Background: We analyzed preoperative weight loss as a predictor of postoperative success in patients after bariatric surgery.
Methods: Data were obtained from a retrospective chart review of 562 patients in a multidisciplinary obesity clinic.
Results: One hundred forty-six patients met the inclusion criteria (23 men and 123 women). The mean age was 39.5 years, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 52.6 kg/m(2). Comorbid disease includes diabetes (15.7%), hypertension (30.8%), mental illness (38.4%), and musculoskeletal disease (56.8%). Procedures performed were 16 vertical band gastroplasties, 43 open gastric bypasses, 52 laparoscopic gastric bypasses, and 35 laparoscopic adjustable gastric bands. Preoperative weight change was as follows: 31 patients gained weight (21.2%), 56 patients lost weight (38.3%), and 59 patients maintained their weight (40.4%). Postoperative weight loss was not influenced by preoperative weight change among women. However, men who gained weight preoperatively had significantly worse outcomes.
Conclusions: Patients may achieve satisfactory early postoperative outcomes despite inconsistent or marginal preoperative weight change.