614 Elective Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery in United Kingdom During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Aim Elective Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery (BMS) was halted in the UK during the first wave of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Obesity is a predictor of poor outcome in those infected with this virus. This study reports our experience resuming elective weight loss surgery safely amidst the pandemic. Method Guidance from national bodies (BOMSS/NICE) were reviewed and a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was drafted to accommodate local considerations. Data were prospectively collected on patients undergoing BMS following commencement of elective surgery after the first national lockdown. Results A total of 50 patients underwent BMS at our institution within six weeks of resuming the services. The median age was 41 years old and BMI was 43.8(IQR 40.0-48.8 kg/m2). Equal number of patients underwent laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG) and Roux en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB). Of these, 9 patients (18%) had revisional surgery and 48 patients (96%) were discharged within 24 hours of their surgery. The rate of readmission within thirty days of surgery was 6% (n = 3) and 1 patient returned to theatre with an obstruction proximal to the jejuno-jenunal anastomosis. None of the patients exhibited symptoms or tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Conclusions With appropriate precautions and protocols, it is feasible and safe to resume BMS, with no increased risk to bariatric patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is particularly encouraging for other units in UK to offer BMS after the current lockdown.