As with all surgical procedures, risks are imminent. However, with gastric
bypass, they are not just possible, they are common. Risks and side effects
include:
Vitamin deficiency and anemia
Infection in the incision
Leaking from the stomach into the abdominal cavity or at the point where
the intestine is joined
Pulmonary embolism (blockage of blood flow within the lungs)
Gallstones
Osteoporosis
Hernia
Staples pulling loose
Nausea, vomiting, hiccups, diarrhea, or bloating
Death in 1.5% of cases
End Result
Patients will lose weight for many months following their operation. In most
cases, their lives will be extended many years longer than they could have
imagined prior to surgery. This is a miracle to those people who have gone
through it.
Despite all the hoopla lately surrounding gastric bypass surgery, it is
definitely not for the faint of heart. And those who are just looking for a
quick fix to their weight problems will be sorely disappointed. But, gastric
bypass, despite the controversy, the risks, and the long list of
prequalification, is a life-saving procedure for those people who are suffering
the malady of obesity with no other solution in sight. Let’s hope that the
“quick fix” population doesn’t ruin this life-saving procedure for those who
have no choice. Let’s hope that the insurance companies will continue to help
pay for this procedure when a person’s survival is at stake.