A broad focus on additional programmes prior to bariatric surgery: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Bariatric Surgery
• Obesity Management
• Clinical Nutrition

Background:

• Optimal preoperative preparation for bariatric surgery remains unclear.
• Preoperative programs may influence patient outcomes, but evidence is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the effects of preoperative programs on weight loss in bariatric surgery candidates.
• To evaluate the impact of diet, behavior, and exercise interventions prior to bariatric surgery.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of Embase, Cinahl, PubMed, and Cochrane Library.
• Inclusion of studies on preoperative exercise, behavior, and/or diet programs in adult bariatric patients measuring weight loss.
• Analysis of 37 articles comprising 10,333 patients.

Main Results:

• 33 studies reported preoperative weight loss, with significant results in 64% of cases.
• Only one study (9%) showed a significant effect on postoperative weight loss following an exercise program.
• Preoperative programs appear beneficial for preoperative weight loss, postoperative physical activity, and mental health.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative weight loss programs show promise for improving preoperative weight loss and patient well-being.
• Evidence for significant postoperative weight loss benefits from these programs is currently limited and heterogeneous.
• Standardized core outcome sets are recommended for future research in this area.