Background:
In this work an obese minipig swine model for bariatric surgery research and/or training purposes was developed.

Material and Methods:
11 male Gottingen minipigs participate in the study. Obesity was developed through administration of a high-fat diet during a period of 9 months. After this period the minipigs were subjected to a laparoscopic Roux- en-Y gastric bypass by an experienced bariatric surgeon. At the end of the procedure, the surgeon opinions related to the similarities and differences compare to human bariatric surgery were collected.

Result:
All the studied parameters showed a progressive increase over the study period. Specifically at the end of the period of nine months with high-fat diet, a significant increase in weight (29.52 ± 1.67 vs 51.90 ±5.78 kg), neck circumference, abdominal circumference and lipid profile were observed. Regarding surgeon opinion, he stated that Veress needle and trocar placement were more difficult in obese model than in normal-weighted pigs, and more similar to obese people. He also remarked the similar sensation during preparation of the field for the execution of LRYGBP in the obese pig compared to morbid obese people due to the more demanding manipulation maneuvers of the bowel.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, obese swine model would be appropriated for feasibility and safety studies of new stapling devices, and whenever survival studies are needed. On the other hand, this model is mandatory whenever obesity or any of its comorbidities are under study.