Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Obesity and Bariatric Surgery

Obesity and bariatric surgery are closely linked, as bariatric surgery is a common treatment option for individuals with severe obesity, particularly when other methods like diet and exercise have failed. Obesity is a chronic condition characterized by excessive body fat, which can lead to a range of health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

Bariatric surgery involves surgical procedures that alter the digestive system to help patients lose weight. The most common types include:

1. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): This surgery reduces the stomach size and reroutes the small intestine to limit food intake and nutrient absorption, leading to significant weight loss.
2. Sleeve Gastrectomy: The stomach is reduced in size by removing a large portion, limiting food intake and promoting weight loss.
3. Adjustable Gastric Banding: A band is placed around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch, reducing food intake.
4. Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch: A more complex procedure that involves both stomach size reduction and rerouting of the small intestine.