Background: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is an effective stand-alone bariatric procedure with favorable short-term results on weight reduction and comorbidity resolution. This study aims to evaluate the long-term results of LSG to see if weight reduction and diabetic improvement are sustainable.
Methods: We conducted a prospective observational study on patients receiving LSG as an index stand-alone bariatric operation in our unit.
Results: Between 2006 and 2014, there were 140 patients (91 females) aged 37.9 ± 10.5 years with a body mass index of 41.0 ± 7.0 kg/m(2). At 1-year (n = 123), 2-year (n = 99), 3-year (n = 77), 4-year (n = 52), and 5-year (n = 44) follow-ups, the mean percentages of excess weight loss (%EWL) were 70.5, 65.2, 60.2, 53.2, and 57.2%, respectively, while the corresponding proportions with failed weight loss (%EWL <30%) were 7.3, 9.1, 13.0, 25.0, and 22.7%. Weight regain (>25% rebound in %EWL) was evident with time as 0, 1.0, 11.6, 19.2, and 29.5% in the first 5-year follow-ups. In 65 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, remission (complete and partial) was achieved in 34.5% at 1-year, 52.7% at 3-year, and 70.6% at 5-year follow-ups. Proportions of patients having optimal glycemic control (HbA1c <7%) increased significantly from 26.2% preoperatively to 80.9% at the first year and maintained at 78.6% at the fifth year (P < 0.001).
Conclusions: LSG was effective in achieving substantial weight reduction and improved diabetic control for morbidly obese patients. Although weight regain was possible with time, majority of patients could maintain sustainable weight loss, diabetes remission, and glycemic improvement in the long run.