Causes of 30-day bariatric surgery mortality: with emphasis on bypass obstruction.

Background: This is a study of the causes of 30-day postoperative death following surgical treatment for obesity and a search for ways to decrease an already low mortality rate.

Methods: Data were contributed from 1986-2004 to the International Bariatric Surgery Registry by 85 sites, representing 137 surgeons. A spread-sheet was prepared with rows for causes and columns for patients.

Bariatric surgery trends: an 18-year report from the International Bariatric Surgery Registry.

Background: The epidemic of morbid obesity has increased bariatric procedures performed. Trend analyses provide important information that may impact individual practices.

Methods: Patient data from 137 surgeons were examined from 1987 to 2004 (41,860 patients) using Cochran-Armitage Trend test and Generalized Linear Model.

Factors influencing survival following surgical treatment of obesity.

Background: The prevalence of obesity in the United States and the surgical treatment of obesity have increased since 1999. An important measure of outcome following surgical treatment is survival.

Methods: This study began with data prospectively collected from Jan 1, 1986 to Dec 31, 1999 by 55 data collection sites, representing 77 surgeons who used standardized data collection software developed by the International Bariatric Surgery Registry (IBSR).

Gallbladder management in obesity surgery.

Background: In the 1980s, some surgeons recommended routine cholecystectomy for patients undergoing bariatric surgery. This was based on the high prevalence of gallstones in the obese and concern that rapid weight loss would increase the risk of gallbladder disease. Others recommended waiting for a lower weight and a definite need.