline and 6 and 12 months post-surgery. Plasma concentrations of leptin, acylated and total ghrelin, pancreatic polypeptide (PP), insulin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP), active glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), gastrin, and pepsinogens I and II were measured using enzyme-linked immunoassays. RESULTS: Median percent excess weight loss (%EWL) over 12 months was 45.7% with median BMI decreasing from 43.2 at baseline to 33.8 at 12 months post-surgery (p < 0.001). Median leptin levels decreased from 19.7 ng/ml at baseline to 6.9 ng/ml at 12 months post-surgery (p < 0.001). In contrast, plasma levels of acylated and total ghrelin, PP, insulin, GIP, GLP-1, gastrin, and pepsinogen I did not change in relation to surgery (p > 0.05). Pepsinogen II levels were significantly lower 6 months after LAGB but returned to baseline levels by 12 months. CONCLUSIONS: LAGB yielded substantial %EWL and a proportional decrease in plasma leptin. Our results support the hypothesis that LAGB works in part by suppressing the rise in ghrelin that normally accompanies weight loss. Unchanged concentrations of insulinotropic and digestive hormones suggest that gastrointestinal endocrine function is largely maintained in the long term
— id: 78623, year: 2008, vol: 18, page: 1089, stat: Journal Article,

Fighting weight : discover healthy weight loss by overcoming hunger -- forever
Ali, Khaliah; Ren, Christine; Fielding, George
New York : Collins, 2007,
— id: 1326, year: 2007, vol: , page: , stat: ,

Gender differences and bariatric surgery outcome
Khaykis, I; Ren, CJ; Fielding, GA; Huberman, W; Wolfe, B; Youn, H; Hong, S; Francois, FF; Weinshel, E
2007 SEP ;102(9):891-559, American journal of gastroenterology
— id: 98043, year: 2007, vol: 102, page: 891, stat: Journal Article,

Treatment with lavender aromatherapy in the post-anesthesia care unit reduces opioid requirements of morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
Kim, Jung T; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A; Pitti, Abhishek; Kasumi, Takeo; Wajda, Michael; Lebovits, Allen; Bekker, Alex
2007 Jul;17(7):920-925, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Parenteral administration of opioids and NSAIDs has been the mainstay for postoperative pain control in patients undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Both classes of drugs, however, are associated with serious adverse effects. An addition of complimentary analgesic techniques may decrease requirement for traditional analgesics, thus reducing the incidence of side-effects. We designed the study to evaluate the effectiveness of Lavender aromatherapy in reducing opioid requirements after LAGB. METHODS: A prospective randomized placebo controlled study was carried out on 54 patients undergoing LAGB. Upon arrival to the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), patients in the study group were treated with lavender oil, which was applied to the oxygen face mask; the control group patients received nonscented baby oil. Postoperative pain was treated with morphine. Numerical rating scores (0-10) were used to measure the level of pain at 5, 30, and 60 min. Sedation was evaluated using the Observer Assessment of Alertness/Sedation scale (0-5). Data analyzed included the amount of opioids, NRS, OAA/S, PACU discharge time, as well as the incidence of side-effects. RESULTS: The two groups were comparable with regard to patient characteristics, intraoperative drug use, and surgical time. Significantly more patients in the Placebo group (PL) required analgesics for postoperative pain (22/27, 82%) than patients in the Lavender group (LAV) (12/26, 46%) (P = .007). Moreover, the LAV patients required significantly less morphine postoperatively than PL patients: 2.38 mg vs 4.26 mg, respectively (P = .04). There were no differences in the requirements for post-operative antiemetics, antihypertensives, or PACU discharge time. CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that lavender aromatherapy can be used to reduce the demand for opioids in the immediate postoperative period. Further studies are required to assess the effect of this therapy on clinically meaningful outcomes, such as the incidence of respiratory complications, delayed gastric emptying, length of hospital stay, or whether this therapy is applicable to other operations
— id: 74527, year: 2007, vol: 17, page: 920, stat: Journal Article,

Short-term results in 53 US obese pediatric patients treated with laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
Nadler, Evan P; Youn, Heekoung A; Ginsburg, Howard B; Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2007 Jan;42(1):137-141, Journal of pediatric surgery
BACKGROUND: Obesity in the adolescent population has reached epidemic proportions. Although diet and behavior modification can help a minority of teenagers, most of these patients go on to become obese adults. Recently, surgical intervention for morbid obesity has gained increasing support. To date, this has only included gastric bypass procedures. However, this procedure carries at least a 1% mortality rate even in the hands of the most experienced surgeons. Therefore, our center has been using laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) to treat adolescents with morbid obesity. This analysis is a report of our short-term results in our first 53 patients. METHODS: All adolescents aged 13 to 17 years who had undergone LAGB at our institution and had been entered into our prospectively collected database since 2001 were reviewed. Data collected preoperatively included age, sex, race, and body mass index (BMI). Postoperatively recorded data included length of stay, operative morbidity, need for reoperation, as well as percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) and BMI at 3-month intervals. RESULTS: Fifty-three teenagers aged 13 to 17 years (mean, 15.9 years) underwent LAGB at our institution since September 2001. Of these, 41 were female and 12 were male. The mean preoperative weight was 297 +/- 53 lb and the mean initial BMI was 47.6 +/- 6.7 kg/m2. The %EWL was 37.5 +/- 17.0 at 6 months, 62.7 +/- 27.6 at 1 year, and 48.5 +/- 15.6 at 18 months of follow-up. There were no intraoperative complications. Two patients had band slips that required laparoscopic repositioning, and 2 patients developed a symptomatic hiatal hernia that required laparoscopic repair. All of these procedures were performed as outpatient procedures. A fifth patient developed a wound infection requiring incision and drainage. Other complications included mild hair loss in 5 patients, iron deficiency in 4 patients, nephrolithiasis and cholelithiasis in 1 patient, and gastroesophageal reflux in 1 patient. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is not only a safe operation for morbidly obese pediatric patients, but also represents an effective treatment strategy with a %EWL of approximately 50% at both 1 year and 18 months of follow-up. Because of the minimal morbidity and complete absence of mortality of the LAGB, it is the optimal surgical option for pediatric patients with morbid obesity
— id: 70319, year: 2007, vol: 42, page: 137, stat: Journal Article,

