Long-Term Outcomes of Sleeve Gastrectomy: 8-Year Anthropometric and Nutritional Analysis

Overview

This 8-year longitudinal study of 23 patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (SG) assessed anthropometric, biochemical, and nutritional outcomes. Findings reveal sustained weight loss with variable weight regain, alongside important changes in biochemical markers and nutritional status, highlighting the complexity of long-term management after SG.

Background

Obesity remains a significant global health issue, with metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) as the most effective treatment for severe obesity. Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is a commonly performed MBS procedure, but long-term outcomes vary, with recurrent weight gain (RWG) reported in a substantial subset of patients. Most prior studies focus on weight and complications, while comprehensive long-term data including biochemical and nutritional parameters are limited. This study aims to fill that gap by reassessing patients 8 years post-SG.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• SG resulted in sustained weight loss at 8 years, with %TWL categorized as moderate or high in most patients.
• Recurrent weight gain was observed in a subset, defined as ≥30% regain from maximum weight loss.
• Anthropometric improvements included reductions in BMI, waist circumference, and body fat percentage measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis.
• Biochemical parameters such as fasting glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, liver enzymes, and micronutrient levels were reassessed, revealing changes relevant to metabolic health and nutritional status.
• Long-term nutritional assessments indicated the importance of ongoing dietary management to maintain micronutrient sufficiency and metabolic benefits.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should monitor patients long-term after SG for weight regain and metabolic changes, incorporating comprehensive anthropometric, biochemical, and nutritional evaluations. Structured nutritional programs and patient education remain critical to sustain weight loss and prevent deficiencies. Early identification of suboptimal responses may guide timely interventions including consideration of conversion bariatric surgery.

Conclusion

Sleeve gastrectomy provides sustained weight loss and metabolic improvements over 8 years, but variable weight regain and nutritional challenges underscore the need for comprehensive long-term follow-up. This study highlights the multifaceted nature of post-SG outcomes and the importance of integrated management strategies.

References

1. Iossa et al. 7-Year SG Outcomes
2. IFSO Consensus on Weight Regain
3. ASMBS Nutritional Recommendations