The Cochrane Collaboration recently concluded that bariatric surgery is more effective than conventional weight loss management in terms of weight loss, improvement in weight related medical conditions, and in improved quality of life. 

The goal of the group’s analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness of various weight loss surgery techniques compared with non-surgical weight loss methods.  Included in this comparison were patients who were moderately obese as defined by a body mass index between 30-35.  Gastric bypass, adjustable gastric banding (Lap-Band), sleeve gastrectomy and vertical banded gastroplasty procedures were reviewed in this analysis.

The Cochrane Collaboration is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to provide high quality evidence for healthcare decision making around the world.