Predictors of Post-bariatric Surgery Appointment Attendance: the Role of Relationship Style

Background

Attendance at bariatric surgery follow-up appointments has been associated with bariatric surgery outcomes. In this prospective study, we sought to examine psychosocial predictors of attendance at post-operative follow-up appointments.

Methods

Consecutive bariatric surgery patients (n?=?132) were assessed pre-surgery for demographic variables, depressive symptoms, and relationship style. Patients were followed for 12 months post-surgery and, based on their attendance at follow-up appointments, were classified as post-surgery appointment attenders (attenders—attended at least one appointment after post-operative month 6) or post-surgery appointment non-attenders (non-attenders—did not attend at least one appointment after post-operative month 6). Psychosocial and demographic variables were compared between the attender and non-attender groups. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors of attendance at post-bariatric surgery follow-up appointments.

Results

At 12 months post-surgery, 68.2 % of patients were classified as attenders. The non-attender group was significantly older (p?=?0.04) and had significantly higher avoidant relationship style scores (p?=?0.02). There was a trend towards patients in the non-attender group living a greater distance from the bariatric center (p?=?0.05). Avoidant relationship style was identified as the only significant predictor of post-operative appointment non-attendance in the logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that avoidant relationship style is an important predictor of post-bariatric surgery appointment non-attendance. Recognition of patients' relationship style by bariatric surgery psychosocial team members may guide the delivery of interventions aimed at engaging this patient group post-surgery.     

Feasibility and acceptability of an integrated behavioral medicine service within a post–bariatric surgery clinic

BackgroundLong-term medical and psychological follow-up after weight loss surgery is associated with improved patient outcomes. Weight regain after weight loss surgery is a common concern that has behavioral and psychological components; however, most patients do not attend behavioral medicine (BMED) follow-up appointments post-surgery. Innovative treatment models are needed to improve access to BMED to optimize long-term outcomes.ObjectivesThis study aimed to examine the feasibility and acceptability of an integrated BMED service within a bariatric surgery clinic.SettingUniversity medical center, outpatient clinic.MethodsPatients (n = 198) in a post–bariatric surgery clinic were screened for psychosocial/behavioral concerns and offered a same-day BMED consult, when appropriate. Patients rated their satisfaction with the consult and their confidence in being able to carry out the plan created during the consult.ResultsThe top 3 concerns identified during screenings were emotional eating, body image, and cravings. The top 3 concerns addressed during consults were emotional eating, mood, and cravings. The mean length of consult was 26.1 minutes. The mean severity of problems addressed was 7 of 10. Patients’ confidence ratings had a mean of 9.4 of 10 (1 = low, 10 = high) and satisfaction ratings had a mean of 9.8 of 10.ConclusionsIn this clinic, the integration of a BMED service provided 40% of patients with behavioral intervention for psychosocial/behavioral concerns during routine surgery follow-up appointments. Patients indicated high satisfaction with consults and reported high confidence in being able to carry out the plan created during the consult.     

Anxiety predicts reduced weight loss 30 months after bariatric surgery

BackgroundThough psychosocial factors are routinely examined in presurgical psychological evaluations, the predictive value of some psychosocial factors on postsurgical weight loss is still relatively unknown. Additional research examining the predictive value of psychological constructs preoperatively and long-term weight outcomes is needed to enhance the clinical utility of the presurgical psychological evaluations.ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine psychosocial factors as predictors of weight outcomes 30 months after bariatric surgery.SettingUniversity hospital in the Appalachian region of United States.MethodsParticipants included 196 adults who underwent bariatric surgery. Psychosocial data were collected as part of a routine psychological evaluation prior to bariatric surgery. Objective weight was obtained through patients’ medical records at 12, 24, and 30 months after surgery.ResultsLinear mixed models was used to examine presurgical psychosocial factors predicting postsurgical weight loss (n at 12 months = 153, n at 24 months = 130, n at 30 months = 92). Anxiety had a significant interaction effect with time (estimate = –.01, P = .013), indicating that higher anxiety was associated with less weight loss over time. Those with severe anxiety before surgery lost the most weight 12 months after surgery but also regained the most weight 30 months after surgery. Other predictors were not statistically significant.ConclusionAnxiety assessed prior to surgery predicted reduced weight loss 30 months after bariatric surgery, after controlling for surgery type, baseline weight, sex, and age. Results highlight the importance of evaluation and treatment of anxiety in presurgical bariatric candidates.     

