New Study Shows Gastric Bypass Best for Weight Loss
Obesity is a growing concern worldwide, with severe obesity affecting over 12 million people in the UK alone. For those struggling with this chronic condition, weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option. However, with multiple types of surgeries available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the most effective.
A recent major UK trial published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology provides valuable insight into the best weight loss surgery for severe obesity. The study compared the outcomes of three common surgeries: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. The results are eye-opening, with gastric bypass emerging as the clear winner.
The Study
The trial, conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Birmingham and the University of Oxford, involved 1,351 patients with severe obesity who underwent one of the three surgeries between 2006 and 2019. The participants were followed up for an average of 5.5 years, during which time their weight loss, quality of life, and overall health were monitored.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: The Clear Winner
The results showed that Roux-en-Y gastric bypass led to the most significant weight loss, with patients losing an average of 36.5% of their initial body weight. This was significantly higher than the other two surgeries, with sleeve gastrectomy resulting in an average weight loss of 25.5% and adjustable gastric banding yielding a mere 15.5%.
Gastric bypass also demonstrated the highest quality of life among the three surgeries. Patients who underwent this procedure reported improved physical function, reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, and enhanced overall well-being.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Safer, but Less Effective Option
Sleeve gastrectomy, which involves removing a significant portion of the stomach, was less effective in terms of weight loss but had a lower risk of complications compared to gastric bypass. This surgery resulted in a higher rate of gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, but was associated with fewer surgical complications and a lower risk of hospital readmission.
Adjustable Gastric Banding: The Least Effective and Most Problematic
Adjustable gastric banding, which involves placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach to restrict food intake, was the least effective of the three surgeries. This procedure resulted in the smallest amount of weight loss and was associated with the highest rate of complications, including band slippage and erosion.
Furthermore, adjustable gastric banding was also linked to a higher risk of hospital readmission and a lower quality of life compared to the other two surgeries.
The Implications
The findings of this study have significant implications for the treatment of severe obesity. Gastric bypass, which has previously been considered the most effective weight loss surgery, has now been shown to be the most effective and safest option for patients.
Sleeve gastrectomy, while less effective, may still be a viable option for patients who are not suitable for gastric bypass or who have a higher risk of complications. Adjustable gastric banding, on the other hand, should no longer be recommended due to its poor results and high risk of complications.
Conclusion
The new study provides a clear answer to the question of which weight loss surgery works best for severe obesity. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is the clear winner, offering the most significant weight loss and highest quality of life among the three surgeries. Sleeve gastrectomy, while less effective, is a safer option, while adjustable gastric banding should no longer be recommended.
For those struggling with severe obesity, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment. With the right surgery and support, it is possible to achieve significant weight loss and improve overall health and quality of life.
Source
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/which-weight-loss-surgery-works-best
