The Benefits Of Obesity Surgery In Virginia
A series of Italian studies has found that undergoing lap band surgery reduces a patient’s odds of dying by nearly fifty percent over an average study period of seven to eight years. Weight loss surgery can produce a sustained reduction in body weight, at a level that is very difficult to achieve with other common obesity-management strategies, stated Dr. Luca Busetto of the University of Padova. In Virginia, there are many people who can benefit from the lap band procedure, improving their and possibly saving their lives in the process.
The researchers tallied about 3,300 deaths across the studies: 2.8 percent of those who had a bariatric procedure and 9.7 percent among similar patients who did not have surgery. This translated into 45 percent lower odds of dying with bariatric surgery.
A similar benefit was found when the team looked specifically at heart-related deaths.
Compared to no surgery, the lap band provided 29 percent lower odds of heart-related death, report the researchers in the Annals of Surgery. After drastic reductions in pounds, patients tend to find that they need fewer medications for the treatment of obesity-related conditions, and that they take fewer sick days. While the cost of lap band surgery can be greater than other treatments in the short term, said Busetto, “weight loss obtained by bariatric surgery may also save money over time.”
Lap band surgery, also know as gastric banding, involves wrapping a saline-filled silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, causing patients to feel full more quickly. Saline can be added or removed, making the constriction adjustable. Compared to other weight loss procedures, gastric banding is reversible and introduces a lower chance of severe complications and even surgery-related death.
For obese individuals considering weight surgery, Busetto recommends going to a center that has the ability to perform both bypass and banding and making sure there is an honest discussion of the short- and long-term pros and cons of each procedure before choosing one. In Virginia, there are many opportunities to attend a free informational seminar, where a board-certified surgeon can address any questions and concerns.
by arnasati on April 29th, 2012 Tags: Benefits., Obesity, Surgery, Virginia
Posted in Obesity | Comments Off