Gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy: Impact on cardiovascular risk factors

Metabolic bariatric surgery has become the most effective intervention for severe obesity and its associated diseases. Among the available techniques, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) are the most performed procedures. SG has recently become the predominant choice due to its technical simplicity and favourable safety profile. Nevertheless, the comparative outcomes and effects on obesity-related diseases between both procedures remain controversial. The present narrative review analyses the key clinical outcomes and indications of RYGB and SG. RYGB demonstrated superior results in managing type 2 diabetes, elevated LDL cholesterol, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, SG is associated with fewer complications, making it a safer option, especially for elderly or high-risk surgical candidates. Both procedures yielded similar results in terms of weight loss and quality of life in most patients. Therefore, the selection of the surgical technique should be individualized according to obesity-related diseases and expected objectives between doctor and patient.