The Feasibility of a Behavioral Group Intervention After Weight-Loss Surgery: A Randomized Pilot Trial

Background: Formal psychosocial support programs after weight-loss surgery
are limited in scope and availability. Objective: This randomized pilot
study evaluated the feasibility of a postoperative behavioral intervention
program.  Materials and Methods: Postoperative weight-loss
surgery patients (N = 50) were recruited from February 2017–July 2017 and
randomized to a four-month behavioral program or usual care wait-list.
Outcomes evaluated in addition to feasibility included health-related
quality of life (Short Form -36), psychosocial functioning and adherence.
Secondary outcomes included within-group changes for each outcome.
Results: Out of eight possible sessions, intervention participants
attended a mean of 4.2 sessions. Intervention group participants
experienced greater improvements in the social functioning domain of
health-related quality of life compared to usual care. Self-reported
dietary adherence in the intervention group remained stable, while usual
care group dietary adherence declined. Within the intervention group,
participants also reported gains in the physical function, pain and
general health aspects of quality life from baseline to post-treatment. No
differences in weight, mood or other eating behaviors (e.g., loss of
control, emotional eating) were evident between groups. Conclusion: Though
participation in a postoperative behavioral intervention varied, the
program helped participants to maintain aspects of quality of life and
self-reported adherence to dietary recommendations.