Metabolic surgery describes operations that result in weight loss and have an effect on the hormones of the intestines resulting in desirable changes such as decreased hunger, better glucose (blood sugar) levels and a lower metabolic weight “set-point” (like a thermostat for weight). At Samaritan Weight Management Institute we perform Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy.

Roux-en-Y (RNY) Gastric Bypass is a procedure that is recognized as an effective treatment in providing significant weight loss, metabolism changes and long-term weight control. It is one of the most commonly used procedures in the United States, and has world-wide acceptance. A small stomach pouch is created by dividing the stomach and then re-routing the intestines. This limits the amount of food one can eat, while providing a satisfying “full” sensation and beneficial hormone changes.

Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) is a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach allowing for a sense of fullness with a smaller amount of food, as well as having a beneficial effect on metabolism.

Eligible patients (age 18 to 65) 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.

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 weight loss surgery, be healthy enough to have this major procedure and understand the risks involved in the procedure.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of the most accurate ways to determine when extra pounds translate into health risks. BMI is a measure which takes into account a person’s weight and height to gauge total body fat in adults. Someone with a BMI of 26 to 27 is about 20 percent overweight, which is generally believed to carry moderate health risks. A BMI of 30 and higher is considered obese. The higher the BMI, the greater the risk of developing additional health problems. Heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure are all linked to being overweight.

A BMI of 24 or less is considered a healthy weight, whereas a BMI of 25 to 29.9 is considered overweight. Individuals who fall into the BMI range of 25 to 34.9, and have a waist size of over 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women, are considered to be at especially high risk for health problems.

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 weight loss surgery increase with a patient’s age and with the severity of other health problems. These risks include:

• Infection
• Bowel obstruction
• Leaks where the bowel is stapled or sewn (staple line or anastomosis)
• Breathing problems (pneumonia)
• Bleeding
• Blood clots in legs or lung
• Incisional hernia
• Problems from anesthesia
• Band slippage
• Band erosion
• Need for additional operation
• Death

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; registration is available online. We can be reached at 541-768-4280.