Bariatric Surgery Alters Brain Glymphatic Function in Obese Patients: A DTI-ALPS Study

Motivation: The effects of bariatric surgery on changes in the brain's glymphatic system in obese patients remain unclear. Goal(s): To investigate the influence of bariatric surgery on the patients' glymphatic system. Approach: Data were collected from 41 obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery, including brain ALPS index, body fat area, hepatic fat content, and metabolic-related markers. Results: The post-operative DTI-ALPS index showed a statistically significant increment compared to the pre-operative ones (p < 0.05). The DTI-ALPS index was positively correlated with visceral fat area, hepatic T2-star, C-peptide, BMI, and body weight, negatively correlated with LDL and cholesterol, all with statistical significance (p < 0.05). Impact: This research suggests bariatric surgery can alter the brain's glymphatic system, highlighting its potential influence on cognitive health and opening avenues for further exploration of obesity-related neurological impacts.