FAQs on GI Surgery & Laproscopic Surgery
1. Who is gastrosurgeon laparoscopic surgeon?
Gastrosurgeon Laparoscopic surgeon is specialist of diseases affecting Abdomen and Digestive system who treats these problems by surgical intervention. Gastro Surgeon is super specialist in the field of Gastroenterology.
2. What is gastrosurgery?
Gastrosurgery means surgical treatment related to abdominal organs of digestive tract like Oesophagus, Stomach, Intestine, Colon, Rectum, Liver, Spleen, Pancreas and Gall Bladder Biliary system which is done by Gastrosurgeon Laparoscopic surgeon.
3. When should I see a gastrosurgeon?
Gastrosurgeon consulting is advised for any abdominal problems like acute or chronic abdomen infections, abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, bleeding, swelling of abdomen and tumor or cancer.
4. Which surgeon should i see for problems of liver or pancreas?
Surgical Gastroenetrologist or other synonyms like Hepato Pancreatico Biliary Surgeon or GI & HPB surgeon are the best Gastro surgeon to consult for any problems or cancer of Liver and cancer of pancreas.
5. Which surgeon should i see for spleen surgery?
Gastro surgeon or Laparoscopic surgeon is expert surgeon to deal with spleen surgery known as Laparoscopic Splenectomy.
6. Which cancers do gastrosurgeons Laparoscopic surgeon treat?
Gastrosurgeon is highly trained expert and best cancer surgeon for all abdominal organs of digestive tract namely Liver cancer, Pancreas cancer, Colon cancer, Rectal cancer, Stomach cancer, Intestinal cancer, Gall bladder Cancer, Spleen Cancer, Oesophageal cancer with best results.
7. Do gastro surgeons perform surgery by laparoscopy?
Gastrosurgeon is best Laparoscopic surgeon for all key hole abdomen surgeries like gall bladder surgery, colon surgery, stomach surgery, spleen surgery, liver surgery, pancreas surgery, Oesophageal surgery, Cancer surgery.
8. Are all surgeries done by laparoscopy?
Abdominal surgery of any digestive system organs like liver, pancreas, gall bladder, spleen, stomach, intestine, colon, rectum, oesophagus possible by laparoscopy or key hole surgery in the hands of best Gastro surgeon.
9. What is the advantage of laparoscopy over conventional/open surgery?
Laparoscopic surgery have very fast recovery and painless surgery as compared to open abdomen surgery which even done for now cancer surgery also.
10. What surgeries can be performed by laparoscopy?
laparoscopic cholecystectomy, laparoscopic colon surgery, laparoscopic gastrectomy, laparoscopic splenectomy, laparoscopic pancreas surgery, laparoscopic liver resection, laparoscopic cancer surgery, laparoscopic hernia repair can be done best by Gastro surgeon or Laparoscopic surgeon.
11. Can cancer surgeries be done by laparoscopy?
Cancer surgery of any abdominal organ can be done very safely using Laparoscopy when done by best gastro surgeon for stomach cancer, liver cancer, pancreas cancer or colorectal surgeon for colon cancer, rectal cancer.
12. What should I do or prepare myself before meeting a gastro surgeon?
For best treatment of abdominal surgery meet gastro surgeon with all previous reports if done like sonography, CT scan, MRI, blood reports and medical files.
13. Will I always require surgery for my gastro intestinal problems?
Most abdominal problems well treated with medicines by Gastroenterologist or Gastro surgeon. Diseases like Perforation, Obstruction, Cancer needs gastrosurgery or laparoscopic surgery.
14. Whom should I meet for hernia?
Laparoscopic surgeon or Gastro surgeon is best to get operated for hernia surgery like Inguinal hernia, hiatus hernia, abdominal hernia, incisional hernia, diaphragmatic hernia.
15. What is weight loss surgery? Whom should i meet for weight loss surgery?
Obesity Surgery or Bariatric Surgery where Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass surgery can be done for successful weight reduction. Bariatric surgeon or Laparoscopic surgeon or Gastro surgeon should be consulted for weight loss surgery.
