The Open Obesity Journal
2012, 4 : 28-34Published online 2012 September 20. DOI: 10.2174/1876823701204010028
Publisher ID: TOOBESJ-4-28
Respiratory Function in Superobese Patients before and after Bariatric Surgery- a Randomised Controlled Trial
ABSTRACT
Background:
Respiratory function decreases and risk of sleep apnoea increases with the degree of obesity. The impairment caused by obesity is a risk factor for complications in the perioperative period.
Objective:
The aim of this randomised and controlled trial was to investigate respiratory function after bariatric surgery in superobese patients following laparoscopic gastric bypass (LGPB) or duodenal switch (LDS).
Methods:
Superobese patients were randomised to undergo LGPB (n=16) or LDS (n=14). The procedures for anaesthesia, surgery and postoperative care were standardised. Spirometry and oximetry were assessed before surgery, after one and two days and one and two years postoperatively. The patients also answered a questionnaire about sleeping and snoring.
Results:
Respiratory function transiently deteriorated significantly during the immediate postoperative period and significantly more after LDS. There were no significant differences between the groups after one and two years. Twentynine of the patients snored preoperatively and 22 two years after surgery. Eight reported sleep apnoea preoperatively and one after two years.
Conclusion:
In the immediate postoperative phase, respiratory function is more impaired after LDS than LGPB. One and two years postoperatively all the patients' spirometry results were within normal range and they reported less problems with snoring and sleep apnoea.