Comparison of rates of resolution of diabetes mellitus after gastric banding, gastric bypass, and biliopancreatic diversion
Parikh, Manish; Ayoung-Chee, Patricia; Romanos, Eleny; Lewis, Nichole; Pachter, H Leon; Fielding, George; Ren, Christine
2007 Nov;205(5):631-635, Journal of the American College of Surgeons
BACKGROUND: Bariatric operation is the most effective treatment for diabetes mellitus in the morbidly obese. The purpose of this study is to compare the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus after three common laparoscopic bariatric procedures: laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and biliopancreatic diversion with or without duodenal switch (BPD/DS). STUDY DESIGN: All data were prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Characteristics evaluated for this study included preoperative age, body mass index, duration of diabetes, race, gender, operative time, length of stay, percent excess weight loss, oral hypoglycemic requirements, and insulin requirements. RESULTS: A total of 282 bariatric patients with diabetes mellitus were analyzed (218 LAGB, 53 RYGB, and 11 BPD/DS). Preoperative age (46 to 50 years), body mass index (46 to 50; calculated as kg/m(2)), race and gender breakdown, and baseline oral hypoglycemic (82% to 87%) and insulin requirements (18% to 28%) were comparable among the three groups (p = NS). Percent excess weight loss at 1, 2, and 3 years was: 43%, 50%, and 45% for LAGB; 66%, 68%, and 66% for RYGB; and 68%, 77%, and 82% for BPD/DS (p < 0.01 LAGB versus RYGB and LAGB versus BPD/DS at all time intervals). At 1 and 2 years, the proportion of patients requiring oral hypoglycemics postoperatively was 39% and 34% for LAGB; 22% and 13% for RYGB; and 11% and 13% for BPD/DS (p = NS). At 1 and 2 years, the proportion of patients requiring insulin postoperatively was 14% and 18% for LAGB; 7% and 13% for RYGB; and 11% and 13% for BPD/DS (p = NS). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the disparity in percent excess weight loss between LAGB, RYGB, and BPD/DS, the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus is equivalent
— id: 75399, year: 2007, vol: 205, page: 631, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in obese adolescents results in android fat loss and resolution of co-morbid conditions
Reddy, S; Peck, V; Ren, C; Fielding, G; Nadler, EP
2007 SEP ;205(3):S49-S49, Journal of the American College of Surgeons
— id: 74182, year: 2007, vol: 205, page: S49, stat: Journal Article,

Repeat laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) after previous band erosion and laparoscopic band removal and gastric repair
Fieldin, G; Ren, C; Harris, M
2006 AUG ;16(8):981-981, Obesity surgery
— id: 69035, year: 2006, vol: 16, page: 981, stat: Journal Article,

Repeat laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) after previous band erosion and laparoscopic band removal and gastric repair
Fielding, G; Ren, C; Harris, M
2006 AUG ;16(8):976-977, Obesity surgery
— id: 69033, year: 2006, vol: 16, page: 976, stat: Journal Article,

The impact of adjustable laparoscopic gastric banding on esophageal motility
Gamagaris, Z; Patterson, C; Francois, F; Ren, C; Youn, H; Weinshel, E
2006 SEP ;101(9):S69-S69, American journal of gastroenterology
— id: 69308, year: 2006, vol: 101, page: S69, stat: Journal Article,

Fatal complications of bariatric surgery
Goldfeder, Lara B; Ren, Christine J; Gill, James R
2006 Aug;16(8):1050-1056, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery is an increasingly used method to treat morbid obesity. The mortality rate among patients undergoing bariatric operations is generally quoted as between 0.05-2.0%. Our focus was not on mortality rates but rather on the reasons patients die following the procedures. In New York City, deaths that are due to predictable complications of appropriate therapy are certified as therapeutic complications. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all deaths investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in New York City between 1997 and 2005 in which bariatric surgery had been performed. We report the fatal complications, the interval between surgery and death, the type of procedure, and coexisting morbidities. RESULTS: Autopsies were performed on 95% of these fatalities. There were 97 deaths due to therapeutic complications of the operations. The interval between the initial surgery and death ranged from several hours to years. The most common complication was an anastomotic leak with subsequent infection. A high percentage of deaths occurred after discharge (40%) and/or >30 days after surgery (37%). There were 8 deaths from complications of bariatric surgery that occurred >1 year after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Studies that report the mortality rate during hospitalization or within 30 days of surgery, underestimate the actual incidence. Bariatric surgery carries both short- and long-term risks
— id: 68931, year: 2006, vol: 16, page: 1050, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding after previous open vertical banded gastroplasty
Harris, M; Ren, C; Fielding, G
2006 AUG ;16(8):980-980, Obesity surgery
— id: 69034, year: 2006, vol: 16, page: 980, stat: Journal Article,

Four-year review of trends in nutritional deficiencies and clinical sequelae after biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS)
Harris, M; Ren, C; Fielding, G; Kumar, P; Parikh, M
2006 AUG ;16(8):990-990, Obesity surgery
— id: 69036, year: 2006, vol: 16, page: 990, stat: Journal Article,

Objective comparison of complications resulting from laparoscopic bariatric procedures
Parikh, Manish S; Laker, Scott; Weiner, Matt; Hajiseyedjavadi, Omid; Ren, Christine J
2006 Feb;202(2):252-261, Journal of the American College of Surgeons
BACKGROUND: Several surgical treatment options for morbid obesity exist. Currently, there are no studies that objectively compare complication rates after laparoscopic bariatric operations performed at a single institution. We objectively classify and compare complications resulting from laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LABG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) with duodenal switch (DS). STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective review of a prospective database of all patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric operation was performed. Complications were categorized according to severity score using a well-described classification system and compared between procedures. RESULTS: From September 2000 to July 2003, 780 laparoscopic bariatric operations were performed: 480 LAGB, 235 RYGB, and 65 BPD+/-DS. There was one late death. Total complication rates were: 9% for LAGB, 23% for RYGB, and 25% for BPD+/-DS. Complications resulting in organ resection, irreversible deficits, and death (grades III and IV) occurred at rates of 0.2% for LAGB, 2% for RYGB, and 5% for BPD+/-DS. LAGB group had a statistically significant lower overall complication rate, both by incidence and severity, as compared with other groups (p < 0.001). After controlling for differences of admission body mass index, gender, and race, the LAGB group had an almost three and a half times lower likelihood of a complication compared with the RYGB group (odds ratio, 3.4; 95% CI, 2.2-5.3, p < 0.001) and had an over three and a half times lower likelihood of a complication compared with the BPD with DS group (odds ratio, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.8-7.1, p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between complication rates of RYGB and BPD+/-DS. CONCLUSIONS: Bariatric operation complication rates range from 9% to 25%; very few complications are serious. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is the safest operation in terms of complication rate and severity when compared with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or laparoscopic malabsorptive operations
— id: 62815, year: 2006, vol: 202, page: 252, stat: Journal Article,

Comparison of outcomes after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding in African-Americans and whites
Parikh, Manish; Lo, Helen; Chang, Christopher; Collings, Dinee; Fielding, George; Ren, Christine
2006 Nov-Dec;2(6):607-610, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
BACKGROUND: Race may affect outcomes after bariatric surgery. This study compares outcomes in terms of weight loss and comorbidity resolution between African-Americans and whites after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). METHODS: Data from 959 patients undergoing LAGB between July 2001 and July 2004 were prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Propensity score matching analysis was used to match whites to African-Americans on the basis of age, gender, and preoperative body mass index (BMI). Preoperative comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia) were also compared. Operative time (OR), length of stay (LOS), comorbidity resolution, and percent excess weight loss (%EWL) at 1, 2, and 3 years were analyzed. All data were updated through May 2006. RESULTS: A total of 65 white LAGB patients were matched to 58 African-American LAGB patients on the basis of age, gender, and preoperative BMI. The preoperative mean age and BMI were 37 +/- 19 years and 47 +/- 7 kg/m2, respectively. A total of 55% of the white group and 64% of the African-American group had one or more comorbidities (P = NS). Median OR time and LOS were similar in both groups: 50 minutes and 23 hours, respectively. The majority of patients in both groups had major improvement or resolution of one or more comorbidities (61% whites vs 77% African-Americans, P = NS). There was, however, a significant difference in %EWL between whites and African-Americans at each time interval (49% vs 39% at 1 year; 55% vs 44% at 2 years; 52% vs 41% at 3 years; P < .05 for all values.). CONCLUSION: Despite the disparity in weight loss with the LAGB in African-Americans and whites, both patient populations experienced a similar improvement/resolution of obesity-related comorbidities
— id: 71142, year: 2006, vol: 2, page: 607, stat: Journal Article,

