Complications of bariatric surgery in adolescents

Over the past decade, outcomes data have demonstrated the benefit of bariatric surgery in achieving both sustained weight loss and reversal of co-morbidities. Comparing these data to contemporary known risks of adolescent bariatric surgery informs the patients and providers considering bariatric procedures and provides insight into potential ways to reduce and manage complications. The goal of this article is to review the common surgical and postoperative complications following bariatric procedures and discuss approaches to improve their safety. A systematic review identifying bariatric surgery complications in adolescents was conducted. The review focused on the data relevant to adolescent bariatric surgery. However, when necessary, adult studies were used to address the gaps in available pediatric information. The data pertaining to the intraoperative, short term, and long term surgically related and nutritional related complications show that complication are declining with increasing experience. Specific recommendations and strategies to avoid major complications of bariatric surgery in adolescents are offered.