01-02-2017 | Original Contributions
Physical Fitness and Body Composition Two Years after Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass in Adolescents
Published in: Obesity Surgery | Issue 2/2017
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Background
We have previously shown promising results 2 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, within the Adolescence Morbid Obesity Surgery study (AMOS). The aim of the current study was to describe the 2-year outcome in cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, and functional capacity in the Stockholm subset of the AMOS study.
Methods
Forty-one adolescents (10 male, 31 female, age 14–18 years, body mass index 35–69 kg·m−2) were included. In addition to anthropometric measurements, participants performed a submaximal bicycle test, 6-min walk test, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and a short interview at baseline, 1 and 2 years after surgery.
Results
Relative improvements in maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) per kilogram body mass (+62 %) and per kilogram fat-free mass (+21 %), as well as walking distance (+13 %) were observed after 1 year, and persisted 2 years after surgery. Despite a reduction of fat-free mass (−15 %), absolute VO2max was maintained across the full group (+8 %, p = ns) and significantly increased in non-smokers. Body mass and fat mass were significantly decreased (−45.4 and −33.3 kg, respectively). Self-reported physical activity was significantly increased, and pain associated with movement was reduced.
Conclusions
In adolescents with obesity, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass improved VO2max more than could be explained by fat mass loss alone. In combination with improved functional capacity and body composition, these results suggest that surgery in adolescence might add specific benefits of importance for future health.