A test of the stress-buffering hypothesis of social support among bariatric surgery patients

BackgroundThe buffering effect of social support against a range of stress-related health outcomes has been well-documented; however, no previous work has examined the applicability of this model to bariatric surgery outcomes.ObjectivesThe present study sought to address whether social support interacts with stress in predicting postsurgical outcomes, as well as whether these associations may vary by sex.SettingTeaching hospital, United States.MethodsData were collected using retrospective chart review (n = 548). Stress, patient sex, and social support were explored as predictors of curvilinear weight loss trajectories during the first year after surgery using growth curve modeling.ResultsAttendance at follow-up appointments was poor, with 250 patients at 6 months and 187 at 12 months. On average, these patients lost 27% of their total weight between baseline and the 12-month follow-up. Overall, weight-related emotional support appeared to be most relevant to weight loss/maintenance in this population; cohabitating with a spouse or significant other and attendance at support group meetings did not predict weight loss or show any significant interactions with stress.ConclusionsThe present study found only partial support for the stress-buffering model of social support among bariatric surgery patients. Such findings have important implications for assessment and follow-up care after bariatric surgery, as well as for future research in this area.     

Effect of telehealth implementation on an adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery program

BackgroundPediatric severe obesity is a worldwide health concern. Treatment with metabolic and bariatric surgery can reduce morbidity and mortality. The COVID-19 pandemic not only has had a significant effect on rates of pediatric obesity but also has necessitated a rapid transition to virtual medicine.ObjectiveWe aimed to identify and examine adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery patient participation rates through our program’s virtual telehealth programming as compared with prepandemic traditional in-person clinic appointments.SettingThis study took place at an academic pediatric quaternary care center.MethodsWe evaluated 92 adolescent patients with a total of 2442 unique encounters between January 2018 and July 2021.ResultsThe rate of attendance was found to be greater for telehealth visits (83.1%) than for in-person appointments (70.5%) for all clinics regardless of appointment type (preoperative versus postoperative). Cancellation rates were lower for telehealth visits (9.9%) than for in-person appointments (22.5%).ConclusionThis study provides evidence that telehealth can be implemented successfully in an adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery program and can improve attendance rates for all provider and appointment subtypes.     

Behavioral factors associated with successful weight loss after gastric bypass

Patients undergoing bariatric surgery lose substantial weight (> or = 50% excess weight loss [EWL]), but an estimated 20 per cent fail to achieve this goal. Our objective was to identify behavioral predictors of weight loss after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. We retrospectively surveyed 148 patients using validated instruments for factors predictive of weight loss. Success was defined as > or =50 per cent EWL and failure as <50 per cent EWL. Mean follow-up after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was 40.1 +/- 15.3 months, with 52.7 per cent of patients achieving successful weight loss. After controlling for age, gender, and preoperative body mass index, predictors of successful weight loss included surgeon follow-up (odds ratio [OR] 8.2, P < 0.01), attendance of postoperative support groups (OR 3.7, P = 0.02), physical activity (OR 3.5, P < 0.01), single or divorced marital status (OR 3.2, P = 0.03), self-esteem (OR 0.3, P = 0.02), and binge eating (OR 0.9, P < 0.01). These factors should be addressed in prospective studies of weight loss after bariatric surgery, as they may identify patients at risk for weight loss failure who may benefit from early tailored interventions.     

The association between patient attendance to a perioperative group-based lifestyle program and weight loss after bariatric surgery

BackgroundTo enable maximal and sustainable weight loss after bariatric surgery, bariatric lifestyle programs through multidisciplinary support are advised.ObjectivesTo assess the association between patient attendance to a perioperative group-based bariatric lifestyle program (GBLP) and weight loss up to 48 months postoperatively.SettingA multicenter retrospective cohort study in the Netherlands.MethodsPatients who underwent primary laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) attended a GBLP in 2016 consisting of 18 sessions. A linear mixed model was used to assess the association between the patient attendance rate to the GBLP and total weight loss (%TWL). Independent predictors for the patient attendance rate and adequate %TWL were analyzed.ResultsA total of 3015 patients were included. Percentage of patients lost to follow-up was 5% at 1 year, 25% at 2 years, 34% at 3 years, and 42% at 4 years follow-up. Average TWL was 33% at 12 months after surgery, 33% at 24 months, 31% at 36 months, and 31% at 48 months. A small but significant adjusted positive association between the attendance rate and %TWL at 3 months until 36 months postoperatively was found (Beta between .03–.07), which disappeared at 48 months after surgery. Independent factors associated with a low attendance rate were younger age, male sex, and SG. Independent factors negatively associated with %TWL were male sex, SG, and diabetes.ConclusionA higher patient attendance to GBLP sessions is associated with a small but significant increase in postoperative weight loss up to 3, but not 4 years after surgery.     

