Introduction
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has emerged as one of the most commonly performed metabolic and bariatric surgeries (MBS) globally, owing to its technical simplicity, efficacy in weight reduction, and substantial improvement in obesity-related comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes and hypertension [
1‐
3]. The procedure involves resection of approximately 80% of the stomach, resulting in both restrictive and hormonal effects that promote satiety and metabolic benefits through modulation of gut hormones such as ghrelin [
4].
Despite these advantages, accumulating evidence has revealed several long-term limitations of LSG. These include significant recurrent weight regain, development of de novo or worsening gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inadequate weight loss in a subset of patients, and progressive nutritional deficiencies [
5,
6]. Such complications have led to an increasing need for revisional bariatric surgery, with current estimates suggesting 15–20% of LSG patients may require secondary procedures [
7,
8].
Revisional surgery following LSG presents unique technical challenges and heightened clinical risks compared to primary procedures. The altered anatomy, including sleeve dilation, strictures, and fibrotic changes along previous staple lines, contributes to increased operative complexity [
9,
10]. Furthermore, revisional procedures are associated with substantially higher rates of postoperative complications, including anastomotic leaks (4.6% vs 0.45% in primary cases), surgical site infections, and bleeding [
11].
From a nutritional perspective, conversion to malabsorptive procedures such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or single anastomosis duodeno-ileal bypass with sleeve (SADI-S) introduces additional concerns. These include exacerbated risks of micronutrient deficiencies (particularly iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and calcium) and protein-energy malnutrition, which may be more common in revisional cases than after primary LSG [
12]. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the nutritional outcomes following revisional bariatric surgeries performed after LSG, with a particular focus on frequently reported micronutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, ferritin, calcium, albumin, and zinc, as well as protein-energy malnutrition.
Methods
This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions [
8,
9], and was prospectively registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD420251063133).
Search Strategy
A comprehensive literature search was conducted across four major electronic databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science (WoS), and Scopus. The search included studies published up to April 10, 2025. The following combination of keywords and Boolean operators was used: (revision OR "revisional bariatric surgery" OR "reoperative bariatric surgery" OR "conversional bariatric surgery" OR reoperation OR "revision surgery" OR "post sleeve") AND ("sleeve gastrectomy" OR "vertical sleeve gastrectomy" OR "laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy" OR LSG OR VSG OR "gastric sleeve" OR sleeve) AND (nutrition OR "nutritional deficiency" OR "micronutrient deficiency" OR "vitamin deficiency" OR "mineral deficiency" OR malnutrition OR "nutritional status" OR "nutritional complication"). Additional sources were identified by manually screening the references of relevant systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria
Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, case–control studies, and large case series involving ten or more patients. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses were also screened for relevant references. The target population consisted of adult patients who had previously undergone sleeve gastrectomy and required revisional bariatric surgery due to inadequate weight loss, complications, or nutritional concerns. Studies were included if they reported at least one nutritional outcome, such as deficiencies in vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, or protein, or documented measures like albumin levels. Only studies published in the past 10 to 15 years were considered, and both English and non-English studies were eligible if a full translatable text was available.
Studies were excluded if they were case reports, editorials, conference abstracts without full data, or animal studies. Also excluded were those involving pediatric populations, primary bariatric procedures without prior sleeve gastrectomy, or non-surgical interventions. Endoscopic-only revisions were not included unless performed alongside surgical revisions. Additionally, studies that did not provide quantitative nutritional data, focusing solely on weight loss without relevant nutritional data, were excluded.
Study Selection Process
The screening of studies was conducted in two stages. First, the titles and abstracts of the identified studies were screened for relevance. In the second stage, the full texts of potentially relevant studies were assessed for eligibility.
Four reviewers performed data extraction independently using a standardized data extraction form. The following information was extracted from each study: author, publication year, study design, sample size, surgical procedure, follow-up duration, average age of participants, and BMI values. Nutritional outcomes were collected using a data extraction form, and all data were reviewed by the fifth reviewer. Any discrepancies between the reviewers were resolved through discussion and consensus.
