Stomach Stapling is a term used to describe gastric bypass surgery, which is performed to help you lose weight and possibly improve other medical conditions. There are several techniques, but all involve a surgical procedure to reduce the size of your stomach. If you do not suffer from any medical condition other than obesity, you must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of at least 40 to qualify for this surgical procedure. If you suffer from additional medical conditions, your doctor may decide to perform the procedure if your BMI is at least 35.
Your doctor will order a series of tests to assess your medical and emotional conditions. You will not be considered a candidate for gastric bypass if you have a drug or alcohol addiction or if you have an untreated psychological or psychiatric disorder. You must be between 18 and 65 years and have been obese for at least five years.
Improvement of Existing Medical Conditions
Some serious or life-threatening conditions may improve with weight loss. If you have Type 2 diabetes, your condition may improve significantly with weight loss. Research has shown that insulin and glucose levels in some individuals return to normal levels, following weight loss after the procedure.
If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea your condition may also improve. Obstructive sleep apnea is often the result of excess tissue in your throat. When you sleep, the muscles in the throat relax and excess tissue can obstruct the airway. The weight loss following the surgery will improve this condition.
Asthma, heart conditions, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and gastroesophageal reflux disease are all conditions that may improve with weight loss following stomach stapling.
Stomach stapling is a serious surgery that can take up to four hours to complete. It is performed under general anesthesia. As with any major surgery, there are risks of complications. You must be willing to commit to long-term lifestyle changes.
