Abstract
BACKGROUND: It is not clear which bariatric procedure that gives the best outcome for patients with super obesity (body mass index [BMI] > 50 kg/m(2)). This study aims to compare outcomes in patients with super obesity after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and duodenal switch (BPD/DS) using the Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System (BAROS) and a local questionnaire for gastrointestinal symptoms. METHODS: A retrospective mail survey including 211 patients, 98 RYGB and 113 BPD/DS, with a mean follow-up time of 4 years for both groups. Gender distribution, age, and comorbidities were similar. Weight loss, changes in comorbidities, quality of life (QoL), and adverse events were registered, as well as gastrointestinal symptoms. RESULTS: Preoperative BMI was higher in the BPD/DS group (56 ± 6.7 vs. 52 ± 4.0 kg/m(2), p < 0.01); despite this, the postoperative BMI was lower (31 ± 5.5 vs. 36 ± 7.1 kg/m(2), p < 0.01). The effect on diabetes was superior after BPD/DS; otherwise, both groups had a similar reduction in comorbidities. There was no difference in QoL. Adverse events were less common after RYGB (14 vs. 27%). Overall, the BPD/DS group had a superior BAROS score (4.7 ± 2.0 vs. 4.0 ± 2.1, p < 0.05). Dumping was more common after RYGB (p < 0.01), while reflux, diarrhea, fecal incontinence, and problems with malodorous flatus were more common after BPD/DS (all p < 0.05). Frequency of nausea/vomiting and abdominal pain were similar. CONCLUSION: Patients with super obesity have a better weight reduction and metabolic control with BPD/DS, at the cost of higher incidence of adverse events, compared to patients operated with RYGB.