Our Summary

This research study from the Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry (SOReg) has found some interesting results that could change the way we approach treatment for obese patients with Type 2 diabetes. The study discovered that patients who didn’t have Type 2 diabetes before having weight loss surgery lived longer over a 6.3 year period compared to those who had the condition. Additionally, patients with diabetes who saw their symptoms disappear within a year of surgery also lived longer than those whose symptoms persisted. The length of time a patient had diabetes was also found to be directly linked to whether or not their symptoms disappeared after surgery, with no significant change after 10 years. These findings suggest that weight loss surgery might be more beneficial if performed earlier on diabetes patients. The study also argues that for patients who don’t see their diabetes symptoms disappear after a year, combining surgery with medication could be more effective than surgery alone.

FAQs

  1. What does the new Scandinavian Obesity Surgery Registry (SOReg) report suggest about patients with type 2 diabetes undergoing obesity surgery?
  2. How does the duration of type 2 diabetes impact glycemic remission following bariatric surgery, according to the SOReg report?
  3. What might be a suitable treatment approach for patients with type 2 diabetes who do not achieve glycemic remission one year after bariatric surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about obesity surgery is to closely follow post-operative dietary and lifestyle recommendations to ensure successful weight loss and long-term health benefits. It is important to work closely with a healthcare team, including a dietitian and exercise specialist, to develop a personalized plan for maintaining a healthy weight after surgery. Additionally, regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are crucial for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns that may arise. Remember that surgery is just one tool in the journey to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight – making sustainable lifestyle changes is key to long-term success.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for obesity surgery include those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease. Additionally, patients who have tried and failed to lose weight through diet and exercise may also be considered for obesity surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team including a surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and other healthcare providers to determine if they are suitable candidates for surgery.

Timeline

  • Before obesity surgery:
  1. Patient consults with healthcare provider to discuss options for weight loss, including diet, exercise, and medication.
  2. Patient undergoes thorough evaluation, including physical exam, blood tests, and psychological assessment.
  3. Patient attends educational sessions to learn about the risks and benefits of obesity surgery, as well as the different types of procedures available.
  4. Patient meets with a dietitian to develop a pre-operative diet plan to help prepare for surgery.
  5. Patient may be required to lose a certain amount of weight or make lifestyle changes before being approved for surgery.
  • After obesity surgery:
  1. Patient undergoes surgery, which may be laparoscopic or open, depending on the type of procedure chosen.
  2. Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for recovery and monitoring.
  3. Patient follows a strict post-operative diet plan, starting with clear liquids and gradually progressing to solid foods.
  4. Patient attends regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor progress, address any complications, and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
  5. Patient may experience rapid weight loss in the first few months after surgery, followed by a slower rate of weight loss over time.
  6. Patient may need to make long-term lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet and increasing physical activity, to maintain their weight loss and prevent complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with obesity surgery?
  2. What type of obesity surgery is most suitable for my specific needs and health conditions?
  3. How long is the recovery process after obesity surgery and what can I expect during this time?
  4. What lifestyle changes will I need to make before and after surgery to ensure the best results?
  5. How likely is it that my type 2 diabetes will go into remission after surgery, and what factors may influence this outcome?
  6. Will I need to take any medications or supplements after surgery to support my weight loss and overall health?
  7. What ongoing medical monitoring and follow-up care will I need after surgery to ensure long-term success?
  8. How can I best prepare mentally and emotionally for the changes that come with obesity surgery?
  9. Are there any support groups or resources available to help me navigate the challenges of post-surgery life?
  10. What is the expected timeline for seeing improvements in my weight, overall health, and any related conditions like type 2 diabetes after surgery?

Reference

Authors: le Roux CW, Ottosson J, Näslund E, Cohen RV, Stenberg E, Sundbom M, Näslund I. Journal: Obes Surg. 2021 Jan;31(1):461-463. doi: 10.1007/s11695-020-04934-1. Epub 2020 Aug 26. PMID: 32845478