From the Guidelines
After gastric sleeve surgery, patients should have regular blood tests, including complete blood count, serum electrolytes, serum albumin, liver and renal function tests, CRP, procalcitonin, serum lactate levels, blood gas analysis, and nutritional panels for vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D, folic acid, B12, B6, and B1, to monitor their health and nutritional status 1. These blood tests are essential to assess late complications following bariatric surgery and to evaluate the patient's nutritional status, as they are at high risk of vitamin B complex deficiency and malnutrition 1. The frequency of these tests may vary based on individual health needs, but they are typically done at regular intervals after surgery. Some of the key blood tests that should be performed include:
- Complete blood count to check for anemia
- Comprehensive metabolic panel to assess liver and kidney function
- Lipid panel for cholesterol levels
- Nutritional panels to monitor vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, vitamin D, folate, iron, ferritin, calcium, and zinc
- Serum electrolytes, serum albumin, liver and renal function tests, CRP, procalcitonin, and serum lactate levels to assess late complications following bariatric surgery 1 It is also important to note that patients should follow their surgeon's specific recommendations for blood work schedules, as requirements may vary based on pre-existing conditions and post-operative progress. Additionally, a clear liquid meal regimen can usually be initiated several hours after surgery, and all patients should have access to a comprehensive nutrition and dietetic assessment with counselling on the macronutrient and micronutrient content of the diet based on the surgical procedure and the patient’s nutritional status 1. A regimen of life-long vitamin and mineral supplementation and nutritional biochemical monitoring is necessary to prevent deficiencies and ensure optimal health outcomes 1.
From the Research
Blood Tests Needed After Gastric Sleeve
The following blood tests are recommended after gastric sleeve surgery:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) to check for anemia 2, 3, 4
- Iron levels to check for iron deficiency 2, 3, 4
- Vitamin B12 levels to check for vitamin B12 deficiency 2, 5, 3, 4
- Folate levels to check for folate deficiency 3, 4
- Vitamin D levels to check for vitamin D deficiency 3
- Calcium and magnesium levels to check for deficiencies 3
- Copper levels to check for copper deficiency 4
Frequency of Blood Tests
The frequency of blood tests may vary depending on the individual's needs and the surgeon's recommendations. However, the following is a general guideline:
- 1-3 months after surgery: CBC, iron, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D levels 3
- 6-12 months after surgery: CBC, iron, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D levels 3
- 1-2 years after surgery: CBC, iron, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D levels 3
Importance of Blood Tests
Blood tests are essential to monitor for potential nutritional deficiencies after gastric sleeve surgery. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, folate, and copper can lead to anemia, while deficiencies in calcium and magnesium can lead to other health problems 2, 3, 4. Regular blood tests can help identify these deficiencies early on, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of complications.