Evaluation of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in the Management of Severe Obesity and Associated Medical Problems in Adolescents

Introduction: Adolescent severe obesity represents a significant global health challenge, strongly associated with numerous medical problems and reduced quality of life. While non-surgical methods frequently offer only temporary weight loss, LSG is increasingly identified as a proven effective therapy for sustained weight management and control of associated medical problems. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of LSG in managing severe obesity and associated medical problems in adolescents. Methods: A prospective cohort study that involved 30 adolescent patients with obesity, aged 12 to 18 years. LSG was performed laparoscopically on all patients, and follow-up was conducted over a period of 12 months to assess weight loss, BMI, %EWL, %EBMIL, and comorbidity resolution. Results: LSG was performed laparoscopically in all 30 patients, with no conversions to open surgery. The mean operative time was 122 ± 22 minutes, and the average hospital stay was two days. Early complications included nausea (37%) and vomiting (27%). Less frequent but serious complications observed were postoperative leak (3%), bleeding (3%), stricture (6.6%), and cholelithiasis (10%). Significant weight loss was achieved: mean weight decreased from 129.6 kg preoperatively to 75.67 kg, and mean BMI from 40.33 to 27.56 kg/m² at 12 months. %EWL reached 109.47% and %EBMIL reached 83.32% by 12 months. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that LSG is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive intervention for severe obesity in adolescents, leading to significant and sustained weight reduction, high rates of remission of associated medical problems, and improved quality of life.