Procedure Details
Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC) offers a range of bariatric surgery procedures. These operations have proven results in treating class III obesity. They also help normalize your metabolism, including blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. Below is information on each procedure, including surgical techniques, benefits and potential risks.
Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass, also known as Roux-en-Y (roo-en-wy) gastric bypass, is one of the weight-loss surgeries offered at PVHMC. During this surgery, the physician makes changes to your stomach and small intestine to change the way you absorb and digest food.
This surgery involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. After the surgery, food goes into this smaller stomach pouch and then directly into the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
Surgical Technique:
- A small stomach pouch is made to limit food intake.
- Rerouting of the digestive system to bypass a section of the small intestine.
Benefits:
- Patients can see significant weight loss that is often sustainable and leads to a better quality of life.
- Helps health problems related to obesity, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea.
- The body uses energy more effectively, improving insulin sensitivity and cholesterol levels.
- Changes the hormones in your gut, which helps you feel fuller longer and contributes to appetite suppression.
Potential Risks:
- Malnutrition: Reduced absorption of essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals due to bypassed digestive tract sections.
- Dumping Syndrome: Rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine, causing symptoms like nausea, sweating and diarrhea after eating.
- Internal Hernias: Risk of hernias developing within the abdominal cavity, requiring surgical correction.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
Sleeve gastrectomy, also known as gastric sleeve surgery or vertical sleeve gastrectomy, is another weight-loss surgery option we offer at PVHMC.
During the procedure, about 80% of the stomach is removed, resulting in a tube-shaped stomach resembling a banana. The reduction in the size of the stomach limits the amount of food you can consume and enables you to feel fuller quicker.
It also triggers hormonal changes that aid in weight loss and can improve conditions related to obesity, such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
Sleeve gastrectomy is one of the most common types of bariatric surgeries performed in the United States. It is typically considered when diet and exercise haven't been effective or when serious health problems are related to obesity.
Surgical Technique:
- Remove a significant portion of the stomach to restrict food intake.
- Formation of a sleeve-shaped stomach pouch.
Benefits:
- Effective weight loss comparable to gastric bypass, with fewer restrictions on food choices after surgery.
- Improvement or resolution of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea.
- Reduced risk of long-term nutritional deficiencies compared to more complex procedures like gastric bypass.
Potential Risks:
- Staple Line Leakage: Possible leakage along the staple line used to close the stomach, requiring medical attention and possibly reoperation.
- Strictures: Narrowing of the stomach opening or connection between the stomach and intestines, leading to swallowing difficulties and food intolerance.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Some patients may experience increased acid reflux symptoms post-surgery due to changes in stomach anatomy and function.
Before considering bariatric surgery, patients may need to meet certain medical guidelines and undergo comprehensive evaluation and counseling to understand the benefits, potential risks, and individualized care plans.
You must be willing to make needed changes to lead a healthier lifestyle. You may be required to participate in long-term follow-up plans.