1. WHEN IS LAPAROSCOPY PERFORMED BY THE GI SURGEON?
A. DIAGNOSTIC LAPAROSCOPY
When the patient is affected by abdominal pain, swelling, or any other anomaly of the GI tract and the imaging techniques (CT scan/MRI/Ultrasound) do not provide enough insights; diagnostic laparoscopy may become necessary.
The surgeon can use the laparoscopic technique to diagnose a problem with several organs of the GI tract: gallbladder, common bile duct, appendix, small intestine, large intestine (colon), spleen, pancreas, liver, stomach, and rectum. It will provide a clear vision of the internal organs and detect tumors or fluid in them.
B. OPERATIVE LAPAROSCOPIC PROCEDURES
The GI surgeon can also conduct operative laparoscopic procedures: liver resection, cholecystectomy, GI cancer surgery, appendectomy, pancreatic surgery, colorectal surgery, gastric bypass, bariatric surgery, hernial repair, etc., with the help of a laparoscope. The use of laparoscopy is not limited to gastroenterology. It is also impactful in the field of gynecology and urology.
2. WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE OF THE LAPAROSCOPY?
During the minimally-invasive GI operation, the doctor will make small incisions of approximately 0.5 inches and insert the laparoscope with a tiny camera at the end for a distinct view of the organs. He/she will use the laparoscope and other medical equipment to operate on the patient. This way, the patient does not need to suffer through large incisions, and it also ensures a quicker recovery period.
Once you receive general anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision around the affected organ and use a cannula to inflate the abdominal cavity with CO2 gas. The reason behind it is that the gas expands the region and allows for more room to conduct the surgery. The laparoscope displays images on the computer to show your organs in real-time.
If the doctor has chosen the technique of laparoscopy to carry out a surgical procedure, he/she will make two to four incisions for the surgery. After the procedure is over, the medical professional will remove the medical equipment, stitch the incisions and allow for the patient to recover.
Usually, when the doctor usually laparoscopy to diagnose a condition, it may take an hour to complete the procedure. But, when he/she is conducting a surgery along with laparoscopy, the duration may increase.
3. WHAT THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND BEFORE A LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY?
When your doctor recommends an abdominal laparoscopic procedure, it is essential to inform him/her about any medications that you take. For example, if you are taking blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements, it can lead to excess blood loss. So, discuss everything related to your medications in detail and find out if you need to change the dosage before the surgery and during the recovery period. It is best to mention if you are pregnant.
The doctor may advise you to stop smoking for days leading up to the operation because it can lead to delayed healing. He/she will also recommend a few tests before the surgery that include blood tests, urine tests, chest X-ray, imaging tests, etc. to improve the efficacy of laparoscopy.
Often, the doctors suggest avoiding food and drinks before 8 hours of the scheduled surgery. Additionally, you will need someone to drop you off at home after the surgery as you may be under the effect of general anesthesia and may feel sleepy.
4. WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME FOR A LAPAROSCOPY?
Once your surgery is over, the doctor may keep you under observation to check on your health. Whether you ready to go home in a couple of hours or you need to stay in the hospital overnight will depend on the complexity of the surgery, the type of anesthesia provided to you, your overall condition, etc.
After the surgery, you may feel disoriented and tired as the effects of anesthesia wear off. It is best to consume a light meal on the day of the surgery. Often patients complain of a sore throat if the doctor uses a breathing tube during the procedure. However, do not worry about it because a few painkillers will ease the pain.
Once you are home and recovering from the laparoscopic surgery, you may have shoulder pain caused by the CO2 gas in the procedure. You may notice some amount of bloating for a couple of days. You might also feel pain at the location of incisions.
After consulting your GI surgeon and ensuring regular follow-ups, you can resume normal routine activities within a week.
5. HOW TO ENSURE SMOOTH RECOVERY FROM LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY?
For faster and more efficient recovery from your surgery, consult your GI surgeon for accurate medical advice that suits your condition. However, there are a few general tips that you can follow when recovering from abdominal laparoscopy.
