Overview

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric Obesity Weight loss surgery is an effective treatment option for patients suffering with morbid obesity. It also causes significant improvement in the obesity-related co-morbid conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and joint pains, sleeping disorders like sleep apnea, heart diseases, infertility issues and several others.

How is Bariatric Surgery Performed?

It is performed using laparoscopic technique (Keyhole Surgery-minimally invasive) and most of the patients start walking around on the same day of the surgery. The surgery causes weight loss because it restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold-causing less absorption. Usually the weight loss surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques because it causes early recovery and less pain and the cosmetic outcomes are excellent.

The common bariatric surgery options that are available are:

·       Gastric Bypass

·       Sleeve Gastrectomy

·       Minigastric bypass

·       Gastric bands

Who are the right candidates of Bariatric Surgery?

The right candidates are the ones who:

·       Have a BMI>32.5 and associated diseases like diabetes, hypertension, osteoarthritis, obstructive sleep apnea

·       Have a BMI>37.5, with or without associated illnesses

·       Did not benefit from the weight loss management techniques

·       Are uncomfortable in performing routine activities due to excess weight

What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?

It is one of the most common and successful weight loss procedures. It is called as the Roux-en- Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) and is considered as the “Gold Standard” of weight loss surgery. In this procedure, a small stomach pouch is created to restrict the intake of food as well as to facilitate smaller meals. A major portion of the stomach and part of small intestine is bypassed, which reduces the absorption of food and reduces the intake of calories.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery/Sleeve Gastrectomy?

This surgery is performed by reducing 80% of the stomach. The remaining stomach looks like a banana or a sleeve of a shirt and hence it is called as “Sleeve”. The new stomach pouch created restricts the amount of food intake, thereby leading to weight loss. This procedure is not reversible as a major portion of the stomach is removed from the body, and the remaining stomach pouch can dilate on overeating in the long run.

What can you experience after Bariatric Surgery?

The surgery will help you to loose approximately 60 to 80 % of excess body weight at a pace of 6 kilograms weight loss every month. The weight loss is long term and sustained.

Adverse events after Bariatric Surgery

Though these are uncommon but one should be cautious

·       Bleeding

·       Anastomotic leaks

·       Blood clotting

You can also experience Vitamin B12 and other nutrient deficiencies but most of them can be managed effectively by the treating team. It is important that you do regular follow up to prevent adverse results and ensure excellent outcomes.

What are the lifestyle changes Post-Surgery?

·       Eat small meals

·       Exercise regularly

·       Consume a nutritious and balanced diet

·       Do regular follow up with your surgeon


Info Source : Max Healthcare