Safety and efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in elderly patients: A matched case-control study

Abstract

Background: Despite the increasing prevalence of obesity among elderly individuals, there is ongoing debate regarding the safety of bariatric procedures in this age group. Objective: This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), specifically in patients aged 55 years and older. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on patients subjected to LSG in our institution from 2019 to 2023. Forty elderly patients more than or equal to 55 years were included (study group) and were matched with forty younger patients (control group) based on BMI, sex, and comorbidities distribution. The study compared short-term outcomes regarding weight loss, comorbidities improvement, operative time, hospital stay, and complications. Results: There were no significant differences regarding the demographic characteristics or preoperative comorbidities distribution within the two groups. The mean operative time was slightly longer in the older patients than in the control group (53.85±12.17 vs. 49.25±16.22 min, respectively), but with no statistical significance. There was no perioperative mortality in both groups. The percent excess weight loss at 1 year for the older group was significantly lower than that for the younger group (58.1 vs. 68.74%. respectively). Most comorbidities in both groups were improved or resolved with no significant statistical. The morbidity rate was 15 and 17.5% for the elderly and the younger group, respectively, with no significant difference. Conclusion: LSG is safe and effective in patients more than or equal to 55 years and presents a valuable bariatric option that is efficient in inducing weight loss and improving obesity-related comorbidities and is associated with an acceptable morbidity rate comparable to younger populations.