Unveiling the Safety and Efficacy of Bariatric Surgery in Geriatric Patients: A Comprehensive Analysis of Three Years' Experience

INTRODUCTION: Bariatric surgery has gained popularity as an effective method for achieving and maintaining weight loss. Despite higher mortality/morbidity risks and uncertain long-term outcomes due to age-related factors, bariatric surgery can also be beneficial for geriatric obese patients. In this study, we aimed to examine the outcomes of bariatric surgery performed on geriatric patients in our clinic.
METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 14 patients aged 65 and above who underwent bariatric surgery between March 2019 and 2021. Patients were evaluated preoperatively through a multidisciplinary approach.
RESULTS: Among the 14 patients included in the study (11 females, 3 males), the mean age was 67 [65-74]. The mean Body Mass Index (BMI) was 42 kg/m² [40-60.4]. Comorbidities included hypertension (HT) in 11 patients, diabetes mellitus (DM) in 8 patients, and hyperlipidemia in 11 patients. A total of 9 patients had a history of antiplatelet use due to Chronic Arterial Disease (CAD). Among the patients, 10 underwent Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, while 4 underwent Mini Gastric Bypass. The mean hospital stay was 3 days, and all patients were discharged smoothly after this period (100%). No patient required postoperative intensive care (0%), and there were no observed mortalities (0%). At the 6th postoperative month, the mean BMI was 31.6 kg/m².
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: In well-selected geriatric obese patients, bariatric surgery can be an effective and safe method. Further research with larger samples is warranted to validate our findings and improve patient care in this population.