· Re-read the guidelines provided by your doctor and follow them carefully.
· You may take showers after your surgery but avoid long baths.
· Do not forget to clean the wounds and adhere to a strict dressing schedule.
· Ensure a healthy and fresh diet that allows for faster recovery.
· Do not drive, lift heavy equipment, or exercise strenuously without clearance from your doctor.
· After 24 hours of the surgery, there is no need for bed rest. You can go for walks to avoid the risk of blood clots. It also helps with regular bowel movements.
· Rest more than usual and follow a dedicated sleeping routine.
· Do not miss out on follow-up appointments even if you feel better.
· Wear loose clothes to avoid any irritation to the wounds.
· Avoid swimming and getting into a hot tub for at least two weeks.
· If you notice signs of infections such as high fever, oozing pus, unbearable pain, or bleeding, do not be afraid to reach out to your doctor.
Laparoscopy is a safe procedure to diagnose and treat several medical conditions. However, you need to have adequate knowledge and detailed understanding of the procedure to ensure faster recovery and better health. So, do not shy away from asking questions to your laparoscopic GI surgeon and trust his/her advice for a successful surgical procedure.
1. WHEN IS LAPAROSCOPY PERFORMED BY THE GI SURGEON?
A. DIAGNOSTIC LAPAROSCOPY
When the patient is affected by abdominal pain, swelling, or any other anomaly of the GI tract and the imaging techniques (CT scan/MRI/Ultrasound) do not provide enough insights; diagnostic laparoscopy may become necessary.
The surgeon can use the laparoscopic technique to diagnose a problem with several organs of the GI tract: gallbladder, common bile duct, appendix, small intestine, large intestine (colon), spleen, pancreas, liver, stomach, and rectum. It will provide a clear vision of the internal organs and detect tumors or fluid in them.
B. OPERATIVE LAPAROSCOPIC PROCEDURES
The GI surgeon can also conduct operative laparoscopic procedures: liver resection, cholecystectomy, GI cancer surgery, appendectomy, pancreatic surgery, colorectal surgery, gastric bypass, bariatric surgery, hernial repair, etc., with the help of a laparoscope. The use of laparoscopy is not limited to gastroenterology. It is also impactful in the field of gynecology and urology.
2. WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE OF THE LAPAROSCOPY?
During the minimally-invasive GI operation, the doctor will make small incisions of approximately 0.5 inches and insert the laparoscope with a tiny camera at the end for a distinct view of the organs. He/she will use the laparoscope and other medical equipment to operate on the patient. This way, the patient does not need to suffer through large incisions, and it also ensures a quicker recovery period.
Once you receive general anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision around the affected organ and use a cannula to inflate the abdominal cavity with CO2 gas. The reason behind it is that the gas expands the region and allows for more room to conduct the surgery. The laparoscope displays images on the computer to show your organs in real-time.
If the doctor has chosen the technique of laparoscopy to carry out a surgical procedure, he/she will make two to four incisions for the surgery. After the procedure is over, the medical professional will remove the medical equipment, stitch the incisions and allow for the patient to recover.
Usually, when the doctor usually laparoscopy to diagnose a condition, it may take an hour to complete the procedure. But, when he/she is conducting a surgery along with laparoscopy, the duration may increase.
3. WHAT THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND BEFORE A LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY?
When your doctor recommends an abdominal laparoscopic procedure, it is essential to inform him/her about any medications that you take. For example, if you are taking blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements, it can lead to excess blood loss. So, discuss everything related to your medications in detail and find out if you need to change the dosage before the surgery and during the recovery period. It is best to mention if you are pregnant.
The doctor may advise you to stop smoking for days leading up to the operation because it can lead to delayed healing. He/she will also recommend a few tests before the surgery that include blood tests, urine tests, chest X-ray, imaging tests, etc. to improve the efficacy of laparoscopy.
