Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy with Staple Line Reinforcement vs non reinforcement: a prospective comparative study

Background: Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetic, environmental, behavioral, and psychological factors. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is increasingly recognized as an effective treatment for morbid obesity. Though rare, serious complications like bleeding and leakage can occur postoperatively. Staple line reinforcement aims to reduce these risks.Aim: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of staple line reinforcement in LSG.Patients and Methods: This prospective randomized controlled study included 60 obese patients at Aswan University Hospital. Group A (30 patients) underwent LSG without reinforcement; Group B (30 patients) received reinforcement using absorbable sutures or titanium clips.Results: After 12 months, Group B showed greater excess weight loss (76% vs. 67%, p=0.002) and lower BMI (29 vs. 31, p=0.012). Although operative time was longer in Group B (60.67±8.7 vs. 49.33±4.62 minutes, p<0.001), blood loss was significantly less (40.37±14.24 vs. 87.83±11.01 mL, p<0.001). Complication rates were similar (26.67% vs. 29.99%).Conclusion: Staple line reinforcement in LSG is safe and enhances weight loss outcomes while reducing intraoperative bleeding, despite increased operative time.