Prevalence of Nutrient Deficiencies Following Bariatric Surgery-Long-Term, Prospective Observation

Area of Science:

• Bariatric Surgery
• Nutritional Science
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Nutrient deficiencies are common after bariatric surgery.
• Long-term prevalence data is crucial for patient management.
• Understanding surgical impacts on micronutrient status is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the long-term prevalence of common nutrient deficiencies after bariatric surgery.
• To compare the 10-year effects of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and gastric bypass (GB) on nutrient status.
• To identify trends in specific micronutrient deficiencies post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 155 bariatric surgery patients over 10 years.
• Assessed anthropometric measurements, laboratory tests, and comorbidities.
• Compared outcomes between SG and GB groups.

Main Results:

• BMI decreased significantly post-surgery.
• Prevalence of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiencies increased over 10 years.
• SG and GB showed distinct effects on iron metabolism markers.

Conclusions:

• Bariatric surgery is associated with a significant long-term increase in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 deficiencies.
• Sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass have differential long-term impacts on iron metabolism.
• Ongoing monitoring for nutrient deficiencies is critical for patients undergoing bariatric procedures.