Evaluation of Pulmonary Function in Long-Term Follow-Up After Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

Abstract Aim: Obesity is one of the most important health problems in the world. It affects all systems, especially the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Laparoscopic bariatric surgery is an effective method in the treatment of obesity and can improve respiratory functions. We aimed to evaluate the effects of surgery on pulmonary function in patients with obesity. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on a group of patients who underwent bariatric surgery. Pre- and postoperative pulmonary function tests were compared. Patients were stratified based on smoking status and presence of comorbidities. Results: The study included 51 patients (82.4% female) with a mean age of 51.90 ± 11.57 years. Significant weight loss and reductions in BMI were observed postoperatively. Pulmonary function tests demonstrated significant improvements in FEV1, FEV1%, PEF, and MEF25-75 after surgery. These improvements were consistent across different subgroups, including smokers, non-smokers, patients with and without comorbidities. Conclusion: Bariatric surgery is associated with significant improvements in pulmonary function in obese patients, regardless of smoking status or comorbidities.