Bariatric Surgery: Consequences on Functional Capacities in Patients With Obesity

Effects of bariatric surgery on muscle strength and quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Obesity is a major health burden worldwide. Although bariatric surgery (BS) is recognized as an effective strategy for weight loss and comorbidities improvement, its impact on muscle strength and quality is still unclear. We aimed to examine postoperative changes in muscle strength and quality and their relationship with body mass index (BMI) changes among adults undergoing BS. To this end, we systematically searched the WoS, PubMed, EBSCO, and Scopus databases. The meta-analyses, which included 24 articles (666 participants), showed that BS reduces absolute lower-limb isometric strength (ES = -0.599; 95% CI = -0.972, -0.226; p = 0.002). Subjects who experienced a more significant reduction in BMI after BS also suffered a higher loss of absolute muscle strength. Similarly, absolute handgrip strength showed a significant decrease (ES = -0.376; 95% CI = -0.630, -0.121; p = 0.004). We found insufficient studies investigating medium- and long-term changes in muscle strength and/or quality after BS. This study provides moderate-quality evidence that BS-induced weight loss can reduce the strength of appendicular muscles in the short term, which should be addressed in management these subjects. More high-quality studies are needed to evaluate the impact of BS on muscle strength and the different domains of muscle quality in the medium and long term (registered on PROSPERO CRD42022332581).

Association Between Indole-3-Pyruvic Acid and Change in Fat-Free Mass Relative to Weight Loss in Patients Undergoing Sleeve Gastrectomy

Sleeve gastrectomy typically leads to weight loss, including a reduction in fat-free mass (FFM). Studies have shown significant FFM loss within 1 year after the procedure but with individual variations. This study aimed to assess whether preoperative amino acid metabolite levels can predict FFM changes following sleeve gastrectomy. This study involved 42 patients. Body weight, fat mass (FM), and FFM were measured preoperatively and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. All participants experienced weight loss, FM reduction, and FFM decrease for up to 3 months after surgery. However, the following distinct groups emerged from 3 to 6 months postoperatively: one showed FFM gain relative to weight loss, whereas the other exhibited continued FFM reduction relative to weight loss. This trend persisted for up to 12 months postoperatively and became more pronounced. The group with FFM gain had lower preoperative BMI and higher levels of indole-3-pyruvic acid (IPyA). Logistic regression and ROC curve analyses confirmed IPyA's ability to predict FFM gain between 3 and 6 months after sleeve gastrectomy, with a useful cutoff value of 20.205. Preoperative IPyA levels were associated with FFM gain relative to weight loss in the 3 to 6 months following sleeve gastrectomy. These findings suggest that IPyA may be a potential predictor for FFM changes during this period.

A multifaceted and inclusive methodology for the detection of sarcopenia in patients undergoing bariatric surgery: an in-depth analysis of current evidence

Bariatric surgery is widely recognized as the most effective intervention for obesity and offers benefits beyond weight loss. However, not all patients achieve satisfactory weight loss, balanced changes in body composition, and resolution of comorbidities. Therefore, thorough pre- and postoperative evaluations are important to predict success and minimize adverse effects. More comprehensive assessments require broadening the focus beyond body weight and fat measurements to consider quantitative and qualitative evaluations of muscles. Introducing the concept of sarcopenia is useful for assessing the degradative and pathological changes in muscles associated with cardiometabolic function, physical performance, and other obesity-related comorbidities in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. However, there is currently no consensus or definition regarding the research and clinical use of sarcopenia in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Therefore, this review aimed to define the concept of sarcopenia applicable to patients undergoing bariatric surgery, based on the consensus reached for sarcopenia in the general population. We also discuss the methods and significance of measuring muscle mass, quality, and strength, which are key variables requiring a comprehensive assessment.

Lower levels of plasma syndecan-4 are associated with loss of body weight and fat-free mass after bariatric surgery

OBJECTIVE

Bariatric surgery induces a significant loss of both fat mass (FM) and fat-free mass (FFM). The proteoglycan receptor syndecan-4 (SDC4) plays a crucial role in adipose tissue and skeletal muscle functions. Thus, this study was performed (i) to assess plasma SDC4 levels after both Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) surgeries, and (ii) to explore potential associations with changes in body composition variables.

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients (17 females) with severe obesity underwent SG (n = 13) or RYGB (n = 13) and were followed up to 1 year (1Y). Body weight, FM, FFM, and SCD4 were measured at baseline (BL), and at week 11 (W11) and 1Y after surgery. Independently of procedure, there was a significant body weight loss at W11, with an average FM and FFM reduction of 13.7 ± 0.6 kg and 5.3 ± 0.5 kg, respectively. Participants continued to lose weight afterwards, with a total weigth loss of 38.2 ± 1.5 kg at 1Y. No associations were found at BL between SDC4 levels and any anthropometric variable; however, SDC4 levels were lower than BL at both W11 and 1Y, independently of type of surgery. Additionally, changes in SDC4 between BL and 1Y were positively correlated with weight and FFM loss during the same period.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04051190 on 09/08/2019.

