M Mattesich1, H Piza-Katzer. 1. Universitätskliniken für Plastische und Wiederherstellende Chirurgie, Medizinische Universität Innsbruck.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: According to the literature, conservative weight loss seems to be ineffective for morbidly obese subjects. Nevertheless, the significance of nonsurgical strategies for the treatment of morbid obesity is still unclear. PATIENTS: From 1999 to 2003, 197 reconstructive operations were performed on 120 morbidly obese patients. Initial body mass index (BMI) was higher than 35-40, and weight loss exceeded 40% of the original body weight. RESULTS: Gastric banding was performed in 66% of the patients; 34% reduced their body weight by conservative means. Conservative weight loss could be achieved at each level of BMI. CONCLUSION: Conservative weight loss is a valuable option for the treatment of morbid obesity in a selected group of patients. Condiolates candidates for conservative weight loss should be selected carefully by a multidisciplinary team with psychiatric expertise.
BACKGROUND: According to the literature, conservative weight loss seems to be ineffective for morbidly obese subjects. Nevertheless, the significance of nonsurgical strategies for the treatment of morbid obesity is still unclear. PATIENTS: From 1999 to 2003, 197 reconstructive operations were performed on 120 morbidly obesepatients. Initial body mass index (BMI) was higher than 35-40, and weight loss exceeded 40% of the original body weight. RESULTS: Gastric banding was performed in 66% of the patients; 34% reduced their body weight by conservative means. Conservative weight loss could be achieved at each level of BMI. CONCLUSION: Conservative weight loss is a valuable option for the treatment of morbid obesity in a selected group of patients. Condiolates candidates for conservative weight loss should be selected carefully by a multidisciplinary team with psychiatric expertise.
Authors: Andrew E Chapman; George Kiroff; Philip Game; Bruce Foster; Paul O'Brien; John Ham; Guy J Maddern Journal: Surgery Date: 2004-03 Impact factor: 3.982