Often, the doctors suggest avoiding food and drinks before 8 hours of the scheduled surgery. Additionally, you will need someone to drop you off at home after the surgery as you may be under the effect of general anesthesia and may feel sleepy.
4. WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME FOR A LAPAROSCOPY?
Once your surgery is over, the doctor may keep you under observation to check on your health. Whether you ready to go home in a couple of hours or you need to stay in the hospital overnight will depend on the complexity of the surgery, the type of anesthesia provided to you, your overall condition, etc.
After the surgery, you may feel disoriented and tired as the effects of anesthesia wear off. It is best to consume a light meal on the day of the surgery. Often patients complain of a sore throat if the doctor uses a breathing tube during the procedure. However, do not worry about it because a few painkillers will ease the pain.
Once you are home and recovering from the laparoscopic surgery, you may have shoulder pain caused by the CO2 gas in the procedure. You may notice some amount of bloating for a couple of days. You might also feel pain at the location of incisions.
After consulting your GI surgeon and ensuring regular follow-ups, you can resume normal routine activities within a week.
5. HOW TO ENSURE SMOOTH RECOVERY FROM LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY?
For faster and more efficient recovery from your surgery, consult your GI surgeon for accurate medical advice that suits your condition. However, there are a few general tips that you can follow when recovering from abdominal laparoscopy.
· Re-read the guidelines provided by your doctor and follow them carefully.
· You may take showers after your surgery but avoid long baths.
· Do not forget to clean the wounds and adhere to a strict dressing schedule.
· Ensure a healthy and fresh diet that allows for faster recovery.
· Do not drive, lift heavy equipment, or exercise strenuously without clearance from your doctor.
· After 24 hours of the surgery, there is no need for bed rest. You can go for walks to avoid the risk of blood clots. It also helps with regular bowel movements.
· Rest more than usual and follow a dedicated sleeping routine.
· Do not miss out on follow-up appointments even if you feel better.
· Wear loose clothes to avoid any irritation to the wounds.
· Avoid swimming and getting into a hot tub for at least two weeks.
· If you notice signs of infections such as high fever, oozing pus, unbearable pain, or bleeding, do not be afraid to reach out to your doctor.
Laparoscopy is a safe procedure to diagnose and treat several medical conditions. However, you need to have adequate knowledge and detailed understanding of the procedure to ensure faster recovery and better health. So, do not shy away from asking questions to your laparoscopic GI surgeon and trust his/her advice for a successful surgical procedure.
FAQs of Bariatric Surgery
When can I start exercising after surgery?
Right away! To start, you will take easy, short walks while you are in the hospital. The key is to start slow. Listen to your body and your surgeon. If you lift weights or do sports, stay “low impact†for the first month.
Will I have to exercise after the procedure?
For many patients, exercise is important for stress control and appetite control, as well as burning off calories.
As we age, lack of activity can lead to being frail or fragile, which is quite dangerous to overall health. Healthy bones and avoiding muscle loss partly depends on doing weekly exercise.
Most patients also think of exercise as something that must be intense and painful (like “boot campâ€). Regular, modest activity is far more useful in the long term. Even elite athletes can’t stay at a “peak†every week of the year. Instead, work with your surgeon’s program to find a variety of activities that can work for you. There is no “one-size-fits-all†plan. Expect to learn and change as you go!
Nutrition
Will I have to go on a diet before I have surgery?
Yes. Many insurance companies require patients to be on a weight loss program before qualifying for surgery.
Many bariatric surgeons put their patients on a special pre-operative diet, usually 2 or 3 weeks just before surgery. The reason for the pre-operative diet is to shrink the liver and reduce fat in the abdomen. This helps during the procedure and makes it safer.
Some insurance companies require a physician-monitored diet three to six months prior to surgery as part of their coverage requirement. These diets are very different from the short-term diets and usually are more about food education and showing a willingness to complete appointments and to learn.
Will I have to be on a diet after the surgery?
No. Most people think of a “diet†as a plan that leaves you hungry. That is not the way people feel after surgery.