Sarcopenic obesity in older adults: a clinical overview

Sarcopenic obesity is characterized by a concurrent decline in muscle mass and function, along with increased adipose tissue. Sarcopenic obesity is a growing concern in older adults owing to significant health consequences, including implications for mortality, comorbidities and risk of developing geriatric syndromes. A 2022 consensus statement established a new definition and diagnostic criteria for sarcopenic obesity. The pathophysiology of this condition involves a complex interplay between muscle, adipose tissue, hormonal changes, inflammation, oxidative stress and lifestyle factors, among others. Sarcopenic obesity is treated with a range of management approaches, such as lifestyle interventions, exercise, nutrition and medical therapies. Emerging therapies that were developed for treating other conditions may be relevant to sarcopenic obesity, including novel pharmacological agents and personalized approaches such as precision medicine. In this Review, we synthesize the current knowledge of the clinical importance of sarcopenic obesity, its assessment and diagnosis, along with current and emerging management strategies.

Impact of a Multicomponent Exercise Training Program on Muscle Strength After Bariatric Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

This study examined the benefits of an 11-months multicomponent exercise program (MEP) on muscular strength (MS) after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

Of the 84 randomized patients, 41 participants from the exercise group (EG) and 20 participants from the control group (CG) were included in the analysis. The EG received supervised MEP for 11 months, starting 1-month post-bariatric surgery (BS) in addition to standard medical care, while the CG received medical care recommendations only. Knee and trunk MS was assessed by isokinetic dynamometry pre-surgery, 1-, 6-, and 12-month post-surgery, while body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

RESULTS

The MEP did not significantly impact absolute MS in the dominant knee and trunk regions at 6- and 12-month post-BS. However, relative MS showed significant improvements. At 6-month post-BS, knee flexion at 60°/s relative to body weight (BW) increased significantly (p = 0.047), as did knee extension at 180°/s relative to BW (p = 0.009), and knee extension at 60°/s relative to total lean mass (p=0.040). At 12-month post-BS, knee flexion at 60°/s relative to BW also significantly improved (p=0.038).

CONCLUSION

While absolute MS was not significantly improved with MEP, this study found significant enhancements in relative MS, particularly in dominant knee flexion post-MEP participation. Further research should explore different exercise intensities and frequencies to optimize postoperative MS recovery post-BS.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02843048).

Assessment of Isokinetic Trunk Muscle Strength and Fatigue Rate in Individuals after Bariatric Surgery

Background and Objectives: Lean body mass loss after bariatric surgery (BS) is remarkable, despite an effective long-term mass reduction and significant declines in comorbidities. A person's functional capacity is adversely affected when their skeletal muscle strength declines by up to 30%. This study aimed to assess the isokinetic trunk muscle strength and fatigue rate in individuals after BS. Materials and Methods: This study included fifty-eight patients, both male and female, ranging in age from 19 to 45. Twenty-seven individuals had BS and twenty-seven healthy people served as the control group. The primary outcomes were the measurement of the concentric and eccentric isokinetic muscle strength of the trunk flexor and extensor muscles. An isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex Rehabilitation and Testing System 3) was used for the assessment of the isokinetic muscle strength. Noraxon EMG was used to determine a secondary outcome, which was the median frequency slop (MF/time) and root mean square slop (RMS/time) of the lumbar erector spinea muscle at 50% of the Maximum Voluntary Isometric Contraction (MVIC). Outcome measures were assessed for both groups. Results: Compared to the control group, the bariatric group showed a lower mean value of both concentric and eccentric isokinetic muscle strength for the flexor and extensor trunk muscles (p < 0.05). In terms of the EMG fatigue rate, the RMS slope increased significantly more than that of the control group, while the MF slope decreased (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The current study found that, in comparison to the healthy subjects, the BS group showed reduced levels of fatigue and isokinetic strength in the trunk muscles. Based on these results, it is recommended that individuals who underwent BS take part in tailored rehabilitation programs to avoid potential musculoskeletal issues in the future.

Muscle Strength of Lower Limbs as a Postoperative Predictor in Bariatric Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to assess postoperative lower limbs muscle strength (MS) as a predictor of late surgical success (36 months).

METHODS

Body composition analyses and isokinetic dynamometry evaluation were performed before (T0: n=123), six months (T1: n=123) and 36 months (T2: n=79) after Roux-en-y gastric bypass (RYGB). Surgical success (SS) was defined as ≥ 50% excess weight loss (EWL) 36 months after surgery or ≤ 50% surgical failure (SF).

