Am J Psychiatry 1976; 133:26-31
Copyright © 1976 by American Psychiatric Association
Studies of superobesity: II. Psychiatric appraisal of jejuno-ileal bypass surgery
P Castelnuovo-Tedesco and D Schiebel
The authors studied 12 superobese women for 10 months to 3 years following
jejuno-ileal bypass surgery. All patients had significant weight loss to
near normal levels and were pleased with their newfound capabilities in the
areas of physical, social, and sexual activities. Enhanced self-esteem,
initiative, and assertiveness were noted. Although there were no serious
postoperative psychiatric complications, patients experienced more mood
lability and greater awareness of anxiety, depression, and irritability;
their necessary adjustments in lifestyle strained relationships with
spouses and parents in some cases. The principal drawback of the procedure
was the occurrence in 7 patients of major somatic complications, with
concomitant discouragement and apprehension.
