Samaritan Bariatric SurgeryProgram
Have questions about weight loss surgery? We have answers!
 What is gastric bypass surgery?
The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a permanent procedure that is recognized as an effective treatment in providing significant weight loss and long-term weight control. It is the most commonly used procedure in the United States, and has world wide acceptance. Weight loss following surgery dramatically improves quality of life, reducing weight-related diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, pulmonary disease, pain from arthritis and high cholesterol levels.
What will the surgeon do? How does the surgery work?
During surgery, a small stomach pouch is created by dividing the stomach just below the esophagus. This pouch is designed to hold two ounces (or 1/4 cup) of food. This limits the amount of food one can eat, while providing a satisfying “full” sensation.
The lower portion of the stomach is permanently closed, but it continues to produce digestive fluids that pass into the duodenum, where bile and pancreatic enzymes are also received. Together, these fluids will flow through the first portion of the small intestine and combine with food for normal digestion.
Beyond the stomach, the duodenum and the small bowel are fashioned into a “Y” configuration. One limb of the “Y” drains the active small stomach pouch and the other drains the unused larger portion of the stomach and duodenum. The stomach pouch is attached to the small bowel by way of a hole approximately one centimeter in diameter. This helps solid food stay longer in the stomach pouch so it provides a longer duration of “fullness.”
Who is eligible for surgery?
Eligible patients (age 18 to 60) must meet selection criteria, understand possible complications from the surgery, and agree to participate in nutritional education and physical activity after surgery.
Many factors are taken into account when assessing potential candidates for surgery. The most important factor is the level of obesity. We use a method known as the Body Mass Index (BMI), a formula that considers height and weight. A healthy BMI is about 18 to 25. A BMI of 30 or more reflects obesity, and greater than 40 is considered morbid obesity.
Click here to calculate your BMI.
Surgery is not the ideal choice for everyone fighting obesity. In general, those with a BMI greater than 40—or greater than 35 with significant weight-related health problems—are the best candidates for surgery. Successful candidates also need to be highly motivated and dedicated to improving their health. They must understand the goals and limitations of bariatric surgery, be healthy enough to have this major surgery, and understand the risks involved in the procedure.
What should I know about the risks and complications of surgery?
As with any form of major surgery, there are associated risks. Although the level of risk is relatively low, the consequences of such problems can be devastating and may result in death. In general, the risks of bariatric surgery increase with a patient’s age and with the severity of other health problems. These risks include:
- Infection
- Bowel obstruction
- Leaks where bowel is sewn (anastomosis)
- Breathing problems (pneumonia)
- Bleeding
- Blood clots in legs or lung
- Incisional hernia
- Problems from anesthesia
- Need for additional operation
- Death
What if I have more questions about bariatric surgery?
Call us! We'll be more than happy to talk with you and answer any questions or concerns you have. We also encourage you to attend one of our free monthly classes. The Samaritan Bariatric Surgery Program can be reached at (541) 768-4280.
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