A Review of Depression and Quality of Life Outcomes in Adolescents Post Bariatric Surgery

Topic A systematic review: Depression and quality of life of adolescents after bariatric surgery. Purpose Reported changes in depression and quality of life among adolescents after bariatric surgery were assessed, along with the choice of tools, length of follow‐up, and age and gender trends. Sources Used Medical and psychosocial electronic databases. Conclusions The majority of published studies of adolescents post bariatric surgery showed a positive reduction in depression and improvements in quality of life regardless of the amount of weight lost or type of surgery performed. Four studies measured changes only within the first year and three within 2 years; it is unknown if positive psychological benefits persisted. Patients' ages ranged from 9 to 20 years, with an average age of 16.6. A 7:3 female/male ratio presented for surgery. Three depression and six quality of life instruments were utilized; two instruments were validated for adult use only. Consistent qualitative and quantitative measures of psychological issues and quality of life specific to adolescents are necessary. Multicenter longitudinal studies are warranted to more effectively track outcomes and patients needing more support. Thus informed, a nurse or health practitioner can better advocate for the patient during the preoperative, postoperative, and follow‐up periods.