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.

Creating a smaller proximal portion of the stomach helps restrict the quantity of food intake. Gastric bypass procedures (GBP) can employ variable techniques to achieve the desired goal. Laparoscopy is the most common technique employed today. However, open surgery can be done in select cases. Laparoscopy involves making a number of incisions or channels to access given areas of the alimentary canal using a telescope and operating instruments.

It is important to be aware of the complications that may arise so as to assess the risk of the procedure and mortality related to it. Compared to laparoscopy, open surgery is associated with a higher rate of complications. Some of these adverse effects may occur just like in any other major surgery while others may be related specifically to gastric bypass procedures (GBP).

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 thinners are usually administered prior to the operation to reduce the chances of venous thromboembolism. Venous thromboembolism occurs when a clot travels via blood from its original location to other organs, particularly the lungs. Without prompt diagnosis and intervention, this complication is potentially fatal.

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.

Both emotional and physiological changes can be seen in patients who have undergone gastric bypass. This is attributed to the need to adjust their eating habits. The reduced amount of food portions lowers their energy levels. As a result, they end up with muscle weakness (also due to reduce protein intake). They tend to have difficulty in doing things such as climbing stairs or carrying heavy objects. However, with time, they become normal again as food intake increases.




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