Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL while increasing HDL, but caused a significant decline in serum calcium at three months.
Does laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy improve lipid profiles and alter serum calcium levels in patients with morbid obesity?
Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy significantly improves lipid profiles but reduces serum calcium levels at 3 months post-operation, highlighting the need for calcium monitoring and supplementation.
Background and aim Obesity affects over one-third of the global population and is linked to various health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. It results from an imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. Bariatric surgery, particularly sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity, offering benefits beyond weight loss, including metabolic improvements. These procedures can also enhance lipid profiles, although nutrient deficiencies may occur, especially with malabsorptive techniques. This study aims to assess the impact of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) on lipid profiles and calcium metabolism. Results will be compared with international data from various centers. Patients and methods This retrospective analysis included 30 patients admitted to the General Surgery Department at Al-Azhar University Hospital, Assiut, who underwent LSG for the management of morbid obesity between August 2022 and August 2024. Preoperative and postoperative lipid profiles and serum calcium levels were assessed. Results Three months after the procedure, notable improvements were observed in lipid profile parameters. Specifically, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein levels showed significant reductions, while high-density lipoprotein levels demonstrated a significant rise. Conversely, postoperative serum calcium levels showed a significant decline. Conclusion Our retrospective study shows LSG leads to significant weight loss and favorable changes in lipid profile within a short postoperative period. However, it may lead to calcium deficiency due to altered absorption, necessitating supplementation and regular monitoring.
Ali et al. (2026) studied this question. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL while increasing HDL, but caused a significant decline in serum calcium at three months.