Bariatric surgery is emerging as an important and broadly available treatment for people with severe and complex obesity that has not responded adequately to other therapy. Gastroenterologists need to be aware of the risks and benefits of current and emerging procedures as they are likely to be increasingly involved in the integrated care of patients. This Review summarizes the evidence for the safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness of bariatric surgery, as well as discussing mechanisms of action and future directions for surgery.
- John B. Dixon
- Nora E. Straznicky
- Gavin W. Lambert