Cannabis Use and Bariatric Surgery Psychology Practice: Survey and Insights

Abstract Background Cannabis is second only to alcohol as a substance of abuse and dependence in the United States (US). While there is extensive research examining alcohol use and bariatric surgery, there is currently little research and no published guidelines specific to cannabis use and bariatric surgery. Objective The purpose of this quality improvement survey was to identify major themes and general guidelines applied by bariatric surgery psychology clinicians. Setting This practice survey was disseminated to bariatric surgery psychologists at various US academic medical centers, hospitals, and private practices. Methods An electronic, 35-question survey was sent to 47 bariatric surgery psychologists to collect information on current clinical practice guidelines regarding cannabis use pre and post- bariatric surgery. Results Thirty-four (72.34%) bariatric surgery psychologists completed the survey questionnaire. Major identified themes included: (a) lack of standardized assessment of cannabis use, (b) three month abstinence from cannabis requirement prior to bariatric surgery, (c) recommended lifetime abstinence from cannabis after bariatric surgery, and (d) discussion of cannabis use risks following bariatric surgery, including appetite stimulation, addiction potential, and possible negative impact on judgment. Conclusion Cannabis use will likely further increase in the US. This survey highlighted common bariatric surgery psychology practices in the absence of extensive research and published guidelines. These findings suggest a preliminary framework to address cannabis use in patients seeking bariatric surgery. It is recommended that professional organizations and societies build on these initial survey findings to develop guidelines for more consistent, evidence-based practice regarding cannabis use and bariatric surgery.