Clinical pathways in the management of the obese: Pre- and postoperative aspects

Introduction: Bariatric surgery (BS) leads to substantial weight loss accompanied by reversal of several obesity-related co-morbidities and reduced mortality. However, surgery is associated with risks and its nearly irreversible characteristic requires a clearly established pre- and postoperative clinical pathway. In France, this pathway relies on recommendations made by the High Authority of Health (Haute Autorite de sante (HAS)) in 2009; an update is awaited in 2023. Preoperative aspects: BS should be proposed only after failure of well-conducted medical treatment and is intended for patients whose body mass index (BMI) is >= 40 kg/m(2) or for those with BMI >= 35 kg/m(2) who also have co-morbidities amenable to improvement, and in whom there are no contra-indications, particularly, those related to general anesthesia or psychological factors. The success and safety of surgical management requires preparation of the patient with regard to dietetic and nutritional counseling, and physical activity. The possibility of complications must be recognized and communicated, including, in view of the large variability of outcomes between individuals, the risk of failure and regain of weight. Postoperative aspects: Prior to the operation, patients should be informed of and accept the program of postoperative clinical and laboratory follow-up, as well as the need for lifelong supplementation in micronutrients and the financial implications including what patients may have to pay out of their own pocket. Conclusion: Surgical management of obesity cannot replace the multidisciplinary medical management of severe obesity. The results obtained by BS are sustainable only if the patient adheres to the proposed modalities. New drugs such a GLP-1 analogues have opened encouraging perspectives as possible alternatives to BS in certain indications. (c) 2022 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Although bariatric surgery (BS) can lead to significant weight loss and improved health outcomes, it is important to establish a clear pre- and postoperative clinical pathway. This study discusses the recommendations and considerations for BS in France, including patient selection, preparation, and postoperative follow-up. Compliance with the proposed modalities is essential for sustainable results, and alternative options such as GLP-1 analogues may be promising in certain cases.