Our Summary

This research aimed to understand the relationship between two ways of measuring oxygen levels in the blood in patients with obesity undergoing weight-loss surgery. The two methods are arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) and peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2).

The researchers included 134 patients who had undergone weight-loss surgery between 2017 and 2020. They found that both SaO2 and SpO2 levels decreased as the patient’s body mass index (BMI) increased, but only SaO2 levels decreased with age.

They also found that SpO2, which is easier to measure but less accurate, overestimated the oxygen levels in 91% of patients by about 2%. This overestimation was more significant in patients with low oxygen levels and those with a higher risk of death from the surgery.

The study concluded that for patients with obesity, especially those with a BMI above 40, above 40 years old, and with a high risk of death from surgery, measuring SaO2 can provide a more accurate reflection of their real oxygen levels. This can help in better monitoring and ensuring the safety of the patients during and after the surgery.

FAQs

  1. What are the two methods of measuring oxygen levels in the blood that the study focused on?
  2. How do SaO2 and SpO2 levels correlate with a patient’s body mass index (BMI) and age?
  3. Why is measuring SaO2 recommended for patients with obesity who are above 40 years old and have a high risk of death from surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient considering obesity surgery that monitoring their oxygen levels, especially through the more accurate SaO2 measurement, is crucial for their safety during and after the procedure. It is important for patients to be aware of the potential decrease in oxygen levels associated with obesity and to work closely with their healthcare team to monitor and address any concerns. Regular monitoring of oxygen levels can help prevent complications and ensure a successful outcome from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended obesity surgery include those with a BMI above 40, above 40 years old, and with a high risk of death from the surgery. These patients may have comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or heart disease that make them suitable candidates for weight-loss surgery. Monitoring their oxygen levels using arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) may be more accurate and beneficial in ensuring their safety during and after the surgery.

Timeline

Before obesity surgery:

  • Patient consults with healthcare provider to discuss weight-loss surgery options
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations such as physical exams, blood tests, and imaging tests
  • Patient may be required to make lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise modifications
  • Patient attends counseling sessions to prepare for the surgery and post-operative care
  • Patient may need to lose a certain amount of weight before the surgery

After obesity surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to reduce the size of the stomach
  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any complications
  • Patient begins a strict diet plan to aid in weight loss and healing
  • Patient gradually increases physical activity as advised by healthcare provider
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns
  • Patient may require additional support such as nutritional counseling or psychological support to adjust to life after surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and benefits of weight-loss surgery for obesity?
  2. How will my oxygen levels be monitored during and after the surgery?
  3. What is the difference between arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) and peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2)?
  4. How accurate are these methods in measuring oxygen levels in patients with obesity?
  5. Are there any specific factors, such as age or BMI, that can affect my oxygen levels during the surgery?
  6. How will the results of oxygen level monitoring impact my post-operative care and recovery?
  7. What steps will be taken if my oxygen levels start to decrease during the surgery?
  8. How can I ensure that my oxygen levels are accurately measured during the surgery?
  9. Will I need any additional monitoring or treatment for low oxygen levels post-surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative methods for monitoring oxygen levels that may be more suitable for patients with obesity?

Reference

Authors: Xiong Y, Pan G, Huang W, Yang W, Hu R, Mai Y, Chen L, Miao J, Peng X. Journal: Obes Surg. 2022 Nov;32(11):3581-3588. doi: 10.1007/s11695-022-06221-7. Epub 2022 Aug 9. PMID: 35945365