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Youssef A Andraos et al

marks. Then, the mid-distance from the greater curvature STATISTIcAl ANAlYSIS
on the posterior gastric wall is taken. The greater curva- All statistical analysis was performed with the use of SPSS
ture is also charged. Subsequently, the anterior gastric software, version 17.0. A descriptive approach is used
wall is symmetrically loaded and sutured to the posterior for all variables. The main variable is the percentage of
bites. Finally, the knot is made. This method of stitching EWL at different periods after surgery (1, 3, 6, 12, 18 and
will not leave a dead gastrogastric space in which fluid 24 months). Statistical analysis is done by using different
and seroma can accumulate leading to complete gastric statistical tests for categorical and continuous variables
compression and obstruction (so-called compartment (chi-square test, student test…) in the overall group and
syndrome). in different subgroups by BMI, and types of sutures. The
4. The second row of stitches (Figs 9A to C) consists of con ti - p-values were two-sided, with an α value of 0.05 considered
nuous nonabsorbable stitches 3 to 5 mm apart. It starts as statistically significant.
from the HIS angle and stops 3 cm from the pylorus.
Leak and patent lumen tests were performed in all cases ReSulTS
with 50 to 60 ml of diluted methylene blue. No drain is
placed at the end of the operation. General characteristics
Surgery Characteristics
Postoperative Treatment and Follow-up
Out of the 449 patients undergoing LGCP and over a period
At postoperative day 1, patients were given gastrografin of 26 months, 395 (88.0%) were followed over a period of
meal (Fig. 10). If no obstruction or leak was noticed, the 1 month, 357 (79.5%) over a period of 3 months, 318
patients were discharged from the hospital at day 2. The (70.8%) over a period of 6 months, 243 (54.1%) over a period
patient was discharged from hospital with a prescription of 12 months, 116 (25.8%) over a period of 18 months, and
of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) twice a day for 6 months 21 (4.7%) over a period of 24 months.
to decrease gastric acidity, esogastric reflux and to prevent • Surgery was done in 448 patients by laparoscopy, and
suture rupture by acid erosion which can lead to early in 1 patient by open surgery.
gastric expansion. • Mean operative time was 65 minutes.

A B

C
Figs 9A to C: (A) Anterior lower gastric view, (B) upper gastric view—plicated fundus and (C) posterior gastric view
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