Evaluation of preoperative dyslipidemia and micronutrient status in obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery in Taif, Saudi Arabia: A retrospective study

Abstract

Background and aims

Obesity is a health problem that is linked to complicated metabolic disorders, increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, insulin resistance, and cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the preoperative impact of morbid obesity on lipids and micronutrient status.

Methods

This was a retrospective study conducted at King Abdulaziz Specialist Hospital, Taif, Saudi Arabia. A total of 142 obese individuals who were candidates for operation were recruited. Data were obtained from participants’ records, including lipids, HbA1c, RBCs, hemoglobin, iron, ferritin, vitamin B12, and vitamin D.

Results

The study population comprised 57% women; the mean age was 35.9 ± 9.40 years and BMI was 45.1 ± 6.35 kg/m². Abnormal lipid profiles were found in 34% for TG, 34.5% for TC, 83.3% for HDL-C, and 73.9% for LDL-C. The degree of dyslipidemia was significantly higher in patients with increased HbA1c. The study found a prevalence of MCV (38.4%), hemoglobin (20.4%), iron (9%), and ferritin (35%) deficiency, accompanied by RBC elevation in 34% of cases. Vitamins D and B12 were correlated with BMI, and a higher prevalence (82.6%) of vitamin D deficiency was observed.

Conclusion

The study cohort had significant dyslipidemia, especially those with elevated HbA1c. Micronutrient deficiency was seen prior to bariatric surgery. Determining preoperative micronutrient status could aid in supplementing patients prior to operation and optimizing nutritional treatment afterward.