Integrating medical and surgical therapies to optimize the outcomes of type 2 diabetes

Modern treatment of type 2 diabetes must rely on therapy individualization. Morbid obesity confers an independent excess of risk to diabetes. In these individuals metabolic surgery is an opportunity the physician should consider, especially at the time of the diabetes diagnosis, because of its efficacy and long-term effects. In addition to the possible remission of diabetes, bariatric surgery is also associated with reduced risk of micro- and macrovascular complications. A multidisciplinary team approach is necessary to maximize the beneficial effects and minimize the adverse events of metabolic surgery and to ensure proper follow-up based on the residual possibility of developing complications. In this regard, a consensus on definition of remission must be reached to define the residual risk after antidiabetic drug withdrawal. Finally, randomized clinical trials are deemed necessary to establish the risk-to-benefit profile of glucose-lowering agents for those patients who have remained diabetic or experience a disease relapse.