Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy is Safe and Effective in Elderly Patients: A Comparative Analysis

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is gaining widespread popularity as a definitive bariatric operation that provides satisfactory and durable weight loss as well as comorbidity resolution. Although SG is being increasingly offered to patients of all ages, there is a paucity of reported outcomes in patients a parts per thousand yen62 years of age. The purpose of this study was to perform a comparative analysis of the outcomes of SG in patients > 62 years versus a younger age group, with an emphasis on safety and efficacy. A retrospective analysis was performed from a prospectively collected database on patients who underwent SG from 2007 to 2012. All patients who were a parts per thousand yen62 years old were compared to those < 62 years. There were 182 patients who underwent SG, 17 of whom were a parts per thousand yen62 years old. There were no significant differences in demographics or comorbidity characteristics between the groups. The mean follow-up was 1 year. There was no 30-day mortality in either group. The percent excess weight loss for the younger age group was 44 +/- 21 % and the older group was 44 +/- 25 %. The percent total body weight loss was 22 +/- 10 and 21 +/- 10 %, respectively. Weight loss outcomes were maintained for up to 3 years. Comorbidity resolution and improvement rates were equivalent in both groups. SG is safe and effective in patients a parts per thousand yen62 years. Weight loss and the beneficial effects on comorbidities are equivalent among elderly and younger patients. SG should be offered to elderly patients who are deemed to be appropriate candidates.