In France, it is estimated that nearly 4% of young people under 18 are obese. “In addition to cardio-respiratory complications (hypertension, sleep apnea, asthma, …) or metabolic (Type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, …), obesity has, at this age of life, a particular impact on hormonal activity and the onset of puberty, bone growth and psycho-affective development “ underlines the High Authority for Health (HAS).
If, 5 years ago, the Haute Autorité de Santé did not recommend bariatric surgery in children and adolescents, however, some health professionals have increasingly considered this intervention in young people. Thus, in 2013, 114 young people underwent this type of operation.
Also, to avoid the anarchic multiplication of operations, the HAS has just specified the situations in which bariatric surgery can be considered in children under 18.
The criteria imposed before the operation
In the first place, “it can only be considered in minors after the failure of well-followed, regular (at least one year) and adapted multi-professional care”.
To be able to consider surgery, the minor must also meet various criteria, both physiological and psychological:
• be at least 15 years old at least (and on a case-by-case basis between 13 and 15 years old);
• have reached a sufficient stage of bone growth and puberty;
• have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 35 kg / m2 with at least one severe comorbidity or a BMI greater than 40 kg / m2 with a major deterioration in quality of life;
• have a psychological maturity ensuring their understanding of the risks of such surgery and their lifelong commitment to lifestyle changes and regular medical follow-up.
Finally, the operation, “which requires significant surgical expertise” should be carried out in a specialized obesity center (CSO) with pediatric competence or in close connection with it.
Read also :
Infographic: all you need to know about obesity surgery
Weight loss surgery improves taste
