Surgical treatment of obesity in DM1 – a case report and a review of the literature

• The first DM1 case reported after surgical treatment for obesity.
• Benefits and risks with surgical treatment for obesity in DM1 patients.
• Favorable outcome after surgical treatment for obesity in a DM1 case.

In patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 overweight and obesity are frequent. When present this has further negative effects on the patients' pulmonary and muscle function as well as social participation. Anesthesia in myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients is associated with increased risks, especially in those who are obese. We describe the outcome of the first patient reported who has undergone gastric bypass surgery. The operation went without complications. Within two years after surgery she has lost 56.5 kg corresponding to 44% of her preoperative body weight (128.5 kg). She has lost muscle mass and muscle strength, but has gained somewhat in functional tests including pulmonary function and has no longer any need for nocturnal ventilation. Surgical treatment of obesity may be feasible in selected myotonic dystrophy type 1 patients but further studies are needed to determine appropriate criteria for surgery including body mass index limits and how pre- and post-operative follow-up should best be made.