The Pro & Cons of Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure in which the stomach is made smaller by the use of a band or surgical staples, then connected to the middle portion of the small intestine, effectively bypassing a large portion of the stomach and the entire top of the small intestine. In recent years, gastric bypass surgery as a treatment for extreme obesity has become increasingly popular. While the results of the procedure are generally successful, there are a number of pros and cons to consider before having the surgery performed.

Surgical Drawbacks

• Gastric bypass surgery poses some risk of complications, such as infection of the abdomen and incision site, as well as excessive bleeding. In addition, the surgery can cause a hernia or obstructed bowel, either of which would have to be repaired by an additional surgery.

Digestive System Risks

• A patient who undergoes gastric bypass surgery usually needs time to adjust to a number of digestive system changes, including intolerance to foods such as milk or red meat, frequent nausea and greatly altered bowel habits. Food must be eaten in small bites and chewed thoroughly to prevent large pieces of food becoming stuck in the newly formed stomach pouch. In addition, if the connection between the stomach pouch and the small intestine leaks food into the abdomen, a serious infection can develop.

Nutritional Concerns

• Gastric bypass patients often suffer severe nutritional deficiencies, with anemia developing in more than half of them due to a lack of iron. In addition, patients often suffer from a deficiency of vitamin B12 and protein.

Cardiovascular Benefits

• The cardiovascular system of an obese individual can benefit greatly from a gastric bypass procedure because, with the loss of excess weight, the health risks associated with obesity drastically diminish. Patients usually experience a reduction in their cholesterol levels as well as in their blood pressure, decreasing their overall risk of developing heart disease.

Respiratory System Benefits

• Gastric bypass patients can experience dramatic improvements in their respiratory health, such as with sleep apnea and asthma, following the procedure, thanks to weight loss that leads to a greater ability to exercise, which in turn improves lung and heart health.