Assessment of the Failure Rates of Sustainable Weight Loss after Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Systematic Review

Background: Surgery is the best therapy for extreme obesity. Operating on severely obese individuals (BMI > 60 kg/m²) Patients who are at increased risk with other health issues increases the chances of complications and death after Weight loss surgery. Sleeve gastrectomy is a modern surgical procedureIt has a low risk of postoperative problems and is frequently used as a prelude to gastric bypass or biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. However, part patients may not achieve their projected weight reduction objectives, and many recover part of the lost weight within 2-10 years after surgery.

Objectives: The main objective of this study was to assess the failure rate of sleeve gastrectomy in term of weight loss.

Methodology: A thorough search of PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Science Direct was conducted to find relevant literature. Rayyan QRCI was utilized for the entire process.

Results: Several studies investigated the failure rate of sustainable weight loss following sleeve gastrectomy in different countries. In Saudi Arabia, the failure rate was 25% and 23.1% at 5 years follow-up. In the United States, the failure rate was 30% and 15.5% at 5 years post-surgery. In India, the failure rate was reported as 25% and 30% post-surgery. In London, the failure rate was 30%, with 45 out of 150 patients not achieving the desired weight loss. In Egypt, the failure rate was 35%, with only 65% of patients sustaining their goal weight loss throughout a three-year follow-up.

Conclusion: Bariatric surgery, particularly sleeve gastrectomy, has demonstrated tremendous effectiveness in helping obese people lose weight and improve their overall health. While the procedure can lead to substantial Long-term success rates for weight loss and obesity-related comorbidities vary depending on the study and the country. Weight maintenance remains a challenge post-surgery, with gradual weight regain being a common issue. Regular monitoring, follow-up assessments, and multidisciplinary support are crucial to address weight regain and ensure the safety and well-being of patients throughout their the weight reduction journey.