Effects of Bariatric Endoscopy on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and objective: Endoscopic bariatric and metabolic therapies (EBMTs) are emerging minimally invasive therapeutic options for obesity and its related complications, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of EBMTs on NALFD in patients with obesity. Methods: Four databases were searched until Nov 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies reporting liver-related outcomes following Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved and non-FDA-approved EBMTs were included. Liver parameters, metabolic parameters, and weight loss were evaluated. Risk of bias was assessed using the risk of bias tool in the Cochrane Collaboration for RCTs and the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies criteria for observational studies. Results: Thirty-three studies with 1710 individuals were included. Regarding the effects of EBMTs on liver fibrosis, a significant decline of NAFLD Fibrosis Score, but not transient elastography-detected liver stiffness or Fibrosis-4 Index, was observed. EBMTs significantly improved liver steatosis (control attenuation parameter and Hepatic Steatosis Index), NAFLD Activity Score, and Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance. EBMTs reduced serum levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase considerably. Moreover, EBMTs had reducing effects on the serum levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol as well as body weight. Conclusions: Our meta-analysis suggested that EBMTs could ameliorate NAFLD based on the evidence of improved liver steatosis, liver function, and insulin resistance. Large-scale, prospective, long-term studies are warranted to clarify the role of EBMTs in patients with different stages of NAFLD.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the effects of endoscopic bariatric and metabolic therapies (EBMTs) on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with obesity. The results showed that EBMTs can improve liver steatosis, liver function, and insulin resistance. Further large-scale, long-term studies are needed to clarify the role of EBMTs in different stages of NAFLD.