Impact of routine and long-term follow-up on weight loss after laparoscopic gastric bypass

BACKGROUND: Weight loss after gastric bypass varies among patients. It is difficult to maintain contact with patients who have undergone surgery several years previously. Continued and long-term follow-up care at a bariatric surgery clinic might be a factor affecting long-term excess weight loss (EWL). METHODS: Patients with 3-4 years of follow-up data after laparoscopic gastric bypass were included in this retrospective analysis. The patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 patients had attended every scheduled postoperative appointment, group 2 patients had attended every appointment for 1 year before being lost to follow-up, and group 3 patients had been lost to follow-up before 1 year. Comparisons were made to determine the relationship between the length of follow-up and EWL. RESULTS: We identified 34 group 1 patients and 51 group 2 or 3 patients of 130 patients eligible to be included as determined by their date of surgery. The interval since surgery was similar at approximately 3 years. Although the EWL did not differ at 1 year of follow-up (mean EWL 70% for group 1 versus 65% for group 2, P >.05), a significant difference in the EWL was observed at 3-4 years (74% for group 1 versus 61% for group 2 versus 56% for group 3; P <.05). The distance traveled to the clinic was similar for all 3 groups. The most common explanation for missed follow-up appointments was a lack of insurance coverage. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic gastric bypass patients who attended all scheduled follow-up appointments experienced greater long-term weight loss than those who did not. On-going, multidisciplinary care is likely a critical component in maintaining the benefit after surgery. Patients must be encouraged to continue to attend their bariatric medical appointments, and payors should provide coverage for these visits.     

Combined group and individual model for postbariatric surgery follow-up care

BackgroundThe prevalence of bariatric surgery in the United States has increased significantly during the past decade, increasing the number of patients requiring postbariatric surgery follow-up care. Our objective was to develop and implement an efficient, financially viable, postbariatric surgery practice model that would be acceptable to patients. The setting was the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN).MethodsBy monitoring the attendance rates and using patient surveys, we tested patient acceptance of a new, shared medical appointment practice model in the care of postbariatric surgery patients. Efficiency was assessed by comparing differences in time per patient and total provider time required between the former and new care models. Individual-only patient/provider visits were replaced by combined group and individual visits (CGV).ResultsOur CGV model was well-attended and accepted. The patient attendance rate was >90% at all postoperative follow-up points. Furthermore, 83%, 85.2%, and 75.7% of the 3-, 6-, and 12-month postbariatric surgery patients, respectively, responded that they would not prefer to have only individual visits with their healthcare providers. The CGV model also resulted in greater time efficiency and cost reduction. On average, 5 patients were seen within 4.9 provider hours compared with 10.4 provider hours with the individual-only patient/provider visit model. Furthermore, the average billable charge for the CGV model's group medical nutrition therapy was 50–64% less than the equivalent individual medical nutrition therapy used in the individual-only patient/provider visit model.ConclusionShared medical appointments have a valuable role in the care of the postbariatric surgery population, offering a time- and cost-effective model for healthcare provision that is well-accepted by patients.     

Relative Contribution of Modifiable Versus Non-Modifiable Factors as Predictors of Racial Variance in Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Weight Loss Outcomes

