Important 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.

Just like any other major surgery, this operation comes with its own complications. Some of the complications are related to abdominal operation while others are specific to gastric bypass procedures (GBP). These potential adverse effects are used to assess the risk of operation and mortality. The overall rate of complications is higher with open incisions than when laparoscopy is used.

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.

One of the most important preparations before surgery is availing blood for transfusion in case need arises. This is because uncontrollable bleeding may ensue as a result of a cut major vessel. Another complication, hernia formation, may be due to failure of surgical incisions to heal well. To minimize this, most operations are usually carried through laparoscopy. Hernias are also likely to compress and cause bowel obstruction.

The complications notwithstanding, gastric bypass procedures come with a number of advantages. First, a weight loss of at least sixty percent is obtained. Secondly, as a result of losing the excess weight, related morbidities are reduced. In one research, it was shown that type two diabetes is relieved in over ninety percent of patients.

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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