Evolution and Outcomes of a Canadian Pediatric Bariatric Surgery Program

Abstract

Purpose: An interdisciplinary obesity management program was established in 2007 at our quaternary hospital, including bariatric surgery for selected adolescent patients. We report the evolution of surgical management within the program and outcomes following bariatric surgery.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of adolescents who underwent bariatric surgery between 2007 and 2017. All cases were performed by a pediatric surgeon and an adult bariatric surgeon. Baseline demographics, BMI, co-morbidities, and post-operative outcomes were recorded.

Results: Thirty-eight patients underwent bariatric surgery. Median age at entrance into the program was 16.5 (range, 12.1-17.4) years and at time of surgery was 17.4 (range, 13.6-18.8) years. Eight patients had laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) from 2007 to 10. Between 2011 and 2017, 18 had laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), and 12 had laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). There were no intraoperative complications or conversions. Postoperative complications included wound infection, bleeding requiring transfusion and re-exploration, and internal hernia. Of patients who had LAGB, 2 required surgical revision, and 3 underwent subsequent removal.

Conclusions: Adolescent bariatric surgery in the context of a multidisciplinary obesity management program is safe and effective. RYGB and sleeve gastrectomy are associated with superior weight loss in the immediate post-operative period and at most recent follow-up and lower reoperation rates than gastric banding.

Level of evidence: III.

Keywords: Adolescent; Bariatric surgery; Obesity.