Introduction:
The Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire (M-A QoLQ) has been validated as a reliable tool in assessing quality of life issues in the obese population. We compared the quality of life data gathered prior to and 1 year following laparoscopic bariatric bypass surgery using the M-A QoLQ on selected outcomes including self-esteem, physical, social, work ability, and sexual interest.
Methods:
Two hundred and twenty seven consecutive patient records between August 2001 and February 2006 were analyzed for changes in quality of life measures. All patients were asked to fill out the M-A QoLQ prior to laparoscopic Roux Y gastric bypass (LRGB). All patients were operated by the same surgeon with the same technique and cared for by same core surgical team. Standardized follow up protocols were utilized. Patients were asked to complete a survey at their one-year follow up visit measuring the same quality of life issues addressed prior to the surgery. Of the 227 patients, 108 patient files were complete and analyzed, 69 patients did not complete the 1-year follow up questionnaire, and 48 patient files were excluded. All data were collected prospectively and paired t-tests were used to analyze the data.
Results:
In the comparative analysis of the data, all participants who completed the M-A QoLQ prior to surgery and 1 year post surgery were found to show a statistically significant improvement in self esteem (p< .001), physical activity (p< .001), social interest (p< .001), work interest (p< .001) and sexual interest (p< .001).
Conclusion:
In addition to weight loss and reduction of comorbidities, LRGB produced significant improvement of quality of life in all measured parameters including self-esteem, physical, social, work ability, and sexual interest.
Session: Poster
Program Number: P022