[Bariatric surgery in adolescents]

Area of Science:

• Adolescent medicine
• Bariatric surgery
• Obesity treatment

Background:

• Rising rates of severe obesity in adolescents present significant health challenges.
• Traditional treatments like lifestyle changes and pharmacotherapy show limited efficacy in this population.
• Adolescence is a critical period of physical and emotional development, increasing vulnerability to severe obesity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review of bariatric surgery in adolescents.
• To outline current indications and contraindications for adolescent bariatric surgery.
• To summarize complications and outcomes of bariatric procedures in this age group.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of bariatric surgery in adolescents.
• Analysis of studies focusing on surgical indications, patient selection, and outcomes.
• Evaluation of reported complications and long-term results.

Main Results:

• Bariatric surgery is an effective option for carefully selected adolescents with severe obesity.
• Specific criteria guide patient selection, balancing risks and benefits.
• Outcomes include significant weight loss and improvement in comorbidities, though complications can occur.

Conclusions:

• Bariatric surgery represents a crucial therapeutic avenue for severe adolescent obesity.
• Careful patient selection and multidisciplinary management are essential for successful outcomes.
• Further research is needed to optimize long-term results and minimize risks.