Anesthesia for bariatric surgery – Current practice

Abstract

Bariatric surgery has emerged at the forefront as a promising procedure for severe obesity, offering sustained weight loss, reversal of metabolic disorders, and greatly aiding in improved life expectancy. However, the anesthetic management of bariatric patients presents unique challenges due to obesity-related comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory dysfunction, and airway difficulties. A well-structured anesthetic plan is essential to optimize patient safety, minimize perioperative risks, and ensure smooth postoperative recovery. This review outlines current anesthetic practices for bariatric surgery, including preoperative assessment, airway management, intraoperative monitoring, pharmacological considerations, and postoperative care. A multidisciplinary approach, incorporating the latest advancements in anesthesia, enhances patient outcomes, reduces complications, and facilitates early recovery. By continuously updating anesthetic protocols, healthcare providers can improve the overall safety and success of bariatric procedures.

Keywords: Bariatric surgery, anesthesia, obesity