Research in Weight Loss and Metabolic Surgery

Research for Weight-Loss Surgery

NewYork-Presbyterian has a very active research program in obesity and weight-loss surgery. Our researchers are investigating new surgical techniques, including an endoscopic technique for gastric bypass surgery that requires no incisions.

We are also examining the effects of obesity surgery on asthma, and the effect of adjustable gastric banding on patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 40.

Lastly, we are studying whether the use of leptin, a hormone associated with appetite and obesity, in patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery, can help them lose more weight.

Research in Metabolic Surgery

NewYork-Presbyterian is leading a worldwide consortium of medical centers investigating the long-term effects and efficacy of metabolic surgery in patients with diabetes.

In addition to the modified gastrointestinal bypass, we are developing and investigating other procedures to reverse Type 2 diabetes:

Duodenal-Jejunal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy

The procedure helps control diabetes with a partial, vertical resection of the stomach. The procedure reduces the potential for ulcer formation and slow gastric emptying, which may cause nausea and vomiting.

This technique might provide a valuable alternative to the traditional gastric bypass if the ongoing studies confirm its potential to reduce some of the metabolic complications (lack of nutrient absorbtion) associated with traditional gastric bypass surgery.

Endolumenal Duodenal Bypass Sleeve

Using a flexible endoscope surgeons insert a tube inside the top section of the duodenum. This tube prevents food from coming into contact with the lining of the bowel thereby restricting the absorption of nutrients and changing some of the GI hormones believed to play an important role in Type 2 diabetes.

We are investigating the use of this endoscopically-placed sleeve as a pre-surgical test to help select candidates for surgical treatment of diabetes. We will also investigate if the use of the sleeve in association with drugs may increase responsiveness to conventional medical management of Type 2 diabetes in patients with poorly controlled diabetes.