| Problem: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies have been performed as a bariatric surgical modality for many years, but until recently have only been utilized as a first-stage procedure in the super-obese looking for conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypasses or biliopancreatic diversions, once significant weight was lost. Hypovitaminosis D has long been documented in the bariatric patient, with multiple and varied theories as to the pathophysiology of this disorder. Now as the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy is gaining popularity as a stand-alone procedure, it is necessary to look at the long-term outcomes of the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, especially the vitamin D status of this special bariatric patient cohort. Methods: The studies included were obtained through Weill Cornell Medical College (WCMC) library PubMed portal with dates ranging from 2006-2010. Meta-analyses, prospective cohort studies and peer-reviews were included in this review. All full-text articles obtained via the WCMC library website concerning the present topic were included. Results: Results of this literature review found hypovitaminosis D is a common problem in the pre-operative bariatric patient and this deficiency continues after surgery, as well. Furthermore, the research field of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies needs more longterm data to determine its safety and efficacy. Conclusions: While some promising short-term, limited study data is available to analyze the post-operative vitamin D status of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy patients, further information is necessary to determine the safety and efficacy of this procedure and the required follow-up necessary to monitor underlying hypovitaminosis D. |
