Abstract:

Bariatric surgery in the United Kingdom dates to the early 1970s, and early pioneers made international contributions. This article gives a personal perspective on historical development from their work through the introduction of laparoscopic and revisional techniques to the present day. Bariatric surgery is becoming recognized in the United Kingdom as a cost-effective force for health improvement, but is hampered by restricted National Health Service prioritization and lack of insurance support. The British Obesity and Metabolic Surgery Society represents an active bariatric clinical community and holds its own scientific meetings. High quality is fostered by a multidisciplinary and team approach in specialized units with adequate volume. Significant advances have been made in professional recognition, science, innovation, guideline development, and health-economic validation. Challenges remain in equity of access, service capacity, reimbursement, and clinical quality assurance. The recent establishment of a National Registry will help to overcome these obstacles.

Authors:

Alberic Fiennes, BSc, MS, FRCS, President, British Obesity & Metabolic Surgery Society, Chairman, National Bariatric Surgery Registry Data Committee, Late, Director of Bariatric Surgery, University College London Hospitals NHS Trust

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