African-Americans have been shown to have poorer weight loss outcomes after bariatric surgery, and many reasons for such outcomes have been postulated, including metabolic and genetic differences, socioeconomic factors, and differences in culture. African-Americans have also been noted to have differences from the majority population in other psychosocial correlates to weight loss outcomes. However, the relative contribution of targetable factors in relation to non-modifiable factors to such outcomes remains unclear. African-American and Caucasian patients who had received a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and returned for a 12-month follow up appointment (n?=?415) were selected for retrospective analysis. A stepwise hierarchical regression of 12 month percent excess weight loss (% EWL) was conducted that included race after controlling for psychosocial and demographic factors previously linked to postsurgical outcomes. These variables were then compared between racial groups using independent t tests and chi-square analyses. Race remained a significant predictor of % EWL after controlling for pertinent psychosocial and demographic variables. Age and preoperative BMI were significant negative predictors, whereas presurgical BMI loss and Caucasian race were positive (p?<?0.05). Percentage of follow-up appointment attendance was borderline significant. No significant racial differences were noted in these variables. Non-modifiable factors inherent to race such as metabolism play small but significant roles in the postoperative weight loss in African-American patients. Further research is needed to better elucidate the roles of targetable factors in outcomes, particularly adherence and pay status as their evaluation in this study was limited.     

What variables are associated with successful weight loss outcomes for bariatric surgery after 1 year?

BackgroundPrior evidence indicates that predictors of weight loss outcomes after gastric bypass surgery fall within 5 domains: 1) presurgical factors, 2) postsurgical psychosocial variables (e.g., support group attendance), 3) postsurgical eating patterns, 4) postsurgical physical activity, and 5) follow-up at postsurgical clinic. However, little data exist on which specific behavioral predictors are most associated with successful outcomes (e.g.,≥50% excess weight loss) when considering the 5 domains simultaneously. The objective of this study was to specify the behavioral variables, and their respective cutoff points, most associated with successful weight loss outcomes.MethodsSignal detection analysis evaluated associations between 84 pre- and postsurgical behavioral variables (within the 5 domains) and successful weight loss at≥1 year in 274 postgastric bypass surgery patients.ResultsSuccessful weight loss was highest (92.6%) among those reporting dietary adherence of>3 on a 9-point scale (median = 5) who grazed no more than once-per-day. Among participants reporting dietary adherence<3 and grazing daily or less, success rates more than doubled when highest lifetime body mass index was<53.7 kg/m². Success rates also doubled for participants with dietary adherence = 3 if attending support groups. No variables from the physical activity or postsurgical follow-up domains were significant, nor were years since surgery. The overall model’s sensitivity = .62, specificity = .92.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, this is the first study to simultaneously consider the relative contribution of behavioral variables within 5 domains and offer clinicians an assessment algorithm identifying cut-off points for behaviors most associated with successful postsurgical weight loss. Such data may inform prospective study designs and postsurgical interventions.     

Six-year bariatric surgery outcomes: the predictive and incremental validity of presurgical psychological testing

BackgroundResearch identifying preoperative psychosocial predictors of bariatric surgery outcomes has yielded inconsistent results with minimal examination of longer-term outcomes. Utilizing a broadband measure of personality and psychopathology during the preoperative evaluation helps to identify preoperative risk factors for suboptimal bariatric surgery outcomes.ObjectiveExamine predictors of outcome and the incremental contribution of presurgical psychological testing to various long-term bariatric surgery outcomes.SettingAcademic medical center.MethodA total of 168 postoperative patients (average of 6 postoperative years) consented to participate in the outcome study. Participants were weighed by the trained research/clinical staff and completed a battery of self-report questionnaires, including measures assessing eating attitudes and behaviors and weight-related quality-of-life (QoL). Patients had completed the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2–Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) as part of the institution’s routine preoperative psychosocial evaluation. Weight loss was calculated as percent total weight loss (%TWL) and percent weight regain (%WR) was calculated as a percentage of maximum weight loss. Other preoperative data were obtained from a review of each patient’s electronic medical record (EMR). From the initial sample, 145 patients were retained for analyses in the present study.ResultsPreoperative problematic eating variables predicted long-term postoperative problematic eating behaviors and body image concerns. Scores on preoperative MMPI-2-RF scales measuring Demoralization, Dysfunctional Negative Emotions, Antisocial Behaviors, and Hypomanic Activation were consistent incremental predictors of 6-year outcomes, accounting for an additional 3%–24% of the variability in postoperative eating behaviors and QoL.ConclusionsThe preoperative psychological evaluation can be used to identify predictors of long-term bariatric surgery outcomes. Identification of these risk factors provides important targets for pre- and postoperative clinical interventions to maximize surgical outcomes.     