A comparison of the rate of resolution of diabetes mellitus after laparoscopic adjustable-gastric banding, gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch
Parikh, MS; Ayoung-Chee, P; Romanos, E; Lewis, N; Ren, C
2006 SEP ;203(3):S12-S12, Journal of the American College of Surgeons
— id: 69818, year: 2006, vol: 203, page: S12, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band
Fielding, George A; Ren, Christine J
2005 Feb;85(1):129-40, x, Surgical clinics of North America
Only a fraction of morbidly obese patients have come forward for bariatric surgery. This article confirms that the laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) is a safe, effective, primary weight-loss operation for morbidly obese patients. The LAGB offers a simple, genuinely minimally invasive approach, with the potential to be attractive to many more patients. The key questions are whether it is effective in the longterm and whether it is safe. The midterm data confirm that, so far, LAGB is living up to its early promise as an effective tool. LAGB surgery is safe, and the change to the pars-flaccida approach will lead to even higher patient satisfaction and lower incidence of band removal
— id: 49006, year: 2005, vol: 85, page: 129, stat: Journal Article,

Medicare and bariatric surgery
Kral, John G; Christou, Nicolas V; Flum, David R; Wolfe, Bruce M; Schauer, Philip R; Gagner, Michel; Ren, Christine; Stiles, Sasha; Wadden, Thomas A; Tanner, Stella; Stratiff, Robert; Pories, Walter J; Sugerman, Harvey J
2005 Jan-Feb;1(1):35-63, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
— id: 72638, year: 2005, vol: 1, page: 35, stat: Journal Article,

U.S. experience with 749 laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands: intermediate outcomes
Parikh, M S; Fielding, G A; Ren, C J
2005 Dec;19(12):1631-1635, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) has consistently been shown to be a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity, especially in Europe and Australia. Data from the U.S. regarding the LAGB has been insufficient. This study reveals our experience with 749 primary LAGB over a 3-year period in a U.S. university teaching hospital. METHODS: All data was prospectively collected and entered into an electronic registry. Characteristics evaluated for this study include preoperative age, BMI, gender, race, conversion rate, operative time, hospital stay, percent excess weight loss (%EWL) and postoperative complications. Annual esophagrams were performed RESULTS: From July 2001 through September 2004, 749 patients (531 females, 218 males) underwent LAGB for the treatment of morbid obesity. There were 630 Caucasians, 61 African-Americans, and 49 Latin Americans, with a mean age of 42.3 (range 18, 72 years) and mean BMI of 46.0 +/- 7.0 (range 35, 91.5 kg/m(2)). There was one conversion to open (0.1%). Median operative time and hospital stay were 60 minutes and 23 hours, respectively. The mean %EWL at 1 year, 2 years, and 3 years was 44.4 (+/-17.8), 51.8 (+/-20.9), and 52.0 (+/-19.6), respectively. There were no mortalities. Postoperative complications occurred in 12.8% of patients: 1.5% acute postoperative band obstruction, 0.9% wound infection, 2.9% gastric prolapse ('slip'), 2.0% concentric pouch dilatation (without slip), 0.8% aspiration pneumonia, 2.4% port/tubing problems, 0.3% severe esophageal dilatation/dysmotility (reversible), and 1.5% overall band removal. CONCLUSION: These American results substantiate the data from abroad that LAGB is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity
— id: 66995, year: 2005, vol: 19, page: 1631, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic bariatric surgery in super-obese patients (BMI>50) is safe and effective: a review of 332 patients
Parikh, Manish S; Shen, Roy; Weiner, Matt; Siegel, Niccole; Ren, Christine J
2005 Jun-Jul;15(6):858-863, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery in super-obese patients (BMI >50 kg/m(2)) can be challenging because of difficulties in exposure of visceral fat, retracting the fatty liver, and strong torque applied to instruments, as well as existing co-morbidities. METHODS: A retrospective review of super-obese patients who underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB n=192), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP n=97), and biliopancreatic diversion with/without duodenal switch (BPD n= 43), was performed. 30 day peri-operative morbidity and mortality were evaluated to determine relative safety of the 3 operations. RESULTS: From October 2000 through June 2004, 331 super-obese patients underwent laparoscopic bariatric surgery, with mean BMI 55.3 kg/m(2). Patients were aged 42 years (13-72), and 75% were female. When categorized by operation (LAGB, RYGBP, BPD), the mean age, BMI and gender were comparable. 6 patients were converted to open (1.8%). LAGB had a 0.5%, RYGBP 2.1% and BPD 7.0% conversion rate (P=0.02, all groups). Median operative time was 60 min for LAGB, 130 min for RYGBP and 255 min for BPD (P<0.001, all groups). Median length of stay was 24 hours for LAGB, 72 hours for RYGBP, and 96 hours for BPD (P <0.001). Mean %EWL for the LAGB was 35.3+/-12.6, 45.8+/-19.4, and 49.5+/-18.6 with follow-up of 87%, 76% and 72% at 1, 2 and 3 years, respectively. Mean %EWL for the RYGBP was 57.7+/-15.4, 54.7+/-21.2, and 56.8+/-21.1 with follow-up of 76%, 33% and 54% at 1, 2 and 3 years, respectively. Mean %EWL for the BPD was 60.6+/-15.9, 69.4+/-13.0 and 77.4+/-11.9 with follow-up of 79%, 43% and 47% at 1, 2 and 3 years, respectively. The difference in %EWL was significant at all time intervals between the LAGB and BPD (P<0.004). However, there was no significant difference in %EWL between LAGB and RYGBP at 2 and 3 years. Overall perioperative morbidity occurred in 27 patients (8.1%). LAGB had 4.7% morbidity rate, RYGBP 11.3%, and BPD 16.3% (P=0.02, all groups). There were no deaths. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is safe in super-obese patients. LAGB, the least invasive procedure, resulted in the lowest operative times, the lowest conversion rate, the shortest hospital stay and the lowest morbidity in this high-risk cohort of patients. Rates of all parameters studied increased with increasing procedural complexity. However, the difference in %EWL between RYGBP and LAGB at 2 and 3 years was not statistically significant
— id: 58063, year: 2005, vol: 15, page: 858, stat: Journal Article,

Open vertical banded gastroplasty and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
Ren C
2005 ;1(1):50-53, Surgery for Obesity & Related Diseases
— id: 64447, year: 2005, vol: 1, page: 50, stat: Journal Article,

