A Landscape of Bariatric Surgery in Canada

Publication date: Available online 12 December 2017 Source:Canadian Journal of Diabetes Author(s): Mehran Anvari, Rodrigo Lemus, Ruth Breau Obesity has escalated worldwide and in Canada. Many chronic conditions, including type 2 diabetes, are directly correlated with obesity, and while the benefits and effectiveness of bariatric surgery have been proven in terms of sustained weight loss and improving comorbidities the procedure is under-accessed and under-utilized in Canada. We explore the complex landscape of bariatric surgery in Canada, reviewing the current state, focusing on the volume of procedures nationwide and at the provincial level, the type of surgical procedures performed, their outcomes and associated complications. Barriers and challenges curbing access to bariatric surgery are also explored. Approximately 8,583 publicly funded bariatric surgeries were performed across 9 of 10 provinces in 2015-2016, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass; sleeve gastrectomy; adjustable gastric banding; and biliopancreatic diversion ± duodenal switch are the most common procedures performed, with different variations in coverage between provinces/territories. Dedicated bariatric programs have been created and in some instances provincial networks have also emerged. Weight loss, resolution of comorbidities and rate of complications in Canada are similar to that of the literature. The increase in the number of bariatric procedures overtime has still not met the current demand. The raise i...
Source: Canadian Journal of Diabetes - Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research