Bariatric Surgery May Improve Outcomes for Patients With MASH

Bariatric Surgery Aids Sustained Weight Loss and May Help Treat Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)

A growing body of evidence suggests that bariatric surgery can be an effective treatment tool for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), a severe form of fatty liver disease. MASH is a common condition, but there are limited treatment options beyond diet and exercise. Currently, there is only one FDA-approved medication available for treating MASH.

A 15-year study published in Nature Medicine found that bariatric surgery can significantly reduce the risk of severe liver problems for some people with MASH. The study found that only 20.9% of people who received bariatric surgery experienced severe liver outcomes, compared to 46.4% of those who used medical therapies.

"Bariatric surgery is one of the treatments that’s so incredibly effective. In fact, I would probably argue that as a single therapy, it is the most effective treatment of fatty liver disease, or MASH, just because the response rates are incredible," said Sujit Janardhan, MD, Ph.D., a hepatologist at Rush University Medical Center and a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.

Bariatric Surgery Aids Sustained Weight Loss

Considered the gold standard for obesity treatment, bariatric surgery can reduce stomach size or help lower the absorption of calories from food, which contributes to sustained weight loss. After 15 years, the participants who received the surgery lost an average of 26.6% of their body weight, while the non-surgical group lost 9.8%, according to the new study.

Weight Loss Medications Show Promise, Too

Weight-management medications have also been considered for MASH treatment. An ongoing study has shown some improvements in liver scarring for MASH patients who take semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic and Mounjaro—compared to those given a placebo. "Certainly weight loss medications will help. However, you have to be on it forever," said Christine J. Ren-Fielding, MD, chief of bariatric surgery at NYU Langone Health.

Conclusion

The new study provides support for bariatric surgery as a safe and effective way to manage MASH for people with obesity and severe liver scarring (cirrhosis). While weight loss medications may also be effective, it is essential to note that sustained weight loss is crucial for long-term health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)?
A: MASH is a severe form of fatty liver disease.

Q: What are the treatment options for MASH?
A: Currently, there is only one FDA-approved medication available for treating MASH, and bariatric surgery has shown promising results.

Q: What are the benefits of bariatric surgery for MASH patients?
A: Bariatric surgery can significantly reduce the risk of severe liver problems and lead to sustained weight loss.

Q: Are weight loss medications effective for MASH treatment?
A: Yes, weight loss medications, such as semaglutide, have shown promise in improving liver scarring for MASH patients. However, it is essential to note that sustained weight loss is crucial for long-term health benefits.