Bariatric Surgery Cuts Cardiovascular Deaths and Events

Bariatric surgery results in significant reductions in cardiovascular deaths and events, according to a new study from Sweden published in JAMA. But one expert cautions that the results do not mean that obese patients without other weight-related complications should undergo surgery. (Source: Forbes.com Healthcare News)

Bariatric surgery reduces CV events, but mechanisms remain a mystery

The latest data from the Swedish Obese Subjects study show that bariatric surgery reduces the risk of cardiovascular events and CV death among obese individuals, compared with usual care. But weight loss is not the reason behind this reduced risk, meaning that guidelines that use BMI to determine who will get such surgery need updating, say the authors and an editorialist. (Source: theHeart.org)

Bariatric Surgery Cuts Cardiac Risks (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) — Bariatric surgery reduces the long-term risk of heart attack and stroke as well as the risk of dying from them, a prospective nonrandomized study showed. (Source: MedPage Today Cardiovascular)

Bariatric Surgery and Long-term Cardiovascular Events [Original Contribution]

Conclusion Compared with usual care, bariatric surgery was associated with reduced number of cardiovascular deaths and lower incidence of cardiovascular events in obese adults. (Source: JAMA)

Inadequacy of BMI as an Indicator for Bariatric Surgery [Editorial]

(Source: JAMA)

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Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: a First Step for Rapid Weight Loss in Morbidly Obese Patients Requiring a Second Non-Bariatric Procedure

Conclusions  In this small group, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy appears to be an effective and safe first surgical approach for rapid
weight loss in high-risk patients that require a second non-bariatric procedure.

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical ResearchPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s11695-011-0574-zAuthors
Jesus E. Hidalgo, Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL, USAMayank Roy, Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL, USAAlexander Ramirez, Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL, USASamuel Szomstein, Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL, USARaul J. Rosenthal, Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Weston, FL…

Erratum to: Long-term outcome after endoscopic stent therapy for complications after bariatric surgery

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00464-011-2133-zAuthors
Atif Iqbal, Department of General Surgery, University of Missouri Columbia, One Hospital Drive, MC 520E McHaney, Columbia, MO 65212, USABrent Miedema, Department of General Surgery, University of Missouri Columbia, One Hospital Drive, MC 520E McHaney, Columbia, MO 65212, USAArchana Ramaswamy, Department of General Surgery, University of Missouri Columbia, One Hospital Drive, MC 520E McHaney, Columbia, MO 65212, USANicole Fearing, Department of General Surgery, University of Missouri Columbia, One Hospital Drive, MC 520E McHaney, Columbia, MO 65212, USARoger de la Torre, Department of General Surgery, University of Missouri Columbia, One Hospital Drive, MC 520E McHaney, Columbia, MO 65212, USAYoung…

Healthcare Reform and Bariatric Nursing: Exploring Differences in Patient Experience between Bariatric and Non-Bariatric Patients

Bariatric Nursing and Surgical Patient Care , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: Bariatric Nursing and Surgical Patient Care)

Pregnancy after bariatric surgery: a current view of maternal, obstetrical and perinatal challenges

Conclusions  Pregnancy outcome of women who delivered after BS, as compared to obese populations, is better and safer and comparable to
the general population. Close supervision before, during and after pregnancy following bariatric surgery and nutrient supplementation
adapted to the patient’s individual requirements can prevent nutrition-related complications and improve maternal and fetal
health.

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Maternal-Fetal MedicinePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00404-011-2187-0Authors
Ronis Magdaleno, Department of Medical Psychology and Psychiatry, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Padre Almeida 515, sala 14, Campinas, SP CEP: 13025-251, BrazilBelmiro Gonçalves Pereira, Department of Tocogynecology, State University of Campinas (UNICA…

Bariatric Surgery Q & A with Dr. Abkin

We all know that exercise and eating right are the best ways to lose weight. But for many people, its not enough and they still can’t lose the excess weight — weight that can cause serious health problems. For people in this frustrating situation, weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) may be an option.

Bariatric surgery has grown into an increasingly effective procedure in the treatment of weight gain and obesity. New procedures and comprehensive programs (including diet and lifestyle components) are making a significant impact on patient’s lives. Dr. Alexander Abkin takes a multidisciplinary approach and truly partners with patients for the best long-term outcomes – offering everything from pre-surgical education, to nutrition and lifestyle counseling, to post-surgical support.

Our bariatric program is committed to providing quality, superior care to those patients looking for a specialized bariatric surgery service. Our program is led by Alexander D. Abkin, MD, FACS, a board certified general surgeon and experienced NJ bariatric surgeon who has performed over 6,500 bariatric procedures in the past 12 years.

Dr. Abkin shares his thoughts on bariatric surgery.

What is bariatric surgery?

The term bariatric surgery refers to a variety of operations for treating obesity. There are several procedures available, which vary based on the type of physical changes made to the stomach and/or the small intestine, but all are very effective in reducing food intake. The type of surgery selected will depend on several factors, such as your level of obesity, overall health status, and future lifestyle changes.

What are the benefits of surgery?

People who undergo the procedure experience a significant amount of weight loss that is maintained on a long-term basis. There is also an improvement in obesity-related health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. And finally, the patient’s quality of life is improved as physical and behavioral changes occur, further enhancing the patient’s social well-being.

Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?

It’s important to note weight loss surgery is not right for everyone. I always advise patients to take in to consideration of all the hard work and lifestyle changes necessary after surgery. All candidates need to meet the National Institute of Health guidelines for the procedure: any patient with a BMI of 35 to 39.5 who suffers with 1 or more major co-morbidities (major obesity related medical problems) or a patient with a BMI of 40 or above, with or without any co-morbidities can be considered for bariatric surgery.

How much weight can I expect to lose after surgery?

The amount and rate at which you lose excess body weight after the surgery varies depending on the type of procedure, the starting weight, and compliance with dieting, exercise, and lifestyle changes. But, you can lose as much as 10-20 pounds in the first 2 weeks after surgery and as much as 30-45 pounds in the first month, again depending on several post-surgery factors.

What’s the best way to determine if bariatric surgery is right for me?

I believe you have to be realistic in your expectations. Bariatric surgery isn’t an easy answer: it’s an opportunity to change your lifestyle. The most successful patients are those who see the procedure as an aid to helping them lose weight.

The best way to determine if bariatric surgery is right for you is to learn as much as you can about the procedure — by talking with the surgeon and other patients who have undergone Gastric Bypass, Realize Band or Lap Band. I offer personal consultations on weight loss surgery, detailing the steps and answering questions. In addition, patients who have undergone the procedure will attend to tell you in their own words what you can expect.

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