Hypoglycemia and Dysautonomia After Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review and Perspective

Obes Surg. 2022 May;32(5):1681-1688. doi: 10.1007/s11695-022-05960-x. Epub 2022 Feb 8.

Abstract

Introduction: With the increasing performance of bariatric surgery, rare complications are becoming prevalent. We review the diagnosis and treatment of dysautonomia after bariatric surgery and the limited treatment options available. We summarize the suggested mechanisms and explain why a complete understanding of the etiology has yet to be determined.

Methods: In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic review was performed.

Results: Of 448 studies identified in the literature search, 4 studies were reviewed, describing 87 patients diagnosed with dysautonomia. We present a patient who developed severe dysautonomia following conversion of sleeve gastrectomy to gastric bypass.

Conclusion: Treatment needs to focus on optimizing nutrition, avoiding hypoglycemia, and optimizing volume status.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review
  • Systematic Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Bariatric Surgery* / adverse effects
  • Gastrectomy
  • Gastric Bypass* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemia* / complications
  • Hypoglycemia* / therapy
  • Obesity, Morbid* / surgery
  • Primary Dysautonomias* / diagnosis
  • Primary Dysautonomias* / etiology
  • Primary Dysautonomias* / therapy