What Is the Success Rate of Gastric Bypass Surgery?
During gastric bypass surgery, surgeons staple the stomach to create a small pouch and bypass part of the small intestine. As a result, the patient cannot eat as much and some of the fat and calories that are consumed are not absorbed.
How is Success Defined?
Various studies on gastric bypass define success differently. One study published in the April 2000 issue of "Annals of Surgery" defined success as reaching and maintaining a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) for at least 5.5 years.
Success Rate for Morbidly Obese Patients
Morbid obesity definitions range the BMI index from 30 to 49. The study in the "Annals of Surgery" found a success rate of 93 percent for morbidly obese patients.
Success Rate for Super Obese Patients
Doctors define super obesity as BMI of 50 or above. The study in the "Annals of Surgery" found a success rate of 57 percent for super obese patients.
Factors Influencing Success Rates
A patient's starting BMI influences his success. The above-mentioned study suggests that genetics presents another factor. The patient's compliance with post-operative diet recommendations also affects his success.
Success Rate of Reversing Co-morbidities
Co-morbidities include weight-related illnesses like diabetes and sleep apnea. On October 30, 2009, CNN reported that more than 70 percent of diabetics who have gastric bypass surgery experience remission. A study published in the October 2003 issue of "Chest" found significant improvement in gastric bypass patients with sleep apnea.