Eventually, most patients get some form of appetite back 6-18 months after surgery. Your appetite is much weaker, and easier to satisfy than before.
This does not mean you can whatever and whenever you want. Healthier food choices are important for best results, but most patients still enjoy tasty food, and even occasional “treatsâ€.
Is weight loss surgery a ‘cop-out’? To lose weight, should people with obesity just go on a diet and exercise?
Many people who suffer from obesity find it hard to lose weight and keep the weight off with diet and exercise alone. This is likely due to foods available and genes.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Expert Panel stated that, without surgery, long-term weight loss is nearly impossible for those affected by severe obesity. Studies show little long-term success with diet and exercise alone.(3) Weight loss surgeries are effective in maintaining long-term weight loss, in part, because these procedures change the body’s natural responses to dieting that make weight loss so difficult. When a person goes on a diet, their body produces more hormones that cause an increase in hunger and a decrease in calories burned. This decrease in calories the body burns is more than explained by the decrease in body size. Therefore, there are significant differences between someone who has lost weight by diet and someone of the same size who has never lost weight. For example, the body of the person who reduces their weight from 200 to 170 pounds burns fewer calories than the body of someone weighing 170 pounds who has never been on a diet. This means that in order to maintain weight loss, the person who has been on a diet will have to eat fewer calories than someone who naturally weighs the same. Weight loss procedures, unlike diet, also cause biological changes that help reduce food intake. Energy (in the form of food) intake is decreased with surgery by restricting stomach size and limiting absorption. In addition, weight loss surgery changes the production of certain gut hormones (or signals) that communicate with the brain to reduce hunger, decrease appetite, and enhance the feeling of being full. In these ways, weight loss surgery, unlike dieting, produces long-term weight loss. (5)
Pregnancy
When can I get pregnant after weight loss surgery?
Most groups advise waiting 12-18 months after surgery before getting pregnant.
Most women are much more fertile after surgery, even with moderate weight loss.
Birth control pills do NOT work as well in patients who are overweight. Birth control pills are not very reliable during the time your weight is changing. For this reason, having an IUD or using condoms and spermicide with ALL intercourse is needed. Menstrual periods can be very irregular, and you can get pregnant when you least expect it!
Will the baby be healthy?
Yes.
After surgery, there is much less risk of experiencing problems during pregnancy and during childbirth. There are also fewer miscarriages and stillbirths than in women with obesity who have not had surgery and weight loss.
Kids born after mom’s surgery are LESS at risk of being affected by obesity later, due to activation of certain genes during fetal growth. There is also less risk of needing a C section.
Lifestyle
How long after weight loss surgery will I have to be from work?
After surgery, most patients return to work in one or two weeks.
Will I lose my hair after surgery?
Some hair loss is common between 3 and 6 months following surgery but almost always temporary.
The reasons for hair loss are not totally understood. Even if you take all recommended supplements and meet protein requirements, hair loss will be noticed until the follicles come back. Adequate intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals will help to ensure hair re-growth, and avoid longer term thinning.
Will I need to have plastic surgery after weight loss?
Some patients may choose to have plastic surgery, but this depends on many factors.
Do most people who have weight loss surgery regain their weight?
No. A small number of patients can regain their weight but the vast majority lose significant weight and keep this weight off.
More than 95% of patients will successfully lose half of their extra body weight or more after surgery for weight loss. (1) Roux en Y gastric bypass patients, for example, on average lose approximately 70% of their extra body weight initially, and 2 years or more after surgery will regain approximately 5% of their extra body weight. (2) Compared to these results, patients who attempt weight loss without surgery, on average, are able to lose little weight and may gain weight in the long-term. (3)
Vitamins & Medications
Can I go off some of my medications after weight loss surgery?
Many patients are able to stop using some medications.
Will I have to take vitamins after surgery?
You will need to take a multivitamin for life.
