Best Practice Guidelines in Pediatric/Adolescent Weight Loss Surgery

Improving Access to Child and Adolescent Weight Loss Surgery: A Review of Updated National and International Practice Guidelines

The rise of childhood obesity is a growing concern due to its negative impact on health. Metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) has gained popularity as an effective and adequate intervention for children and adolescent patients living with severe obesity. Nonetheless, access to MBS for this population is still limited. The objective of this paper is to conduct a comprehensive review of the latest national and international practice guidelines and improve access to MBS for children and adolescents. The paper focuses on the recommendations from the 2023 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and 2022 guidelines from the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) and the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO). Recently updated guidelines from the ASMBS and IFSO aim to improve access to MBS for children and adolescents and recommend patient selection, preoperative evaluation, and postoperative care. While lifestyle changes, medication, and behavioral therapy are commonly prescribed, they often fail to achieve permanent weight loss and its maintenance. Weight-loss surgeries like sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and gastric bypass (RYGB) show promising results in managing severe obesity in adolescents. SG has become the preferred method for treating severe obesity in adolescents, surpassing RYGB. Weight stigma is also explored in this review, revealing its negative effects on individuals who are overweight and underweight. Furthermore, telehealth is identified as an increasingly valuable tool for managing pediatric obesity, as it can improve access to care, particularly for those in remote areas where physicians trained to treat childhood obesity and the shortage of bariatric surgeons experienced in treating younger adolescents and pediatricians with advanced training are major obstacles.

Perinatal Outcomes After Bariatric Surgery Compared With a Matched Control Group

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate perinatal outcomes associated with pregnancy after bariatric surgery within a large integrated health care system using propensity score matching.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study that evaluated perinatal outcomes in pregnant patients after bariatric surgery from January 2012 through December 2018. History of bariatric surgery was identified by using International Classification of Diseases codes and a clinical database. Primary outcomes were preterm birth (PTB), gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, impaired glucose tolerance or gestational diabetes, a large-for-gestational-age (LGA) or small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, and cesarean birth. Propensity scores were estimated by using logistic regression that accounted for age at delivery, prepregnancy body mass index, year of delivery, parity, neighborhood deprivation index, race and ethnicity, insurance status, initiation of prenatal visit in the first trimester, smoking during pregnancy, chronic hypertension, and preexisting diabetes. Five patients in the control group were matched to each patient in the case group on linear propensity score, and modified Poisson regression was used to adjust for covariates. Sensitivity analyses by timing and type of surgery were performed.

RESULTS

We identified a case cohort of 1,591 pregnancies in patients after bariatric surgery and a matched cohort of 7,955 pregnancies in patients who had not undergone bariatric surgery. Demographic characteristics were similar in both groups. In multivariate models, pregnancy after bariatric surgery was associated with a decreased risk of preeclampsia (7.5% vs 10.2%, adjusted relative risk [aRR] 0.72, 95% CI 0.60-0.86), gestational diabetes or impaired fasting glucose (23.5% vs 35.0%, aRR 0.73, 95% CI 0.66-0.80), and LGA (10.6% vs 19.9%, aRR 0.56, 95% CI 0.48-0.65) and an increased risk of SGA (10.9% vs 6.6%, aRR 1.51, 95% CI 1.28-1.78). No significant differences were observed in PTB, gestational hypertension and cesarean delivery.

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy after bariatric surgery in a racially and ethnically diverse cohort of patients is associated with decreased risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or impaired fasting glucose, and LGA neonates; it is also associated with an increased risk of SGA neonates compared with pregnant patients in a matched control group.

Pregnancy Conceptualizations in Women Who Have Had Recent Bariatric Surgery

Objectives: To describe bariatric surgery patients' perioperative conceptualizations about pregnancy. Materials and Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study performed in 2016, evaluating a nationally recruited convenience sample of U.S. women aged 18-45 years who underwent bariatric surgery within the past 24 months. We assessed four pregnancy constructs: intent, desire, emotional orientation, and importance to avoid. We examined relationships between constructs, with time since surgery, postoperative pregnancy, and contraceptive use using descriptive statistics. Results: We included 363 eligible women (response rate 80%). Participant median age was 36 years, 71% (n = 258) were White, 77% (n = 279) were sexually active at the time of the study, and 39% (n = 140) experienced preoperative infertility. Most reported no desire to become pregnant (59%, n = 175) and that it was important to avoid pregnancy (78%, n = 283) within the first 24 months after surgery. Relationships between constructs were complex. Respondents in their first postoperative year more likely reported they would feel upset about a hypothetical pregnancy (40%, n = 74) than those in their second year (27%, n = 48, p = 0.02). Of those with a postoperative pregnancy, 46% (n = 17) felt it was important to avoid pregnancy compared with 81% (n = 266) of those who did not have a pregnancy (p < 0.001). Most used postoperative contraception (66%, n = 241), and those who felt it was important to avoid pregnancy more likely used contraception (82%, n = 197) than those who did not feel it was important (18%, n = 44, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Women undergoing bariatric surgery have diverse and complex conceptualizations about future pregnancy. These varied based on time from surgery and influenced postoperative contraceptive use.

Use of sleeve gastrectomy in adolescents and young adults with severe obesity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The prevalence of pediatric obesity and its associated complications is increasing around the world. Treatment of obesity is challenging and metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is currently the most effective treatment for this condition. At this time, vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is the most commonly performed bariatric procedure in adolescents. However, knowledge regarding the efficacy, safety, and durability of VSG in adolescents is still evolving. This review summarizes the most recent updates in the field of MBS particularly VSG in adolescents.

