There is some confusion with the term bariatric surgery; it is often confused with gastric bypass, which is partially correct. Bariatric surgery actually refers to any weight loss surgery that is performed on individuals who are considered morbidly obese, to help them lose weight. Generally this is done by reducing the size of the stomach. The three main types of bariatric surgery are gastric bypass surgery, gastric banding and sleeve gastrectomy. All of these surgeries have shown to be successful at helping patients with weight loss and thereby alleviating many related health conditions.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass has been the most common of bariatric surgeries performed in the United States. There are a few different types of gastric bypass, but the one that is most often performed is the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. In this surgery a stomach pouch is created by stapling off part of the stomach, part of the small intestine is bypassed as well. This procedure can be performed either as open surgery or laparoscopically.
Gastric bypass is generally a very successful surgery in regards to fast weight loss. Most patients undergoing this surgical procedure will generally lose 50% to 70% of their excess weight in the first year.
As with all surgeries there are certain risks involved, including various complications, and the risk of death. Other risks include a leak into the abdominal cavity from the stomach, an infection at the incision site or possible blood clot. It is also estimated that anywhere from 5% to 15% of bypass patients develop ulcers.
Gastric Banding
Another common bariatric surgery is gastric banding. This procedure also restricts the stomach by using a silicone band and is the second most common bariatric surgery in the United States. This procedure is performed laparoscopically and is reversible.
This weight loss surgery is not considered as risky as gastric bypass. While it is a very effective surgery, weight is not lost quite as quickly as with gastric bypass. It does have risks also, but they are considered relatively low.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve Gastrectomy is a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach to about 15% of its original size, by removing a large portion of the stomach. The open edges are then surgically stapled together. This procedure is also performed laparoscopically and cannot be reversed. This surgery is generally done as a two part procedure for patients who are considered to high risk to undergo one of the other bariatric procedures. Once the patient has lost a certain amount of weight, and then either gastric banding or gastric bypass can be performed
Candidates for Bariatric Surgery
None of these surgeries are for those who only need to lose a few pounds. In order to be a candidate for weight loss surgery, certain guidelines must be met. They should only be considered by the morbidly obese, or individuals having a BMI of 40 or higher, and are struggling with weight related health issues. In most cases these surgeries are very effective in helping with weight loss. Lifestyle changes will also have to be made to ensure weight loss success, as well.