Factors influencing patient choice for bariatric operation
Ren, Christine J; Cabrera, Izumi; Rajaram, Kavitha; Fielding, George A
2005 Feb;15(2):202-206, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: No study has surveyed the factors that influence morbidly obese patients' preference for a particular bariatric operation. METHOD: 469 consecutive patients in 2 major bariatric surgery centers in the United States (US, 124) and Australia (AU, 345) were prospectively studied to determine referral pattern and reason for their choice of operation. RESULTS: The predominant operation was laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in both US (75%) and AU (83%) centers. Gender (70% female), BMI (45 kg/m2) and age (42.5 years) were similar in both cohorts. In Australia, 53% had referral initiated by primary doctors and 25% by another patient, while in the US, 43% by another patient and 27% by the Internet. Safety of the operation (43%) was the highest-rated factor in choosing LAGB. LAGB being 'least invasive' was most significant in the US (46%), and 'surgical safety' in Australia (45%). In the US, Rouxen-Y gastric bypass was preferred due to 'lack of a foreign body' (31%) and 'inability to cheat' (28%), while in Australia, 'dumping' was the most significant reason (50%). Duodenal switch (BPD/DS) was selected in 11% of patients, primarily because of 'durability of the weight loss' (51%). Surprisingly, only 1 patient in the US group selected BPD/DS because the pylorus remains intact. CONCLUSION: Safety and invasiveness had the greatest impact on patient choice for bariatric operation in two different countries. This information may help clinicians better understand their patients' concerns, and their treatment choices
— id: 51789, year: 2005, vol: 15, page: 202, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic treatment of superior mesenteric artery syndrome
Kingham, T Peter; Shen, Roy; Ren, Christine
2004 Oct-Dec;8(4):376-379, Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons
BACKGROUND: Superior mesenteric artery syndrome is caused by compression of the third portion of the duodenum by the superior mesenteric artery. Many disease states predispose one to this condition. METHODS: We present a case report of a young female patient who presented with gastro-duodenal obstruction from superior mesenteric artery syndrome and subsequently underwent surgical treatment with minimally invasive techniques. Pathophysiology of SMA syndrome is reviewed. RESULTS: The cause of superior mesenteric artery syndrome is variable but always results in duodenal obstruction. Surgery is one treatment option that is effective and can be performed laparoscopically. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy is an acceptable method of treating superior mesenteric artery syndrome
— id: 48875, year: 2004, vol: 8, page: 376, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic bariatric surgery in superobese patients (BMI > 50) is safe: A review of 213 patients
Parikh, M; Shen, R; Weiner, M; Siegel, N; Ren, CJ
2004 AUG ;14(7):915-915, Obesity surgery
— id: 48736, year: 2004, vol: 14, page: 915, stat: Journal Article,

Favorable early results of gastric banding for morbid obesity: the American experience
Ren, C J; Weiner, M; Allen, J W
2004 Mar;18(3):543-546, Surgical endoscopy
BACKGROUND: In 2001 a new device for surgical weight loss was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (Lap-Band, Inamed Health). We describe initial results of laparoscopic gastric banding for morbid obesity in two American academic centers. METHODS: Prospective data was collected on consecutive morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, and evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: Four hundred forty-five consecutive patients underwent Lap-Band from May 2001 through December 2002. The 103 men and 341 women had an average age of 42.1 years (range 17-72 years) and an average body mass index (BMI) of 49.6 kg/m2 (range 35.2-92.2 kg/m2). One operation required conversion to laparotomy due to bleeding; the rest were completed laparoscopically. Mean length of stay was 1.1 days (range 1-10 days). There was one death. Additional complications included band slippage in 14 patients (3.1%), gastric obstruction without slip in 12 (2.7%), port migration in 2 (0.4%), tubing disconnections in 3 (0.7%), and port infection in 5 (1.1%). Two bands (0.4%) were removed due to intraabdominal abscess 2 months after placement. There was one band erosion (0.2%) and no clinically significant esophageal dilation. Ninety-nine patients have 1-year follow-up and have lost an average of 44.3% excess body weight. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic gastric banding has much to offer the morbidly obese. We present data showing weight loss rivaling gastric bypass and acceptably low complications. These results parallel success with this device outside America
— id: 45483, year: 2004, vol: 18, page: 543, stat: Journal Article,

Controversies in bariatric surgery: evidence-based discussions on laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
Ren, Christine J
2004 May-Jun;8(4):396-397, Journal of gastrointestinal surgery
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is a surgical option that involves placing a silicone band circumferentially around the uppermost aspect of the stomach. The band creates a small proximal pouch that empties slowly resulting in early satiety and a decreased appetite. The band is attached to an access port that is secured to the rectus muscle and can be accessed percutaneously in the office with a needle. Injection of saline into the port results in tightening of the band. This is performed on an individual basis according to weight loss and appetite. Band adjustments are required approximately 5-6 times in the first year and 2-3 times in the second year. Weight loss is gradual, averaging 1-2 lb/week during the first 2 years after surgery
— id: 45481, year: 2004, vol: 8, page: 396, stat: Journal Article,

Radiologic assessment of the upper gastrointestinal tract: does it play an important preoperative role in bariatric surgery?
Sharaf, Ravi N; Weinshel, Elizabeth H; Bini, Edmund J; Rosenberg, Jonathan; Ren, Christine J
2004 Mar;14(3):313-317, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: The role of upper GI series (UGIS) before bariatric surgery is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic yield and cost of routine UGIS prior to bariatric surgery. METHODS: The medical records of consecutive obese patients who underwent UGIS before bariatric surgery between April 2001 and October 2002 were reviewed. UGIS reports were reviewed by 2 experienced gastroenterologists, and the findings were divided into 4 groups based on predetermined criteria: group 0 (normal study), group 1 (abnormal findings that neither changed the surgical approach nor postponed surgery), group 2 (abnormal findings that changed the surgical approach or postponed surgery), and group 3 (results which were an absolute contraindication to surgery). Clinically important findings included lesions in groups 2 and 3. The cost of an upper GI series (154.80 USD) was estimated from the published 2002 New York State Medicare reimbursement schedule. RESULTS: During the 18-month study period, 171 patients were evaluated by UGIS prior to bariatric surgery. One or more lesions were identified in 48.0% of patients, with only 5.3% having clinically important findings. The prevalence of radiologic findings using the classification system above was as follows: group 0 (52.0%), group 1 (42.7%), group 2 (5.3%), and group 3 (0.0%). The most common findings identified were esophageal reflux (21.6%) and hiatal hernias (18.7%). The cost of performing routine UGIS on all patients before bariatric surgery was 2,941.20 USD per clinically important finding detected. CONCLUSIONS: Routine preoperative upper GI series before bariatric surgery had a low diagnostic yield, rarely revealing pathology that changed the surgical approach or postponed surgery
— id: 42670, year: 2004, vol: 14, page: 313, stat: Journal Article,

