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Obesity (body-mass index [BMI], ≥30 kg/m2) is associated with excess risk for complications after total hip arthroplasty (THA). As a result, many orthopedic surgeons recommend preoperative weight loss in patients with substantial obesity. Mayo Clinic investigators assessed the effects of preoperative weight loss on postoperative outcomes among 2500 patients with obesity (mean age, 66; mean BMI, 35 kg/m2) who were undergoing THA.
Patients' weights were measured 1 to 24 months before surgery and at the time of surgery. Overall, 45% lost >5 lb (29% lost >10 lb), 38% stayed at the same weight, and 17% gained >5 lb before surgery. In adjusted analyses, operative time, length of hospital stay, and discharge disposition were similar in all groups. …