Quality Assessment
The quality assessment focused on key aspects such as study design, sample representativeness, comparability, outcome assessment, and follow-up. Randomized clinical trials were evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (RoB 2) tool [
13], while cohort and case–control studies were assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) [
14]. This approach ensured an appropriate and systematic appraisal tailored to each study design.
Statistical Analysis
Single-arm meta-analyses were conducted using the meta package in R software (version 4.4.2) [
15]. Heterogeneity among included studies was assessed using Chi-square and I-square statistical tests for continuous outcomes, pooled means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, while for dichotomous outcomes, pooled proportions and corresponding 95% CIs were computed. We considered homogeneity among studies when
P > 0.1, I2 < 50%, and a fixed-effects model was chosen for meta-analysis; otherwise, a random-effect model was used, and when the heterogeneity persisted, we performed a sensitivity analysis. A subgroup meta-analysis was conducted to compare different revisional surgeries.
Discussion
LSG is among the most commonly performed metabolic surgeries. As such, postoperative nutritional challenges are anticipated, necessitating long-term clinical follow-up. Studies report that approximately 15–20% of patients undergoing LSG require revisional surgery due to various factors, including technical complications, persistent nutritional deficiencies, or inadequate weight loss outcomes [
7,
8]. Revisional bariatric surgeries have been steadily increasing since 2011, particularly in specialized centers in the USA and subsequently around the world [
32]. With the increasing prevalence of bariatric surgery, several secondary procedures have been developed to enhance outcomes and address limitations of earlier techniques. Among these, OAGB and SADI-S have gained popularity. These procedures are favored for their technical simplicity, shorter operative times, preservation of a larger gastric remnant, and their ability to achieve effective weight loss [
9].
In our systematic review, we included 15 studies [
16‐
27,
28,
29,
30] which state that OAGB already represents the single largest revision category (388/1,049 patients, 36.9%), superior of RYGB (303/1,049, 28.9%) and SADI-S (237/1,049, 22.6%), indicating a shift towards single-anastomosis approaches in the included studies. However, it is important to note that this distribution reflects only the subset of literature focused on nutritional outcomes after revision and should not be interpreted as a representation of the global tendency in all revisional bariatric practices.
OAGB, the most represented revisional surgery in our systematic review, involves the creation of a long tubular gastric pouch anastomosed to a jejunal loop approximately 150–200 cm distal to the ligament of Treitz [
33]. This configuration partially bypasses the duodenum while preserving some of its absorptive function. However, deficiencies in vitamin B12 and iron remain concerns. When the biliopancreatic limb exceeds 200 cm, there is an increased risk of protein-calorie malnutrition [
34].
RYGB entails the formation of a small gastric pouch, with a biliopancreatic limb and an alimentary limb. This bypasses the duodenum and proximal jejunum, which are essential for the absorption of calcium and vitamin B12. In cases where the biliopancreatic limb is longer, fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies may also occur. Patients typically require lifelong multivitamin supplementation, including calcium, vitamin D, and B12 [
35,
36].
SADI-S, the third most represented technique, combines a vertical sleeve gastrectomy with a duodeno-ileal anastomosis approximately 250–300 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. This significantly shortens the common channel, where most micronutrient absorption occurs. As a result, SADI-S is associated with the highest incidence of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), iron, and protein deficiencies. Management involves high-dose fat-soluble vitamin supplementation, 60–80 g of protein daily, and 65–100 mg of iron, vitamin B12, and trace elements [
37]. Most of the included studies in our review reported the use of supplementation regimens to address these nutritional deficiencies [
17,
18,
20,
22‐
29]. However, the occurrence of multiple deficiencies may still arise, either due to patient non-compliance or as an inherent consequence of the surgical technique.
