The learning curve of a pediatric bariatric surgery program: Lessons learned from the first 100 patients

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Bariatric Surgery
• Quality Improvement

Background:

• Pediatric obesity is a growing epidemic requiring specialized surgical interventions.
• Pediatric surgical programs are increasingly developing bariatric surgery expertise.
• This study examines the development of a pediatric bariatric program and its accreditation pathway.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the pathway to Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Center of Excellence designation.
• To examine the implementation and learning curve of an institutional pediatric bariatric program.
• To analyze outcomes over the first 100 pediatric bariatric surgery patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of prospectively collected data from 100 laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patients.
• Patients were analyzed in quartiles to assess outcome trends.
• Data collected included demographics, perioperative, and follow-up metrics per ASMBS standards.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions observed across quartiles in operative time, supply costs, and postoperative length of stay.
• Postoperative narcotic usage also significantly decreased between the first and fourth quartiles.
• Annual quality improvement initiatives were implemented starting in 2019.

Conclusions:

• Partnership with experienced bariatric centers accelerates program development.
• Systematic implementation of quality and safety measures is crucial for improving adolescent bariatric care.
• MBSAQIP designation signifies a commitment to high-quality pediatric bariatric surgery outcomes.