Important Facts About Gastric Bypass Surgery

By Pamela Graham


Imagine reorganizing the alimentary canal such that the small intestine separates the stomach into two unequal parts. Gastric bypass surgery does exactly that. It is an operation that one can benefit from when in New York City. The main aim is to alter the function of the digestive system to suit the needs of the individual in question. In this case, the concerned individual is one suffering from morbid obesity or associated conditions such as hypertension, sleep apnea and diabetes among others.

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.

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).

Bacteria present in the bowel may be released during the procedure, putting the patient at risk of infections. Additionally, the open incisions made expose one to infections, especially if sterility is not well observed. Hospital acquired infections such as pneumonia, sepsis, kidney and bladder infections may also occur. Short term use of antibiotics and focused respiratory therapy can help in management.

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.

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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