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A groundbreaking study led by researchers from Monash University and the University of Sydney has confirmed that bariatric surgery is a safe and effective method for substantial weight loss, significantly reducing the need for diabetes medications among patients. The findings were published in the ANZ Journal of Surgery.
The study analyzed data from 122,567 patients who underwent 134,625 bariatric procedures in Australia between February 28, 2012, and December 31, 2021. The research provides strong evidence supporting the long-term benefits of bariatric surgery in a community setting, reinforcing its safety and efficacy.
Significant Weight Loss and Diabetes Remission
Five years post-surgery, patients experienced remarkable weight loss depending on the procedure type:
- One-anastomosis gastric bypass: 34.88% total body weight loss
- Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: 30.73% total body weight loss
- Sleeve gastrectomy: 26.5% total body weight loss
- Adjustable gastric bands: 17.6% total body weight loss
Among the participants, 13.6% were being treated for diabetes before surgery. Of the 58% who were followed up after one year, 71.6% no longer required diabetes medication. After five years, among the 22% who were still in follow-up, 61% remained off diabetes medication.
Low Adverse Event Rate
The study also assessed the safety of bariatric procedures. Within 90 days post-surgery, 3.6% of patients experienced adverse events such as unplanned readmission, intensive care admission, re-operation, or death. These rates were comparable to other minimally invasive surgeries, such as gallbladder removal, confirming the procedure’s overall safety.
Professor Wendy Brown, first author and Chair of Monash University’s Department of Surgery at Alfred Health, highlighted the importance of these findings.
“This should reassure patients, their loved ones, and payers such as government and insurers that bariatric surgery is safe, effective, and delivers significant health improvements,” Professor Brown stated. “This is the first time it has been demonstrated that the positive effects of bariatric surgery are achievable in a community setting, not just at expert centers.”
A Major Benefit for Patients and Healthcare Systems
Professor Brown emphasized that the ability for 61% of diabetes patients to discontinue medication within five years post-surgery is a major advantage for both individuals and healthcare systems. She noted that obesity has traditionally been considered a risk factor for anesthetic and surgical complications, making the low adverse event rate particularly noteworthy.
“The safety of bariatric surgery is reassuring, as it means we can safely offer people a method to lose and maintain a substantial amount of weight, thereby improving or even reversing many health conditions,” she added.
Future Research and Registry Expansion
The study was based on data from the Australia and New Zealand Bariatric Surgery Registry, which tracks patient outcomes, weight loss, and health improvements post-surgery. Future research will focus on revisional surgeries, care patterns, and long-term outcomes for patients with both obesity and diabetes.
Additionally, patient-reported outcomes will be included in the registry from 2025, further strengthening research capabilities and providing deeper insights into the real-world effectiveness of bariatric procedures.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on scientific research and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals considering bariatric surgery should consult healthcare professionals to assess their personal health needs and risks.
