The Impact of Sleeve Gastrectomy on Hypertension: A Systematic Review

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a relatively new bariatric surgical procedure associated with an acceptable weight loss and a relatively low morbidity. There is existing evidence suggesting bariatric surgery resolves or improves hypertension. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the effect of LSG on hypertension. An electronic search method was primarily used for identification of the studies. We performed a comprehensive search of all electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Dare, Clinical Evidence, BIOSIS, Previews, TRIP, Web of Science, Health Technology Database, Conference abstracts, clinical trials, and the Cochrane Library database) using broad search terms. All human studies from August 2000 to September 2011 were included. After an initial screening, a total of 326 studies were identified. After assessment of these studies based on our exclusion criteria, 222 studies were considered for the abstract review. A total of 33 studies were identified after a careful screening, involving a total of 3,997 patients. The mean pre-operative body mass index (BMI) was 49.1 ± 7.5 kg/m² (range 37–68). The average follow-up time was 16.9 ± 9.8 months (range 12–48). The mean post-operative BMI was 36 ± 7.0 kg/m² (range 25.6–54). LSG resulted in resolution of hypertension in 58% of patients. On average, 75% of patients experienced resolution or improvement of their hypertension. Based on our systematic review, LSG has a significant effect on hypertension, inducing resolution or improvement in the majority of cases. Therefore, LSG remains a viable surgical option in obese patients with hypertension.