RECENT FINDINGS

MBS is recommended to treat moderate to severe obesity, especially when complicated by comorbidities. The use of VSG for weight loss is increasing among adolescents and produces similar weight loss at five years in both adolescents and adults. The physiologic mechanisms causing weight loss after VSG are multifactorial and still being investigated. The complication rate after VSG ranges between 0 and 17.5%.

SUMMARY

VSG appears to be a well-tolerated and effective procedure in adolescents. However, it continues to be underutilized despite the increasing prevalence of moderate to severe obesity in adolescents. It is thus important to educate providers regarding its benefits and safety profile.

Preoperative considerations for the pediatric patient undergoing metabolic and bariatric surgery

To ensure successful outcomes in pediatric patients with severe obesity who undergo metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS), a number of pre-operative patient management options should be considered. This manuscript will review the indications and contraindications of MBS and special considerations for youth who might benefit from MBS. The treatment team conducts a thorough pre-operative evaluation, assessing risks and benefits of surgical intervention, and prepares patients and families to be successful with MBS by providing education about the surgical intervention and lifestyle changes that will be necessary. This article reviews the pre-operative considerations for adolescents with severe obesity who are being considered for MBS, based upon recent clinical practice guidelines.

Immediate return of fertility function following a bariatric surgery: A case report

Obesity in women of childbearing age is linked to lower fertility rates due to chronic oligoovulation and anovulation. Effective weight loss treatment such as bariatric surgery can improve fertility potential. However, pregnancy during the first 12 months after bariatric surgery should be avoided due to an active catabolic state and may increase the potential risk of fetal growth restriction. Here, we report a case with an immediate return of fertility function following a bariatric surgery with favorable outcomes. A 30-year-old woman with obesity, history of polycystic ovarian syndrome and infertility become pregnant within 2-month period following bariatric surgery. She first recognized her pregnancy at the gestational age of 8 weeks. Micronutrient laboratory results at baseline were normal except for low 25-OH vitamin D level of 18.7 ng/dL. She continued to lose her weight during the first trimester but was able to gain some weight during the second and third trimesters. Close fetal ultrasonography monitoring was done during each trimester. The fetal ultrasonography showed an appropriate fetal weight, a normal Doppler study and no abnormality detected in the fetus. Finally, at 36 weeks of gestation, a 2380-g female baby was delivered successfully.

Sleeve Gastrectomy for Youth With Cognitive Impairment or Developmental Disability

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Youth with cognitive impairment or developmental disability (CI/DD) face higher rates of obesity and secondary medical issues. Bariatric surgery may be a helpful tool for health improvement because it has been shown efficacious for adolescents. We aim to contribute to literature regarding bariatric surgery for adolescents with CI/DD and explore the association between cognitive functioning and weight loss outcomes.

METHODS

Adolescents (N = 64) received a preoperative psychological evaluation, including cognitive assessment, and bariatric surgery at 1 weight loss program between 2010 and 2017. For these adolescents with measured cognitive performance, CI/DD was defined by an IQ <80 or previous diagnosis. In analyses, we compared adolescents with and without CI/DD. Structural equation modeling was used to assess the impact of cognitive functioning on weight loss 3 to 24 months postsurgery.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between adolescents with or without CI/DD in terms of preoperative BMI, age, and sex. Having CI/DD did not significantly impact weight loss or weight loss trajectory in the 2 years after surgery, although modeling revealed a trend toward individuals with CI/DD losing more weight over time. Similarly, intelligence scores did not predict weight loss after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery may be a helpful tool for adolescents with severe obesity and CI/DD. They could benefit from the surgery as much as those with typical development, and having CI/DD should not be used as a criterion to deny surgery. Continuing research with this population can be used to determine long-term outcomes in addition to defining best practices.

Sexual behaviors, risks, and sexual health outcomes for adolescent females following bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Adolescents females with severe obesity are less likely to be sexually active, but those who are sexually active engage in risky sexual behaviors.

OBJECTIVES

To examine patterns and predictors of sexual risk behaviors, contraception practices, and sexual health outcomes in female adolescents with severe obesity who did or did not undergo bariatric surgery across 4 years.

SETTING

Five academic medical centers.

METHODS

Using a prospective observational controlled design, female adolescents undergoing bariatric surgery (n = 111; M_age = 16.95 ± 1.44 yr; body mass index: M_BMI = 50.99 ± 8.42; 63.1% white) and nonsurgical comparators (n = 68; M_age = 16.18 ± 1.36 yr; M_BMI = 46.47 ± 5.83; 55.9% white) completed the Sexual Activities and Attitudes Questionnaire at presurgery/baseline and 24- and 48-month follow-up, with 83 surgical females (M_BMI = 39.27 ± 10.08) and 49 nonsurgical females (M_BMI = 48.56 ± 9.84) participating at 48 months.

RESULTS

Most experienced sexual debut during the 4-year study period, with a greater increase in behaviors conferring risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for surgical females (P = .03). Half (50% surgical, 44.2% nonsurgical, P = .48) reported partner condom use at last sexual intercourse. The proportion of participants who had ever contracted an STI was similar (18.7% surgical, 14.3% nonsurgical). Surgical patients were more likely to report a pregnancy (25.3% surgical, 8.2% nonsurgical, P = .02) and live birth (16 births in 15 surgical, 1 nonsurgical), with 50% of offspring in the surgical cohort born to teen mothers (age ≤19 yr).

