Benefits of Bariatric Surgery
There is evidence now to support bariatric surgery not only reduces an individual’s weight, but it also reduces the metabolic syndrome associated with obesity and diabetes mellitus.
First paper with 5 years long-term follow-up was published in The Lancet journal in September 2015 showed diabetic patients who underwent bypass surgery has 37% to 63% chances of resolution of diabetes in 5 years compared to 0% in a medically treated group!
42% to 68% of them were able to keep their HbA1c below 6.5% compared to only 27% in the medically treated group.
The second paper was recently presented at the American College of Cardiology in April 2016 comparing surgery vs medical treatment also confirmed remission of diabetes was higher in the surgical group.
Five-year results showed 29% of bypass-patients, 23% of “sleeve” patients and only 5% of medically treated patients achieved remission of diabetes. The rate of reduction of HbA1c is significant over 5- year period.
Source: ASMBS.org
Over time, the benefits may include:
- Significant sustained weight loss.
- Improvement in blood-sugar levels for patients with type 2 diabetes.
- Lower blood pressure.
- Lower cholesterol.
- Relief from sleep apnea and acid reflux.
- Less osteoarthritis pain and improved mobility.
- Improved mood and self-esteem.
Do You Have Metabolic Syndrome?
- Men > 40 inches (102cm)
- Women > 35 inches (88cm)
- For Asian: the waist circumference is defined as men >90cm and women >80cm
Reduces Risk of Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome is a disease of modern society. It has become a public health nightmare and this is especially true in Malaysia. It is estimated that individuals with metabolic syndrome have a fivefold greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
To date, the treatment for obesity and diabetes is still heavily dependent on the medicine. However, as the relation of gut physiology and nutrition metabolism is better defined, more recent studies suggest that surgery can be used to treat obesity, diabetes and other metabolic disorders.
The evidence is available to support surgery as an early approach for metabolic syndrome treatment will maximise a patient’s health outcome.
Bariatric Surgery is a Safe Operation
It is even safer than gallbladder removal surgery or hip replacement surgery. Studies have shown that bariatric surgery mortality rate is about 0.1% compared to gallbladder removal surgery (0.7%) and hip replacement surgery (0.93%). The overall complication rate is about 4.3%.
The evidence to perform surgery for cure of diabetes and other obesity-related medical conditions are stronger than ever. There is no good reason we do not want to consider surgery as part of the early treatment for metabolic syndrome.
Your Surgeon
Dr Cha Kar Huei
MD (Canada) FACS (USA)
Consultant Bariatric and General Surgeon
- Consultant bariatric surgeon at Subang Jaya Medical Centre
- Graduated from Dalhousie University, Canada in 1998
- Trained at Massachusetts General Hospital
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeon in 2009
- Member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Vast experiences in minimally invasive surgery
Make An Appointment
Schedule an appointment today to know more about the procedures involved.
