What are the Disadvantages of Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass surgery is a form of weight reduction surgery that helps people with extreme obesity in losing a large amount of weight over the long term of time . It is also commonly referred to as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery .
Procedure of Gastric Bypass -
In gastric bypass surgery the stomach is divided and the middle section of the small intestine is connected to the smaller stomach pouch. Because of this procedure the quantity of food that can be consumed is limited which helps in lowering the calorie absorption. The section of the stomach and first part of small intestine is skipped which helps an individual in losing weight
Weight Loss Mechanisms: There are two mechanisms through which Gastric bypass works in order to reduce weight :
Restriction: The amount of food consumed is restricted as the stomach pouch gets too tiny which lowers the calorie intake.As the intake of calorie is restricted , this aids in losing weight
Malabsorption: The body absorbs less calories and nutrients from the food taken when a portion of the small intestine is bypassed. Because of less absorption of food the individual starts losing weight .
Although gastric bypass surgery has a lot of advantages, it’s very essential to know about the disadvantages as well in order to take appropriate precautions .
Disadvantages of Gastric Bypass Surgery are :
Surgical dangers: Like any other surgery Gastric bypass surgery, too involves certain inherent risks.Bleeding , infection , sepsis , leaking of fluids , blood clots , anaesthesia responses , issues with incision site are the common risks that are present It is very essential to discuss these risks with your surgeon even if the risks are minor when weighed against the potential advantages .
Nutritional deficits: In gastric bypass surgery there are significant changes in the digestive tract, because of which less food is absorbed as nutrients, which leads to nutritional deficiency . There is deficiency in vital vitamins and minerals, such as iron, calcium, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D, resulting from this surgery . It’s essential to monitor your nutrient levels regularly and supplements should be taken regularly for the rest of one’s life to avoid nutritional deficiencies and the associated health issues.
Dumping syndrome: Post Gastric bypass surgery most of the patients frequently do experience the adverse effect of dumping syndrome.In this condition foods, specifically those that are heavy in sugar or fat, move too fast from the stomach into the small intestine. The symptoms resulting from this condition include sweating, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea. Following a strict diet plan, staying away from trigger foods, and eating smaller, more often meals are the necessary modifications that can be adopted in order to avoid further complications .
Gallstones: Post gastric bypass surgery, the risk of gallstone development increases because of rapid weight reduction . The bile may become oversaturated with cholesterol due to changes in the body’s metabolism, which can result in gallstone formation. Few individuals might require further surgery to remove the gallbladder if symptomatic gallstones develop .
Psychological and emotional changes : It is necessary as a result of the life-altering nature of bariatric surgery. Few individuals could struggle with emotional problems including body image problems, sadness, or trouble adjusting to new eating habits. It’s very essential to consider psychological assistance and have a strong support group prior to and following surgery.
Long-term commitment to lifestyle modifications: Gastric bypass surgery is most successful when accompanied with long-term lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a nutritious diet, frequent exercise, and on-going weight and health monitoring. To maintain these adjustments, it is difficult and it may require commitment , regular help and constant motivation Before deciding whether to get gastric bypass surgery, it’s very important to completely go through these potential drawbacks with your healthcare team. Depending on your situation they can provide you individualised advise.
Aastha Bariatrics offers a thorough approach to bariatric surgery as a centre of expertise. It is a well-known facility with a focus on metabolic and bariatric surgery. The foremost metabolic and bariatric surgeon is Dr. Manish Motwani. Aastha Bariatrics provides a group of medical specialists that cooperate with patients to help them meet their weight reduction and health objectives.
Read also; The Cost of Bariatric Surgery in India
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