Complications after bariatric surgery: Survey evaluating impact on the practice of specialized nutrition support

Vanessa J. Kumpf, Kelsey Slocum, Jeff Binkley, Gordon Jensen

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

17 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: The rapid growth of obesity rates has affected the practice of specialized nutrition support in various ways. One area that deserves special consideration is the impact that bariatric surgery, in particular complications resulting from bariatric surgery, has made on nutrition support practice. A descriptive survey was designed to evaluate this impact and to assess the various approaches to nutrition assessment and interventions in the postoperative bariatric surgery patient. Methods: A webbased survey consisting of 17 questions was administered in April 2006 to American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.) members with available e-mail addresses. Participants were queried about professional background, primary practice setting, and various issues related to their involvement in the care of bariatric surgery patients. Results: There were 467 responses returned out of 3400 surveys delivered (14% response rate). Sixty percent of responders estimated they were consulted to see 1-10 patients requiring specialized nutrition support over the previous year as a result of complications of bariatric surgery. The most common indications for specialized nutrition support in these patients were anastomotic leak/fistula (49%) and chronic nausea/vomiting (27%). When estimating calorie goals, 62% used an adjusted body weight, 15% used ideal body weight, and 14% used actual weight. When estimating protein goals, 56% used an adjusted body weight, 29% used ideal body weight, and 8% used actual weight. Conclusion: These observations provide impetus for guideline development and highlight the priority for further research regarding the best practices to ensure that postoperative bariatric surgery patients receive safe and appropriate nutrition support.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)673-678
Number of pages6
JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice
Volume22
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Medicine (miscellaneous)
  • Nutrition and Dietetics

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