The complications of bariatric surgery and how to overcome them
Written in association with:Bariatric surgery is an umbrella term for surgical procedures for weight loss, including sleeve gastrectomy, gastric band, or gastric bypass. These procedures alter the digestive system to help sustain weight loss for obesity. Nevertheless patients must permanently adjust their lifestyle and diet in order to maintain the results of the procedure and avoid complications. We spoke to Dr Antanas Mickevicius, an experienced bariatric surgeon, who told us all about the unlikely risks in bariatric surgery and how they can be handled.
What are the risks of bariatric surgery?
As with any major surgery, there are risks that are important to consider before bariatric surgery, even though the chances of them occurring are low.
Some complications of bariatric surgery are:
- Blood clots (namely deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism)
- Wound infection
- Stapler line leak
- Bowel obstruction
- Malnutrition
- Gallstones
- Excess skin
Gallstones and excess skin are hardly dangerous and are easily addressed, but conditions like blood clots, leakage, and blockage can cause serious problems without adequate treatment.
Some efforts can be made before the procedure in order to minimise risks during and post-surgery. Patients are encouraged to stop smoking, follow preoperative diet, regulate their blood pressure, and increase physical activity.
What are the short-term complications?
Blood clots start in the lower leg (DVT) or in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and cause swelling and pain in the area of the clot. These can be addressed by anticoagulant medications.
Symptoms of leak after gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, present with significant increase of pain, sickness, high body temperature. Intraluminal bleeding could cause vomiting or diarrhoea. Bowel obstruction represents with vomiting, enlarged size of the abdomen.
All the complications are very rare, but dangerous. In most cases occur during first 48 hours after surgery, when patient remains in hospital, so timely management plays the key role in final success of treatment.
What are the long-term complications?
New lifestyle and habits post-surgery are necessary to ensure the long-lasting success of the procedure.
Dietitian support to continue with healthy diet, gradual increasing of physical activity, regular use of supplements are the keys to avoid weight regain or malnutrition.
Gradual weight loss after bariatric procedures continues about 12 months on average. Patients should attend follow up appointments to monitor their condition and to ensure that ongoing changes are in normal ranges. The appointments involve blood tests, physical exams, additional information and resources regarding healthy diet and living.
If you are considering bariatric surgery or are struggling with obesity, book an appointment with a Dr Antanas Mickevicius via his Top Doctors profile.
