Our Summary

In recent years, a type of weight loss surgery called one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) has become more common. Many studies have shown that although this method is technically simpler, it doesn’t negatively impact the long-lasting results of the surgery. But some surgeons who specialize in weight loss surgery have raised concerns about an increased risk of stomach and esophagus cancer. This study discusses the second reported case of cancer developing at the site where the stomach was surgically connected to the small intestine (gastrointestinal-jejunal anastomosis) in a patient who had OAGB. The study looks at some of the surgical techniques that might be linked to this issue and also reviews what other research has found on the topic.

FAQs

  1. What is one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB)?
  2. What is the concern associated with OAGB in terms of cancer risk?
  3. What does the study reveal about the case of cancer in a OAGB patient?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient who has undergone gastric bypass to make sure they are following their recommended dietary guidelines and getting regular check-ups to monitor for any potential complications, such as nutritional deficiencies or gastrointestinal issues. It is important to stay in communication with your healthcare provider and address any concerns or symptoms promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastric bypass surgery include those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Additionally, patients who have not been successful with other weight loss methods such as diet and exercise may also be candidates for gastric bypass surgery.

Timeline

Before Gastric Bypass:

  1. Patient undergoes consultation with a bariatric surgeon to discuss weight loss surgery options.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations including blood tests, physical examination, and possibly psychological evaluation.
  3. Patient attends educational sessions to learn about the procedure, risks, and post-operative expectations.
  4. Patient follows a pre-operative diet to reduce liver size and lower surgical risks.

After Gastric Bypass:

  1. Patient undergoes the OAGB procedure, which involves creating a small stomach pouch and connecting it directly to the small intestine.
  2. Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery.
  3. Patient follows a strict post-operative diet and gradually increases physical activity.
  4. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgical team to monitor weight loss progress and address any concerns.
  5. Patient experiences significant weight loss and improvement in obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.
  6. Patient must adhere to lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and prevent complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of gastric bypass surgery, including the risk of developing gastric or esophageal cancer?
  2. How often should I follow up with you after the surgery to monitor for any potential issues?
  3. Are there any specific dietary or lifestyle changes I should make to reduce my risk of developing cancer after the surgery?
  4. Should I undergo any screening tests or surveillance procedures to monitor for early signs of cancer after the surgery?
  5. Can you explain the surgical technique of the one-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and how it differs from other types of gastric bypass surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative weight loss surgery options that may have a lower risk of cancer development?
  7. What is your experience and success rate with performing OAGB surgeries, particularly in relation to long-term outcomes and complications?
  8. Are there any specific factors or medical conditions in my case that may increase my risk of developing cancer after the surgery?
  9. How can I best manage my weight and overall health in the long term to reduce my risk of cancer and other complications post-surgery?
  10. Are there any ongoing research studies or advancements in the field of bariatric surgery that may impact my decision to undergo OAGB surgery?

Reference

Authors: Vinci D, La Terra A, Manno E, Merola G, Muratore A. Journal: Obes Surg. 2024 Nov;34(11):4267-4270. doi: 10.1007/s11695-024-07545-2. Epub 2024 Oct 12. PMID: 39395145