BACKGROUND:

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB) as treatment of morbid obesity results in substantial weight loss. Most published long-term studies have included few patients at the last follow-up point. The aim of the present study was to explore long-term results in a large cohort of patients 7-17 years after gastric bypass.

METHODS:

All 539 patients who had undergone primary RYGB from 1993 to 2003 at Uppsala and Örebro University Hospitals received a questionnaire regarding their postoperative status. Blood samples were obtained and the medical charts studied.

RESULTS: 

Of the 539 patients, 384 responded (71.2% response rate, mean age 37.9 yr, body mass index 44.5 kg/m² at surgery, 317 women, and 67 men). At a mean follow-up of 11.4 years (range 7-17), the body mass index had decreased to 32.5 kg/m^2, corresponding to an excess body mass index loss of 63.3%. Similar weight loss was observed, regardless of the length of follow-up. Orally treated diabetes resolved in 72% and sleep apnea and hyperlipidemia were improved. Revisional bariatric surgery had been performed in 2.1% and abdominoplasty in 40.2%. The gastrointestinal symptoms were considered tolerable. The overall result was satisfactory for 79% of the patients and 92% would recommend Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to a friend. Attendance to the annual checkups was 37%. Vitamin B₁₂ supplements were taken by 72% and multivitamins by 24%.

CONCLUSION:

At 11 years, substantial weight loss was maintained and revisional surgery was rare. Surprisingly few patients were compliant with the recommendation of lifelong supplements and yearly evaluations; however, patient satisfaction was high.