Dameron Hospital | Health Outlook | Fall 2019

dameronhospital.org 13 How bariatric surgery can help When diet, exercise and other weight-loss methods have been unsuccessful, many people who are classified as obese turn to bariatric surgery to lose weight. Bariatric surgery could be an effective strategy for those with severe obesity or for patients with lesser degrees of obesity who have other chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Dameron Hospital’s weight-loss surgery program is a fully accredited Bariatric Center, as designated by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program. This national recognition speaks to the high level of care the Dameron Hospital team provides to its bariatric patients, as well as the hospital’s dedication to patient safety and results. Tarig Samarkandy, MD, bariatric surgeon and director of the Dameron Hospital Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Program, offers a variety of minimally invasive surgical options. These procedures, performed laparoscopically, reduce the size of the stomach and limit the calories patients can consume. Surgeries like the sleeve gastrectomy or gastric bypass not only restrict the amount of food a person can eat but also change the patient’s hormones to promote weight loss. Weight loss is just one result—the health benefits are numerous. “Patients who underwent bariatric surgery have significantly reduced rates of developing cardiovascular disease, endocrinological disorders, infectious diseases, musculoskeletal disorders, psychiatric disorders and pulmonary disorders,” says Dr. Samarkandy. “There is also strong evidence that bariatric surgery for obese adults— regardless of type—results in greater weight loss and weight- loss maintenance than usual medical care, lifestyle-based diets, or other medically supervised weight-loss programs.” Take the first step If you are struggling to lose weight using conventional methods such as diets, exercise, behavior or medications, and are considering bariatric surgery, Dameron Hospital hosts free, no-obligation sessions. Register today and learn about the bariatric weight loss options available so you can take the next step toward a healthier life. While bariatric surgery can be the first step to a healthier and happier quality of life, it is not for everyone. You may be eligible for bariatric surgery if you’re between the ages of 18 and 65 and have: ▸ ▸ A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above (about 100 pounds or more over your ideal body weight), OR ▸ ▸ A BMI of 35 to 39 with comorbidities—chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea or type 2 diabetes. In addition, you need to have previously attempted other medical weight-loss programs for at least two years and be: ▸ ▸ Highly motivated to lose weight and achieve lifestyle changes. ▸ ▸ Able to effectively care for yourself and follow a physician’s instructions. ▸ ▸ Free from conditions that would make surgery a high risk. ▸ ▸ Psychologically stable with realistic expectations of your outcome. ▸ ▸ A nonsmoker. ▸ ▸ Not dependent on alcohol or drugs or have other physical addictions. ▸ ▸ Willing to participate in counseling before and after the procedure. Your insurance company may have additional requirements. Contact your provider to learn more. Do you qualify for weight-loss surgery?