Drug treatment or bariatric surgery for type 2 diabetes ?

In this pooled analysis of four U.S. clinical trials conducted between 2007 and 2013, researchers evaluated the long-term glycemic control and safety of bariatric surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, adjustable gastric banding) compared with lifestyle measures coupled with drug therapy for type 2 diabetes. A total of 262 patients were followed for 7 to 12 years. At the end of this follow-up, patients who had undergone bariatric surgery had better glycemic control, less use of antidiabetic drugs and a higher rate of diabetes control, compared with patients who had benefited from hygienic-dietary measures coupled with medication.