Transabdominal and Laparoscopic Ultrasound in a Bariatric Setting: Utility and Diagnostic Accuracy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of two ultrasound methods to detect gallbladder problems in patients undergoing bariatric surgery for severe obesity. This study aims to improve detection of gallstones and other gallbladder issues that often occur after such surgery. The goal is to better guide preventive treatments and reduce the need for future gallbladder surgery, addressing the challenges of current ultrasound techniques in obese patients. Participants will receive two types of ultrasound examinations: standard transabdominal ultrasound performed on the outside of the abdomen by two independent specialists before surgery, and laparoscopic ultrasound performed during bariatric surgery by two surgeons using a probe placed inside the abdomen. Both ultrasound methods are done independently and blinded, with the laparoscopic ultrasound adding about 5-10 minutes to the surgical procedure. During the study, participants will have two transabdominal ultrasounds on the same day before surgery and two laparoscopic ultrasounds during surgery. Researchers will compare the detection of gallbladder pathology between these methods and assess interobserver agreement, examination time, and image quality. The main outcome is whether gallbladder pathology is detected, and the study plans to enroll 130 patients. Data will be securely stored and analyzed, and results will be published regardless of outcome.

Transabdominal and Laparoscopic Ultrasound in a Bariatric Setting