Pediatric Patients Find Success with Weight Loss Through Bariatric Surgery

Obesity in adolescents in a growing problem today, considered by some to be an epidemic. While the medical community researches and examines this increasing problem, surgical intervention is becoming one of the most popular resolutions to the problem. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and George Fielding, both NYU Langone Medical Center bariatric surgeons, as well as a team of their colleagues, did a follow-up study with a group of pediatric patients who had previously undergone laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) in their practice. The study confirmed the positive effects of this bariatric surgery procedure, and the details are outlined in this article.

Methods

The researchers examined adolescents who had undergone LAGB at the NYU Langone Medical Center since September 2001. This was a retrospective review using information that was entered into a database. All of the individuals met criteria set by the National Institutes of Health for bariatric surgery, and each patient’s parents provided informed consent.

Individuals who took part in this study were aged 13-17, and researchers also collected preoperative data including age, sex, body mass index (BMI) race, and simultaneous presence of an additional chronic diseases, also known as comorbidity. The experts gathered postoperative data, including BMI at 3-month intervals, percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), status of comorbid conditions, if any, and number of follow-up visits and band adjustments.

Results of Study

This study began with 73 pediatric patients aged 13 to 17 who had experienced LAGB surgery during the data collection time of this study. 54 patients were female and 19 were male. The mean preoperative weight was 298 lb. with a BMI of 48. The percentage weight loss at 6 months, one year, and two years was 35%, 57%, and 61% respectively. Out of this patient group, 21 patients took part in the follow up study, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. At the one-year follow-up, researchers identified 51 comorbid conditions amid these adolescents. Of these, 35 (68.5%) were totally resolved, and 9 (17.5%) were improved.

Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding’s Conclusions

This updated study demonstrates that laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is an effective treatment strategy for morbidly obese adolescents. It represents a percentage weight loss of approximately 55% at both one- and two-year follow up points, provides for excellent resolution of comorbidities. This study also supports evidence that LAGB is safer for adolescents than gastric bypass surgery. Adolescents and their parents who are considering bariatric surgery, specifically LAGB, should be aware that a serious commitment is required on the part of the young person. This consists of following protocol set out by the doctors and clinicians involved in the patient’s treatment plan, and a commitment to follow-up care. Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding and her colleagues have found that younger people are entirely capable of this undertaking, and noncompliance should not be a reason to discourage pediatric patients from exploring LAGB. Weight loss from LAGB and the resolution of comorbidities can help morbidly obese adolescents enjoy a better quality of life into adulthood.

Contacting Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding Regarding Bariatric Surgery Options

Are you interested in learning more about weight loss surgery like LAGB? Visit the NYU Langone Weight Management Program here and consult with an expert like Dr. Christine Ren-Fielding.