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric care guidelines and practices for adolescent females must emphasize the risks and consequences of teen or unintended pregnancies, sexual decision-making, dual protection, and STI prevention strategies to optimize health and well-being for the long term.

Self-Management Behaviors in Obese Patients Undergoing Surgery Based on General and Specific Adherence Scales

BACKGROUND

Adherence has been defined as the degree to which a patient's voluntary behavior corresponds with the clinical recommendations of health care providers. The aim of this study was to predict self-management behaviors in obese patients undergoing surgery based on general and specific adherence scales.

METHODS

All obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery in Ghadir Mother and Child Hospital, Shiraz, Iran from April 2017 to September 2017 were enrolled. By using available sampling method, 201 patients with BMI above 35 (36.43±35.11) and in the age range of18-65 years (13.38±80/5) were selected. A questionnaire containing general adherence scale (GAS), specific adherence scale (SAS) and post-surgery self-management behaviors questionnaire (BSSQ) was completed by all patients.

RESULTS

The general and specific adherence scales were significant predictors for self-management behaviors after surgery, and positive relation was found for general and specific adherence scales with self-management behaviors.

CONCLUSION

Self-management behaviors regarding eating behaviors, supplements, fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and fluid intake, physical activity, dumping syndrome management have significant relationship with general and specific adherence scales. So increasing knowledge, skills, motivation, self-confidence, self-efficacy and self-monitoring of obese patients after surgery seem necessary.

ASMBS pediatric metabolic and bariatric surgery guidelines, 2018

The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Pediatric Committee updated their evidence-based guidelines published in 2012, performing a comprehensive literature search (2009-2017) with 1387 articles and other supporting evidence through February 2018. The significant increase in data supporting the use of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) in adolescents since 2012 strengthens these guidelines from prior reports. Obesity is recognized as a disease; treatment of severe obesity requires a life-long multidisciplinary approach with combinations of lifestyle changes, nutrition, medications, and MBS. We recommend using modern definitions of severe obesity in children with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention age- and sex-matched growth charts defining class II obesity as 120% of the 95th percentile and class III obesity as 140% of the 95th percentile. Adolescents with class II obesity and a co-morbidity (listed in the guidelines), or with class III obesity should be considered for MBS. Adolescents with cognitive disabilities, a history of mental illness or eating disorders that are treated, immature bone growth, or low Tanner stage should not be denied treatment. MBS is safe and effective in adolescents; given the higher risk of adult obesity that develops in childhood, MBS should not be withheld from adolescents when severe co-morbidities, such as depressed health-related quality of life score, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis exist. Early intervention can reduce the risk of persistent obesity as well as end organ damage from long standing co-morbidities.

Psychiatric Diagnoses and Weight Loss Among Adolescents Receiving Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Severe obesity is associated with higher risk of psychiatric difficulties. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment of severe obesity. Few guidelines exist regarding the association of psychiatric diagnoses in adolescents and outcomes after surgery because of the lack of longitudinal research. Our objective is to evaluate the rates of psychiatric diagnoses in adolescents undergoing surgery compared with those not receiving surgery and the association of preoperative psychiatric diagnoses with postsurgical weight loss outcomes.

METHODS

Adolescents (N = 222) referred for psychological evaluation at one institution for bariatric surgery (2009-2017) completed semistructured clinical interviews to assess the presence and number of psychiatric diagnoses. Comparison analyses were conducted between those who did not end up receiving surgery (N = 53) and those who did (N = 169). Using longitudinal modeling, we assessed the association of preoperative diagnoses with weight loss outcomes between 3 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Seventy-one percent of adolescents qualified for a psychiatric disorder. There were no differences in rates of specific disorders or numbers of diagnoses between those receiving surgery and those not receiving surgery. The presence or absence or number of diagnoses before surgery was not associated with weight loss outcomes after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Psychiatric diagnoses are prevalent among adolescents with severe obesity. These diagnoses are not associated with weight loss outcomes. The presurgical psychological evaluation serves as an opportunity to identify adolescents experiencing psychiatric problems and provide them with care but should not necessarily be considered a contraindication to surgery.

Russian national clinical recommendations for morbid obesity treatment in adults. 3rd revision (Morbid obesity treatment in adults)

The presented paper is a third revision of the clinical recommendations for the treatment of morbid obesity in adults. Morbid obesity is a condition with body mass index (BMI) 40 kg / m2 or a BMI 35 kg / m2 in the presence of serious complications associated with obesity. The recommendations provide data on the prevalence of obesity, its etiology and pathogenesis, as well as on associated complications. The necessary methods for laboratory and instrumental diagnosis of obesity are described in detail. In this revision of the recommendations, the staging of prescribing conservative and surgical methods for the treatment of obesity are determined. For the first time, a group of patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus is selected, in whom metabolic surgery allows a long-term improvement in the control of glycemia or remission of diabetes mellitus.

Cardiovascular Risk Factors After Adolescent Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Severely obese adolescents harbor numerous cardiovascular disease risk factors (CVD-RFs), which improve after metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS). However, predictors of change in CVD-RFs among adolescents have not yet been reported.

METHODS

The Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery study (NCT00474318) prospectively collected anthropometric and health status data on 242 adolescents undergoing MBS at 5 centers. Predictors of change in CVD-RFs (blood pressure, lipids, glucose homeostasis, and inflammation) 3 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and vertical sleeve gastrectomy were examined.

