Losing weight to achieve joint or hernia surgery: is the intragastric balloon the answer?

Background: Obesity is an epidemic, with its accompanying medical conditions putting patients at increased risk of postoperative complications. For patients undergoing elective surgery, preoperative weight loss provides an opportunity to decrease complications. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an intragastric balloon in achieving a body mass index (BMI) < 35 kg/m prior to elective joint replacement or hernia repair.

Optimizing the Utility of Anorectal Manometry for Diagnosis and Therapy: A Roundtable Review and Recommendations.

Background & Aims: Anorectal manometry (ARM) is a comprehensive diagnostic tool for evaluating patients with constipation, fecal incontinence, or anorectal pain; however, it is not widely utilized for reasons that remain unclear. The aim of this roundtable discussion was to critically examine the current clinical practices of ARM and biofeedback therapy by physicians and surgeons in both academic and community settings.

Methods: Leaders in medical and surgical gastroenterology and physical therapy with interest in anorectal disorders were surveyed regarding practice patterns and utilization of these technologies.