Impact of cholecystectomy on Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease and metabolic syndrome: a 6-month prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND

Cholecystectomy, a common surgery, may cause metabolic changes linked to bile acid metabolism. Early studies suggest a possible link between cholecystectomy and Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) and metabolic syndrome, but findings are inconclusive. This 6-month study aimed to assess how elective cholecystectomy affects metabolic syndrome development and MASLD progression in a Middle Eastern population.

METHODS

Participants included 51 patients undergoing elective cholecystectomy and 49 matched controls. MASLD grade and metabolic syndrome status were assessed at baseline and six months post-intervention using ultrasonography and standard clinical criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 100 patients were included in the present study, with 51 assigned to the cholecystectomy group and 49 to the control group. Over a six-month follow-up period, individuals in the cholecystectomy group experienced a significant decrease in body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.05) and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels (p < 0.05). However, this group also exhibited a significant increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (p < 0.05). In contrast, the control group showed significant improvements in FBS (p < 0.05) and HDL cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that undergoing cholecystectomy was linked to a higher likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome (OR = 9.63, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the potential metabolic implications of cholecystectomy. Cholecystectomy was associated with reduced BMI and improved fasting glucose but significantly increased blood pressure over 6 months. Highlighting the need for careful metabolic monitoring post-surgery.