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Updated: Apr 23, 2026
Sleeve Gastrectomy in Mice using Surgical Clips
Published on: November 14, 2020
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is safe and effective in elderly patients: a comparative analysis
Michael A Burchett1, Daniel T McKenna, Don J Selzer
1Genesis Health Group, 855 Illini Drive, Suite 401, Silvis, IL, 61282, USA, maburchett@gmail.com.
Background:
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is gaining widespread popularity as a definitive bariatric operation that provides satisfactory and durable weight loss as well as comorbidity resolution. Although SG is being increasingly offered to patients of all ages, there is a paucity of reported outcomes in patients ≥62 years of age. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of the outcomes of SG in patients >62 years versus a younger age group, with an emphasis on safety and efficacy.
Methods:
A retrospective analysis was performed from a prospectively collected database on patients who underwent SG from 2007 to 2012. All patients who were ≥62 years old were compared to those <62 years.
Results:
There were 182 patients who underwent SG, 17 of whom were ≥62 years old. There were no significant differences in demographics or comorbidity characteristics between the groups. The mean follow-up was 1 year. There was no 30-day mortality in either group. The percent excess weight loss for the younger age group was 44 ± 21 % and the older group was 44 ± 25 %. The percent total body weight loss was 22 ± 10 and 21 ± 10 %, respectively. Weight loss outcomes were maintained for up to 3 years. Comorbidity resolution and improvement rates were equivalent in both groups.
Conclusions:
SG is safe and effective in patients ≥62 years. Weight loss and the beneficial effects on comorbidities are equivalent among elderly and younger patients. SG should be offered to elderly patients who are deemed to be appropriate candidates.
