Bariatrics

Bariatrics

Bariatric surgery is yet another way to achieve weight loss. It is known to make changes to your digestive system, ultimately leading you to lose weight. This surgery takes place only when diet and exercise regimen have failed and you are suffering from serious health issues because of obesity.

What do we need to know about bariatric surgery?

There are several procedures in bariatric surgery that reduce your body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Bariatric surgery can offer several benefits, yet there are important pointers that you must be aware of before planning it.

To know more, you can search for a bariatric surgeon near you or a bariatric hospital near you.

What are the different types of bariatric surgery?

Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch

Step 1

The very first step of this surgery is called Sleeve Gastrectomy, wherein around 80% of a patient’s stomach will be removed, leaving behind only a small, tube-shaped stomach. A few parts of the small intestines and pyloric valves that are connected to your stomach help in releasing the food for your stomach.

Step 2

The second and final step is to bypass the bigger part of the intestine to reach the duodenum that is located near the stomach. After this surgery, you will start noticing that your amount of food intake has been reduced and nutrient absorption has also become limited. No more unnecessary fats and proteins will be consumed.

Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty

This is the latest weight-loss surgery wherein a patient's stomach is reduced with the help of an endoscopic suturing device. If a person’s BMI is 30 or more, and if his or her diet and workout plan haven’t worked, then this surgery is recommended.

Gastric bypass surgery is also known as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. During this surgery, a small pouch that is located right into our stomach gets connected to the small intestines by surgeons. Once the food swallowed gets passed from the small pouch of your stomach to the intestine, it will go directly to the small intestine ignoring the rest of your stomach.

Intragastric Balloon

This weight loss surgery consists of a saline-filled balloon that is made of silicon and is fitted inside the stomach. This balloon helps a patient to lose weight as he or she already feels full and food that is eaten is limited.

Sleeve Gastrectomy

A surgical weight loss method which is done through laparoscopy and small instruments to make multiple incisions on your upper stomach. Almost 80% of the stomach is removed in this surgery. After which, a small tube-shaped stomach that will be almost the size of a banana will be kept inside.

Which conditions can lead to bariatrics?

These surgeries are only performed when diet and exercise plans have failed. To undergo these surgeries, you have to have a strong reason such as life-threatening health diseases because of obesity.

Biliopancreatic Diversion With Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) should only be performed on a person who has such diseases as:

• High BP
• Heart disease
• Severe sleep apnea
• High cholesterol
• Type 2 diabetes

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty can only be performed on people who have a BMI of 30 and above. This surgery is not recommended for people who are suffering from bleeding because of hernia or had any other abdominal surgery in the past.

Intragastric Balloon is suitable for people who:

• Have BMI between 30 and 40 
• Are willing to adopt a healthy lifestyle 
• Have not undergone any stomach or esophageal surgery 

Sleeve Gastrectomy is suggested for patients who:

• Have BMI above 40 
• Have health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high BP and severe sleep apnea 

When should you see a doctor?

If you have a very high BMI and are suffering from a life-threatening condition because of obesity, consult a doctor.

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, Chembur, Mumbai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the risk factors?

• Infections 
• Blood clottings 
• Breathing issues 
• Lung problems 
• Leaks in your gastrointestinal systems 

Conclusion

Bariatrics or gastric bypass surgery has several benefits and disadvantages at the same time. Talk to your doctor and understand how this surgery will work or whether you actually need these surgeries.