Racial Disparities in Paediatric Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: An MBSAQIP Analysis.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate disparities in paediatric metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) and examine the effects of recent policy changes on access and outcomes.

Study design: Adolescents aged 10-18 who underwent MBS between 2017 and 2023 were identified using the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Participant Use Files. Trends by race and ethnicity and clinical outcomes were assessed using univariate comparisons and multivariable logistic regression.

Results: A total of 4940 paediatric patients underwent MBS from 2017 to 2023. The cohort was 71% female, 60% white, and had a mean age of 17.1 years. Female representation declined by approximately 1.1% annually. Hispanic patients comprised 32% of cases, with an average yearly increase of 1.1%. Black patient representation increased from 14% in 2017 to 24% in 2023. Asian, American Indian, and Pacific Islander patients accounted for only 1.5% of cases. Black patients were younger, had higher preoperative BMIs, and more frequently presented with comorbidities including diabetes and sleep apnoea. Hispanic patients had higher rates of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and sleep apnoea than non-Hispanics. Robotic procedures were more common among Black patients, while Roux-en-Y gastric bypass was more frequent among white patients. Surgical outcomes were similar across racial groups. However, multivariable analysis showed that female patients had increased odds of postoperative complications and emergency department (ED) visits (aOR 1.54 and 2.74, respectively), and Hispanic patients had higher odds of ED visits (aOR 1.32).

Conclusions: While MBS use is diversifying, disparities persist. Black and Hispanic youth face higher comorbidity burdens, indicating possible delayed access to surgery.