Bariatrics

All About Bariatric Surgery

Overview

Being obese can pose several health risks. Making lifestyle changes and following a diet-and-exercise routine are the common ways to fight excess weight. However, it may not be possible in every case.

That’s why bariatric procedures are considered an effective weight-loss option. It can help you get rid of excess weight by using surgical procedures. Bariatric surgeries are commonly performed when traditional weight-loss approaches like diet and exercise do not work.

What is bariatric surgery all about?

Bariatrics are basically weight-loss surgeries. It can help you lose weight by making certain changes in your digestive system. Bariatric surgeries have many benefits, especially if you are dealing with health conditions caused by excessive weight.

Who should opt for bariatric surgery?

Bariatric surgery is done if you have a BMI of 40 or more. You need to consult a doctor first.

Why is bariatric surgery needed? What are its benefits?

Apart from ensuring weight loss, bariatric surgery is recommended if you have certain health conditions like:

• Heart problems
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver
• Diabetes (high blood sugar)
• Sleep apnea
• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

What are the types of bariatric surgery?

• Gastric bypass:
  It is the most common form of bariatric surgery. This surgery limits your stomach's ability to hold food as well as absorb nutrients. In gastric bypass surgery, a small pouch is created. This pouch is directly connected to your small intestine. Due to this pouch, your stomach is divided into two parts.
• Sleeve gastrectomy:
  Sleeve gastrectomy includes surgical removal of almost 80% of your stomach. With this type of bariatric surgery, the size of your stomach decreases. It restricts the capacity of your stomach to hold food. Sleeve gastrectomy also reduces the secretion of the hormone, ghrelin, which is responsible for the regulation of your appetite.
• Duodenal switch:
  Duodenal switch is a less common bariatric surgery type. This procedure involves two steps. Firstly, the doctor will perform a sleeve gastrectomy to create a tube-shaped pouch. In the second step, the doctor will bypass the maximum portion of your intestine to restrict your stomach’s ability to hold maximum food. The duodenal switch works well for losing excess weight. However, you may see vitamin deficiency as a side effect of this surgery.
• Gastric band: In this procedure, an adjustable elastic band is placed on the top side of your stomach. This elastic, adjustable band creates a pouch shape on the upper side of your stomach. Due to the use of a gastric band, you feel full even with small amounts of food. You may need repeated adjustment in the band over a period of time.

What are the risks associated with bariatric surgery?

Keep in mind the following:

• Excessive bleeding
• Allergic reaction to anesthesia
• Formation of blood clots
• Breathing problems
• Bowel obstruction
• Leakage in the gastrointestinal system 

There can be some long-term side effects of bariatric surgery:

• Acid reflux
• Formation of gallstones
• Diarrhea, nausea
• Hernia
• Low blood sugar
• Malnutrition
• Vitamin deficiency and related illnesses
• Ulcers
• Stomach perforation

When should you seek a doctor?

You can seek medical care if you are overweight with a BMI of 40 or more and there are underlying health conditions.

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals.

call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What precautions are needed after bariatric surgery?

After bariatric surgery, you may not be allowed to eat or drink for a few days. You must follow the diet suggested by doctors. You may experience weight loss over some time. It depends upon the type of surgery you have undergone and also on post-surgery lifestyle changes. Bariatric surgery may cause saggy skin that can be managed with exercise, muscle building, and surgical removal of excess skin if needed.