You may need higher doses of certain vitamins or minerals, especially Iron, Calcium, and Vitamin D. You will also need to have at least yearly lab checks. Insurance almost never pays for vitamin and mineral supplements but usually does pay for labs. You can pay for supplements out of a flex medical account.
Do weight loss surgery patients have serious health problems caused by vitamin deficiency?
As long as patients take their appropriate vitamins, it is rare to have health problems from vitamin deficiency.
Weight loss surgery can lead to reduced amounts of vitamins and minerals because people eat less and may absorb less in the intestines. Weight loss surgeries have different effects on vitamins and minerals based on how much change in absorption they cause. Deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and protein can negatively affect health causing:
- fatigue (feeling tired)
- anemia (low levels of red blood cells that carry oxygen through your body)
- bone and muscle loss
- impaired night vision
- low immunity (your body’s ability to stay healthy)
- loss of nerve function (can affect your senses such as touch, taste, and smell)
- mental function deficits (changes how clearly you think)
Fortunately, nutrient deficiencies following surgery can be easily avoided with a good diet and the use of supplements including vitamins, minerals, and sometimes protein supplements. Before and after surgery, patients are advised of the appropriate diet and vitamin supplement needed. Most weight loss surgery programs also require patients to have their vitamins and minerals checked on a regular basis after surgery. Nutrient deficiencies and any associated health problems are preventable with monitoring and patients following diet and supplement (vitamin and mineral) recommendations. Health problems due to deficiencies usually occur in patients who do not regularly follow-up to monitor healthy vitamin and mineral levels. Be sure you stay in touch with your weight loss surgery team for best results!
Mental Health
Is obesity caused by food addiction, similar to alcoholism or drug dependency?
“Food addiction†as a cause of obesity is extremely rare.
Although some people with obesity have eating disorders, such as binge eating disorder syndrome, most people have obesity caused by many factors. When treating addiction, such as alcohol and drugs, one of the first steps is to stop using drugs or alcohol. This does not work with obesity as we need to eat to live. Also, there may be other issues causing a person’s weight gain. Weight gain generally occurs when the amount of food eaten is greater than the number of calories burned. There are other conditions, however, that affect weight gain that do not involve too much eating or a less active lifestyle including:
- Poor sleeping habits
- Eating foods that may increase body fat (sugar, high fructose corn syrup, trans fat, processed meats and processed grains)
- Low intake of fat-fighting foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, quality protein)
- Stress and mental distress
- Many types of medications
- Pollutants
Obesity also leads to more obesity, which is one of the reasons why the disease is considered progressive. Weight gain causes a number of signals (hormones) in the body that increase the risk for even greater weight gain and obesity. To make matters worse, obesity affects certain body functions that control appetite and hunger in a manner that can cause an increase in the amount of food eaten at any given meal and the desire to eat more often. There are many causes for obesity and the disease of obesity is far more than just an ‘addiction’ toward food. The treatment of obesity only as an addiction may help for a very small percentage of individuals whose only underlying cause for obesity is excessive and addictive eating, but would be unlikely to benefit most people, particularly those individuals affected by severe obesity.
Does weight loss surgery increase the risk for alcohol abuse?
There is a small group of patients after weight loss surgery who have a problem with alcohol abuse. Most of those people, but not all, already had experiences with alcohol abuse before surgery.
Recommended precautions after weight loss surgery:
- Avoid alcoholic beverages during the rapid weight loss period, and then drink only rarely
- Be aware that even small amounts of alcohol can cause intoxication (‘being drunk’)
- Avoid driving or operating heavy equipment after drinking any alcohol
- Remember that you may feel less intoxicated than you are, and will not be a reliable judge of whether it is safe for you to drive
after drinking.
- Seek help if drinking becomes a problem
If you feel drinking alcohol may be an issue for you after surgery, please contact your primary care doctor or surgeon and discuss this further. They will be able to help you identify resources available to address any alcohol-related issues.
