Approximately 15 million Americans are morbidly obese---more than 80 to 100 pounds overweight. The number of weight-loss surgeries, known as bariatric surgeries, has climbed steadily in recent years. More than 200,000 of these procedures are performed annually in the United States to improve the health and longevity of obese patients.
How It Works
Two procedures---sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric band surgery---limit food intake by restricting the size of the stomach. Gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, or BPD-DS, restrict the size of the stomach and also reduce calorie absorption by rerouting the digestive system.
Risks
Within the first 30 days, complications may include bleeding, infection, pneumonia, leaks and blood clots. During the first six months, gastric bypass and BPD-DS patients may experience body aches, dry skin, fatigue, hair loss and mood changes. Later complications can include intestinal obstructions, gallstones, hernias and nutritional deficiencies. Following the recommended diet helps to avert some of these risks. Lap band patients may experience problems with the band slipping or leaking, stomach blockage, nausea and vomiting or expansion of the pouch.
Nutrition
During the first six months, the diet is slowly advanced from liquids to small amounts of regular food. Gastric bypass and BPD-DS patients risk nutritional deficiencies unless they maintain a high-protein diet and take supplements.
Weight Loss
Most bariatric surgery patients lose half of their excess weight in the first six months. Weight loss usually stops within two years. About 10 percent regain some of the weight.
Health Benefits
Bariatric surgery has benefits beyond weight loss. By reducing obesity, it also treats obesity-related conditions, including Type II diabetes, depression, liver disease, degenerative joint disease and asthma.
References
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Bariatric Surgery for Severe Obesity
- MayoClinic.com: Gastric Bypass Surgery
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastric Bypass Surgery
- American Society for Bariatric Surgery: Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
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