RESULTS

The mean (±SD) age of participants at baseline was 17 ± 1.6 years; 76% were girls, and 72% were white, with a median BMI of 51. Participants underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 161), vertical sleeve gastrectomy (n = 67), or adjustable gastric banding (n = 14). Increasing weight loss was an independent predictor of normalization in dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure (EBP), hyperinsulinemia, diabetes, and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Older participants at time of surgery were less likely to resolve dyslipidemia compared with younger participants, whereas girls were more likely than boys to demonstrate improvements in EBP. Even those participants without frank dyslipidemia or EBP at baseline showed significant improvements in lipid and blood pressure values over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Numerous CVD-RFs improve among adolescents undergoing MBS. Increased weight loss, female sex, and younger age predict a higher probability of resolution of specific CVD-RFs. The elucidation of predictors of change in CVD-RFs may lead to refinements in patient selection and optimal timing of adolescent bariatric surgery designed to improve clinical outcomes.

Obalon intragastric balloon in the treatment of paediatric obesity: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle interventions are often ineffective in the treatment of pediatric obesity. Weight loss devices have been introduced for the temporary nonsurgical treatment of morbid obesity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of Obalon Intragastric Balloon on weight loss and on metabolic and cardiovascular parameters in a pediatric population with severe obesity.

METHODS

We enrolled 10 children with severe obesity. In all patients anthropometric parameters, biochemical tests, ultrasound liver examination and blood pressure monitoring were evaluated at the time of insertion and after removal of device.

RESULTS

The Obalon had a positive effect on decrease of weight, body mass index and percentage of excess body weight within 3 months from placement. Moreover, this safe minimally invasive device improves the cardio-metabolic profiles of obese children.

CONCLUSIONS

The Obalon could be a useful tool in the difficult management of pediatric patients with morbid obesity, inducing in short-term a meaningful weight loss.

Obesity and reproduction: a committee opinion

The purpose of this ASRM Practice Committee report is to provide clinicians with principles and strategies for the evaluation and treatment of couples with infertility associated with obesity. This revised document replaces the Practice Committee document titled, "Obesity and reproduction: an educational bulletin," last published in 2008 (Fertil Steril 2008;90:S21-9).

Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Severely Obese Adolescents: The Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS) Study

IMPORTANCE

Severe obesity is increasingly common in the adolescent population but, as of yet, very little information exists regarding cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks in this group.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the baseline prevalence and predictors of CVD risks among severely obese adolescents undergoing weight-loss surgery.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A prospective cohort study was conducted from February 28, 2007, to December 30, 2011, at the following 5 adolescent weight-loss surgery centers in the United States: Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio; Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in Cincinnati, Ohio; Texas Children's Hospital in Houston; University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Children's Hospital of Alabama in Birmingham. Consecutive patients aged 19 years or younger were offered enrollment in a long-term outcome study; the final analysis cohort consisted of 242 participants.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

This report examined the preoperative prevalence of CVD risk factors (ie, fasting hyperinsulinemia, elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels, impaired fasting glucose levels, dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, and diabetes mellitus) and associations between risk factors and body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Preoperative data were collected within 30 days preceding bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

The mean (SD) age was 17 (1.6) years and median body mass index was 50.5. Cardiovascular disease risk factor prevalence was fasting hyperinsulinemia (74%), elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels (75%), dyslipidemia (50%), elevated blood pressure (49%), impaired fasting glucose levels (26%), and diabetes mellitus (14%). The risk of impaired fasting glucose levels, elevated blood pressure, and elevated high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels increased by 15%, 10%, and 6%, respectively, per 5-unit increase in body mass index (P < .01). Dyslipidemia (adjusted relative risk = 1.60 [95% CI, 1.26-2.03]; P < .01) and elevated blood pressure (adjusted relative risk = 1.48 [95% CI, 1.16-1.89]; P < .01) were more likely in adolescent boys compared with adolescent girls. White individuals were at greater risk of having elevated triglyceride levels (adjusted relative risk = 1.76 [95% CI, 1.14-2.72]; P = .01) but were less likely to have impaired fasting glucose levels (adjusted relative risk = 0.58 [95% CI, 0.38-0.89]; P = .01).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Numerous CVD risk factors are apparent in adolescents undergoing weight-loss surgery. Increasing body mass index and male sex increase the relative risk of specific CVD risk factors. These data suggest that even among severely obese adolescents, recognition and treatment of CVD risk factors is important to help limit further progression of disease.

Indications and limitations of bariatric intervention in severely obese children and adolescents with and without nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: ESPGHAN Hepatology Committee Position Statement

Morbid obesity is strongly associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is one of the most common causes of chronic liver disease worldwide. The present best treatment for NAFLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is weight reduction through lifestyle modification. Because of frustrating inefficiency of such a therapeutic approach, bariatric surgery is increasingly performed in adolescents as an alternative option for weight reduction. Standards of care and consensus for indications are, however, scarce. We explore the indications and limitations of bariatric surgery in children with severe obesity with and without NASH and aim to provide guidance for the exceptional indications for adolescents with extreme obesity with major comorbidity that may benefit from these controversial interventions. Present evidence suggests that bariatric surgery can decrease the grade of steatosis, hepatic inflammation, and fibrosis in NASH. Uncomplicated NAFLD is not an indication for bariatric surgery. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is considered a safe and effective option for adolescents with extreme obesity, as long as an appropriate long-term follow-up is provided. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for use in adolescents and therefore should be considered investigational. Finally, sleeve gastrectomy and other types of weight loss surgery that have grown increasingly common in adults, still need to be considered investigational. Temporary devices may be increasingly being used in pediatrics; however, future studies, including a long-term risk analysis of patients who undergo surgery, are much needed to clarify the exact indications for bariatric surgery in adolescents.