Endoscopy plays an important preoperative role in bariatric surgery
Sharaf, Ravi N; Weinshel, Elizabeth H; Bini, Edmund J; Rosenberg, Jonathan; Sherman, Alex; Ren, Christine J
2004 Nov-Dec;14(10):1367-1372, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: The role of upper endoscopy (EGD) in obese patients prior to bariatric surgery is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic yield and cost of routine EGD before bariatric surgery. METHODS: The medical records of consecutive obese patients who underwent EGD prior to bariatric surgery between May 2000 and September 2002 were reviewed. Two experienced endoscopists reviewed all EGD reports, and findings were divided into 4 groups based on predetermined criteria: group 0 (normal study), group 1 (abnormal findings that neither changed the surgical approach nor postponed surgery), group 2 (abnormal findings that changed the surgical approach or postponed surgery), and group 3 (results that were an absolute contraindication to surgery). Clinically important findings included lesions in groups 2 and 3. The cost of EGD (430.72 US dollars) was estimated using the endoscopist fee under Medicare reimbursement. RESULTS: During the 28-month study period, 195 patients were evaluated by EGD prior to bariatric surgery. One or more lesions were identified in 89.7% of patients, with 61.5% having a clinically important finding. The prevalence of endoscopic findings using the classification system above was as follows: group 0 (10.3%), group 1 (28.2%), group 2 (61.5%), and group 3 (0.0%). Overall, the most common lesions identified were hiatal hernia (40.0%), gastritis (28.7%), esophagitis (9.2%), gastric ulcer (3.6%), Barrett's esophagus (3.1%), and esophageal ulcer (3.1%). The cost of performing routine endoscopy on all patients prior to bariatric surgery was 699.92 US dollars per clinically important lesion detected. CONCLUSIONS: Routine upper endoscopy before bariatric surgery has a high diagnostic yield and has a low cost per clinically important lesion detected
— id: 49346, year: 2004, vol: 14, page: 1367, stat: Journal Article,

Impact of patient follow-up on weight loss after bariatric surgery
Shen, Roy; Dugay, Giovanni; Rajaram, Kavitha; Cabrera, Izumi; Siegel, Niccole; Ren, Christine J
2004 Apr;14(4):514-519, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Postoperative follow-up after bariatric surgery is important. Because of the need for adjustments, follow-up after gastric banding may have a greater impact on weight loss than after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.We reviewed all patients at 1 year after these two operations. METHODS: During the first year after surgery, laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) patients were followed every 4 weeks and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGBP) patients were followed at 3 weeks postoperatively and then every 3 months.The number of follow-up visits for each patient was calculated, and 50% compliance for follow-up and weight loss was compared. RESULTS: Between October 2000 and September 2002, 216 LAGB and 139 RYGBP operations were performed. Of these patients, 186 LAGB patients and 115 RYGBP patients were available for 1-year follow-up. Age and BMI were similar for each group. Overall excess weight loss (EWL) after LAGB was 44.5%. 130 (70%) returned 6 or less times in the first year and achieved 42% EWL. 56 patients (30%) returned more than 6 times and had 50% EWL (P=0.005). Overall %EWL after RYGBP was 66.1%. 53 patients (46%) returned 3 or less times in the first year, achieving 66.1% EWL. 62 patients (54%) returned more than 3 times after surgery and achieved 67.6% EWL (P=NS). CONCLUSION: Patient follow-up plays a significant role in the amount of weight lost after LAGB, but not after RYGBP. Patient motivation and surgeon commitment for long-term follow-up is critical for successful weight loss after LAGB surgery
— id: 45480, year: 2004, vol: 14, page: 514, stat: Journal Article,

Removal of peri-gastric fat prevents acute obstruction after Lap-Band surgery
Shen, Roy; Ren, Christine J
2004 Feb;14(2):224-229, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Acute postoperative gastroesophageal obstruction is a potential complication after laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB). Utilizing the pars flaccida technique may increase the incidence due to the incorporation of perigastric fat, particularly in patients with greater visceral obesity. Removal of peri-gastric fat pads may be necessary to avoid postoperative obstruction. We present our experience of 267 LAGB operations using the LapBand System and the incidence of postoperative obstruction, before and after incorporating routine removal of peri-gastric fat pads. METHODS: A retrospective review of a prospective database of 267 consecutive Lap-Band placements between July 2001 and November 2002 was conducted. RESULTS: All operations were completed laparoscopically using the pars flaccida technique, and all patients underwent esophagogram the morning after surgery. From July 2001 to May 2002, 143 Lap-Band placements were performed, with 11 patients (8%) having abnormal postoperative esophagograms. There were 43 males/100 females with mean BMI 48.3 (range 35 to 78.9). Complete esophageal obstruction was seen in 5 of these patients, all of whom underwent laparoscopic revision. Significantly delayed emptying was seen in the 6 remaining patients, who were managed conservatively with intravenous fluids from 2-7 days. In these 11 patients, there were 6 males/5 females with mean BMI 47.1 (range 37.3-57.9). Subsequently, removal of peri-gastric fat pads was routinely performed during Lap-Band placement. From June 2002 to November 2002, there were 43 males/81 females with mean BMI 48 (range 35-79); these 124 Lap-Band placements were performed with no abnormal postoperative esophagograms. CONCLUSION: Routine removal of peri-gastric fat pads when using the pars flaccida technique for Lap Band surgery appears to prevent postoperative esophageal obstruction
— id: 45482, year: 2004, vol: 14, page: 224, stat: Journal Article,

Serum fat-soluble vitamin deficiency and abnormal calcium metabolism after malabsorptive bariatric surgery
Slater, Guy H; Ren, Christine J; Siegel, Niccole; Williams, Trudy; Barr, Di; Wolfe, Barrie; Dolan, Kevin; Fielding, George A
2004 Jan;8(1):48-55, Journal of gastrointestinal surgery
Weight loss after biliopancreatic diversion or duodenal switch is due to decreased calorie absorption secondary to fat malabsorption. Fat malabsorption may also cause essential fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies, which may have severe clinical consequences and alter calcium metabolism. Serum vitamins A, D, E, and K, zinc, parathyroid hormone, corrected calcium, and alkaline phosphatase levels were measured in a cohort of patients who had previously undergone biliopancreatic diversion. Two bariatric surgery units were involved in the study: New York University School of Medicine (New York, NY), and the Wesley Medical Center (Brisbane, Australia). A total of 170 patients completed the study. The incidence of vitamin A deficiency was 69%, vitamin K deficiency 68%, and vitamin D deficiency 63% by the fourth year after surgery. The incidence of vitamin E and zinc deficiency did not increase with time after surgery. The incidence of hypocalcemia increased from 15% to 48% over the study period with a corresponding increase in serum parathyroid hormone values in 69% of patients in the fourth postoperative year. There is a progressive increase in the incidence and severity of hypovitaminemia A, D, and K with time after biliopancreatic diversion and duodenal switch. Calcium metabolism is affected with an increasing incidence of secondary hyperparathyrodisim and evidence of increased bone resorption in 3% of patients. Long-term nutritional monitoring is necessary after malabsorptive operations for morbid obesity
— id: 45193, year: 2004, vol: 8, page: 48, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding [Lap-Band]
Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2003 Jan-Feb;60(1):30-33, Current surgery
— id: 45192, year: 2003, vol: 60, page: 30, stat: Journal Article,

