Via practica 5/2024

New indication of metabolic and bariatric surgery

We are currently experiencing a worldwide epidemic of obesity, and what is worse, this epidemic affects not only the adult population but also the child population. Despite advances in the prevention and conservative treatment of obesity, bariatric/metabolic surgery is considered today to be the most effective method in the treatment of severe obesity, as it can induce a significant weight reduction and its long-term maintenance along with a significant improvement or cure of comorbidities. The first rules were published in 1992 and were gradually updated repeatedly. The latest update comes from 2022 and brought significant news. Based on literature data, the indication limit according to BMI was reduced, the age restriction was practically abolished, and special indications were established for the child and Asian population. New indications were defined, such as bridging treatment for specific diseases or for patients at risk. The lower mortality of patients after significant weight reduction and the favorable preventive effect on the occurrence of many diseases, including malignancies, were also confirmed.

Keywords: quidelines, bariatric/metabolic surgery, severe obesity