Purpose: Bariatric surgery in mainland China is still in its initial stages. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) for Chinese super obese patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥60 kg/m.
Methods: Twenty-six super obese patients underwent LRYGB, performed by a single surgeon, at the First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University between June 2004 and September 2012. Surgical outcomes were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: All 26 LRYGB procedures were performed successfully, with no conversion to open surgery. Preoperative mean body weight and BMI were 192.3 kg and 65.8 kg/m, respectively. Mean percentage of excess weight loss in the 12 months after surgery was 55.3±7.6%. Obesity-related comorbidities improved significantly. Two patients experienced perioperative complications, 1 with respiratory failure and 1 with umbilical wound infection. Six patients developed long-term complications, but all were cured by conservative treatment.
Conclusions: Chinese obese population is unique in diet, lifestyle, sex, age, and geographical differences. LRYGB is feasible for Chinese super obese patients, with significant short-term results. Further observations are required to assess long-term outcomes.