Physical function and properties of quadriceps femoris muscle after bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss

Objectives: To investigate the effects of bariatric surgery-induced weight loss on physical function, the properties of quadriceps femoris muscle (QFM), and the subjective disabilities of the subjects with excessive weight. Methods: Thirteen female and three male subjects were studied before and 8.8 months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGP) operation. The health-related quality of life (RAND-36) and the self-reported disease-specific joint symptoms (WOMAC) were estimated. The objective physical function was evaluated with sock, repeated sit-to-stand, 6-minute walk, stair ascending and descending and timed up & go tests and the properties of the QFM were measured with ultrasound. Results: The average weight loss was 27.3 kg. Objectively measured physical function improved after RYGP operation. Physical functioning, physical role functioning and general health domain scores of the RAND-36 were significantly improved. The stiffness and function scores were lower after RYGP operation in knee OA subjects. The subcutaneous fat thickness and the absolute muscle thickness of QFM decreased, but the ratio of muscle cross sectional area/total body weight did not change. The fat and connective tissue proportion in the QFM muscle were significantly increased. Conclusions: The RYPG-surgery-induced weight loss exerts a positive impact on physical function but a negative impact on a muscle structure.