Some Essential Facts About Gastric Bypass Surgery

By Pamela Graham


There are many surgical options that are available to help with weight problems. Gastric bypass surgery is one of the operations offered in New York City. As the name suggests, this is a procedure in which the small intestine is used to separate the stomach into two parts, a smaller upper portion and a larger lower portion. The procedure is not only carried out on people suffering from extreme obesity but also benefits those with related to it such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

The purpose of a small upper pouch is to limit the amount of food that can be consumed. It is important to partition the stomach completely so as to ensure the two separate portions do not reunite in the course of healing as this will render the surgery meaningless. Laparoscopy is the most common and current technique used in the operation mainly because of minimal invasion.

Complications are bound to arise either in the course of the procedure or post operatively. The complications may be specific to bariatric surgeries or may be general to all other major abdominal procedures. It is important to know what complications to expect in order to weigh the risks and mortality of the same. Laparoscopic procedures are usually more preferred since it comes with less risk compared to open operations.

One of the complications that may occur is infection. This usually results either from either the incisions made during the operation or because of release of bacteria from the intestines. Infections may be as a result of exposure to bacteria while in the hospital. Common examples include pneumonia and sepsis. This can be managed through use of antibiotics and being diligent in respiratory therapy.

Blood tends to clot more during an operation to counter the bleeding that occurs as result of incisions made. The clots frequently form in leg veins and sometimes the pelvis for the very obese patient. Unfortunately, the blood clots may get dislodged and travel to the lungs posing a serious threat to the health of the individual. Anticoagulants are usually given preoperatively to minimise chance of venous thromboembolism.

Other complications are general to abdominal surgeries and include hemorrhage, hernias and bowel obstruction. Hemorrhage may occur as a result of accidental cutting of blood vessels. Blood for transfusion should therefore be availed prior to the procedure, in case it is needed. The chance of a hernia occurring is markedly reduced when operation is done laparoscopically. Bowel obstruction may occur either due to hernia or adhesion bands formed due to scarring.

If done successfully, the operation yields remarkable results. Research shows that at least sixty five percent of excess body weight is lost which is far more than can be achieved by any other method. Additionally, the effects of related medical conditions are markedly reduced. For instance, snoring significantly reduces in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea and medication requirements in people with essential hypertension are significantly reduced.

There are a number of downsides though. People who have undergone gastric bypass experience both emotional and physiologically changes. They may get depressed as a result of having to adjust their food intake. With low intake of food, they may end up with low energy levels and muscle weakness. Consequently, they are likely to face challenges in carrying out strenuous activities such as lifting heavy objects or even climbing stairs. Fortunately, these issues get resolved over time as food consumption gradually increases.




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