Many people struggle for years with obesity that is difficult to control despite repeated attempts at exercise regimens and dieting. Because obesity contributes to a number of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and arthritis, to name only a few, according to the National Institutes of Health, it's important to maintain a healthy weight. Gastric bypass, a form of bariatric surgery, can be an effective means of losing weight if the patient commits to the pre- and post-bypass lifestyle changes necessary for success.
Qualification
In order to qualify for gastric bypass surgery, also known as GPS, you must meet medical standards which are as much psychological as they are physical.
Physically, according to the Mayo Clinic, you are a good candidate for GPS if your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher, or if your BMI is 35 to 39.9 and you have a serious health problem that is a product of the weight. (Remember, however, that neither circumstance automatically qualifies you. Gastric bypass surgery is a serious procedure and thus a final resort for doctors after they have tried other less invasive means of weight control.
Psychologically, you'll need to demonstrate an understanding of the risks involved in the surgery and demonstrate an awareness of your role in recovery and success. The risks involved with gastric bypass surgery include all the risks of any surgery compounded with additional possibilites, including:
Peritonitis which occurs when the stomach contents leak into abdominal cavity and cause a serious infection.
Stomal stenosis, which occurs when the area that connects the stomach to the intestines narrows, the possible results being malnutrition, vomiting and stomach pain.
Dumping syndrome, which is a chronic diarrhea that doesn't allow time for the body to absorb nutrients, thus resulting in malnutrition.
Your role after surgery is to commit to a healthy lifestyle that includes eating right and exercising regularly.
Determine Insurance Coverage
Recognizing the health issues associated with obesity, some insurance companies cover part or all of the cost of gastric bypass surgery. Furthermore, as of 2009, Medicare and Medicaid cover the surgery for some patients with life threatening illnesses.
Determine Which Surgery is Best for You
Having met the requirements for qualification and confirmed the financial support, you need to discuss with your doctor what type of gastric bypass is best for you. There are a number of options available including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the vertical sleeve gastrectomy, the adjustable gastric band, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch.
