Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms Post Sleeve Gastrectomy in Al-Qassim Region

Background and aims: After sleeve gastrectomy, heartburn sensation and regurgitation are frequent postoperative consequences. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and severity of heartburn sensation and regurgitation symptoms among patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy, as well as the relationship between demographic variables and the presence and severity of these symptoms. Methodology: This cross-sectional study included 290 patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy in the Al-Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire that assessed the presence and severity of heartburn and regurgitation symptoms. Demographic data, including age, gender, smoking status, and the date of bariatric surgery, were also collected. Results: The results showed that heartburn and regurgitation were common symptoms among patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy, with 78% and 73.9% of patients reporting these symptoms, respectively. 11.5% of patients who experienced severe symptoms of regurgitation, and 6.4% of patients with severe heartburn reported serious symptoms that affected their lives by causing an inability to perform daily activities. Age and the date of bariatric surgery were significant factors associated with heartburn and regurgitation symptoms. Patients aged 25-35 years reported the highest prevalence of heartburn symptoms, and the more recent surgery; dated less than one year ago had the highest prevalence of heartburn symptoms. Conclusion: Patients who have sleeve gastrectomy frequently experience heartburn and regurgitation, which can have a substantial influence on their quality of life. Routine evaluation and treatment of heartburn and regurgitation symptoms should be an integral component of postoperative care. Younger patients and those who undergo surgery in the early postoperative period may be at a greater risk for developing heartburn and regurgitation symptoms, necessitating more active measures to treat these symptoms.