Predictors of Gallstone Formation in Morbidly Obese Patients after Bariatric Surgery: A Retrospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Obesity alone and rapid weight loss induced by bariatric surgery are recognized risk factors for the development of cholelithiasis. This study aimed to identify the predictive factors for gallstone formation after bariatric surgery. Patient and methods: The files of all morbidly obese patients underwent bariatric surgery in our unit during the period from March 2003 till October 2010 were reviewed and analyzed. All patients underwent routine preoperative ultrasonography and selective concomitant cholecystectomy was done in all patients with ultrasonographic-confirmed cholelithiasis. After excluding cases with prior and concomitant cholecystectomies, patients were divided into two groups; those who developed gallstones and those who did not and the two groups were compared. Results: Of the 143 reviewed files 135 were eligible to be included in the study.