According to the University of Maryland Center for Weight Management and Wellness, gastric bypass (also known as "Roux-en-Y" or "RNY") is the most common weight loss surgery performed in the United States. Because the procedure reduces the size of the stomach and bypasses part of the small intestine, most patients are able to lose a significant amount of their excess body weight. However, the Mayo Clinic points out that the procedure is not appropriate for all prospective patients.
Your Body Mass Index Is High
Body mass index (BMI) is an indicator of obesity that is calculated from an individual's weight and height. The Mayo Clinic explains that patients with a BMI of 40 or more meet the criteria for gastric bypass. These individuals (women 80 or more pounds overweight and men 100 or more pounds overweight) fall into the category of "severely overweight" or "morbidly obese." Prospective patients with lower BMIs (between 35 and 39.9) may also qualify for gastric bypass if they have one or more obesity-related conditions, such as heart disease or type 2 diabetes.
You Are Physically Ready
The rate of complications after gastric bypass is relatively low. Bariatric surgeons screen their patients carefully to determine if they are physically ready for surgery, says the Mayo Clinic. After reviewing your health history and medical records, the surgeon will order diagnostic tests and specialist consultations to assess your ability to undergo and recover from the procedure. In addition to blood tests and x-rays, many patients undergo sleep studies, cardiac stress tests and endoscopy to determine their readiness for surgery.
You Are Psychologically Ready
Although gastric bypass is an effective weight loss tool, the patient's commitment to changing her diet and lifestyle is a significant factor in the long-term success of the procedure. In the March 2009 issue of the "American Journal of Psychiatry," Marsha D. Marcus, Ph.D., et al says a preoperative psychological evaluation is required by some surgeons and all health insurance companies to assess the individual's ability to understand the procedure and to follow the postoperative regimen.
Your Age Is Between 18 and 65
Surgeons' age guidelines vary, but, generally, gastric bypass patients must be adults between the ages of 18 and 65. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, some surgeons accept patients no older than 55 or 60, reasoning that the risks of any surgical procedure will increase with the patient's age.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Gastric Bypass Surgery
- MedlinePlus: Weight Loss Surgery
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Mayo Clinic: Gastric Bypass Surgery: How You Prepare
- The American Journal of Psychiatry: "Psychiatric Evaluation and Follow-Up of Bariatric Surgery Patients"; Marsha D. Marcus, Ph.D. et al; March 2009
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