Risks and Lifestyle Changes

  

Bariatric surgery carries risks common to any surgical procedure involving the digestive system.  Evaluation and control of such risks are totally dependent on the level of expertise of the medical team performing the interventions.

POST SURGERY CHANGES

Being a procedure that generates malabsorption, the gastric bypass generates temporary or permanent conditions which demand understanding and a positive disposition from the patient to change the eating habits. It is therefore most important that the patient understands the following situations:

- Changes related to absorption of some nutrients and vitamins along with intolerance for some foods. This situation requires adherence and follow-up of a specialized dietary program that includes nutritional and vitamin supplements.

- Changes in intestinal habits resultant in liquid and frequent bowel movement. This is a temporary condition that improves quickly overtime.

RISKS

There is an increased probability of developing gall-bladder stones due to changes in intestinal mechanics and absorption.

When there is excessive intake of foods or sweets, the so-called "dumping syndrome" may appear. The patient shows signs of weakness, faints, nausea, palpitation and sweating as well as colic and urgent diarrhea, most commonly 15-20 minutes after ingestion. It is a most uncomfortable condition but it does prevent the patient's intake of sugar-rich foods.

It is most important that patients keep permanent communication with the dietitian and with the surgeon in order to adhere to and follow a suitable and personalized nutritional program that fulfills the demand of the new condition.

Back To Work

Capacity to resume pre-operative activities depends on the patient's physical condition, the nature of the activity and the type of bariatric surgery performed. Patients having undergone a laparoscopic procedure may return to relatively basic activity levels within 72 hours following surgery and moderate physical work may be performed two weeks after surgery.

Pregnancy

It is recommended that pregnancy be prevented during at least one year following bariatric surgery. During this period the largest weight loss takes place, the body adapts to its new condition; changes are occurring in the patient's metabolism and nutritional status. Pregnancy does imply serious changes and demands to the organism. This is the reason why pregnancy should be avoided during the first year after surgery.

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