In accordance, Abedalqader et al. demonstrated that OAGB is increasingly adopted in high-risk patients with lower tolerance for severe malabsorption and can be safely used in elderly and vegan individuals, while SADI-S may be reserved for super-obese patients who can adhere to intensive nutritional follow-up [
38]. Different metabolic and bariatric surgeries can alter gastrointestinal anatomy in distinct ways, which impacts how nutrients are absorbed. These surgical variations lead to specific nutritional deficiencies for according to each technique and influence the amount of supplementation required postoperatively.
Accordingly, the included studies reported that all patients were prescribed a multivitamin protocol [
17,
18,
20,
22‐
29], except in the studies by Chiappetta et al. Debs et al. and Gallucci et al. [
19,
21,
31], highlighting the importance of standardized supplementation protocols and rigorous methodology in revisional bariatric surgery. These findings align with the nutritional outcomes and deficiencies highlighted in our systematic review, emphasizing the impact of surgical technique, the necessity of multivitamin prescription, and the importance of assessing patient compliance.
The American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) recommends that all patients preparing for MBS undergo a thorough preoperative evaluation of their nutritional health, which includes checking micronutrient levels such as thiamine, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamins A, E, D, and K, along with calcium, iron, zinc, and copper. This evaluation not only detects and allows for correction of existing deficiencies but also provides a baseline for postoperative comparison [
39]. Moreover, the presence of preoperative micronutrient deficiencies has been shown to predict their persistence following surgery [
40].
To ensure reliable results, we examined the authorship of included studies to identify potential data overlaps. For instance, Basha et al. and Salama et al. shared six authors and analyzed the same SADI-S versus OAGB cohorts at different follow-up intervals [
22,
28], while Dijkhorst et al. (2018) and Dijkhorst et al. (2021) used the same Dutch multicenter registry with extended follow-up [
18,
25]. To avoid duplication and skewed effect estimates, we included only the most recent report from each pair. Although this reduced the sample size, it enhanced the validity of our findings.This methodological refinement underscores the importance of meticulously reviewing included studies in systematic reviews. We also propose using co-author network graphs as a helpful tool for identifying potential overlaps in study populations [
41]
Vitamin D is among the micronutrient deficiencies that commonly arise after MBS, with significant implication on bone health and the potential to cause long-term complications. Vitamin D depends on bile salts for its passive absorption in the jejunum and ileum. Since MBS result in anatomical alterations of the GI tract, they disrupt efficient absorption of vitamin D [
42]. In our analysis, the vitamin D deficiency rate was numerically higher in the RYGB group (27%) compared to the OAGB group (14%), although this difference did not reach statistical significance (
p = 0.08). The higher rate observed after RYGB may be explained by its anatomical configuration, as bypassing the duodenum and proximal jejunum limits adequate mixing of vitamin D with bile salts, thereby hindering its absorption [
36].
Vitamin B12 deficiency commonly arises after MBS due to reduced stomach volume thereby, reduced gastric acid and intrinsic factor secretion, which are both essential for B12 absorption [
43]. Pooled analysis of deficiency rates showed lower rates in the SADI-S (3%) and OAGB (7%) groups compared to RYGB (15%). However, these differences were not statistically significant (
p = 0.25). This is attributed to the complete bypass of stomach and proximal small bowel in the RYGB procedure, where the intrinsic factor is produced and vitamin B12 is absorbed. However, OAGB and SADI-S may preserve larger portion of the stomach so some intrinsic factor is still produced [
17].
Across the studies included in this review, no statistically significant differences in mean serum iron levels were identified between the various bariatric revision procedures. However, categorical assessments of deficiency revealed a different pattern. Patients undergoing SADI-S exhibited higher rates of iron deficiency compared to those who underwent OAGB. (p = 0.0106). OAGB was more frequently associated with the lowest rates of iron deficiency (p = 0.025), suggesting it may have a comparatively lesser impact on iron stores or absorption.