Bariatric surgery in adolescents: what do we know so far?

Introduction:

Obesity represents a vast and rapidly increasing global burden. Bariatric surgery is the only intervention achieving sustained weight loss, among its wide-ranging benefits.

Methods:

In this article, we describe the growing challenges presented by adolescents with severe obesity and review the literature on surgical and other treatment options.

Results:

Outcomes in terms of weight loss, metabolic and quality of life improvement, reversal of obstructive sleep apnea, insulin resistance, type II diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia appear comparable to those seen in adults. However, long-term data on safety and sustainability are lacking. There is a growing acceptance of the need for surgery as a treatment for the morbidly obese adolescent population, and the number of studies reporting outcomes after adolescent bariatric surgery is increasing.

Conclusion:

Accumulating evidence suggests that the benefits seen in adult bariatric surgery can be reproduced in adolescents. Thus, adolescent bariatric surgery appears to be safe and effective in achieving benefits desired in terms of weight control and improvements in metabolic health and quality of life. However, particular care must be taken when treating a young population, and long-term outcomes are awaited to properly define indications and limitations.

Review article: the management of paediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Paediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major public health concern given the recent increase in its prevalence and link to obesity and other metabolic comorbidities. Current treatment strategies involve lifestyle changes. Other surgical and pharmacologic interventions have been proposed; however, limited randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in the paediatric population restrict their use.

AIM

To review the current management of paediatric NAFLD, including lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions, and to formulate recommendations for study design for future studies.

METHODS

A MEDLINE, Pubmed and Cochrane Review database search used a combination of keywords, including NAFLD, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), paediatric, treatments, lifestyle changes, bariatric surgery, orlistat, metformin, thiazolidinediones, vitamin E, cysteamine bitartrate, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, pentoxyfylline, farnesoid X receptor agonist and toll-like receptor modifiers. The articles were selected based on their relevance to the review.

RESULTS

Lifestyle interventions involving diet and exercise remain first-line treatment for paediatric NAFLD. Bariatric surgery, orlistat, insulin sensitisers and UDCA have been evaluated but are not recommended as first or second-line therapy. Medications such as cysteamine bitartrate, probiotics, polyunsaturated fats and pentoxyfilline share beneficial effects in trials, however, there is a paucity of adequately powered RCTs in which liver histology is evaluated. Vitamin E has been shown to be effective and safe in improving NASH histology in children.

CONCLUSIONS

Lifestyle intervention should be first-line treatment for paediatric NAFLD. Vitamin E should be considered for those with biopsy-proven NASH or borderline NASH failing first-line therapy. Other therapeutics show promising results but require larger RCTs with convincing endpoints. Improved screening techniques, objective validated inclusion criteria and outcome measures as well as rigour in study design are necessary for propelling therapeutic discovery.

Bariatric surgery in obese adolescents: opportunities and challenges

Extreme obesity is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a body mass index (BMI) higher than 120% of the 95th percentile for age. Four to six percent of American youths fall into this subcategory and are at increased risk for developing comorbidities, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, insulin resistance, sleep apnea, and bone and joint problems. Many studies have shown that nonsurgical treatment programs do not provide significant long-term improvements in BMI in adolescents with severe obesity. In adults, bariatric (weight loss) surgery has been shown to dramatically reduce BMI and to reverse or prevent many complications of obesity; thus, bariatric surgery is being used in an attempt to reverse clinically severe obesity in adolescents. This review highlights the indications for bariatric surgery in adolescents and outlines practice guidelines for adolescent surgical weight loss programs. The authors summarize available data on the effects of adolescent weight loss surgery on metabolic comorbidities and highlight the important acute and long-term complications that must be monitored by their general pediatricians. After reading this article, the general pediatrician should be able to identify adolescents who may be candidates for weight loss surgery and have the knowledge to assist in their postoperative medical management.

Interdisciplinary European guidelines on metabolic and bariatric surgery

In 2012, an expert panel composed of presidents of each of the societies, the European Chapter of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity (IFSO-EC), and of the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), as well as of the chair of EASO Obesity Management Task Force (EASO OMTF) and other key representatives from IFSO-EC and EASO, devoted the joint Medico-Surgical Workshop of both institutions to the topic of metabolic surgery in advance of the 2013 European Congress on Obesity held in Liverpool. This meeting was prompted by the extraordinary advancement made in the field of metabolic and bariatric surgery during the past decade. It was agreed to revise and update the 2008 Interdisciplinary European Guidelines on Surgery of Severe Obesity produced by focusing in particular on the evidence gathered in relation to the effects on diabetes and the changes in the recommendations of patient eligibility criteria. The expert panel allowed the coverage of key disciplines in the comprehensive management of obesity and obesity-associated diseases, aimed specifically at updating the clinical guidelines to reflect current knowledge, expertise and evidence-based data on metabolic and bariatric surgery.

