Benefits of bariatric surgery before elective total joint arthroplasty: is there a role for weight loss optimization?

Decreased operative time and LOS were observed among patients who underwent TKA/THA after versus before their bariatric surgery. Patients who underwent TKA/THA after bariatric surgery had lower body mass index before and 1 year after TKA/THA. Postoperative complication rates were similar. Benefits of bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss should be considered among patients with obesity requiring TKA/THA. Optimal timing of TKA/THA and bariatric surgery has yet to be established.