EWL
Also written as: EWL — Excess Weight Loss
Excess Weight Loss, a standard metric for measuring bariatric surgery success calculated as percentage of excess weight lost.
Full Definition
Excess Weight Loss is calculated as the percentage of weight lost relative to the excess weight above ideal body weight, typically defined as BMI 25. The formula is: %EWL = (preoperative weight - current weight) / (preoperative weight - ideal weight) × 100. Success criteria traditionally define good outcomes as >50% EWL at 2 years postoperatively. However, %EWL has limitations as it varies with baseline BMI and may overestimate success in super-obese patients. Alternative metrics like Total Weight Loss (%TWL) and BMI reduction are increasingly preferred for outcome reporting.
Usage
Usage note: Always express as percentage (%EWL). Include timeframe when reporting outcomes.
In Context
- "The patient achieved 68% EWL at 12-month follow-up, indicating excellent surgical success." — Outcome assessment
- "EWL calculations showed superior results for gastric bypass compared to adjustable banding." — Comparative study