A recent systematic review and meta-analysis (Y Lee, et al. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 17: 1040-60) included 32 cohort studies with 3093 liver biopsy specimens from patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Key findings:

• Bariatric surgery resulted in a biopsy-confirmed resolution of steatosis in 66%, inflammation in 50%, ballooning degeneration in 76%, and fibrosis in 40%.
• Bariatric surgery resulted in worsening features of NAFLD in 12%.
• The authors note that Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) “showed greater reduction of liver side effects and higher: resolution of NAFLD.”
• Jejejnoileal bypass (JIB) and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) “both have been associated with higher liver function morbidity.”
• The overall GRADE quality of evidence was considered very low.

My take: Though better studies are needed, the majority of patients’ livers appear to benefit from bariatric surgery.

Related blog posts:

• Should Teenagers with Severe NAFLD Undergo Bariatric Surgery?
• Concise Review: Fatty Liver in Pediatrics
• Reaching Consensus on Bariatric Intervention in Children …
• Is a Three Year-Old Too Young for Bariatric Surgery …
• Should We Be Excited About a New Medication (Liraglutide …
• Overlooking Obesity in Hospitalized Children | gutsandgrowth
• Treating diabetes with surgery | gutsandgrowth