Duodenal–jejunal bypass liners are superior to optimal medical management in ameliorating metabolic dysfunction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

Summary This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluates metabolic and anthropometric outcomes of duodenal–jejunal bypass liners (DJBLs) compared to optimal medical management for the treatment of obesity and its associated metabolic complications. A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was conducted. Studies were reviewed and data were extracted following the PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome was glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) change at device explant with secondary outcomes including body mass index (BMI), weight, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and adverse events. Twenty‐eight studies met inclusion criteria evaluating a total of 1229 patients undergoing DJBL treatment. When compared to medical management, DJBLs provided superior reductions in HbA1c (mean difference, MD −0.96%; 95% CI −1.43, −0.49; p < 0.0001), FPG (MD −1.76 mmol/L; 95% CI −2.80, −0.72; p = 0.0009), BMI (MD −2.80 kg/m 2 ; 95% CI −4.18, −1.41; p < 0.0001), and weight (MD −5.45 kg; 95% CI −9.80, −1.09, p = 0.01). Post‐explant data reveals a gradual return to baseline status. Incidence of early device explant was 20.2%. Complications were resolved conservatively or with device explant without long‐term morbidity or mortality. We conclude that DJBLs provide significant metabolic and anthropometric improvements for patients with obesity. Uncertainty about the extent to which improvements are maintained after device removal may limit the use of DJBLs as a standalone treatment for obesity and associated metabolic complications.