Side-to-side duodeno-colic anastomosis provides dramatic weight loss. A potentially strong anti-diabetic operation for type-2 diabetes.

BACKGROUND: Incomplete bypass of the intestines provides weight loss by hypoabsorption of nutrients and hormonal changes. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a side-to-side duodeno-colic anastomosis (DCA) in the short term.

METHODS: Seven <50 kg swine were allocated to a DCA, and compared to a sham group. Weights were recorded for 8 weeks and duodenoscopies performed at 8 and 28 days. Complete blood count and basic biochemistry profiles were taken at baseline, day 3 and 56. At necropsy, macroscopic and histological changes of the liver, duodenum and colon samples were analyzed.

RESULTS: The DCA group has shown a weight loss of 18.2%, while the control group gained 33.2% more weight at 56 days, for a dramatic difference of 51.4% between the 2 groups (P<0.05). Duodenoscopies demonstrated normal patent anastomosis and adequate lumen without abnormalities at 28 days. Histological anastomosis examination at 56 days showed normal healing, with absence of severe liver toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS: In this mammal model with short follow-up, a side-to-side duodeno-colic anastomosis provided rapid efficacious weight loss in the short term.