CHANGES IN THE GUT MICROBIOTA IN POST-BARIATRIC SURGERY PATIENTS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

Obesity is a complex metabolic disorder caused by a variety of genetic and non-genetic factors, such as environmental factors. For its treatment, bariatric surgical procedures have gained prominence in recent days. Two of the common procedures are the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and the adjustable gastric band (LAGB). However, surgeries can present undesirable side effects such as hair loss, Dumping syndrome, gallstones, and nutritional deficiency in the body due to changes in the intestinal microbiome. Given the above, the main objective of this review was to analyze changes in the intestinal microbiota after bariatric surgery, in relation to bacterial growth. For the realization of this study, a search was carried out in the main databases, such as PubMed, Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), and Virtual Health Library (BVS). The search focused on individuals after bariatric surgery. The study covered a total of 15 articles, and a pattern in bacterial growth after surgery was observed, with an increase in the bacteria of the phyla Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Verrucomicrobia. These bacteria are associated with the improvement of comorbidities, assistance in weight loss, and nutrient digestion. In addition, it was found that bacteria associated with gastrointestinal symptoms and/or weight gain tend to decrease after surgery. It is concluded that patients undergoing bariatric surgery in both methods obtained changes in intestinal composition positively, such as an increase in the diversity of the microbiome, among other clinical implications, caused and maintained by the dietary habit changes of these patients.