Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials Comparing Long-Term Outcomes of Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy

Introduction Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has overtaken Roux-En-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) as the most common bariatric procedure worldwide. However, there is little long-term data comparing the two procedures. Objectives We perform a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing 5-year outcomes of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing RYGB and SG. Methods Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, and NHS Evidence were searched for English language RCTs comparing RYGB with SG and assessed weight loss and/or comorbidity resolution at 5 years. Results Five studies were included in the final analysis. Meta-analysis demonstrates a significantly greater percentage excess weight loss in patients undergoing RYGB compared with SG (65.7% vs 57.3%, p < 0.0001). Resolution of diabetes was seen in 37.4% and 27.5% after RYGB and SG respectively. There was no significant difference between RYGB and SG in rates of resolution or improvement of diabetes. Similarly, HbA1C levels were not significantly different between the two procedures. Resolution of dyslipidaemia was more common after RYGB (68.6% vs 55.2%, p = 0.0443). Remission of gastro-oesophageal reflux occurred in 60.4% in the RYGB group in contrast to 25.0% in the SG group (p = 0.002). Conclusions Both RYGB and SG result in sustained weight loss and comorbidity control at 5 years. RYGB resulted in greater %EWL, improved dyslipidaemia outcomes and a lower incidence of postoperative gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).