Abstract
BACKGROUND: Both weight regain and dumping syndrome (DS) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) have been related to the dilation of gastro-jejunal anastomosis. The aim of this study is to assess the safety and long-term efficacy of endoscopic transoral outlet reduction (TORe) for DS and/or weight regain after RYBG. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on a prospective database. Sigstad's score, early and late Arts Dumping Score (ADS) questionnaires, absolute weight loss (AWL), percentage of total body weight loss (%TBWL), and percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) were assessed at baseline and at 6, 12, and 24 months after TORe. RESULTS: Eighty-seven patients (median age 46 years, 79% female) underwent TORe. The median baseline BMI was 36.2 kg/m(2). Out of 87 patients, 58 were classified as "dumpers" due to Sigstad's score ≥ 7. The resolution rate of DS (Sigstad's score < 7) was 68.9%, 66.7%, and 57.2% at 6, 12, and 24 months after TORe, respectively. A significant decrease in Sigstad's score as well as in early and late ADS questionnaires was observed (p < 0.001). The median Sigstad's score dropped from 15 (11-8.5) pre-operatively to 2 (0-12) at 24 months. The %TBWL was 10.5%, 9.9%, and 8.1% at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Further, "dumpers" with resolution of DS showed better weight loss results compared with those with persistent DS (p < 0.001). The only adverse event observed was a perigastric fluid collection successfully managed conservatively. CONCLUSION: TORe is a minimally invasive treatment for DS and/or weight regain after RYGB, with evidence of long-term efficacy.