About

Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, involves various procedures to help individuals with obesity lose weight by making changes to their digestive system. Here are some key aspects of bariatric surgery:

Types of Bariatric Surgery

Gastric Bypass: This procedure involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a large part of the stomach and a portion of the small intestine 1.

Sleeve Gastrectomy: In this surgery, a large portion of the stomach is removed, leaving a tube-shaped stomach about the size of a banana.

Adjustable Gastric Band: A band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch to hold food, which limits food intake.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: This complex surgery involves removing a large part of the stomach and bypassing a significant portion of the small intestine.

Benefits

Significant Weight Loss: Helps in achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss.

Improved Health Conditions: Can improve or resolve conditions related to obesity, such as type diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Enhanced Quality of Life: Many patients experience improved mobility, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.

Risks and Considerations

Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, and complications from anesthesia.

Nutritional Deficiencies: Patients may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements for life due to reduced nutrient absorption.

Lifestyle Changes: Successful outcomes require long-term lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise


St. Martha's Hospital, Bengaluru