The Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Remission: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Bariatric surgery has been shown to significantly affect type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remission, particularly in obese individuals. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of bariatric surgical interventions in inducing remission of T2DM as well as to identify factors influencing surgical outcomes. The systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, utilizing text words and controlled vocabulary in various combinations with Boolean operators "AND" and "OR." The search was limited to open-access, full-text articles in English published from 2005 to 2024, including studies involving human subjects. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist. In the study selection process for the systematic review, records were initially identified from three databases: Cochrane (31 records), Embase (62 records), and PubMed (52 records). This yielded 145 records. After removing 107 records, 38 records remained for screening. Of these, five records were excluded based on irrelevant problems and irrelevant outcomes. Subsequently, 33 reports were sought for full-text retrieval, with all reports being retrievable. The 33 reports were assessed for eligibility. Out of these, six were excluded due to an inaccessible full-text record. Finally, 33 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Bariatric surgery is a highly effective intervention for individuals with T2DM, particularly those with obesity. It leads to significant weight loss and improved glycemic control through mechanisms that reduce stomach size and alter hormonal responses. This surgery not only helps many patients achieve remission from diabetes but also decreases the risk of obesity-related health issues. Beyond physical health, patients often report enhanced psychological well-being and quality of life. Overall, bariatric surgery can transform the health trajectory of select individuals, offering them a renewed sense of control and improved overall health.

Keywords: bariatric surgery; glycemic control; remission; type 2 diabetes; weight loss.

Figure 1. PRISMA flowchart

PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses