Meta-Analysis of Gastrointestinal Quality of Life After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy or Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Background: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGBP) and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) are the most common bariatric procedures globally and they have been reported to impart similar weight loss outcomes. However, their effects on gastrointestinal quality of life (GIQoL), which is a major determinant of patient satisfaction, are less well defined. This meta-analysis aims to compare GIQoL in patients who have undergone LRYGBP or LSG. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the studies comparing changes in the gastrointestinal quality of life index (GIQLI) scores after LSG or LRYGBP was performed. This meta-analysis is exempt from ethical approval because the data is collected from the clinical studies in which informed consent has already been obtained by the study investigators. Results: Six studies including 1726 patients were included. Although there was a significant improvement in GIQoL after bariatric surgery (LSG mean difference [MD] -14.98, 95% confidence interval [CI], -22.28 to -7.69, p < 0.0001; LRYGBP [MD] -16.99, 95% CI, -26.28 to -7.71, p = 0.0003), there was no significant difference in GIQLI scores between LSG and LRYGBP in short- or long-term follow-up in random effect meta-analysis. Conclusion: Bariatric surgery is associated with significant improvements in GIQoL, and similar changes in this outcome measure are reported after LSG and LRYGBP. It is infrequently reported in the bariatric literature and inclusion of this relevant patient-reported outcome measure in future bariatric studies is recommended.