Adolescent bariatric surgery program characteristics: the Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS) study experience

The number of adolescents undergoing weight loss surgery (WLS) has increased in response to the increasing prevalence of severe childhood obesity. Adolescents undergoing WLS require unique support, which may differ from adult programs. The aim of this study was to describe institutional and programmatic characteristics of centers participating in Teen Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (Teen-LABS), a prospective study investigating safety and efficacy of adolescent WLS. Data were obtained from the Teen-LABS database, and site survey completed by Teen-LABS investigators. The survey queried (1) institutional characteristics, (2) multidisciplinary team composition, (3) clinical program characteristics, and (4) clinical research infrastructure. All centers had extensive multidisciplinary involvement in the assessment, pre-operative education, and post-operative management of adolescents undergoing WLS. Eligibility criteria and pre-operative clinical and diagnostic evaluations were similar between programs. All programs have well-developed clinical research infrastructure, use adolescent-specific educational resources, and maintain specialty equipment, including high weight capacity diagnostic imaging equipment. The composition of clinical team and institutional resources is consistent with current clinical practice guidelines. These characteristics, coupled with dedicated research staff, have facilitated enrollment of 242 participants into Teen-LABS.

Self-esteem and quality of life in adolescents with extreme obesity in Saudi Arabia: the effect of weight loss after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the self-esteem and quality of life in adolescents with extreme obesity before and one year after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as obesity is a major challenging medical problem, not only in adults but also in children and adolescents in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

In a prospective cohort study, 32 adolescents (aged 13-17 years) with extreme obesity (Group 1) presenting for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) were compared with 32 matched, healthy, nonobese adolescents (aged 14-17 years) (Group 2) with regards to self-esteem and quality of life. Assessment was done using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 4.0 (self- and parent report), respectively. Body mass index (BMI) Z scores were calculated for both groups.

RESULTS

We found significantly poor self-esteem and impairment in all domains of quality of life (self- and parent report) in Group 1 compared with Group 2 (P<.001). Self esteem and quality of life (self- and parent reports) significantly improved 1 year after LSG (P<.001), and the weight loss induced by LSG, reflected by a decrease in BMI Z scores, was a significant predictor for the improvement in self-esteem (R2=0.28 and P=.003) and quality of life (R(2)=0.67 and P<.001).

CONCLUSION

LSG was found to be a safe and effective operation in adolescents with extreme obesity: LSG leads to weight loss, with subsequent improvement in self-esteem and quality of life.

Adherence to vitamin supplementation following adolescent bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

Adolescents with extreme obesity, who have undergone bariatric surgery, must adhere to many lifestyle and nutritional recommendations, including multivitamin therapy. Little is known about multivitamin adherence following adolescent bariatric surgery.

DESIGN AND METHODS

The present study aims to document self-reported and electronically-monitored adherence to multivitamins, determine convergence between self-report and electronic monitoring adherence for multivitamins, and identify barriers to multivitamin adherence for adolescents who have undergone bariatric surgery.

RESULTS

The study used a prospective, longitudinal observational design to assess subjective (self-reported) and objective (electronic monitors) multivitamin adherence in a cohort of 41 adolescents (Mean age = 17.1 ± 1.5; range = 13-19) who have undergone bariatric surgery at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Mean adherence as derived from electronic monitoring for the entire 6-month study period was 29.8% ± 23.9. Self-reported adherence was significantly higher than electronically monitored adherence across both the 1 and 6-month assessment points (z = 4.5, P < 0.000 and z = 4.0, P < 0.0001, respectively). Forgetting and difficulty swallowing multivitamins were the two primary barriers identified. While there are no established data regarding best practice for multivitamins following bariatric surgery, high rates of nonadherence to multivitamin therapy were observed in adolescents who had undergone bariatric surgery with forgetting and difficulty swallowing pills as reported barriers to adherence.

CONCLUSION

These high rates of nonadherence to multivitamin therapy should be considered when devising treatment and family education pathways for adolescents considering weight loss surgery.

Interdisciplinary European Guidelines on metabolic and bariatric surgery

In 2012, an outstanding expert panel derived from IFSO-EC (International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity-European Chapter) and EASO (European Association for the Study of Obesity), composed by key representatives of both Societies including past and present presidents together with EASO's OMTF (Obesity Management Task Force) chair, agreed to devote the joint Medico-Surgical Workshop of both institutions to the topic of metabolic surgery as a pre-satellite of the 2013 European Congress on Obesity (ECO) to be held in Liverpool given the extraordinarily advancement made specifically in this field during the past years. It was further agreed to revise and update the 2008 Interdisciplinary European Guidelines on Surgery of Severe Obesity produced in cooperation of both Societies by focusing in particular on the evidence gathered in relation to the effects on diabetes during this lustrum and the subsequent changes that have taken place in patient eligibility criteria. The expert panel composition allowed the coverage of key disciplines in the comprehensive management of obesity and obesity-associated diseases, aimed specifically at updating the clinical guidelines to reflect current knowledge, expertise and evidence-based data on metabolic and bariatric surgery.

Adolescent bariatric surgery

Overall it is clear that bariatric surgical intervention in appropriately selected adolescents is effective at both adequate weight loss and resolution of weight related co-morbidities in the short and medium term. Long-term results are being conducted currently to assess durability of bariatric surgical interventions. We believe that adolescents undergoing bariatric evaluation have unique needs and until more long-term data are available, the indications for surgery should be stricter than those used in adults. All of the bariatric procedures discussed must be performed in the background of positive behavioral modifications over a period of time. If lifestyle modification fails, these adolescents can gain weight by overcoming the physiologic effects of the surgery as they eat high calorie foods at very frequent intervals. Finally, close postoperative follow-up is required with active management of weight loss/gain, co-morbidities, and postoperative complications should they occur.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in 108 obese children and adolescents aged 5 to 21 years

OBJECTIVE

To report experience with laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in 108 severely obese children and adolescents.