It has been found in scientific research that a small percentage of weight loss surgery patients report having problems with alcohol after surgery (7-10%). (6) Many who abuse alcohol after surgery had problems with alcohol abuse at some time prior to surgery, but occasionally alcohol problems can arise in patients who never had such issues before their surgery. Alcohol sensitivity is increased after weight loss surgery so that the effects of alcohol are felt with fewer drinks than before surgery. Studies also find that with certain weight loss procedures (such as the gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy), drinking an alcoholic beverage increases blood alcohol to levels that are considerably higher than before surgery or in comparison to the alcohol levels of individuals who have not had a weight loss procedure. In addition, studies have found that alcohol takes much longer to clear out of a person’s system if they have had weight loss surgery, which can pose safety and legal hazards for driving. Furthermore, it has been found that some patients may feel as though they are sober (‘not drunk’) even when they are over the legal blood alcohol limit for driving. For all of these reasons, weight loss surgery patients are advised to take precautions regarding alcohol.
Does weight loss surgery increase the risk for suicide?
After surgery, most patients have improved mental health but there may be a small increase in the risk of suicide. This is why patients are required to have a mental health screening before surgery.
People affected by severe obesity who are seeking weight loss surgery are more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety and to have lower self-esteem and overall quality of life than someone who is normal weight. Weight loss surgery results in significant improvement in mental health for the majority of patients. However, studies have found a small but significant increase in suicide following weight loss surgery. (7, 8) In some cases, these may have been patients with undiagnosed mental disorders, and in others, patients may have experienced major life stressors that can increase the risk for suicide, but in rare cases, the suicides are unexplained. For this reason, comprehensive bariatric programs require psychological evaluations prior to weight loss surgery. Many programs have therapists available for patient counseling after surgery. In addition, if a patient sees a psychologist or psychiatrist before surgery, they should continue seeing them after surgery.
Risks
Is the chance of dying from weight loss surgery more than the chance of dying from obesity?
No. Weight loss surgery is very safe and decreases the chance of dying from obesity. In fact, weight loss surgery is safer than removing the gallbladder or having a knee replacement.
A recent study of 209,116 patients found the risk of death from weight loss surgery was 0.16%, or approximately 1 in 600. (4) This rate is considerably less than most other surgeries, including gallbladder and hip replacement surgery. Large studies find that the risk of death from any cause is considerably less for patients after weight loss surgery than for those who have severe obesity and have never had the surgery. Patients who have weight loss surgery have a reduction in their risk of death by 40%. Death related to diabetes is reduced by more than 90% and from heart disease by more than 50% for patients after weight loss surgery. (3) The benefits of weight loss surgery far outweigh the risks. As with any serious surgical operation, the decision to have weight loss surgery should be discussed with your surgeon, family members, and loved ones.
Proctology FAQ
Haemorrhoids FAQ
I take a good shower every day, I eat a diet that contains fiber and drink a lot of water, is this enough to prevent hemorrhoids?
Of course, what you do is good and basic, but it cannot completely prevent hemorrhoids because there is a genetic basis for hemorrhoids, but these diets help to delay the occurrence of hemorrhoids and reduce the possibility of their occurrence. I advise you to continue what you are doing.
I have external hemorrhoids, which a doctor diagnosed for me a while ago and told me that I have to have an operation, but I did not, the pain and blood have completely disappeared. Do I ignore the matter that may make the hemorrhoids develop badly?
External hemorrhoids are external swellings, and when the doctor advised you to perform the operation, it may be due to the presence of thrombosis in the hemorrhoid and thrombosis must disappear within 3 weeks or require a thrombus procedure, ignoring the matter does not make the hemorrhoids develop, but it may recur again, and if it recurs, it requires examination and treatment according to Put it down that time.
Today I saw a one-time amount of blood in my stool. Are these hemorrhoids? If repeated, when should I visit the doctor?
Exiting blood with stool without feeling pain is one of the most important indications of internal hemorrhoids, and I advise to see a doctor immediately when seeing blood and not waiting to see blood again and again, because the treatment of hemorrhoids in which hemorrhoids are in the advanced stages in which hemorrhoids are in the first and second degree Fast, simple and easy, and does not require complicated procedures.
