Proximal Jejuno-Ileal Bypass as Revision of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Introduction

Bariatric surgery is established as a possibility for the treatment of obesity, allowing weight reduction and remission of obesity comorbidities. Reported suboptimal clinical response rates are as high as 30–60% (insufficient weight loss or gain, defined as BMI greater than 35 kg/m² or excess weight loss less than 50%). Proximal jejuno-ileal bypass (PJIBP) is a promising option when re-intervention is required.

Objectives

To describe the standardization of a proprietary technique of modified PJIBP as a management procedure in patients with post-gastric bypass recurrent weight gain or insufficient post-intervention weight loss.

Methods

This study evaluated a case series of 10 Latin American patients requiring post-bariatric re-intervention, between February 2018 and 2023, in a single-metabolic surgery center in Cali-Colombia.

Results

Median age was 45 years (26–70 RIC), 60% female, and 40% male. Mean BMI at conversion was 36.7 kg/m² (6.4 SD). Median follow-up was 22 months (RIC 16–30). Mean percentage of excess weight lost was 78% (22.4 SD). One hundred percent achieved glycemia control, only one patient persisted with dyslipidemia, and no patient presented hypoalbuminemia. At the end of follow-up, 100% received vitamin supplementation.

Conclusion

PJIBP could be an effective procedure, associated with positive results in relation to weight loss and resolution of obesity comorbidities. Deficiencies of fat-soluble vitamins and protein malnutrition represent the main concern in the long term, so multidisciplinary management and continuous follow-up are required.

Graphical Abstract