BACKGROUND

Obesity during childhood and adolescence can be accompanied by serious long-term adverse health and longevity outcomes. With increased use of bariatric surgery to treat obesity in these patients, diverse guidelines have been published, most of which exclude children aged younger than 14 years. Few reports describe LSG in children and adolescents, delaying determining its safety and effectiveness and developing guidance regarding its use.

METHODS

A retrospective review of LSG performed from March 2008 through February 2011 by a single surgeon at King Saud University Hospitals, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, included 108 patients aged 5 through 21 years.

RESULTS

Patients attending follow-up visits at 3 (n = 88), 6 (n = 76), 12 (n = 41), and 24 (n = 8) months postoperatively experienced median excess weight loss (EWL) of 28.9%, 48.1%, 61.3%, and 62.3%, respectively. At 6 and 12 months follow-up, 42.1% (n = 32) and 73.2% (n = 30) of patients achieved at least 50% EWL, whereas 7.9% (n = 6) and 4.9% (n = 2) had 25% or less EWL, respectively. There were no serious postoperative complications and no adverse sequelae developed during the current follow-up. Available comorbidity data indicate resolution of dyslipidemia, 21 of 30 (70.0%); hypertension, 27 of 36 (75.0%); prehypertension, 15 of 18 (83.3%); symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, 20 of 22 (90.9%); diabetes, 15 of 16 (93.8%); and prediabetes, 11 of 11 (100.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

LSG resulted in successful short-term weight loss in more than 90% of pediatric patients and 70% or more comorbidity resolution during up to 24 months of follow-up. Long-term data are necessary to evaluate persistence of weight loss and maturation to adulthood.

Pediatric obesity: etiology and treatment

This article reviews factors that contribute to excessive weight gain in children and outlines current knowledge regarding approaches for treating pediatric obesity. Most of the known genetic causes of obesity primarily increase energy intake. Genes regulating the leptin signaling pathway are particularly important for human energy homeostasis. Obesity is a chronic disorder that requires long-term strategies for management. The foundation for all treatments for pediatric obesity remains restriction of energy intake with lifestyle modification. There are few long-term studies of pharmacotherapeutic interventions for pediatric obesity. Bariatric surgical approaches are the most efficacious treatment but, because of their potential risks, are reserved for those with the most significant complications of obesity.

Pregnancy after laparoscopic bariatric surgery: comparative study of adjustable gastric banding and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Approximately 80% of patients undergoing bariatric surgery are women, and about one half of these are of reproductive age. The purpose of the present study was to compare laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in a series of morbidly obese women with respect to maternal and neonatal outcomes at a university hospital in France.

METHODS

From January 2004 to December 2008, the data from women who had undergone LAGB or LRYGB at our center and were pregnant were collected, including age, parity, gravidity, weight, body mass index (BMI) before surgery and at scheduled intervals after surgery (1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 mo and yearly thereafter), interval from surgery to conception, weight and BMI at conception, weight and weight gain during pregnancy, weight and BMI at 2 weeks after pregnancy, complications during pregnancy, gestational age, method of delivery, fetal birth weight, and fetal outcome.

RESULTS

There were 42 pregnancies in 36 women, 22 in women who had undergone LAGB and 20 who had undergone LRYGB. The LAGB and LRYGB groups were comparable for all analyzed variables, except that the preoperative weight and BMI were greater in the LRYGB group. No differences in weight or BMI were found at conception or after pregnancy. No difference was found between the 2 groups in terms of obstetric complications or neonatal outcomes. A high frequency of cesarean deliveries was necessary in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study have shown that no significant difference exists in the obstetric and birth outcomes between women who have undergone LRYGB and those who have undergone LAGB.

Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of paediatric bariatric surgery: a systematic review

Strong evidence for successful and cost-effective obesity management strategies is still generally lacking, leading the medical profession to rely increasingly on surgical options to treat obesity in children and adolescents. We performed a systematic review to examine the effectiveness of surgical interventions to treat obese children and adolescents, and whether they are cost-effective. We searched PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Embase and the Cochrane Library to 6 September 2010, and hand-searched bibliographies. We included articles with English abstracts if they examined subjects ≤19 years of age, reported at least one postoperative weight loss measure and at least 1 year of postoperative follow-up. Thirty-seven relevant papers on bariatric surgery effectiveness in 831 children or adolescents were included, spanning 36 years. Thirteen studies examined gastric banding, with mean body mass index (BMI) reductions ranging from 8.5 to 43 kg m(-2) . Weight gain was reported in one case study. Eight papers examined Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, with mean BMI reductions ranging from 9 to 25 kg m(-2) . Fourteen publications studied other forms of bariatric surgery: sleeve gastrectomies, vertical banded gastroplasty, biliopancreatic diversion or a combination of procedures. Mean BMI reductions ranged from 9 to 24 kg m(-2) . Three surgery-related mortalities were reported, as was weight regain in several cases. The majority of studies reported resolution or improvement of comorbid conditions. A range of postoperative complications were identified across surgery types, including: ulcers, intestinal leakage, wound infection, anastomotic stricture, nutritional deficiencies, bowel obstruction, pulmonary embolism, disrupted staple lines, band slippage, psychological intolerance and repeated vomiting. Evidence on cost-effectiveness was limited to one Australian modelling project, which deemed laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding cost-effective for adolescents. Existing evidence - although based generally on underpowered, retrospective studies - suggests that bariatric surgery in older children results in significant weight loss and improvements in comorbidities and quality of life. However, postoperative complications, compliance and follow-up may be more problematic in adolescents than adults, and availability of long-term data on safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness remains largely unknown. Pending an improvement in the quality of available evidence, a cautious approach to child and adolescent bariatric surgery is warranted, and reversible techniques are advisable compared to approaches that permanently alter anatomy.

