Bariatric surgery in adolescents

Abstract

Bariatric surgery is an effective therapy for weight loss in adolescents and children with obesity. There are unique preoperative considerations related to patient selection, multidisciplinary evaluation and assessment, and consent. Current surgical approaches include sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, gastric banding, and newer procedures not yet commonly in use. Multiple issues related to perioperative care are discussed, including care pathways, medications, common postoperative complications, and follow-up. Outcomes in adolescents have been encouraging, supporting bariatric surgery as a safe and effective therapy for the appropriate patient.