Painful peripheral polyneuropathy after bariatric surgery. Case reports

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Bariatric Surgery
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Bariatric surgery is increasingly common, with a rising incidence of complications.
• Neurological complications, particularly peripheral neuropathies, are a significant concern post-surgery.
• These neuropathies can manifest as neuropathic pain and motor deficits.

Observation:

• Three patients (2 female, 1 male) developed peripheral neuropathy after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
• Symptoms included neuropathic pain initially, followed by or concurrent with motor involvement.
• Electroneuromyography confirmed sensitive-motor axonal peripheral neuropathy, with fibular nerves affected in two cases.

Findings:

• Rapid, significant weight loss preceding neurological symptoms was a common factor.
• Nutritional deficiencies secondary to bariatric surgery are implicated in the pathogenesis.
• Peripheral neuropathies present a serious risk following bariatric procedures.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for improving patient prognosis.
• Ongoing nutritional surveillance and supplementation are vital post-bariatric surgery.
• Strategies to avoid excessively rapid weight loss may mitigate neurological complication risk.