Long-Term Outcomes after Adolescent Bariatric Surgery.

Area of Science:

• Adolescent Medicine
• Bariatric Surgery Outcomes
• Obesity Treatment

Background:

• Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is recognized as a safe and effective treatment for severe adolescent obesity.
• However, limited long-term data (over 10 years) exist to confirm sustained positive outcomes following adolescent MBS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) in adolescents.
• To assess sustained weight reduction, comorbidity status, functional outcomes, and complications 10-18 years post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• A telehealth follow-up study included 96 patients who underwent MBS at age 21 or younger between 2002-2010.
• Evaluated outcomes included body weight, comorbidity remission, functional status, and long-term complications up to 18 years post-MBS.
• Surgical procedures were primarily Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB).

Main Results:

• Mean body weight reduction was 31.3% at a mean follow-up of 14.2 years post-MBS.
• 100% remission rates were observed for pre-existing hyperlipidemia, asthma, and diabetes/hyperglycemia.
• Significant reductions in hypertension, sleep apnea, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and depression were also documented.

Conclusions:

• Metabolic and bariatric surgery in adolescents leads to significant, sustained weight reduction and comorbidity remission.
• Low rates of long-term complications were observed, supporting MBS as a viable option for sustained health improvements into adulthood.
• These findings underscore the importance of considering MBS for adolescents with severe obesity seeking long-term health benefits.