Postoperative complications of bariatric surgery: a narrative literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63688/6m89q808Keywords:
bariatric surgery, postoperative complications, obesityAbstract
Introduction: Bariatric surgery is considered the most effective treatment for severe obesity; however, it is associated with postoperative complications that may increase morbidity and adversely affect patient outcomes.
Objective: To review the available scientific evidence on the main postoperative complications following bariatric surgery.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, SciELO, and Google Scholar. Articles published in English and Spanish addressing postoperative complications of bariatric surgery were included, with priority given to systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical trials, observational studies, and clinical practice guidelines.
Results: The reviewed evidence identified bleeding, anastomotic leaks, intestinal obstruction, stenosis, and marginal ulcers as the most common postoperative complications. Nutritional deficiencies involving vitamin D, iron, and thiamine were also frequently reported and were associated with metabolic disorders, anemia, and, in rare cases, Wernicke encephalopathy. In addition, patients showed an increased risk of postoperative respiratory complications, highlighting the importance of continuous clinical and nutritional follow-up.
Conclusions: Postoperative complications remain an important challenge after bariatric surgery. Early recognition and multidisciplinary follow-up contribute to timely management and may improve clinical outcomes in these patients.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Allyson Madeline Barrera Vásquez, Juan Mauricio Proaño Narváez, Geneva Madeleine Schissel Paladines, Enzo Sebastián Forestieri Ávila, Fernando Paúl Castro Jalca (Autor/a)
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