Laparoscopic Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass is a Safe and Effective Operation for the Treatment of Morbid Obesity in Patients Older than 55 Years

Background: Bariatric surgery in patients >50 years has been controversial. We investigated the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) in patients >55 years of age. Methods: Prospective data on 71 patients (54 females and 17 males) undergoing LRYGBP were reviewed. The patients were followed for a mean of 17 months (range 2-35 months). Results: The mean age was 59 years (range 55-67 years), and the mean preoperative BMI was 50.2 kg/m² (range 37-65 kg/m²). There were no conversions to open technique. Mean percent of excess weight loss (%EWL) was 20%, 48%, 64% and 67% at 1, 6, 12 and 24 months respectively. 89% of patients had at least a 50% EWL at 1 year postoperatively. There was a significant decrease in the number of patients requiring medical treatment for co-morbidities associated with morbid obesity: diabetes mellitus 87%, hypertension 70% and sleep apnea 86%. There was no inpatient mortality. 1 patient died suddenly 2 weeks postoperatively of possible myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism. 16 patients developed 22 complications. The median length of hospital stay was 3 days. Conclusion: LRYGBP is a safe and well-tolerated surgical option for the treatment of morbid obesity in patients >55 years old. These patients demonstrate a satisfactory weight loss and resolution of co-morbidities.