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: surgical technique
Ren, Christine J; Fielding, George A
2003 Aug;13(4):257-263, Journal of laparoendoscopic & advanced surgical techniques. Pt. A
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is an effective and safe surgical treatment for morbid obesity. Initial experience with the Lap-Band system (Inamed Health, Santa Barbara, California) in the United States and Australia has demonstrated that surgical technique can affect outcomes in terms of weight loss, quality of life, and complication rates. Placement of the gastric band by means of the perigastric technique is associated with high rates of gastric prolapse, food intolerance, and weight loss failure that frequently lead to band explantation. In the pars flaccida technique, band placement higher on the stomach results in the formation of a smaller pouch and lower rates of gastric prolapse, which may contribute to greater weight loss and improved quality of life. This article describes the technical aspects of the pars flaccida approach in the laparoscopic placement of adjustable gastric bands
— id: 39030, year: 2003, vol: 13, page: 257, stat: Journal Article,

Radiologic assessment of the upper GI tract: Does it play a role in determining bariatric surgical approach?
Sharaf, RN; Weinshel, EH; Bini, EJ; Rosenberg, J; Ren, C
2003 ;124(4):A557-A557, Gastroenterology
— id: 108242, year: 2003, vol: 124, page: A557, stat: Journal Article,

Endoscopy plays an important role in determining bariatric surgical approach
Sharaf, RN; Weinshel, EH; Bini, EJ; Rosenberg, J; Sherman, A; Ren, CJ
2003 ;57(5):AB120-AB120, Gastrointestinal endoscopy
— id: 108241, year: 2003, vol: 57, page: AB120, stat: Journal Article,

US experience with the LAP-BAND system
Ren, Christine J; Horgan, Santiago; Ponce, Jaime
2002 Dec;184(6B):46S-50S, American journal of surgery
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is the most commonly performed operation for morbid obesity in Europe and Australia and has been shown to result in significant long-term weight loss. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-monitored clinical trial results with the LAP-BAND system (INAMED Health, Santa Barbara, CA) did not reproduce the results of studies performed elsewhere in the world. This article reviews data from the first and second FDA clinical trials as well as data from continuing US clinical experience. Four American surgeons at 4 centers have performed more than 500 LAP-BAND procedures not included in the first 2 FDA clinical trials. Of these patients, 115 have been followed for at least 9 months, and 43 have been followed for at least 12 months. A retrospective analysis of prospective data gathered from these patients is presented. The percent excess weight loss was 35.6% at 9 months and 41.6% at 12 months. The average body mass index decreased from 47.5 to 38.8 in 9 months and from 47.5 to 37.3 in 12 months. There were no deaths related to the insertion of the device. Of 15 complications requiring operative management (13%) in 12 patients, there were 8 port displacements or tubing breaks (7%), 2 elective explantations (2%), 2 cases of gastric prolapse (2%), 1 gastric pouch dilatation (<1%), 1 port abscess (<1%), and 1 hemorrhage (<1%). Clinical experience with the LAP-BAND system in the United States shows the device to be a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity, with results comparable to the international data. The combination of proper surgical technique and close patient follow-up with frequent band adjustments, performed in a comprehensive bariatric program setting, may make the LAP-BAND system a powerful surgical tool in the treatment of morbid obesity
— id: 39331, year: 2002, vol: 184, page: 46S, stat: Journal Article,

Hand-assisted laparoscopic splenectomy for ruptured spleen
Ren CJ; Salky B; Reiner M
2001 Mar;15(3):324-324, Surgical endoscopy
Although the laparoscopic technique is an accepted method for elective splenectomy, it is controversial in the setting of trauma. A few reports have described laparoscopic splenorrhaphy for trauma, but none have performed laparoscopic splenectomy for splenic rupture. When the spleen is injured, vascular control and poor visibility due to bleeding present obstacles to laparoscopy. The development of the hand-assist device has helped surgeons make the transition from laparotomy to laparoscopy because of the advantages it provides, such as tactile sensation and immediate vascular control. We utilized these benefits of the hand-assist device to convert a laparoscopic operation to a hand-assisted laparoscopic operation and were thus able to avoid a laparotomy. We report a case in which the hand-assist device was used as an alternative to conversion during a laparoscopic splenectomy for ruptured spleen
— id: 20240, year: 2001, vol: 15, page: 324, stat: Journal Article,

Early results of laparoscopic biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch: a case series of 40 consecutive patients
Ren CJ; Patterson E; Gagner M
2000 Dec;10(6):514-523, Obesity surgery
BACKGROUND: Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) is an operation which provides one of the greatest maintained weight losses of any bariatric procedure. We looked at the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic BPD-DS for morbid obesity. METHODS: A 150-200 ml sleeve gastrectomy was created and anastomosed to the distal 250 cm of divided ileum. The median length of the common channel was 100 cm. All patients were prospectively followed up to 12 months. RESULTS: 40 consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic BPD-DS as a primary procedure for morbid obesity. Median patient body mass index (BMI) was 60 kg/m2 (range 42-85 kg/m2). Mean age was 43 +/- 1 years (+/- SEM), with 12 males and 28 females. One patient was converted to open laparotomy (2.5%). Median operative time was 210 +/- 9 minutes (range 110-360 minutes) with a significant correlation between BMI and operative time (p = 0.04). Median length of stay was 4 days (range 3-210 days). There was one 30-day mortality (2.5%). Major morbidities occurred in 6 patients (15%), including 1 anastomotic leak (2.5%), 1 venous thrombosis (2.5%), 4 staple-line hemorrhages (10%) and 1 subphrenic abscess (2.5%). Median follow-up at 6 months (range 1-12 months) resulted in 46% +/- 2% excess weight loss (EWL) and at 9 months 58% +/- 3% EWL. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic BPD-DS is a complex, yet feasible, procedure resulting in effective weight loss with an acceptable morbidity. A BMI >65 was associated with increased morbidity and mortality. A long-term study is needed to confirm efficacy and proper patient selection
— id: 20241, year: 2000, vol: 10, page: 514, stat: Journal Article,

