Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RGB) Surgery is a treatment option available for some individuals with severe obesity. This is a major operation that can change your life in many ways. As defined by the National Institute of health, the procedure is defined as this:.
First, a small stomach pouch is created by stapling or by vertical banding. This causes restriction in food intake. Next, a Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch to allow food to bypass the duodenum (the first segment of the small intestine) as well as the first portion of the jejunum (the second segment of the small intestine). This causes reduced calorie and nutrient absorption ("Gastric Surgery for Severe Obesity").
You and your doctor must work together to determine if you would benefit from this surgery. You must know about the risks and benefits of the surgery and the commitment you will have to make. You will also have to commit yourself to a lifestyle change and life-long follow-up with your medical physician. You must also take into account the health risks of being severely obese, and the health benefits you can gain from losing excess weight. I feel that the gains outweigh the risks involved in undergoing this procedure.
First of all, being obese or severely obese puts you at a higher risk for developing or worsening many serious medical conditions. There are more than 30 obesity-related medical conditions that can damage your quality of life and cause early death. Some obesity-related medical conditions include type two diabetes, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, obesity hypoventilation syndrome, high blood triglyceride levels, Esophageal reflux (GERD), Urinary incontinence, muscoskeletal problems, infertility, depression, emotional and social problems, as well as some cancers (Burchard).
The obvious major benefit of this surgery is extensive weight loss.
