Long-term changes in weight loss and obesity-related comorbidities after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a primary care experience

Background Long-term results of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) are nonexistent in the veterans affairs (VA) population. We compare excess weight loss (EWL) success and medical comorbidity changes between the VA and non-VA population after RYGB. Methods Retrospective review of consecutive subjects undergoing RYGB from 1997 to 2002 at the Los Angeles VA. Weight and comorbidity data were collected every 6 and 12 months, respectively. Results Fifty-nine subjects were included; 54%, 58%, 46.8%, and 44.1% of subjects achieved EWL >50% at years 1 to 4. Hypertension resolved in 23%, 30%, and 32% at months 12 to 36. Obstructive sleep apnea resolved in 37%, 48%, 48%, 44%, and 60% at months 12 to 60. Diabetes mellitus resolved in 86%, 84%, 79%, and 80% at months 12 to 48. Improvements in the lipid panel were observed by month 12 and maintained thereafter. Conclusions EWL and proportion of subjects with resolved hypertension and obstructive sleep apnea are inferior to the non-VA population. Nevertheless, improvements in measures of success are maintained in the VA population.