Gastric Bypass Surgery: High Stakes and High Risks
Gastric Bypass surgery is becoming more and more popular for obese patients who suffer a multitude of health problems related to their weight. The surgery is complicated, but basically it involves making your stomach smaller by bypassing part of your stomach and your small intestines so that fewer calories are absorbed. Unfortunately, this surgery is not without serious risks including complications from lack of proper nutrition after the surgery. For a detailed explanation of the surgery, indications, risks and expectations after the surgery, including diagrams, please go to MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Gastric bypass.
Most programs require a full and complete medical evaluation, followed by psychological testing and nutritional counseling before and after the surgery.
According to the American Academy of Bariatric Surgeons, hospitals need to make certain the following requirements are in place before qualified surgeons are given privileges to perform gastric bypass surgery:
- "Have credentials at an accredited facility to perform gastrointestinal and biliary surgery.
- Document that he or she is working within an integrated program for the care of the morbidly obese patient that provides ancillary services such as specialized nursing care, dietary instruction, counseling, support groups, exercise training, and psychological assistance as needed.
- Document that there is a program in place to prevent, monitor and manage short-term and long-term complications.
- Document that there is a system in place to provide and encourage follow-up for all patients. Follow-up visits should either be directly supervised by the Bariatric surgeon of record or other health care professionals who are appropriately trained in perioperative management of bariatric patients and part of an integrated program. While applicants can not guarantee patient compliance with follow-up recommendations, they should demonstrate evidence of adequate patient education regarding the importance of follow-up as well as adequate access to follow-up."
For more general information this subject, you can visit the following sites:
Finding a Bariatric Surgeon in Your Area - American Academy of Bariatric Surgeons
General Explanations Regarding Gastric Bypass Surgery - Web MD
General Explanation of the Gastric Bypass Surgery Risks - Columbia University
General Explanation of Surgical Options - Columbia University