Bariatric surgery mitigated electrocardiographic abnormalities in patients with morbid obesity

Sci Rep. 2024 Mar 20;14(1):6710. doi: 10.1038/s41598-024-57155-2.

Abstract

Obesity can lead to cardiovascular dysfunctions and cause electrocardiographic disruptions. Bariatric surgery plays a significant role in weight loss. To assess its benefits, this study investigated electrocardiographic changes before and after bariatric surgery. The present article describes a retrospective cohort study with a 6-month follow-up period. Electrocardiograms were interpreted and compared before and six months after surgery. The relationships between weight loss, type of surgery, and electrocardiographic alterations were analyzed. A total of 200 patients participated in the study, with 34 (17%) men and 166 (83%) women. The mean age of the participants was 44.6 ± 8.6, and their mean body mass index was 43.8 ± 5.5 kg/m2. The mean of QTc decreased after the surgery, while the Sokolow-Lyon scores increased. The statistical analysis showed that QTc dispersion (> 40) (P < 0.001), right ventricular hypertrophy (P < 0.001), abnormal R wave progression (P < 0.001), QTc (P < 0.001) and Sokolow-Lyon criteria (P < 0.001) significantly changed postoperatively. In conclusion, bariatric surgery can reduce QTc, correct poor R wave progression, and resolve right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) in patients with morbid obesity.

MeSH terms

  • Bariatric Surgery* / adverse effects
  • Electrocardiography / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypertrophy, Left Ventricular
  • Hypertrophy, Right Ventricular / complications
  • Male
  • Obesity, Morbid* / complications
  • Obesity, Morbid* / surgery
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Weight Loss