To investigate changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and associated serum levels of calcium, vitamin D, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in female patients over 10 years post-laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), specifically focusing on the implications for long-term health.
Key Findings:
Significant decrease in BMI at 5 years (12.6 ± 6.14 units) and at 10 years (11.6 ± 5.75 units) compared to baseline, p < 0.05.
Overall decrease in spine BMD of 20% and femoral neck BMD of 25% over 10 years, both statistically significant.
Nine patients developed osteopenia and one developed osteoporosis by 10 years, with p-values indicating significance.
Vitamin D deficiency persisted in a significant proportion of patients at 5 and 10 years post-surgery, highlighting a critical area for intervention.
Interpretation:
The study indicates that LRYGB leads to significant long-term reductions in BMD, with a notable incidence of osteopenia and osteoporosis, potentially linked to vitamin D deficiency and altered bone metabolism, which necessitates further investigation into supplementation strategies.
Limitations:
Small sample size of 23 patients may limit generalizability and introduce bias.
Lack of data from patients who declined participation in the follow-up may affect the findings.
Conclusion:
Long-term monitoring of bone health is crucial in patients post-gastric bypass surgery, as significant declines in BMD and vitamin D deficiency were observed, necessitating potential supplementation strategies to mitigate these risks.
