Nicole Shockcor, Sakib Adnan, Ariel Siegel, Eric Wise, Nabeel Zafar, Mark Kligman. University of Maryland
Introduction: With the decriminalization of marijuana, it is imperative that we understand how cannabis use can affect surgical outcomes. Previous studies in transplantation have indicated no difference in morbidity or mortality after receiving a kidney allograft, but the affect on bariatric patient outcomes remains to be uncovered. Here we aimed to determine the effect of marijuana use on weight loss post laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) as well as laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).
Methods: 1177 patients who underwent bariatric surgery from 2012-2017 at a single institution were identified. Patients who underwent LRYGB revisions, conversions to LRYGB, laparoscopic band removal with conversion, and lost to follow up were excluded. Patients were followed two years post procedure. SPSS software was utilized to determine covariate effects.
Results: In the 1177 patients included in this retrospective analysis, 73 (6.2%) patients were identified as cannabis users. This was defined by a positive toxicology screen and/or reported use. LSG was performed in 465 patients (39.5%) while LRYGB was performed in 712 (60.5%). Postoperative complications were no different between groups, including all cause complications, infection, venothrombolic events, and reoperation. Early 2 month average weight loss was greater in cannabis users (68.02 vs. 55.83 lb) than non-users, with the cannabis group having lost a larger percentage of excess body weight. Long-term BMI results showed no difference in excess BMI between cannabis users and non-users at 6 months (10.55 vs 10.07 kg/m2) and 1 year (6.48 vs 6.91 kg/m2) post procedure.
Conclusions: With nationwide changes in cannabis use and regulation, it is important to note that its use may have no effect on morbidity or mortality after bariatric surgery. With this preliminary retrospective analysis, a trend was seen towards greater initial excess weight loss in cannabis users; however, further investigation is warranted to fully characterize attributing factors.
Presented at the SAGES 2017 Annual Meeting in Houston, TX.
Abstract ID: 95963
Program Number: P183
Presentation Session: Poster Session (Non CME)
Presentation Type: Poster