Antiangiogenic effects of camptothecin analogues 9-amino-20(S)-camptothecin, topotecan, and CPT-11 studied in the mouse cornea model
O'Leary JJ; Shapiro RL; Ren CJ; Chuang N; Cohen HW; Potmesil M
1999 Jan;5(1):181-187, Clinical cancer research
Angiogenesis has been correlated with increased invasion and metastases in a variety of human neoplasms. Inadequate inhibition of the growth of tumor microvessels by anticancer agents may result in treatment failure, rated clinically as progressive or stable disease. We have investigated the antiangiogenic properties of three camptothecin analogues, 9-amino-20(S)-camptothecin, topotecan, and camptosar (CPT-11), currently under investigation in clinical settings. Angiogenesis was induced by basic fibroblast growth factor in the cornea of inbred Swiss-Webster mice, with the aim of exploring the suppression of neovascularization by the analogues injected into the mice daily over a period of 6 days. The dose range chosen is known to inhibit, in the mouse model, the growth of various human tumor xenografts or murine tumors. The statistical analysis evaluated the association between the area of neoangiogenesis and the dose of the drugs tested and correlated the effects with observed drug toxicity. It was established that, as the drug doses increased, the area of neovascularization decreased, appearing to approximate a negative exponential curve. 9-Amino-20(S)-camptothecin at 6.89 and 8.26 micromol/kg (2.5 and 3.0 mg/kg) and topotecan at 8.31 micromol/kg (3.5 mg/kg), both drugs being delivered over a 6-day period, had statistically significant reduction (47.2-72.5%) of neoangiogenesis and acceptable toxicity. At higher doses of the two analogues, toxic body-weight losses and deaths were observed. CPT-11 showed statistically significant reduction of neoangiogenesis at a dose of 359 micromol/kg (210 mg/kg) delivered over a 6-day course. Unlike camptothecin analogues, the nontoxic dose of vincristine did not induce a statistically significant inhibition of angiogenesis, and there was no dose-dependent escalation of antiangiogenic effects. The results indicate that camptothecins are most likely cytotoxic against two tumor compartments: in addition to tumor cells of epithelial origin, the drugs act against endothelial cells and prevent the growth of the tumor microvessels. We have hypothesized that treatment failure in some patients is due to incomplete or inadequate inhibition of the microvessel growth by camptothecins. Presumably, an intensive inhibition of the remaining tumor microvasculature in such patients could be achieved by combining a camptothecin with another antiangiogenic anticancer agent or with a highly selective angiogenic inhibitor exerting minimal dose-limiting toxicity. Such treatment by a camptothecin plus a less toxic inhibitor of angiogenesis can improve antitumor efficacy. To validate this concept, preclinical studies followed by clinical trials are planned
— id: 7992, year: 1999, vol: 5, page: 181, stat: Journal Article,

Inhibition of angiogenesis and matrix metalloproteinase-2 activity by dexrazoxane (zinecard) may mediate its antitumor effects
Chuang JN; Ren CJ; Mendoza S; Shamamian P; Roses DF; Rifkin DB; Chachoua A; Shapiro RL
1998 ;49:424-426, Surgical forum
— id: 25210, year: 1998, vol: 49, page: 424, stat: Journal Article,

Melanoma lung metastases in wild-type urokinase- and tissue-type plasminogen activator knockout mice.
Chuang N; Ren CJ; Roses DF; Rifin DB; Shapiro RL
1998 ;39(6):297-297, Proceedings of the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research
— id: 20285, year: 1998, vol: 39, page: 297, stat: Journal Article,

Anti-angiogenic effects of 9-amino-20(S)-camptothecin (9AC), topotecan (TTN), and camptosar (C
O'Leary, JJ; Shapiro, RL; Ren, CJ; Chuang, N; Cohen, HW; Muggia, F; Potmesil, M
1998 AUG 25 ;9(4):78-78, Annals of oncology
— id: 53386, year: 1998, vol: 9, page: 78, stat: Journal Article,

Irsogladine maleate inhibits angiogenesis in wild-type and plasminogen activator-deficient mice
Ren CJ; Ueda F; Roses DF; Harris MN; Mignatti P; Rifkin DB; Shapiro RL
1998 Jul 1;77(2):126-131, Journal of surgical research
BACKGROUND: The activation of the zymogen plasminogen to the serine protease plasmin by urokinase-type (uPA) and tissue-type (tPA) plasminogen activators (PA) is an important event in a variety of physiologic and pathophysiologic processes in mammals. Enhanced PA activity occurs during angiogenesis and has been correlated in vitro and in vivo with increased tumor aggressiveness and is an indicator of poor prognosis in a variety of tumors in humans. Preliminary studies suggest that the antiulcer drug irsogladine maleate (IM) diminishes PA activity in vitro and may inhibit angiogenesis in vivo. To define the precise mechanism of angiogenesis inhibition by IM in vivo, we tested the ability of IM to blunt angiogenesis in a mouse cornea neovascularization model performed in wild-type and PA-knockout mice. METHODS: Three days prior to pellet implantation, groups of C57Bl/6 wild-type, uPA-deficient (upA-/-), and tPA-deficient (tPA-/-) mice received IM (300 mg/kg), IM (500 mg/kg), or vehicle (0.5% carboxymethylcellulose) via oral gavage. After 3 days of treatment, hydron polymer-coated pellets of sucrose aluminum sulfate containing 100 ng of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were inserted into surgically created pockets in the cornea of each mouse. On postoperative day 6, the neovascularization of each cornea was evaluated by a blinded observer using slit lamp microscopy and photographed. Angiogenesis was quantified by calculating vascular area (mm2) +/- SEM using a modified formula for a half ellipse that incorporates calibrated vessel measurements [Vessel length (mm) x Clock hours x pi x 0.2]. RESULTS: IM treatment (300 and 500 mg/kg/day) resulted in a dose-dependent reduction of angiogenesis in wild-type mice by 21 and 45.3% (P < 0.02, P < 0.001), in tPA-deficient mice by 42.6 and 46% (P < 0.001, P < 0.001), and in uPA-deficient mice by 27.2 and 46% (P < 0.05, p < 0.001), respectively. No quantitative differences in neovascularization were observed in either treatment group between transgenic mouse strains. No toxicity was noted in any group. CONCLUSION: IM inhibits bFGF-induced angiogenesis in wild-type, tPA-knockout, and uPA-knockout mice. The observation that IM significantly diminishes angiogenesis in both PA-deficient mice and wild-type mice suggests that the mechanism of action of IM may be independent of plasminogen activation.
— id: 12076, year: 1998, vol: 77, page: 126, stat: Journal Article,

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) induces vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in the endothelial cells of forming capillaries: an autocrine mechanism contributing to angiogenesis
Seghezzi G; Patel S; Ren CJ; Gualandris A; Pintucci G; Robbins ES; Shapiro RL; Galloway AC; Rifkin DB; Mignatti P
1998 Jun 29;141(7):1659-1673, Journal of cell biology
FGF-2 and VEGF are potent angiogenesis inducers in vivo and in vitro. Here we show that FGF-2 induces VEGF expression in vascular endothelial cells through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. Addition of recombinant FGF-2 to cultured endothelial cells or upregulation of endogenous FGF-2 results in increased VEGF expression. Neutralizing monoclonal antibody to VEGF inhibits FGF-2-induced endothelial cell proliferation. Endogenous 18-kD FGF-2 production upregulates VEGF expression through extracellular interaction with cell membrane receptors; high-Mr FGF-2 (22-24-kD) acts via intracellular mechanism(s). During angiogenesis induced by FGF-2 in the mouse cornea, the endothelial cells of forming capillaries express VEGF mRNA and protein. Systemic administration of neutralizing VEGF antibody dramatically reduces FGF-2-induced angiogenesis. Because occasional fibroblasts or other cell types present in the corneal stroma show no significant expression of VEGF mRNA, these findings demonstrate that endothelial cell-derived VEGF is an important autocrine mediator of FGF-2-induced angiogenesis. Thus, angiogenesis in vivo can be modulated by a novel mechanism that involves the autocrine action of vascular endothelial cell-derived FGF-2 and VEGF
— id: 7787, year: 1998, vol: 141, page: 1659, stat: Journal Article,

