The rationale for bariatric surgery

Abstract

The aim of these guidelines is to systematically review the clinical effectiveness of the various bariatric surgical procedures and support bariatric surgeons and allied physicians in the provision of high-quality care for morbidly obese patients. Obesity is a serious worldwide health problem. It has been shown to predispose to various diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that obesity is an important independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality from coronary disease; consequently, the American Heart Association continues to emphasize the importance of obesity as a major modifiable risk factor in the treatment of coronary artery disease. In the United States, the mortality rate from obesity exceeds 400,000 patients a year, and obesity is considered to be the second cause of preventable death after cigarette smoking. The long-term implications of obesity are detrimental to patients' health and are costly. It is estimated that the annual cost spent on the treatment of obesity and obesity-related health problems exceeds $100 billion. Despite various pharmacological treatments, diets, exercise, and behavioral therapy, most patients regain all lost weight within a period of 2 years. © 2008 Springer New York.