RESULTS

There was no difference between relative MS extension (Ext) and flexion (Flex) in T1 and T2. There was also, no difference between relative MS Ext and Flex in T1 and T2 between patients with SS and SF. There was a difference in relative MS Ext (144.9 ± 39.8 Nm/kg x 125.5 ± 29.2 Nm/kg; p=0.04) and Flex (73.6 ± 21.8 Nm/kg x 60.4 ± 15.8 Nm/kg; p=0.02) between SS and SF patients only in T2. Patients with an increment in Ext and Flex MS ≥4 Nm/kg at T1 had approximately 76% of SS at 36 months.

CONCLUSION

An increase of lower limbs MS ≥4 Nm/kg 6 months after RYGB predicts SS at 36 months.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov ID: NCT04129801.

Do patients with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery modify their objectively measured physical activity? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a chronic disease associated with adverse outcomes and its prevalence is increasing, which makes it a concern. One of the obesity treatment options is bariatric surgery, which effectively reduces calorie absorption and total body mass, but its effects on physical activity (PA) levels need to be clarified, considering the protective effect of the PA against cardiovascular disease, independently of the weight loss alone.

OBJECTIVES

To carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies that evaluated PA in pre- and post-bariatric surgery periods through objective evaluation.

METHODS

A systematic search was carried out following the PRISMA criteria of studies with adult individuals who underwent bariatric surgery and were objectively evaluated for PA pre- and post-surgery. Studies with interventions were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 419 records were found, and after excluding duplicates and applying the eligibility criteria, 10 studies remained. This meta-analysis found a significant increase in the steps by day (MD = 1340; 95% CI = 933.90; 1745.35, p < 0.001) and the light physical activity level (MD = 16.8 min/day; 95% CI = 2.60; 30.98, p = 0.02), but not in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MD = 0.24; 95% CI = -0.08; 1.57, p = 0.92).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing bariatric surgery increased their steps by day and light physical activity but did not increase moderate to vigorous physical activity.

The Influence of Weight Loss in Postural Control in Women Undergoing Sleeve Gastrectomy

BACKGROUND

Bariatric surgery is the most effective procedure for obesity management, with a greater body weight loss and the remission of several diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between the anthropometric profile and postural control outcomes in a group of obese adult women, and the effect of bariatric surgery on postural control.

METHODS

eighty-eight women candidates for bariatric surgery were recruited. Static balance was measured with the ARGO stabilometric platform under two conditions: open eyes (OE) and closed eyes (CE).

RESULTS

Multiple linear regression indicated BMI as the first predictor for postural control in all parameters, except for APO in open eyes, predicted mainly by height. Changes in body weight and BMI showed no statistically significant correlations with modification of postural control parameters (OE), while they appeared to exert an influence under closed eyes conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Before surgery, obese patients with a higher BMI showed a better postural control. After surgery, the sway path and antero-posterior oscillation improved under open eyes conditions, while the magnitude of weight loss was negatively correlated with differences in postural control.

Protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial of zoledronic acid to prevent bone loss following sleeve gastrectomy surgery

INTRODUCTION

Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is an increasingly used and effective treatment for obesity; however, the rapid weight loss associated with SG adversely affects bone metabolism predisposing patients to skeletal fragility. Bisphosphonate medications have been evaluated for safety and efficacy in combating bone loss in patients with osteoporosis, but their use in SG-induced bone loss is limited. The goal of this study is to investigate how a one-time infusion of zoledronic acid compares to placebo, in its ability to combat SG-associated bone loss.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This research protocol is a 9-month, pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 30 adult SG patients randomised to receive an infusion of either 5 mg of zoledronic acid or placebo, 6 weeks following surgery. To be included participants must be <350 lbs/158.8 kg, free of bone-impacting pathologies or medications, and must have adequate serum calcium and vitamin D levels at baseline. The primary outcome is change in areal bone mineral density (aBMD) at the total hip. Secondary outcomes include change in aBMD of the femoral neck, and lumbar spine, and change in volumetric BMD at the lumbar spine. The primary aim will be tested using a linear mixed model fit with total hip aBMD at 9 months as the outcome. Treatment, participant sex and menopausal status will be considered in analysis. Groups will be compared using contrast statements at 9 months, with change over 9 months being the primary comparison.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the University of Nebraska Medical Center (IRB820-19). Written consent will be obtained from participants at enrolment by trained staff. Careful and thorough explanation are used in obtainment of consent and voluntariness is emphasised throughout the trial. The findings of this study will be presented locally, nationally, and published in peer-reviewed journals. Additional details will be reported on ClinicalTrials.gov.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04279392.