Stomach Surgery

A gastric bypass is a surgical procedure used to treat disorders such as obesity. Gastric bypass surgery makes the stomach smaller and allows food to bypass part of the small intestine. You will feel full more quickly than when your stomach was its original size, which reduces the amount of food you eat and thus reduces the calories consumed. Bypassing part of the intestine also results in fewer calories being absorbed. This leads to rapid weight loss.

A gastric bypass is typically done by making a large incision in the abdomen (an open procedure) or by making a small incision and using small instruments and a camera to guide the surgery. The second method is known as the laparoscopic approach. The stomach is then divided into two sections. A new smaller "pouch" is created. This reduces the amount of food a person can comfortably consume at one time. Foods that are high in sugar or fat often make a person who has had a gastric bypass procedure done, physically uncomfortable. Healthier eating and change in appetite are the results.

There are some regulations regarding who may have a gastric bypass. Normally, a person who has a body mass index (BMI) of 40 and above is admitted to the surgery. If a person is disabled or their excess weight has caused life threatening conditions, they are also considered for a gastric bypass. If several attempts at behavioral changes such as diet and exercise have not worked, the operation is then offered to a patient.

Weight loss surgeries like the gastric bypass have certain risks. Infection from the incision is possible. If the stomach leaks into the abdominal cavity or where the intestine is connected, an infection called peritonitis can develop. Symptoms of peritonitis include severe pain, the swelling of the abdomen, and vomiting or nausea. Nutritional deficiencies such as anemia or osteoporosis may result. Approximately 1/3 of patients who have weight loss surgery develop gallstones.

A gastric bypass usually costs about $8000. The hospital stay after the surgery is normally 2 to 4 days. Initially, the patient will have to stick to a liquid diet. A gradual move to solid food will take time. Portions that are not small enough will be rejected by the body. Rich foods should be avoided for a period of time. To ensure that fat is lost, as opposed to muscle, exercise should begin after at least one week post-surgery.

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