Bariatric Techniques: Advantages, Disadvantages, and indications of the main surgical procedures

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Obesity is a global epidemic characterized by excessive body fat accumulation, compromising individual health and serving as a risk factor for comorbidities such as dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. Its treatment involves lifestyle changes, nutritional approaches, pharmacological interventions, and surgical options, particularly when patients do not respond to these treatments. Bariatric surgery aims to promote weight reduction and long-term maintenance, leading to the complete resolution or improvement of obesity-related diseases. It is indicated for individuals with severe obesity, as assessed by Body Mass Index (BMI), with or without comorbidities, and who meet the prerequisites of being aged between 16 and 65 years and having failed previous clinical management attempts. A range of surgical techniques must be chosen according to each case, including gastric bypass, vertical sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, and adjustable gastric banding. Understanding the indications, advantages, and disadvantages of these various surgical techniques is essential for selecting the most appropriate procedure for each patient. Objective: To understand the indications, advantages, and disadvantages of bariatric techniques. Material and Methods: This study reviewed the literature on different surgical techniques for treating obesity, highlighting their indications, benefits, and drawbacks. The analysis was based on detailed scientific articles and clinical guidelines, focusing on weight loss efficacy, impacts on obesity-related comorbidities, and potential complications, aiming to facilitate the selection of the most suitable treatment for individuals with severe obesity. Results: The study demonstrated that bariatric surgery, particularly gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy, shows positive outcomes in weight reduction and improvement of health conditions associated with obesity, emphasizing the necessity to tailor the method selection to each patient's specific characteristics. Conclusion: Bariatric surgery represents an effective option in combating severe obesity, necessitating personalization according to individual patient characteristics and research evidencing its efficacy in weight reduction and improvement of related conditions, in addition to enhancing quality of life.