The Effect of Family Member Attendance at Bariatric Surgery Appointments on Patient and Family Weight-Related Outcomes

To assess the effect of family member attendance at routine pre- and postoperative appointments on early postoperative patients’ weight loss and physical activity levels and family members’ weight control practices. As part of a RCT, patients were randomized to (1) invite a romantic partner or cohabitating family member to attend routine appointments (FA arm) or (2) proceed with treatment as usual (TAU arm). Patients in FA arm were asked to invite their family member to attend four routine appointments (T1 = pre-surgery class, T2 = 1 month pre-surgery, T3 = 2 weeks post-surgery, T4 = 2 months post-surgery). Assessments of patients’ percent excess weight loss (%EWL), change in body mass index (ΔBMI), and levels of physical activity and family members’ weight control practices (dietary control, self-monitoring, physical activity, and psychological coping) were conducted at T1–T4 with all dyads, and attendance was documented. Of the 213 dyads approached, 63 dyads consented to participate. There were no significant differences in patient outcomes between FA and TAU arms or based on consistent attendance of family members. There were no significant differences in weight control practices between FA and TAU dyads. At T3 and T4, family members with consistent attendance reported higher self-monitoring, physical activity, and psychological control practices. Family members with consistent attendance reported significant increases in physical activity and psychological control practices from T1 to T4. Family member attendance at routine appointments had greater positive effects on family members rather than on patient outcomes.