Background: We evaluated quality of life among bariatric surgery patients using patient-reported outcomes (PROs). We hypothesized that physical function would improve after bariatric surgery.
Methods: We prospectively collected PROs beginning in December 2015. We used the validated Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) instruments because of their broad applicability and ability to use computer-adapted technology to survey. Measures are repeated at clinic visits, both pre- and postoperatively. Data were reviewed through February 2018. Data were analyzed comparing pre- and postop physical function PRO (PF PRO) by procedure: laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). Additional variables were included in an adjusted linear mixed-effects regression model in order to isolate the effect of surgery on PF PRO over time.
Results: This cohort included 279 bariatric surgery patients. The mean follow-up time was 1.5 years after surgery. The procedure groups were similar in terms of age and race but differed by gender and preoperative BMI. The PF-PRO measure showed significant improvement following surgery for both procedures.
Conclusion: Patient-reported physical function improved significantly after bariatric surgery. There was no significant difference between procedures.
Keywords: Bariatric surgery; Patient-reported outcomes; Physical function.