Variation in the Care of Surgical Conditions: Obesity

This report discusses the growing problem of obesity in the U.S. population and shows different approaches to its treatment over time and by region. It focuses on the surgical treatment of obesity, including the decision to use surgery, the technical quality of surgical care, and patient outcomes. The trends and regional variation presented in this report reflect a combination of factors: the rise of obesity rates; the development of new therapies, particularly less invasive and more effective surgical techniques; and evolving policies related to safety and insurance coverage. Most importantly, regional variation raises questions about a lack of consensus within the medical community regarding the use of bariatric surgery and the role of patients in making fully informed decisions about their care. And finally, while progress has been made in understanding the best ways to limit obesity using surgical and medical approaches, areas in need of further improvement are highlighted.