Variables affecting BMI evolution at 2 and 5 years after vertical banded gastroplasty.

Background: Vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) has been found to result in significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) during the first postoperative year. We investigated the impact of some intrinsic and extrinsic factors on long-term BMI evolution in morbidly obese patients who underwent VBG, with the aim of establishing a long-term weight-loss prognosis.

Methods: 67 consecutive morbidly obese patients who underwent VBG were followed for 2 years; of these, 34 were followed 3 more years, for a total follow-up of 5 years. BMI was monitored and correlated with demographic (preoperative BMI, obese relatives, age and gender) and lifestyle variables (physical activity, habitual dietary transgression and occupational status).

Results: Global BMI fell from 47.5 at the time of the intervention to 32.1 when patients were examined 12 months after surgery. From the second year, an upward trend was observed, and at 5 years, mean BMI was above 35, considered in the high-risk range. Modifiable variables affecting lifestyle have shown significantly favorable effects on BMI evolution. Among intrinsic variables, BMI before surgery and obese parents also affect long-term evolution.

Conclusion: Different variables should be considered in order to establish a long-term weight-loss prognosis for each patient, thus making it possible to act more specifically on modifiable variables.