Work

Dietitian‐led very low‐calorie diet for preoperative rehabilitation in patients with obesity awaiting non‐bariatric elective laparoscopic surgery: A retrospective study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Obesity increases the risks and complexity of laparoscopic surgeries. Preoperative very low‐calorie diets (VLCDs) can demonstrate significant preoperative weight loss. However, the optimal VLCD duration remains unclear. Excessive loss of muscle mass associated with VLCDs may elevate surgical and postoperative risks. This study aimed to assess the impact of a dietitian‐led preoperative VLCD intervention on changes in weight, muscle, and fat mass and to examine their relationships with intervention duration and surgical time. Methods A retrospective chart review of patients attending a dietitian‐led VLCD outpatient clinic for 1–8 weeks. Primary outcomes were changes in weight, muscle and fat mass, and their relationships with VLCD duration. Associations between preoperative fat mass and operative time for cholecystectomies and hernia repairs were explored using a general linear model. Results One hundred fifty‐seven participants (97 female; mean body mass index, 39.2) achieved significant weight reduction (6.4 kg, P < 0.001). Muscle mass accounted for 28.5% of mean weight loss and fat mass for 68%, with an increased muscle to fat ratio ( P < 0.001). VLCDs of >4 weeks showed greater median muscle mass loss (26.9% vs 8.8%). Operative time decreased by an estimated 0.61 min for every kilogram reduction in preoperative fat mass, after adjusting for surgical type ( P < 0.001, adjusted R 2 = 0.262). Conclusions A dietitian‐led preoperative VLCD intervention for 5–8 weeks can achieve clinically significant weight loss, primarily from fat mass. Exploratory analysis suggested lower preoperative fat mass may contribute to shorter surgical time, but further research is needed to control for other factors, such as complexity and surgeon experience.

Source: Nutrition in Clinical Practice

DOI: 10.1002/ncp.70094

Authors: Gerald Wei Shen Wong, Cathy Guo, Cameron M. French, Jack J. Bell, Lynda J. Ross

Institutions: Queensland University of Technology, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, National Healthcare Group, Prince Charles Hospital, Metro North Hospital and Health Service

Language: English

Topic: Bariatric Surgery and Outcomes

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,570