Our Summary

This research paper looks at the effects and safety of weight loss surgery on people aged 65 and older. They specifically looked at one type of weight loss surgery called Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. After reviewing eight different studies, which included 1835 patients, they found that on average, people lost about 66.2% of their excess weight. The risk of death within 30 days of surgery was very low, at 0.14%. However, about 21.1% of people experienced some kind of complication after the surgery. The most common issues were wound infections and heart or lung complications. Overall, the paper concludes that this type of weight loss surgery is effective and relatively safe for people aged 65 and older.

FAQs

  1. What is the average amount of excess weight lost by patients aged 65 and older who have undergone Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?
  2. What are the most common complications experienced by patients aged 65 and older after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?
  3. What is the risk of death within 30 days of surgery for patients aged 65 and older who have undergone Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering gastric bypass surgery to make sure they fully understand the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure. It is important to carefully follow post-operative guidelines, including dietary changes and regular exercise, to maximize the benefits of the surgery and minimize the risk of complications. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are also crucial for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns that may arise.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastric bypass surgery are those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or high cholesterol. Candidates for gastric bypass surgery should have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise, and be committed to making significant lifestyle changes post-surgery. Additionally, patients should be in good overall health and have a realistic understanding of the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before gastric bypass surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes a series of consultations with a healthcare provider to discuss their medical history, weight loss goals, and determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  2. Patient may be required to undergo various medical tests, such as blood work and imaging scans, to assess their overall health and readiness for surgery.
  3. Patient may be required to follow a specific diet and exercise regimen to prepare their body for the surgery and improve their chances of success post-surgery.

After gastric bypass surgery:

  1. Patient will stay in the hospital for a few days following the surgery to monitor for any complications and ensure proper healing.
  2. Patient will be required to follow a strict diet plan, usually starting with liquids and gradually progressing to solid foods, to help with the recovery process and adjust to the smaller stomach size.
  3. Patient will need to attend follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their weight loss progress, address any potential complications, and make necessary adjustments to their diet and lifestyle.
  4. Patient will likely experience significant weight loss in the months following the surgery, leading to improvements in overall health and quality of life.
  5. Patient may need to make long-term lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine, to ensure the success of the surgery and prevent weight regain.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric bypass surgery for someone my age?
  2. How much weight can I expect to lose after the surgery?
  3. How will the surgery impact my ability to absorb nutrients and vitamins?
  4. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after the surgery to ensure long-term success?
  5. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery for monitoring and support?
  6. Are there any specific dietary guidelines I should follow before and after the surgery?
  7. How will the surgery impact any existing medical conditions I have, such as diabetes or high blood pressure?
  8. What is your experience with performing gastric bypass surgery on older patients?
  9. Are there any alternative weight loss treatments or procedures that I should consider before deciding on gastric bypass surgery?
  10. What should I expect in terms of recovery and post-operative care after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Chow A, Switzer NJ, Gill RS, Dang J, Ko YM, Shi X, Birch DW, de Gara C, Karmali S. Journal: Obes Surg. 2016 Mar;26(3):626-30. doi: 10.1007/s11695-015-2007-x. PMID: 26667164