Our Summary

Bariatric surgery, a procedure used to treat obesity, has gained popularity over the last 20 years due to significant advancements in the field. Approximately 150 clinical trials and 40 comprehensive studies have shown that the surgery is a trustworthy approach for treating obesity and related health issues, and it’s proven to be more effective than medical treatment, behavior therapy, and less invasive procedures. The two most common types of bariatric surgery are Roux-en-Y gastrojejunostomy (RYGB) and Sleeve gastrectomy (SG), due to their safe and effective results. Medical literature supports the use of these procedures, but there are ongoing debates about certain technical aspects that need more research.

FAQs

  1. What is bariatric surgery and why has it gained popularity in recent years?
  2. What are the two most common types of bariatric surgery and why are they considered safe and effective?
  3. What kind of evidence supports the use of bariatric surgery to treat obesity and related health issues?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about gastric bypass surgery is to follow a strict post-operative diet plan to ensure successful weight loss and prevent complications. This may include eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding high-calorie and high-fat foods, and focusing on protein-rich foods. It is important to work closely with a registered dietitian to develop a customized meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while promoting weight loss. Additionally, regular exercise and lifestyle changes are also important for long-term success after gastric bypass surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for gastric bypass surgery are those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with at least one obesity-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or heart disease. These patients have often tried other weight loss methods such as diet and exercise without success. Gastric bypass surgery is considered for individuals who are committed to making lifestyle changes and are willing to follow a strict post-operative diet and exercise plan.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals including a surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and other specialists to determine if they are suitable candidates for gastric bypass surgery. This evaluation will assess the patient’s overall health, readiness for surgery, ability to comply with post-operative care, and potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Overall, gastric bypass surgery is recommended for patients who are severely obese and have not been able to lose weight through other means. It can lead to significant weight loss, improved health outcomes, and a better quality of life for many patients. However, it is important for patients to carefully consider the risks and benefits of the surgery and to work closely with their healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Timeline

Before Gastric Bypass:

  1. Patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team which includes a surgeon, dietitian, psychologist, and other healthcare professionals.
  2. Patient is required to undergo various medical tests to assess their overall health and determine if they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Patient attends pre-operative education sessions to learn about the procedure, potential risks and benefits, and post-operative expectations.
  4. Patient may be required to follow a specific pre-operative diet and lifestyle changes to prepare for surgery.

After Gastric Bypass:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which typically takes a few hours and requires a hospital stay of 2-3 days.
  2. Patient is monitored closely by healthcare professionals post-operatively to manage pain, prevent complications, and ensure proper healing.
  3. Patient gradually transitions from a liquid diet to solid foods, under the guidance of a dietitian, to accommodate the reduced stomach size and promote weight loss.
  4. Patient is encouraged to engage in regular physical activity and attend follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor progress, address any concerns, and make necessary adjustments to their diet and lifestyle.
  5. Patient experiences significant weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health issues, such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea, leading to a better quality of life and overall well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about gastric bypass surgery include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastric bypass surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after surgery, and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle before and after the surgery?
  4. What are the expected results of the surgery in terms of weight loss and improvement in health conditions related to obesity?
  5. Are there any long-term effects or complications that I should be aware of?
  6. How will the surgery impact my ability to absorb nutrients and vitamins?
  7. Will I need to take any medications or supplements after the surgery?
  8. What type of follow-up care will be required after the surgery?
  9. Are there any specific dietary guidelines or restrictions that I should follow post-surgery?
  10. How will the surgery impact my overall quality of life and ability to participate in physical activities?

Reference

Authors: Morales-Maza J, Rodriguez-Quintero JH, Sanchez-Morales GE, Sanchez Garcia-Ramos E, Romero-Velez G, Aguilar-Frasco JL, Pimienta-Ibarra AS, Alvarez-Bautista FE, Leon P, Hernandez-Acevedo JD, Del Angel-Millan G, Sierra M. Journal: G Chir. 2020 Jan-Feb;41(1):5-17. PMID: 32038008