Role of digital artery adrenoceptors in Raynaud's disease
Cooke JP; Creager SJ; Scales KM; Ren C; Tsapatsaris NP; Beetham WP Jr; Creager MA
1997 ;2(1):1-7, Vascular medicine
Raynaud's disease is characterized by excessive cutaneous vasoconstriction in response to ambient cold. A functional disturbance in the local regulation of digital vasomotion has been proposed. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is an alteration in the postjunctional adrenergic receptors in the digital circulation of patients with Raynaud's disease. Furthermore, we sought to determine whether this abnormality was responsible for the excessive cold-induced vasoconstriction in these patients. Finger blood flow was measured by strain-gauge venous occlusion plethysmography in 10 patients with Raynaud's disease and in 10 normal volunteers in a 22 degrees C room. Measurements of finger blood flow and mean systemic arterial pressure were made during intra-arterial infusions of the alpha 1-adrenergic antagonist, prazosin, or the alpha 2-adrenergic antagonist, yohimbine, at room temperature and during local cooling of the hand. Basal finger blood flow in normal subjects was significantly greater than that of patients (8.6 +/- 2.7 vs 1.7 +/- 0.5 ml/100 ml per min; normal vs Raynaud's subjects; p < 0.05). In normal subjects, either prazosin or yohimbine induced dose-dependent increases in finger blood flow. The maximal increase in finger blood flow induced by prazosin was significantly greater than that in response to yohimbine (29.2 +/- 10.1 vs 2.8 +/- 2.1 ml/100 ml per min; prazosin vs yohimbine; p < 0.05). By contrast, in the Raynaud's patients, prazosin or yohimbine induced maximal increases in finger blood flow that were not significant (7.1 +/- 1.8 vs 5.0 +/- 2.2 ml/100 ml per min; prazosin vs yohimbine; p = NS). The response to prazosin in Raynaud's patients was significantly less than that of the normal volunteers (p < 0.05). In normal subjects, during intra-arterial infusion of vehicle alone, cooling induced a 52.6 +/- 5.8% reduction in finger blood flow. This cold-induced vasoconstriction was blunted, but not qualitatively altered, by either adrenergic antagonist. In the Raynaud's patients, during the intra-arterial infusion of the vehicle, cooling induced a 68.2 +/- 7.8% reduction in finger blood flow. Infusion of either adrenergic antagonist blunted, but did not qualitatively alter, the response to cold. Finger blood flow is less in patients with Raynaud's disease than in normal subjects when studied in a 22 degrees C room. In normal subjects, postjunctional alpha 1-adrenergic receptors appear to predominate in the control of digital vasoconstriction. Postjunctional alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors play an equal role in adrenergic regulation of finger blood flow in patients with Raynaud's disease. In both normal and Raynaud's subjects, selective antagonism of alpha 1- or alpha 2-adrenergic receptors does not abolish local cold-induced vasoconstriction. Therefore, it is likely that a nonadrenergic mechanism contributes to local cold-induced vasoconstriction
— id: 20284, year: 1997, vol: 2, page: 1, stat: Journal Article,

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) induces vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in the endothelial cells of forming capillaries: An autocrine mechanism of angiogenesis
Seghezzi, G; Patel, S; Ren, CJ; Pintucci, G; Gualandris, A; Robbins, E; Shapiro, RL; Galloway, AC; Rifkin, DB; Mignatti, P
1997 NOV ;8(5):1335-1335, Molecular biology of the cell
— id: 53166, year: 1997, vol: 8, page: 1335, stat: Journal Article,

Contribution of vasopressin to blood pressure regulation during hypovolemic hypotension in humans
Hirsch AT; Majzoub JA; Ren CJ; Scales KM; Creager MA
1993 Nov;75(5):1984-1988, Journal of applied physiology (Bethesda)
In animals subjected to hemorrhage, plasma arginine vasopressin concentrations increase to levels sufficient to cause vasoconstriction, thus attenuating the hypotensive response. The purpose of this study was to examine the contribution of vasopressin to blood pressure regulation during hypotension in humans. Hypotension was induced in twelve normal subjects by lower body negative pressure (LBNP) before and after intravenous administration of vasopressin V1 receptor antagonist. Before drug administration, LBNP reduced systolic blood pressure from 125 +/- 4 to 78 +/- 12 mmHg (P < 0.01) as vasopressin concentration increased from 2.9 +/- 0.6 to 17 +/- 6 pg/ml (P < 0.05). After administration of the vasopressin antagonist, LBNP reduced systolic blood pressure from 128 +/- 3 to 89 +/- 11 mmHg (P < 0.01). The hypotensive response to LBNP was not potentiated by inhibiting vasopressin's vasoconstrictive effects (P = NS). Thus hypotension causes marked increases in plasma vasopressin concentration. In contrast to findings in animal studies, however, vasopressin does not contribute to the maintenance of blood pressure during hypotension in humans
— id: 20242, year: 1993, vol: 75, page: 1984, stat: Journal Article,

Limb vascular responsiveness to beta-adrenergic receptor stimulation in patients with congestive heart failure
Creager MA; Quigg RJ; Ren CJ; Roddy MA; Colucci WS
1991 Jun;83(6):1873-1879, Circulation
BACKGROUND. In patients with congestive heart failure, the chronotropic and inotropic responses to beta-adrenergic agonists are reduced. It is not known whether desensitization of peripheral beta-adrenoceptors accounts for impaired limb vasodilation in these patients. Accordingly, we studied 14 normal subjects and 13 age-matched patients with congestive heart failure. METHODS AND RESULTS. To distinguish vasodilation mediated by beta-adrenoceptors and adenylate cyclase from that mediated by stimulation of guanylate cyclase, each subject received intrabrachial artery infusions of isoproterenol (1-100 ng/min) and sodium nitroprusside (0.3-10 micrograms/min), respectively. Forearm blood flow was determined by venous occlusion plethysmography. Maximal vasodilative potential, determined during reactive hyperemia, was reduced in the patients with congestive heart failure. The maximal forearm blood flow response to isoproterenol was comparable in patients with heart failure and in normal subjects (8.0 +/- 1.1 versus 9.2 +/- 1.2 ml/100 ml of tissue/min, respectively, p = NS). Furthermore, the dose-response relation to isoproterenol was similar in both groups. Likewise, the forearm vasodilative response to sodium nitroprusside was preserved in the heart failure group. Plasma concentration of norepinephrine was higher in the patients with heart failure (436 +/- 34 versus 201 +/- 74 pg/ml, p less than 0.01). When both groups were considered, there was no correlation between norepinephrine levels and the maximal forearm blood flow response to isoproterenol (r = 0.10, p = NS). CONCLUSIONS. We conclude that beta-adrenoceptor desensitization does not occur in the limb vessels of patients with congestive heart failure
— id: 20243, year: 1991, vol: 83, page: 1873, stat: Journal Article,