Measurement of adherence in bariatric surgery: a systematic review

After bariatric surgery, rates of adherence to behavioral recommendations, including attending regular appointments and following specific dietary, physical activity, and vitamin use recommendations, tend to be highly variable across studies. Lack of consistency in measurement of adherence is a likely contributor to this variability, making it challenging to determine the prevalence and impact of nonadherence in this population. PubMed was searched for articles measuring behavioral adherence or compliance in patients after bariatric surgery, resulting in 85 articles. Articles were reviewed for the definition and measurement of adherence in each area (appointment attendance, as well as dietary, physical activity, and vitamin use adherence), and on the use and reporting of recommended adherence measurement strategies. Over half of the articles measured adherence to appointment attendance. Significant variability was found across adherence definitions and measurement methods, and use of recommended adherence measurement strategies was poor. Adherence was mostly commonly measured via self-report (either verbal or written) using cutoffs for adherent versus nonadherent behavior. Over half of studies assessed adherence up to ≥2 years postsurgery. Recommendations for ways to improve adherence measurement in patients who have had bariatric surgery are outlined.     

Mental health factors associated with progression to adolescent metabolic and bariatric surgery

BackgroundWhile bariatric surgery has demonstrated significant weight loss for adolescents with severe obesity, only a limited number of adolescents referred to surgery successfully complete the surgical program. Better identification of pre-surgical factors, especially mental health factors, associated with completing bariatric surgery may determine successful referrals to surgical programs versus alternative behavioral health interventions.ObjectivesThe primary objective of this article was to investigate the relationship between presurgical mental health factors and whether or not a patient received bariatric surgery within the first six months of entering the program.SettingPediatric Children's Hospital, Bariatric Surgery Program within Pediatric Surgery Department.MethodsA retrospective medical record review of all patients referred from 2016 to 2019 to an adolescent surgical weight loss program was conducted. Patients were determined as completers if they received a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy within 6 months of entering the program. Demographic and preoperative mental health factors among completers (n = 30) were compared with surgery noncompleters (n = 44) using enter method logistic regression.ResultsRegression analyses revealed that younger patients, White patients, patients with lower internalizing symptoms on a standardized measure, and patients with greater self-reported motivation for surgery at their initial surgery visit were more likely to obtain surgery within 6 months of starting the program.ConclusionThe findings underscore the importance of assessing patients’ motivation early in the bariatric surgery referral process. This study highlights potential treatment implications in how best to mitigate patient barriers, such as internalizing symptoms and low motivation, to pursue bariatric surgery and remain committed to weight loss goals through techniques such as motivational interviewing.     

Predictors of psychological symptoms in morbidly obese patients after gastric bypass surgery

BackgroundMorbid obesity is associated with debilitating psychosocial consequences, such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. One of the main goals of bariatric surgery should not only be reducing weight and counteracting co-morbid conditions, but also improving postoperative psychosocial functioning. The objective of our study was to determine the preoperative variables that could predict the psychological symptoms 6 and 12 months after surgery to improve the clinical outcome of morbidly obese patients undergoing bariatric surgery. The setting was a university hospital in Spain.MethodsThe study group consisted of 60 morbidly obese patients (46 women and 14 men) who had undergone gastric bypass surgery for weight reduction and had ≥1 year of follow-up. The patients were evaluated using different questionnaires (Symptom Checklist-90-Revised, Body Shape Questionnaire, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Questionnaire, COPE, Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey) at 3 points: before surgery, at 6 months postoperatively, and at 1 year postoperatively. To determine the influence of preoperative variables on long-term psychological status, a step-by-step multivariate linear regression analysis was performed, taking P < .05 as statistically significant.ResultsThe variables of self-esteem, instrumental support, and coping focused in the emotions were the main preoperative predictors for psychological symptoms 6 months after surgery. Preoperative drug abuse as a strategy of problem solving and mainly body image significantly predicted most of the psychological disorders 1 year after surgery.ConclusionThe study of different psychosocial variables in patients before bariatric surgery is an important aid to predict postoperative psychological functioning. Self-esteem and body image were the most influential factors in the postoperative psychological outcome of morbidly obese patients in our study.     

