We have all read and heard about the overwhelming problem with obesity in America. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that 57% of Americans are overweight and over 30% are obese. We are talking about millions and millions of adults! Obesity can lead to diabetes, heart attacks, hypertension and more. Many people try diets and exercise without success and turn to their doctors for help.
Gastric Bypass surgery is becoming the medical treatment of choice for the morbidly obese. We all know that NBC’s Today Show weatherman, Al Roker, submitted to the surgery with great results. However, Gastric Bypass surgery is a big surgery with big risks including:
· Bleeding
· Complications due to anesthesia and medications
· Deep vein thrombosis
· Dehiscence (separation of areas that are stitched or stapled together)
· Infections
· Leaks from staple lines
· Pulmonary problems
· Spleen injury
· Death
Research the procedure before speaking with a doctor. Excellent information can be found at WebMD and Emedicine. Also, make sure your doctor is experienced in the performance of this complicated surgery. A good place to start is to determine if your surgeon is a member of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Be an informed consumer of medical care.