Our Summary

This research paper examines the effectiveness of a type of weight-loss surgery called “one anastomosis gastric bypass” (OAGB) for extremely obese patients. The researchers looked at 318 patients, all of whom had a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over 50 kg/m2. The surgery was relatively quick, averaging just over 90 minutes, and patients typically stayed in the hospital for around 4.5 days. There were very few complications and no instances of leaks. Importantly, patients lost a significant amount of their excess weight after the surgery - around 68% after one year, 72% after 1.5-2 years, and over 90% after five years. The researchers conclude that OAGB appears to be a safe and effective way to help very obese patients lose weight, but they note that more studies are needed to confirm these results.

FAQs

  1. What is “one anastomosis gastric bypass” (OAGB) surgery?
  2. How effective is OAGB surgery in helping extremely obese patients lose weight based on this research?
  3. What were the observed complications and hospitalization duration following the OAGB surgery in this study?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering gastric sleeve surgery to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to maximize weight loss and maintain long-term success. They may also advise the patient to attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is typically recommended for patients who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. Patients who have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise may also be recommended for gastric sleeve surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if they are a good candidate for the surgery, as well as to discuss the potential risks and benefits.

Timeline

Before undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, a patient typically goes through a series of evaluations and consultations with their healthcare provider. This may include meeting with a bariatric surgeon, a nutritionist, and a psychologist to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as to ensure that the patient is mentally and physically prepared for the procedure.

Once the decision is made to proceed with the surgery, the patient may be required to make lifestyle changes such as following a specific diet and exercise regimen in the weeks leading up to the surgery. They may also undergo pre-operative tests and screenings to ensure they are healthy enough for the procedure.

After the surgery, the patient will spend a few days in the hospital recovering. They will be closely monitored by medical staff to ensure there are no complications. The patient will be given specific instructions on diet and activity level post-surgery to help facilitate weight loss and prevent complications.

In the months and years following the surgery, the patient will continue to work closely with their healthcare team to monitor their progress, make adjustments to their diet and exercise routine, and address any concerns or issues that may arise. The patient will likely experience significant weight loss and improvements in their overall health and quality of life as a result of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of gastric sleeve surgery for patients with my BMI?

  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric sleeve surgery?

  3. How long is the recovery process after gastric sleeve surgery?

  4. What lifestyle changes will I need to make after gastric sleeve surgery?

  5. How much weight can I expect to lose after gastric sleeve surgery?

  6. Will I need to take any vitamins or supplements after gastric sleeve surgery?

  7. How often will I need to follow up with the surgeon after the surgery?

  8. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of after gastric sleeve surgery?

  9. How will gastric sleeve surgery affect my overall health and quality of life?

  10. Are there any alternative weight-loss treatments or procedures that I should consider before opting for gastric sleeve surgery?

Reference

Authors: Parmar CD, Bryant C, Luque-de-Leon E, Peraglie C, Prasad A, Rheinwalt K, Musella M. Journal: Obes Surg. 2019 Sep;29(9):3039-3046. doi: 10.1007/s11695-019-04034-9. PMID: 31250385