Our Summary
This study aimed to investigate how a certain type of treatment affects the thickness of the stomach wall in patients with a certain type of bacteria (Helicobacter pylori or Hp) who have undergone a specific weight loss surgery (Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or LSG). The patients were divided into three groups: those without the bacteria, those with the bacteria but without any treatment, and those with the bacteria who received treatment.
The treatment involved combining a bismuth-based treatment with a proton pump inhibitor. The thickness of the stomach wall was measured before and after the surgery in different areas of the stomach.
The results showed that patients with the bacteria who did not receive treatment had a significantly thicker stomach wall than the other two groups. However, the treatment did not have any effect on early complications that could arise from the surgery, such as bleeding, infection, or leakage from the surgical staple line.
In summary, having the bacteria increases the thickness of the stomach wall, but this can return to normal with treatment. However, having the bacteria or receiving treatment for it does not affect early complications after surgery.
FAQs
- Does the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria affect the thickness of the stomach wall in patients who have undergone Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?
- How does the combined treatment of a bismuth-based treatment with a proton pump inhibitor affect the thickness of the stomach wall in patients with Helicobacter pylori?
- Does the treatment for Helicobacter pylori have any effect on early post-surgery complications such as bleeding, infection, or leakage from the surgical staple line?
Doctor’s Tip
A doctor might tell a patient undergoing gastric sleeve surgery to be aware of the potential impact of certain bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori, on the thickness of the stomach wall. It’s important for patients to discuss any concerns or symptoms they may have with their healthcare provider before and after the surgery. Additionally, following the prescribed treatment plan post-surgery can help ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of complications.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended for gastric sleeve surgery include those who are severely obese with a BMI of 40 or higher, or those with 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 tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise may also be recommended for gastric sleeve surgery.
In this study, patients with the bacteria Helicobacter pylori who were undergoing Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy were specifically investigated. It was found that having this bacteria can lead to a thicker stomach wall, but this thickness can be reduced with treatment. Therefore, patients with Helicobacter pylori may also be recommended for gastric sleeve surgery, especially if they are struggling with obesity and related health conditions.
Timeline
Before gastric sleeve surgery:
- Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, including physical exams, blood tests, and possibly imaging tests
- Patient may be required to follow a specific diet and exercise plan to prepare for surgery
- Patient meets with a nutritionist and a psychologist to discuss post-operative lifestyle changes
- Patient may be required to stop certain medications before surgery
- Patient undergoes the gastric sleeve surgery, which involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, banana-shaped stomach pouch
After gastric sleeve surgery:
- Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for a few days for any complications
- Patient is put on a liquid diet for a period of time before gradually transitioning to solid foods
- Patient is advised to follow a strict diet and exercise plan to promote weight loss
- Patient attends regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor progress and address any concerns
- Patient may experience weight loss, improved overall health, and resolution of obesity-related comorbidities
- Patient may need to make lifestyle changes, such as adopting healthier eating habits and increasing physical activity, to maintain weight loss long-term.
What to Ask Your Doctor
How does having Helicobacter pylori (Hp) bacteria affect the thickness of the stomach wall in patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery?
What specific treatment was used for patients with Hp bacteria in this study, and how does it contribute to reducing the thickness of the stomach wall?
How were the patients in this study divided into different groups based on the presence of Hp bacteria and treatment received?
What were the findings regarding the thickness of the stomach wall in patients with Hp bacteria who did not receive treatment compared to those who did receive treatment?
Did the treatment for Hp bacteria have any impact on early complications following gastric sleeve surgery, such as bleeding, infection, or leakage from the surgical staple line?
How long after the surgery were the measurements of stomach wall thickness taken in this study?
Are there any long-term implications or benefits of reducing the thickness of the stomach wall in patients with Hp bacteria after gastric sleeve surgery?
How common is it for patients undergoing gastric sleeve surgery to have Hp bacteria, and is it routinely tested for before the procedure?
Are there any other factors besides Hp bacteria that can affect the thickness of the stomach wall in patients undergoing gastric sleeve surgery?
Based on the results of this study, would you recommend screening for Hp bacteria and providing treatment before gastric sleeve surgery to potentially reduce the thickness of the stomach wall?
Reference
Authors: Ergin A, Çiyiltepe H, Karip AB, Fersahoğlu MM, Bulut NE, Çakmak A, Topaloğlu B, Bilgili AC, Somay A, Taşdelen İ, Akyüz Ü, Memişoğlu K. Journal: Obes Surg. 2021 Sep;31(9):4024-4032. doi: 10.1007/s11695-021-05513-8. Epub 2021 Jun 1. PMID: 34075550