Creating a credential for bariatric behavioral health professionals: potential benefits,pitfalls, and provider opinion

BackgroundSince the 1991 recommendation by the National Institutes of Health-sponsored consensus development conference, preoperative psychosocial evaluation of weight loss surgery patients has been adopted by >80% of weight loss surgery programs. Although some published suggestions for conducting evaluations exist, no formal guidelines have been published specifying the qualifications, content knowledge, or clinical experience for the behavioral health professionals who conduct them. As a result, the backgrounds of behavioral health professionals working with bariatric surgery patients are varied, and no mechanism exists to ensure consistent quality of care. To obtain expert opinion on this issue, a survey of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery membership was conducted using an Internet-based survey.MethodsAmerican Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery members of all disciplines were invited by electronic mail to complete an Internet-based survey. Separate forms were created for behavioral health providers and for members of other disciplines.ResultsA total of 409 American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery members responded (60 behavioral health and 349 nonbehavioral health). Of the 409 respondents, 95% indicated a belief that it is important for behavioral health providers to have specialty knowledge; 87% indicated a belief that specialty experience is important; and 70.6% favored the development of a specialty credential for bariatric behavioral health providers to regulate the quality of patient care. However, the respondents also reported concerns about creating such a credential.ConclusionOur results reflect widespread opinion that the provision of bariatric behavioral health services requires specialty knowledge and experience and that a credentialing system would help regulate the standard of care in the field. However, some concerns about credential development remain.     

Predictors of Attrition in Bariatric Aftercare: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Bariatric surgery results in greater weight loss and maintenance than non-surgical interventions in obese patients. Inadequate adherence to aftercare is associated with poor weight loss and maintenance, poorer control of obesity-related comorbidities, and the development of post-operative complications. This study aims to identify factors influencing failure to attend follow-up visits in the adult post-bariatric surgery patients. A systematic review was undertaken to identify factors associated with attrition from bariatric aftercare in adult (18-65?years) obese (BMI?>?30) patients. Eight studies published before May 2011 and addressing factors associated with bariatric aftercare attendance were identified. Few consistent findings were evident. Greater pre-surgical weight and greater travel distance to the follow-up centre were more commonly associated with attrition. Conclusions were limited by the very small number of studies, the different types of bariatric surgery studied and the variety of methodologies employed and variables considered. There is a need for research identifying the modifiable attrition risk factors that can be targeted to improve surgical aftercare attendance. This has the potential to facilitate long-term weight loss and maintanence as well as to reduce post-operative complications and costs; thus improving both the effectiveness and the cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery.     

Biopsychosocial Outcomes of Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding in Adolescents: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Adolescent obesity is a significant global health challenge. Severely obese adolescents commonly experience one or more serious medical comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension as well as psychosocial comorbidities such as depression, disordered eating behaviour, anxiety and low self-esteem. The aims of this review are to examine the literature on biopsychosocial (e.g. weight loss, medical comorbidities, mental health, and complications) outcomes of adolescent bariatric surgery and to identify areas where current data are deficient and a need for further research is indicated. A systematic review was conducted to examine the biopsychosocial outcomes of adolescent gastric banding. Eleven studies published before May 2013 examining outcomes of adolescent laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) surgery were identified. Available reported data indicate that LAGB surgery was effective in achieving significant weight loss. There is also evidence of the resolution of medical comorbidities; however, reporting of medical comorbidities assessment criteria is limited. Limited consideration was given to the psychosocial outcomes of LAGB surgery. The psychosocial outcomes of adolescent LAGB are not well researched. The current literature on adolescent LAGB is limited by a focus on weight loss and biomedical outcomes. There is currently little understanding of the behavioural, emotional or social factors that influence adolescents’ experience of LAGB surgery. Further research is required to examine the specific psychosocial needs and experiences of adolescent LAGB patients, so appropriate treatment approaches may be developed to ensure optimal outcomes for adolescents from LAGB surgery.     

Adherence and Weight Loss Outcomes in Bariatric Surgery: Does Cognitive Function Play a Role?

Although bariatric surgery is the most effective intervention for severe obesity, a significant minority of participants fail to achieve or maintain optimal weight loss at extended follow-up. Accumulating evidence suggests that adherence to prescribed postoperative recommendations, including attendance at follow-up appointments and dietary and physical activity, is related to improved weight loss outcomes. However, adherence to these guidelines presents a significant challenge for many patients, potentially due in part to deficits in cognitive function. In this paper, we briefly examine current literature of adherence on postoperative weight loss outcomes, and review emerging evidence that the cognitive dysfunction present in a subset of obese individuals is related to weight loss outcomes following bariatric procedures. We then extend these findings, positing a role for cognitive function in moderating the relationship between adherence and postoperative outcomes.