Mansi Tatiya
Bariatric Dietician & Content Writer
4 Reasons How Successful Is Gastric Bypass Surgery
Gastric bypass surgery also known as Roux-en-gastric bypass surgery is a type of bariatric surgery which is performed on severely obese patients (BMI more than equal to 30). Bariatric surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures performed to aid in weight loss for individuals with extreme obesity. When a person’s BMI reaches 30 or more and/or have other comorbidities, they are eligible for this course of treatment.
Bariatric surgery works by altering the digestive system to promote weight loss through different mechanisms, including restriction, malabsorption, or a combination of both.
Gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This surgery is typically performed on individuals with severe obesity to help them lose weight and improve their overall health.
The success of gastric bypass surgery can be measured in several ways:
1. Weight loss: Gastric bypass surgery has been shown to be effective in helping patients lose a significant amount of excess weight. In this surgery, the portion size of the stomach is reduced and is bypassed to the small intestine. This leads to reduced caloric intake of an individual which in turns reduces the weight. On an average, patients can expect to lose 50% to 60% of their excess weight within the first year after surgery. However, it’s important to note that individual results may vary.
2. Resolution of comorbidities: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery has been shown to reduce the incidence and improve the management of several obesity-related comorbidities. Here’s how RYGB can have a positive impact on these conditions:
Type 2 diabetes: RYGB surgery has a profound effect on improving glycemic control and often leads to the resolution or significant improvement of type 2 diabetes. The exact mechanisms for this improvement are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to changes in gut hormones, insulin sensitivity, and weight loss.
Hypertension: Many individuals with obesity also have high blood pressure. RYGB surgery has been shown to significantly decrease blood pressure in many patients. The weight loss and improvements in insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance likely contribute to this reduction.
Sleep apnea: Sleep apnea is a common condition characterised by interruptions in breathing during sleep. RYGB surgery can lead to a reduction in excess weight, which can improve symptoms and severity of sleep apnea. Weight loss may also alleviate the pressure on the airways, reducing episodes of apnea.
Dyslipidemia: Obesity is often associated with abnormal lipid levels, including high cholesterol and triglycerides. RYGB surgery can help normalise lipid profiles by promoting weight loss and improving insulin sensitivity. These changes can lead to a decrease in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): RYGB surgery can improve or eliminate symptoms of GERD in many patients. This improvement is attributed to the reduction in stomach acid production, changes in the anatomy of the digestive tract, and weight loss.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): NAFLD is a condition characterised by the accumulation of fat in the liver. RYGB surgery can lead to significant improvements in liver function and a reduction in liver fat content. Weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and changes in gut hormones likely contribute to these improvements.
3. Quality of life: Many patients report an improvement in their quality of life after gastric bypass surgery. This can include increased mobility, reduced joint pain, improved self-esteem, and an overall better sense of well-being. However, it’s important to note that the surgery is not a magic solution and lifestyle changes are still necessary for long-term success.
4. Long-term weight maintenance: Maintaining weight loss after gastric bypass surgery can be challenging. Long-term success of this weight loss procedure depends on the patient’s commitment to adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
Overall, gastric bypass surgery has been shown to be an effective tool for weight loss and the improvement of obesity-related health conditions. However, it is a major surgical procedure with potential risks and complications. It should only be considered after careful evaluation and consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