Changes in depressive symptoms among adolescent bariatric candidates from preoperative psychological evaluation to immediately before surgery

BACKGROUND

The preoperative psychological evaluation (including the assessment of depressive symptoms) is an important component in determining adolescent bariatric candidacy. The adult bariatric data have suggested that candidates can engage in "impression management" and underreport depressive symptoms during their preoperative evaluation. The present study examined whether adolescent depressive symptoms among bariatric candidates change during preoperative preparation compared with adolescents with extreme obesity who were not seeking surgery.

METHODS

Adolescent candidates for bariatric surgery (n = 30; 60% female; mean age 16.5 ± 1.4 years) completed the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) at initial consultation (time 1, mean body mass index [BMI] 64.5 ± 11.5 kg/m(2)) and again immediately preoperatively (time 2, mean interval 4.7 ± 2.9 months; mean BMI 64.4 ± 10.4 kg/m(2)). Comparators (n = 25; 64% female; mean age 16.2 ± 1.2 years; mean BMI 46.5 ± 4.8 kg/m(2)) were studied at enrollment in a research protocol and again 6 months later (mean interval 6.2 ± 0.4 months; mean BMI 46.8 ± 5.0 kg/m(2)). The height and weight were also taken.

RESULTS

We found a small, but statistically significant, difference in the BDI-II scores at time 1, with bariatric candidates reporting greater depressive symptoms (mean 16.6 ± 12.9) than the comparators (mean 10.6 ± 9.0; P < .05). No difference was seen in the BDI-II scores between the bariatric candidates (mean 14.4 ± 12.1) and the comparators (mean 10.4 ± 8.2) at time 2 (P = .17). The change in BDI-II scores for the bariatric candidates showed a trend toward significance (P = .09).

CONCLUSION

These results reinforce the position that the adult bariatric literature does not necessarily generalize to the adolescent bariatric population. They further suggest that impression management might not be a significant concern in the assessment of adolescent bariatric candidates. Future research should examine whether preoperative changes in psychological functioning predict the postoperative outcomes.

Morbid obesity in pediatric diabetes mellitus: surgical options and outcomes

The current obesity epidemic has led to a dramatic increase in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus among adolescents, along with other obesity-related comorbidities, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, psychosocial impairment and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Medical treatment of severe obesity is effective in only a small percentage of adolescent patients. In light of the potentially life-threatening complications of obesity, bariatric surgery can be considered a treatment option for adolescent patients with morbid obesity. Indications for surgery rely on both BMI and comorbidity criteria, as well as the ability of the adolescents and their family to understand and comply with perioperative protocols. The long-term effects of bariatric surgery in adolescents are not known; therefore, participation in prospective outcome studies is important. The risk associated with bariatric surgery in adolescents seems to be similar to that observed in adult patients in the short term. Data suggest that bypass procedures successfully reverse or improve abnormal glucose metabolism in the majority of patients and may be more effective in adolescents than adults. This improvement in glucose metabolism occurs before marked weight loss in patients undergoing bypass procedures, suggesting a direct effect on the hormonal control of glucose metabolism.

Management of obesity in adolescents: state of art

Increasing prevalence of obesity in children and adolescents might represent an emerging public health issue. Pathogenesis of obesity is multifactorial and involves a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Adolescent obesity has been seen as a cosmetic problem only; nevertheless, a significant increase in cardiovascular risk, probably due to obesity-related metabolic disarrangement has been observed. Consequently, discussion on strategies for treating childhood and adolescent obesity has been promoted worldwide. The proposed treatment triad is life style modification, pharmacological, and surgical treatment. Although lacking definitive data, drug therapy has emerged as an efficacious tool, at least in adolescent obesity. Therefore, sibutramine and orlistat may be good therapeutic options when life style modifications alone do not work.

How useful are systematic reviews of child obesity interventions?

To facilitate the translation of research evidence into practice, policy makers and practitioners require practice-relevant information such as the effectiveness of interventions delivered in specific settings, by various personnel, using various intervention modalities, and descriptions of intervention costs or adverse outcomes. The aim of this study was to review the relevance of information reported in systematic reviews of child obesity interventions in terms of these requirements. A systematic search was conducted for systematic reviews of child obesity interventions published in English between 1990 and 2008. A total of 3150 citations were examined. Of the 44 eligible reviews, 16 examined prevention interventions, 18 examined treatment interventions, and 10 examined both prevention and treatment interventions. Less than 50% of prevention and treatment reviews reported the effect of interventions conducted in specific settings, the effect of interventions conducted by various personnel and the effect of those delivered via various intervention modalities. Similarly, few (4-15%) reviews reported cost or adverse event outcomes. Existing systematic reviews of childhood obesity interventions provide limited practice-relevant information. The potential for benefit from the translation of evidence into practice is therefore limited. Involving end users in systematic review development may improve the relevance of outcomes reported in systematic reviews.