Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in the Immediate Postoperative Period of Bariatric Surgery

Objectives: Since obesity and overweight are strongly associated with cardiovascular diseases, we investigated cardiovascular events risk in individuals who lost weight through bariatric surgery. Methods: Serum levels of glucose, insulin, triacylglycerol, HDL cholesterol, non-HDLDL cholesterol, and lipoprotein ratios were assessed in patients with obesity before and after bariatric surgery, including a 6-month follow-up period. Results: Bariatric surgery significantly improved BMI, triglyceride levels, glucose, and insulin sensitivity. However, HDL cholesterol levels dropped sharply in the first month (p < 0.0001), coinciding with elevated atherogenic indices, indicating a transient increase in cardiovascular risk. By 6 months, indices improved significantly, HDL recovered, and LDL particle size increased, suggesting reduced atherogenic potential. Conclusions: Individuals undergoing bariatric surgery have a higher cardiovascular events risk in the immediate postoperative period. Health professionals should be aware of and monitor these patients closely.