Bariatric Surgery in Patients with Existing Ostomy: A Preliminary Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Bariatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Obesity Medicine

Background:

• Bariatric surgery is highly effective for weight loss and resolving obesity-related comorbidities.
• Limited data exists on bariatric surgery feasibility in patients with existing ostomies.
• This study addresses the need for data in this specific patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and feasibility of bariatric surgery in patients with an existing ileostomy or colostomy.
• To assess short-term postoperative outcomes in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series design.
• Included patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) with an end ileostomy or colostomy.
• Analyzed patient demographics, comorbidities, ASA scores, and short-term complications (≤30 days).

Main Results:

• Six patients (mean age 58, mean BMI 41.6) with ileostomy or colostomy underwent bariatric surgery.
• Mean follow-up was 23 months; no increased ostomy output or infusion center visits.
• One patient experienced an ED visit, one had a short-term complication, and one required SG to RYGB conversion.

Conclusions:

• Bariatric surgery is technically feasible in selected patients with ileostomy or colostomy.
• The procedure demonstrates a reasonable short-term safety profile in this population.
• Further research may support wider application in carefully selected ostomy patients.