Does sleeve gastrectomy improve the gait parameters of obese patients?

Few studies have evaluated the effect of bariatric surgery on gait parameters, which constitute an important aspect of quality of life.

Evaluate the effects of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) on kinematic gait parameters 6 months after surgery.

University Hospital, France, public practice.

This prospective, nonrandomized study was conducted in patients undergoing SG between January 2013 and December 2013. The primary endpoint was the difference in functional parameters of the patient's 6-minute walk test (6 MWT) before and 6 months after SG. Secondary outcomes were surgical data, weight loss, and quality of life score.

Fifty-six patients were included. Mean preoperative body mass index was 46.3±7.1 kg/m² (35.2-71.0). On the preoperative 6 MWT, the mean distance traveled was 467 m (267-606) at an average speed of 4.6 km/hr (2.67-6.06). Three patients were unable to complete the 6 MWT. At 6 months postoperatively, mean body mass index was 34.4±6.0 kg/m² (24.8-53.8). On the 6-month postoperative 6 MWT, the mean distance traveled was 515 m (280-652) at an average speed of 5 km/hr (2.82-6.50; P<.01). All patients completed the test. A decrease in muscle and joint pain and an increased range of motion of the joints were observed (P<.01). All domains of the Short Form 36 questionnaire were significantly improved (P< .01).

SG significantly improves walking as well as range of motion of the joints. It also allows reduction of pain, facilitating the mobilization of obese patients that may be responsible for more marked weight loss after bariatric surgery. Quality of life improves and weight loss occurs after the SG.