Pierro L, Coluzzi I, DI Biasio A, Paone E, Scappaticci L, Capoccia D, DE Angelis F, Iossa A, Boru CE, Lai C, Silecchia G. Telematics pre-operative psychological and nutritional assessment in candidates for bariatric surgery during COVID-19 phase 2: a pilot prospective observational study.
Minerva Surg 2021;
76:57-61. [PMID:
33754590 DOI:
10.23736/s2724-5691.20.08706-4]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND
Obesity represents a risk factor for COVID-19 infection. Therefore, in order to reduce COVID-19 related comorbidities in obese population a continuation of obesity treatment is needed. However, bariatric procedures were postponed because of COVID-19 restrictions, delaying treatment for obese patients seeking for surgery. This study aimed to test the feasibility of a telematics pre-operative psychological and nutritional assessment as an alternative tool during COVID-19 outbreak.
METHODS
Twenty-six patients were contacted. The pre-operative assessment consisted in 3-weekly one-to-one online sessions and a final in-person multidisciplinary session. The protocol feasibility has been evaluated on the following outcome: rejection rate (%), dropout rate (%), compliance and satisfaction's degree.
RESULTS
Eighteen participants completed the whole protocol and 10% dropped-out. Seventy-two percent of participants obtained an excess weight loss ≥5%. All participants were satisfied of the telematics assessment.
CONCLUSIONS
COVID-19 emergency has changed standard hospital procedures and this study could represent a landmark for an online pre-operative assessment method to adopt in case of new restrictions.
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