Our Summary

This study compared the success and cost of performing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (a type of weight loss surgery) as a day surgery versus as an inpatient procedure in a hospital in France. They selected 250 patients who had the surgery as a day procedure and matched them with 250 who stayed overnight in the hospital based on factors like gender, age, and health conditions. The study found that there were no differences in complications after surgery between the two groups. However, the rate of patients needing to return to the hospital was slightly higher for the day surgery group. Despite this, the overall cost and cost per patient were significantly lower for the day surgery group. Therefore, the study concluded that performing this surgery as a day procedure on carefully selected patients can be safe and more cost-effective.

FAQs

  1. What were the main findings of the study comparing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a day procedure versus an inpatient procedure?
  2. Was there a difference in the rate of complications after surgery between the day surgery group and the inpatient group?
  3. What was the impact on cost when performing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a day procedure compared to an inpatient procedure?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about gastrectomy is to carefully follow post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include following a specific diet, taking medications as prescribed, attending follow-up appointments, and gradually increasing physical activity as advised. It is also important to communicate any concerns or symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastrectomy are those who are severely obese and have not been able to lose weight through other methods such as diet and exercise. Other potential candidates for gastrectomy may include individuals with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Additionally, patients with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions, may also be considered for gastrectomy. Ultimately, the decision to recommend gastrectomy will depend on the individual patient’s medical history, current health status, and weight loss goals.

Timeline

Before gastrectomy:

  1. Patient meets with healthcare provider to discuss weight loss surgery options and determine if gastrectomy is the best choice.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for the surgery.
  3. Patient prepares for surgery by following pre-operative instructions such as fasting and stopping certain medications.
  4. Patient undergoes gastrectomy procedure, either as a day surgery or as an inpatient procedure in the hospital.

After gastrectomy:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for any complications or side effects.
  2. Patient may experience pain, discomfort, and changes in diet and eating habits following the surgery.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital, either the same day for day surgery or after a short hospital stay for inpatient surgery.
  4. Patient follows a strict post-operative diet and exercise plan to aid in recovery and weight loss.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with healthcare providers to monitor progress and address any concerns or complications.
  6. Patient may experience weight loss, improved health outcomes, and a better quality of life following gastrectomy.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy?

  2. How long is the recovery period after the surgery, and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?

  3. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet after the surgery?

  4. How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?

  5. What criteria do you use to determine if a patient is eligible for day surgery versus an inpatient procedure for gastrectomy?

  6. What is your experience with performing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a day surgery procedure?

  7. How will I be monitored and cared for after the surgery if I choose to have it done as a day procedure?

  8. What is the success rate of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in terms of weight loss and improvement in health conditions?

  9. How will my follow-up care be managed after the surgery, and what support will be available to me during the recovery process?

  10. Are there any specific factors in my medical history or current health status that may affect the decision to have gastrectomy as a day surgery procedure?

Reference

Authors: Rebibo L, Dhahri A, Badaoui R, Hubert V, Lorne E, Regimbeau JM. Journal: Surg Obes Relat Dis. 2019 Apr;15(4):534-545. doi: 10.1016/j.soard.2019.02.005. Epub 2019 Feb 14. PMID: 30853333