From waiting list to post-operative follow-up, a long process
Steps related to bariatric surgery
Step 1 : Join the waiting list
Step 2 : Nursing appointment
Step 3 : Appointment with the surgeon
Step 4 : Preoperative assessment
Step 5 : Bariatric surgery
Step 6 : Post-surgery follow-ups
Step 7 : Nutrition follow-ups
Step 8 : Nursing and medical follow-ups
A risky procedure
Any surgery has its share of risks. The risks associated with a bariatric procedure depend on its nature and that of the patient — weight, age, medical history, and related problems, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes or taking certain medications. In any case, the surgical team is responsible for informing the patient about all these risks.
Postoperative complications and nutritional deficiencies may occur
Thus, difficulties can arise on a daily basis, and several months after the operation. For example:
- Postoperative complications such as slipping of the gastric band or leaking stomach or intestinal suture requiring further intervention;
- Nutritional deficiencies which must be compensated by a better variety and/or supplements of vitamins and minerals,
- A modified body envelope that may require plastic surgery interventions as well as an adjustment of self-perception and relationship to others.
Low, but not zero, mortality risk
Finally, we must not hide the fact that the risk of mortality associated with bariatric surgery, although very low, is not zero. Estimated at about 1% of cases, it is half as high as that of coronary bypasses, but twice as high as for the removal of the gallbladder. In short, it’s a “Think about it”.
Success factors in bariatric surgery
The good news is that success is often achieved. It’s interesting to note that certain success factors have been observed. For example, being well-informed about the process, the support of loved ones, sporting activity and nutrition, are all elements that have been observed in people whose surgery has been a success.
For further information (in French)
If you’d like to find out more, you can consult the PDF document entitled “Se préparer à une chirurgie bariatrique”, written by Martine Goulet and Annie Quesnel.
Sources :
Patient journey, Centre de chirurgie bariatrique de Montréal