Gastric Bypass: Are the Risks Worth the Rewards?

Posted by Dr. Nick Nicholson on July 31st, 2015

Keeping tight control on blood glucose levels is critical for avoiding some of the more serious complications of diabetes. For those who are obese or morbidly obese, the need to tackle weight along with sugar control becomes a critical issue. This is where gastric bypass procedures can give patients an edge by limiting their food intake, promoting weight loss and enabling tighter controls of blood glucose levels. The surgery has proven itself very beneficial for diabetes management, but it’s not without its share of potential risks. Researchers have been delving into the topic more and are finding issues that patients and their doctors may want to carefully consider before diving into bypass procedures.

A gastric bypass involves the surgical alteration of the stomach so its food holding capacity is greatly reduced. It also involves the reworking of the digestive system so overall caloric absorption is reduced. While both can help with weight loss, the latter can also lead to a reduced ability to absorb needed nutrients, researchers have found.

In a study conducted in the United States and Taiwan, doctors worked with 120 obese patients with type 2 diabetes. The study group was divided into those who would receive standard diabetic care, including medications and lifestyle management, and a group that would also receive bypass procedures. These diabetics were followed closely over the course of two years. What researchers found validated the benefits of bypass on blood sugar control, but also raised some alarm bells about potential drawbacks. Nutritional deficiencies in iron, calcium and vitamin D were found to be common in the bypass group. Researchers also found the incident rate of fractures and infections were higher in those who underwent surgery.

The bottom line of the study, which is still ongoing, is that more research is needed to best identify candidates who would benefit bypass procedures. More study is also required to determine how to reduce infection and fracture risk while improving diabetes control.

Diabetics who are considering weight loss surgery are urged to speak with their healthcare professionals. This option for weight loss can have benefits, but it’s important for patients to understand and compensate for the risks. Other surgical options may also deliver benefits without nutritional pitfalls.

About Author:-

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.