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Methamphetamine use following bariatric surgery in an adolescent
Sanjeev Dutta1, John Morton, Elizabeth Shepard
1Department of Surgery, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA 94305, USA. sdutta1@stanford.edu
Obesity Surgery
|June 8, 2006
Summary
Adolescent bariatric surgery patients may face risks of stimulant abuse post-operation, leading to nutritional issues. Early screening for drug use and monitoring for malnutrition signs are crucial for managing these risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Adolescent Medicine
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- Bariatric surgery is a growing treatment for adolescent morbid obesity.
- Adolescence is a critical psychosocial development stage, where weight loss can impact peer relations.
- Negative influences, including substance abuse, can emerge post-surgery.
Observation:
- A case study of an adolescent bariatric patient abusing methamphetamines post-surgery.
- This abuse led to significant nutritional instability.
- Potential signs include excessive weight loss and non-compliance with supplements.
Findings:
- Preoperative assessment should include screening for illicit drug use, especially stimulants and diet pills.
- Postoperative stimulant abuse can cause appetite suppression.
- Malnutrition signs like bradycardia, hypotension, and weakness may indicate stimulant use.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should screen adolescent bariatric candidates for substance abuse history.
- Monitoring for signs of malnutrition and stimulant use is vital in the postoperative period.
- Inpatient nutritional rehabilitation and psychiatric support may be necessary for affected patients.
