The Hidden Cost of Bariatric Surgery: Wernicke’s Encephalopathy and Polyneuropathy

Bariatric surgery is a recognised intervention for severe obesity, a global epidemic associated with numerous comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Procedures such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass facilitate significant weight loss, improving metabolic health and quality of life. However, these surgeries carry hidden costs, particularly concerning nutritional deficiencies that are often overlooked in preoperative assessments. This case report presents a 27-year-old patient who, after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery, developed neurological symptoms due to thiamine deficiency. Thiamine, essential for energy metabolism, is crucial for neurological function, and its deficiency can lead to serious conditions like Wernicke's encephalopathy and polyneuropathy. Despite the initial success of the surgery, the patient faced significant morbidity due to this oversight. The report emphasises the need for rigorous nutritional monitoring and proactive supplementation post-surgery. It advocates for comprehensive preoperative counselling that addresses potential deficiencies and their long-term implications. By recognising these hidden costs, healthcare providers can better prepare patients for effective long-term management, enhancing post-operative outcomes and improving the overall quality of life for those battling severe obesity.