Introduction

Last week I had the honor  to host the academic monthly session of the College of Bariatric Surgery and Metabolic Diseases of Baja California (CCBEMBC from its Spanish initials). We are delighted to have the opportunity to delve into the critical topic of bariatric surgery in adolescents, a subject of utmost importance and relevance in bariatric medicine. The CCBEMBC, renowned for its unwavering commitment to excellence in surgical and metabolic diseases, has consistently demonstrated leadership and innovation in advancing the field of bariatric surgery. Through its dedication to fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and promoting scientific research, the CCBEMBC has become a beacon of excellence in Baja California and beyond.

The invitation to present the monthly academic session on bariatric surgery in adolescents not only recognizes the importance of this specialized area but also underscores the CCBEMBC’s commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this esteemed community of surgeons, healthcare professionals, and researchers, and we embrace the responsibility to deliver a comprehensive and insightful presentation.

Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents

Bariatric surgery, once considered primarily for adults, has gained attention as a potential treatment option for adolescents struggling with severe obesity. With the rising prevalence of obesity among young individuals, the exploration of bariatric surgery in adolescents has become an important topic of discussion. This article aims to provide an overview of bariatric surgery in adolescents, highlighting its potential benefits and important considerations.

Understanding Adolescent Obesity

Obesity in adolescence is a complex medical condition with significant physical, emotional, and social implications. It increases the risk of various health problems, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint problems, and psychosocial issues such as depression and low self-esteem. Traditional non-surgical weight loss interventions often yield limited long-term success, leading to the exploration of surgical options.

Types of Bariatric Procedures

The most commonly performed bariatric procedures in adolescents include gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. Gastric bypass involves rerouting a portion of the digestive tract, reducing the stomach size and altering the way nutrients are absorbed. Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a significant portion of the stomach, resulting in reduced food intake. Adjustable gastric banding involves placing an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch.

Benefits of Bariatric Surgery in Adolescents

1. Weight Loss: Bariatric surgery has demonstrated significant and sustained weight loss in adolescents, leading to improvements in obesity-related health conditions.
2. Metabolic Improvements: Many adolescents experience remission or improvement in comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia following bariatric surgery.
3. Psychosocial Well-being: Adolescents who undergo bariatric surgery often report improvements in self-esteem, body image, and overall quality of life.
4. Long-term Impact: Successful weight loss during adolescence may lead to reduced long-term health risks and improved overall life expectancy.

Considerations and Precautions

1. Maturity and Psychological Evaluation: Adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery must be emotionally mature and have a comprehensive psychological evaluation to assess their readiness for the procedure and ability to adhere to post-operative lifestyle changes.
2. Multidisciplinary Approach: The involvement of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, dieticians, psychologists, and pediatricians, is crucial in the comprehensive evaluation and post-operative management of adolescent patients.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery are at risk of nutritional deficiencies due to reduced food intake and malabsorption. Close monitoring and appropriate nutritional supplementation are essential.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Bariatric surgery is not a standalone solution. Adolescents must commit to lifelong changes in their eating habits, physical activity, and psychological well-being for successful long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery in adolescents can be a life-altering intervention for those struggling with severe obesity. It offers significant weight loss, metabolic improvements, and enhanced psychosocial well-being. However, careful patient selection, comprehensive evaluation, and ongoing post-operative support are essential. Bariatric surgery should be seen as a part of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes lifestyle modifications, nutritional support, and psychological counseling. As research in this field continues to evolve, it is crucial to balance the potential benefits with the associated risks and make individualized decisions in the best interest of each adolescent patient.

My New Body Obesity Center has developed a Bariatric Surgery Program aimed for adolescents. If your or someone you know is considering Weight Loss Surgery for teens, schedule your complimentary Bariatric consultation and learn if Bariatric Surgery is the right choice for you.

References

• Beamish, A. J., Ryan Harper, E., Järvholm, K., Janson, A., & Olbers, T. (2023). Long-term outcomes following adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, dgad155.
• de la Cruz-Muñoz, N., Xie, L., Quiroz, H. J., Kutlu, O. C., Atem, F., Lipshultz, S. E., … & Messiah, S. E. (2022). Long-Term outcomes after adolescent bariatric surgery. Journal of the American College of Surgeons, 235(4), 592-602.