Guidelines Urge Approved Centers for Safe Obesity Surgery Tourism

Obesity surgery, also referred to as bariatric and metabolic surgery, is increasingly popular among individuals seeking medical tourism, particularly due to the significant cost savings compared to procedures in their home countries. However, the lack of regulation in this sector raises serious safety concerns, including risks of complications, infections, and in severe cases, fatalities.

People in the UK and Ireland are particularly drawn to obesity surgery abroad, often facing long waiting lists that can extend for years within their national health services. This trend has created a gap in oversight, making it difficult to gather accurate data on the number of individuals opting for this route, as many do not return with necessary medical documentation.

A collaborative effort by key organizations, including the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO), the International Federation for Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders European Chapter (IFSO-EC), and the European Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ECPO), has resulted in a consensus on standards for safety in obesity surgery conducted abroad.

Published in the International Journal of Surgery, the consensus paper outlines recommendations aimed at improving patient safety. This initiative involved input from healthcare professionals and patient representatives across 26 countries, emphasizing the need for accredited facilities to perform these surgeries.

The established guidelines highlight several key areas:

• Regulatory Standards: Bariatric surgery in Europe should be conducted only at accredited obesity management centers recognized by EASO or equivalent national bodies. Surgical techniques must also be sanctioned by IFSO or a national equivalent.
• Patient Care: Post-operative follow-up must be provided for at least two years by the surgical unit. Patients should receive comprehensive information about the risks associated with undergoing surgery abroad and must provide informed consent.
• Eligibility Criteria: Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 30 kg/m² should not undergo bariatric surgery. Medical records from the patient's home country must be reviewed before proceeding with surgery abroad.
• Post-Operative Care: Patients should remain in the location of the surgery for a minimum of five days post-operation before returning home. Communication between the operating surgeon and the patient's local healthcare provider is essential for effective follow-up care.
• Transparency in Marketing: Promotions for discounted surgery should raise concerns regarding the quality of care. Centers must disclose detailed information about costs, payment methods, and the qualifications of their surgeons.
• Patient Information: Patients need to be informed whether the offered surgical procedures are internationally recognized. Translators should be provided for patients who do not share a common language with their surgeons.

The authors of the consensus statement emphasize that the goal of these guidelines is to create a safer environment for individuals seeking obesity surgery abroad, ensuring they receive care that meets established standards.

In light of the growing concern over unsafe practices in obesity surgery tourism, these guidelines serve as a crucial step towards enhancing patient safety and reducing the risks associated with such procedures. The collective effort of healthcare professionals and patient advocates aims to raise awareness and establish a framework for safe surgical practices in the medical tourism industry.