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01-07-2015 | Original Contributions

Incidence of Gallstone Formation and Cholecystectomy 10 Years After Bariatric Surgery

Authors: Andreas Melmer, Wolfgang Sturm, Bernhard Kuhnert, Julia Engl-Prosch, Claudia Ress, Alexander Tschoner, Markus Laimer, Elisabeth Laimer, Matthias Biebl, Johann Pratschke, Herbert Tilg, Christoph Ebenbichler

Published in: Obesity Surgery | Issue 7/2015

Abstract

Purpose

Rapid weight loss is a risk factor for gallstone formation, and postoperative treatment options for gallstone formation are still part of scientific discussion. No prospective studies monitored the incidence for gallstone formation and subsequent cholecystectomy after bariatric surgery longer than 5 years. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence of gallstone formation and cholecystectomy in bariatric patients over 10 years.

Materials and methods

One hundred nine patients were observed over 10 years after laparoscopic gastric banding or gastric bypass/gastric sleeve. The incidence of gallstone formation and cholecystectomy was correlated to longitudinal changes in anthropometric parameters.

Results

In total, 91 female and 18 male patients were examined. Nineteen patients had postoperative gallstone formation, and 12 female patients required cholecystectomy. The number needed to harm for gallstone formation was 7.1 and 2.3 cases in the banding group and gastric bypass/gastric sleeve group, respectively. The number needed to harm for cholecystectomy was 11.6 and 2.5 cases in the banding group and the gastric bypass/gastric sleeve group, respectively. Weight loss was higher in patients requiring subsequent cholecystectomy. Mean follow-up to cholecystectomy was 21.5 months with the latest operation after 51 months.

Conclusion

Female gender and rapid weight loss were major risk factors for postoperative cholelithiasis. Ultrasound examinations within 2 to 5 years are recommended in every patient, independent of bariatric procedure. Pharmacologic treatment should be considered in high risk patients within 2 to 5 years to prevent postoperative cholelithiasis. This helps to optimize patient care and lowers postoperative morbidity.

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Title: Incidence of Gallstone Formation and Cholecystectomy 10 Years After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Andreas Melmer
Wolfgang Sturm
Bernhard Kuhnert
Julia Engl-Prosch
Claudia Ress
Alexander Tschoner
Markus Laimer
Elisabeth Laimer
Matthias Biebl
Johann Pratschke
Herbert Tilg
Christoph Ebenbichler
Publication date: 01-07-2015
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Obesity Surgery / Issue 7/2015
Print ISSN: 0960-8923
Electronic ISSN: 1708-0428
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-014-1529-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Incidence of Gallstone Formation and Cholecystectomy 10 Years After Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Purpose

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Materials and methods

Results

Conclusion

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