The biliointestinal bypass

BACKGROUND: Since 1990 we adopted the biliointestinal bypass (BIBP) for all morbid obese patients eligible to a malabsorption procedure. Since 2001 we used laparoscopic technique. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 102 patients; mean age 35.4 (18-54) years; preoperative mean weight Kg 148.3 (105-225); mean preoperative BMI 54.1 kg/m² (40-66.2); mean follow-up 10 years (1-22). 83 patients underwent open and 19 laparoscopic BIBP. The operation was performed with five lap ports. Section of the jejunum 30 cm from the Treitz and of mesentery was made by linear stapler. The cholecysto-jejunal anastomosis was completed with 45 mm linear stapler. A side-to-side anastomosis between the proximal jejunum and the last 12-18 cm of the ileum was created by firing a 60 mm linear stapler. On the excluded ileum an anti-reflux valve system was hand-sutured. RESULTS: Five years post-operatively mean weight was 89 (62-130) kg, mean BMI was 31 (24-41) kg/m². Two patients of the 19 laparoscopic patients were converted in open surgery for adhesions post-appendectomy. The main late complications were incisional hernia (19.3%) and abdominal bloating (2.9%). The reversal and conversion rate was 6.5%. There was no death. CONCLUSION: Our experience showed that five years post-BIBP the weight loss was satisfactory in 90.7% of patients. Using laparoscopic technique it is possible to reduce pain, in-hospital time, respiratory and thromboembolic complications, convalescence and incisional hernia.