Stomach Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that changes the structure of the stomach and digestive system. Often, physicians will consider this surgery as a method of last resort for patients who have severe weight issues, posing a significant risk to overall health, yet have been unable to lose a sufficient amount of weight through less invasive methods. While gastric bypass surgery can be very beneficial for the severely overweight patient, as with any surgery, it has risks, making it an option that should considered very carefully by both physician and patient.

The most common procedure of this type is Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, where the stomach is made smaller by using surgical staples or a plastic band to create a small pouch at the top of the stomach. This smaller stomach is than connected directly to the center of the small intestine, causing food to bypass a large portion of the stomach and much of the small intestine. The smaller stomach area reduces the food intake of the patient, and the shortened route that food travels through the digestive system reduces the absorption of calories, making weight loss easier.

Gastric bypass surgery can be done with an open procedure method, making a large incision in the abdomen, or with a laparoscopic method, using a small incision through which the surgeon inserts a small instruments and a camera to complete the procedure. The patient that has an open procedure can expect spend 4-6 days in the hospital, while the laparoscopic surgery patient can expect a inpatient stay of 2-3 days. With either approach, 3 to 5 weeks of recovery is necessary before normal activities are resumed.

Most patients who have undergone a gastric bypass procedure have good results, seeing rapid weight loss within the first twelve months. However, careful diet planning and consistent follow-up are necessary to guard against nutritional deficiencies, as vitamins and minerals are absorbed into the system less efficiently after this procedure. Risks of infection or surgical complications are a factor in any procedure, and should be discussed with the physician thoroughly when considering gastric bypass surgery.

Gastric bypass has been of great benefit to many who have found it impossible to lose a significant amount of weight with traditional dieting and exercise. While it is not a magic cure for obesity, combined with a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, gastric bypass can be a great advantage in the struggle to lose those stubborn extra pounds.

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