Our Summary

This study looked at the effects of a specific weight loss surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass) on obese teenagers in France. Every year in France, around 100 obese teenagers have some kind of weight loss surgery. This study followed 26 teenagers who had the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery from 2008 onwards, for at least 2 years after their operation.

Before the operation, the average age of the teenagers was 17.4 years and they had an average body mass index (a measure of body fat) of 52.0. Two years after surgery, their average body mass index had dropped to 35.7, a decrease of about 32%.

The surgery also improved other health issues related to obesity. For example, all patients with high blood pressure and a condition called pseudotumor cerebri (a brain condition that mimics a brain tumor) were cured after their operation. There was also an improvement in dyslipidemia (abnormal amount of lipids in the blood).

However, there were some complications after the surgery, including anemia (lack of healthy red blood cells), abdominal pain that required further surgery, and kidney stones.

In conclusion, only one third of obese teenagers who asked for weight loss surgery actually had the operation. The study showed that this type of surgery can lead to significant weight loss and improvement in related health conditions in obese teenagers. The complications that occurred were rare. These findings are similar to those from studies on adults who have had the same surgery.

FAQs

  1. What were the health improvements observed in obese teenagers after undergoing the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?
  2. What complications were observed in teenagers after undergoing the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?
  3. How significant was the decrease in body mass index in teenagers after the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastric bypass surgery is to follow a healthy diet and exercise plan after the surgery to maintain weight loss and improve overall health. It is important to work closely with a healthcare team, including a dietitian and psychologist, to ensure long-term success. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgical team are also important to monitor progress and address any potential complications.

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 at least one obesity-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea. Additionally, patients who have not been successful with other weight loss methods such as diet and exercise may be considered for gastric bypass surgery. It is important for patients to carefully consider the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as follow-up care and lifestyle changes that will be necessary for long-term success.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after gastric bypass surgery would involve consultations with healthcare professionals to determine eligibility for the surgery, pre-operative preparation such as dietary changes and medical evaluations, the surgery itself, and post-operative recovery and follow-up care. After the surgery, patients typically experience significant weight loss, improvement in obesity-related health conditions, and potential complications that may require further medical intervention. Regular follow-up appointments and ongoing lifestyle changes are important for long-term success and maintenance of weight loss.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric bypass surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after the surgery?
  3. What lifestyle changes will I need to make post-surgery?
  4. Will I need to take any specific medications or supplements after the surgery?
  5. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  6. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or exercise routine before the surgery?
  7. What are the long-term effects of gastric bypass surgery?
  8. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in the future?
  9. Are there any specific dietary restrictions I should be aware of after the surgery?
  10. How will the surgery impact my ability to absorb nutrients from food?

Reference

Authors: Lacrosniere SM, Dubern B, Pelta S, Karsenty A, Bernert C, Chantereau H, Oderda L, Lemoine A, Bouillot JL, Tounian P. Journal: Arch Pediatr. 2023 Aug;30(6):408-414. doi: 10.1016/j.arcped.2023.06.006. Epub 2023 Jul 4. PMID: 37407324