The following is a summary of “Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty in Those With a Body Mass Index of 27–30,” published in the October 2023 issue of Gastroenterology by Alqahtani, et al.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is an established procedure for patients with a body mass index (BMI) over 30, but its safety and efficacy in patients with a BMI between 27 and 30 remain underexplored. For a study, researchers sought to assess the safety and effectiveness of ESG in patients with BMI in the 27–30 range who have not succeeded with other weight loss methods or have weight-related comorbidities.

The subgroup analysis involved data from adults with a BMI between 27 and 30 who underwent ESG as their primary weight loss intervention. The data was gathered from a single-center registry that followed patients over time. The analysis focused on weight loss, resolution of comorbidities, adverse events, surgical revisions, and quality of life measured using the Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System.

Among 3,797 ESG procedures, 656 patients (17%) had a BMI in the 27–30 range. The average age was 33, with women making up 94% of the group. Six, 12, 24, and 36 months following ESG, the average total weight loss percentages were 11.0 ± 7.2, 15.5 ± 6.3, 15.1 ± 8.3%, and 13.3 ± 9.9%, respectively. Among patients with diabetes and hypertension, 36% and 18% experienced complete remission of their conditions. Two patients were hospitalized due to bleeding complications. Additionally, 3.5% of patients underwent revisions to laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy or repeat ESG, and six more required suture removal. After ESG, 82% of patients rated their quality of life as good or better. The study suggested that ESG is well-tolerated, safe, and effective in patients with a BMI between 27 and 30.

Source: journals.lww.com/ajg/abstract/2023/10000/endoscopic_sleeve_gastroplasty_in_those_with_a.24.aspx