The Long-Term Impact of Postoperative Educational Programs on Weight Loss After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Purpose Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is a well-documented treatment of severe obesity. Attending postoperative educational programs may improve the outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether participation in educational programs lasting 2-3 years after RYGB influences long-term weight loss, weight regain, physical activity, and compliance to multivitamin supplements. Materials and Methods The Bariatric Surgery Observation Study (BAROBS) is a multicenter retrospective, cross-sectional study 10-15 years after primary RYGB. Four hundred and ninety-seven participants answered questions regarding participation in postoperative educational programs. Participants were divided into frequent attendees (FA) and infrequent attendees (IFA) at the educational programs. Results Ten to 15 years after surgery, a total weight loss (TWL) of 23.2 +/- 11.6% were seen in the FA group vs 19.5 +/- 12.6% in the IFA group, p < 0.001. Percent excess weight loss (%EWL) was 55.7 +/- 28.9% vs 46.0 +/- 31.1%, p < 0.001. Weight regain in percent of maximal weight loss for the FA was 32.1 +/- 32.8% vs IFA 38.4 +/- 40.0%, p = 0.052. No difference between the groups in compliance to multivitamin and physical activity. Conclusion Participants with frequent participation in group-based educational programs had better weight loss outcomes 10-15 years after RYGB and tended to have less weight regain. There was no difference between the two groups in participants compliance to recommended multivitamin supplements and physical activity.