Calcium deficiency remains a clinically relevant postoperative issue following both RYGB and SADI-S procedures. Although the studies reported small differences in the rate of calcium deficiency, none reached statistical significance [
16,
20,
25]. These results highlight the importance of long-term monitoring of calcium levels and bone mineral density, and the necessity of patient adherence to supplementation protocols.
No significant differences in mean serum albumin levels were noted between revision procedures. However, a slightly increased incidence of hypoalbuminemia was observed in patients who underwent the SADI-S procedure [
16,
20,
21,
24,
25]. While this did not reach statistical significance, it may reflect a tendency toward greater protein hypoabsorption.
There were no significant differences in anemia rates detected between the different revisional procedures (P = 0.92). The OAGB group demonstrated the lowest anemia incidence of 17% (95% CI: 0.08–0.33; I2 = 43). These findings suggest that anemia remains a shared concern across revision types, potentially influenced by differing follow-up durations, supplementation adherence, or unmeasured baseline patient characteristics.
Any revisional bariatric surgery involving a malabsorptive component may result in malnutrition with varying degrees, partly due to the altered anatomy and partly due to poor compliance of patients to proper diet and multivitamin supplements [
44]. Therefore, regular monitoring of micronutrients levels is essential in post-operative management to detect any early deficiency and allow for timely intervention before long-term complications occur.
Plath et al. reported 48 cases of RYGB reversal, half of which had already undergone at least one prior bariatric revision. In 12.5% of these cases, malabsorption was the indication for reversal [
45]. Similarly, Kermansaravi et al. demonstrated that the major signs and symptoms of protein-energy malnutrition were among the leading causes for OAGB reversal [
46], underscoring the importance of consistent nutritional monitoring.
While the first year following bariatric surgery is critical for identifying early micronutrient deficiencies, evidence suggests that deficiencies may develop beyond this period [
47], underscoring the necessity of implementing a structured, long-term monitoring strategy. The ASMBS recommends monitoring up to ten micronutrients every three months during the first postoperative year, followed by assessment every six months in the second year, and annually thereafter, irrespective of the type of procedure performed [
48]. While, the British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society (BOMSS) recommends a more individualized approach, focusing on five key nutrients at three intervals within the first year while reserving additional tests for specific clinical indications or annual follow-ups [
49].
While efforts were made to assess the methodological quality of the included studies, a formal evaluation of publication bias was not feasible due to the limited number of studies, which restricted the use of visualization tools like funnel plots or other standard techniques. Moderate heterogeneity was observed in several reported outcomes. This variability may be attributed to differences in study design, such as the retrospective nature of many studies, inconsistent definitions of nutritional deficiencies, variation in surgical techniques, and differing baseline patient characteristics.
Additionally, the duration of follow-up varied significantly among the included studies, which likely influenced the detection of nutritional complications. Short-term studies may underestimate late-onset issues such as progressive micronutrient depletion or chronic anemia. In contrast, cohorts with longer follow-up periods revealed deficiencies that were not evident in the early postoperative phase, underscoring the importance of long-term nutritional monitoring in this population [
44].
The single-arm analyses presented are not definitive. A significant limitation of the current evidence is the lack of sufficient data to compare post-revision nutritional outcomes directly against pre-revision baseline status. This gap makes it difficult to isolate the specific impact of the revisional surgery itself from the pre-existing deficiencies caused by the initial sleeve gastrectomy. Therefore, large-scale clinical trials comparing different bariatric revision procedures from a nutritional perspective are urgently needed. These must incorporate rigorous follow-up durations and critically standardized, well-documented pre-revision baseline measurements to establish a clear starting point and ensure valid and meaningful comparisons.
In our systematic review, we aim to highlight the importance of nutritional outcomes in revisional bariatric surgery, in order to validate the overall benefits for bariatric surgery patients, not only in terms of weight loss but also in minimizing the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Given the varying incidence of these deficiencies across different revisional bariatric procedures, this concern warrants greater attention to ensure comprehensive patient care.