Prevalence and risk factor of cholelithiasis after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy among Hail population, Saudi Arabia

Background and Aims: The prevalence of cholelithiasis after different kinds of bariatric operations was found to increase in recent studies. The incidence rate internationally ranges from 2 to 50%, locally it is between 2.3 and 3.5%. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for cholelithiasis among the Hail community in Saudi Arabia following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was done on 505 patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in Hail region, Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire was used to assess participants' demographic data, family history of gallstones, operative history, pre and postoperative BMI, DM, HTN and high TG, daily fat rich foods and diagnosis with gallstones after operation. Results: The prevalence of gallstone development after surgery was 19.8% and it was significantly higher among patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy for more than a year, who had diabetes or triglycerides prior to surgery and who often ate meals high in fat. The chance of gallstone formation following surgery did not significantly correlate with the patients' demographics or family history of gallstones, according to a multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: It is critical to regularly check on each patient's postoperative weight. In addition, patients must be informed about gradual weight loss in order to reduce their risk of developing cholelithiasis.