I have removed the hemorrhoids that I have had for several years, but I am experiencing similar pains to what I had previously suffered, can the hemorrhoids return?
This is a good question, as the likelihood of hemorrhoids recurring varies from patient to patient, and also varies according to the method that was treated, so hemorrhoids can come back of course. For example,in the case of Doppler treatment, the probability of recurrence of hemorrhoids is 5%, and it exceeds 20% if laser treatment is done with the rest of the methods.
What are haemorrhoids causes?
The veins around your anus tend to stretch under pressure and may bulge or swell. Hemorrhoids can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to: - Straining during bowel movements - Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet - Having chronic diarrhea or constipation - Being obese - Being pregnant - Having anal intercourse - Eating a low-fiber diet - Regular heavy lifting
Anal Fistula FAQ
I have a hole in my body, but in a different place than the picture here, where the hole is in the area under the anus, but I do not suffer any pain just a smell that I recently started to smell from it.
Yes, the fistula is an opening next to the anus, and it is not accompanied by pain unless an abscess is formed or the fistula’s opening has closed, so this is a sufficient indication of the presence of a fistula.
I have a hole in my body, but in a different place than the picture here, where the hole is in the area under the anus, but I do not suffer any pain just a smell that I recently started to smell from it.
Yes, the fistula is an opening next to the anus, and it is not accompanied by pain unless an abscess is formed or the fistula’s opening has closed, so this is a sufficient indication of the presence of a fistula.
I visited a doctor and he told me that I have a fistula, but I do not suffer from pain, secretions, or itching, and I am not convinced of the diagnosis, should I ignore it?
It is best not to ignore the matter, but to perform a diagnostic procedure to make sure by conducting sound waves inside the anus.
Can the type of pain indicative of a fistula be distinguished from other pain?
Often the fistula does not accompany the pain except in the case it was in the form of an abscess, and if there is an abscess, it is pain that continues throughout the 24 hours without stopping in addition to heat and sweating sometimes.
What is anal fistula?
Fistula is an abnormal connection between anal canal and perianal skin.
What is Fistula possible causes?
Fistula is the result of a perianal abscess
What is Fistula risk factors?
Anal abscess Inflammatory bowel disease
What is Fistula signs & symptoms?
Discomfort for the patient . Pain. Purulent discharge. Anal itching.
What is Fistula Diagnosis?
Direct examination Endoanal ultrasound MRI
What is Fistula Diagnosis?
Direct examination Endoanal ultrasound MRI
Pilonidal Sinus FAQ
Why is the Pilonidal Sinus called this name? Although it is a hair bag?
It is called as a result of its presence in the Pilonidal Sinus region.
I noticed that there was a small hole in my lower back as if it was a hair! And when squeezed out a foul substance, should I leave it?
It is better not to leave it, because it is a hair bag and you should see a doctor immediately
I have a hair bag that I diagnosed during the Corona season and I did not go to the doctor to remove it because of Corona, what is your advice to me?
My advice is to clean the area continuously and see the doctor as soon as possible so that an abscess does not form and the situation does not become difficult and complicated. When the hair cyst is without infections, treatment is much easier.
I removed a hair bag 3 times during my life, and I don’t know if the condition will recur, what should I do to avoid the condition completely?
Recurrence (recurrence) in the case of a hair cyst is contained in all the techniques and methods of treatment, but in order to avoid relapse, we need 3 things: - To perform the treatment in the manner that needs the least surgery - To remove all the hair from around the area and to maintain personal hygiene and not leave any hair in Zone - Not sitting too long also helps.
Anal fissure FAQ
I saw blood during defecation and it was dark red in color. Does this mean that there is an anal fissure?
Often no, the anal fissure is often accompanied by severe pain during defecation, and severe burning as soon as the stool ends, but the exit of blood during defecation is often an internal hemorrhoid.
I had a momentary pain during the intense pressure when defecating, but I did not feel any other pain later except for a slight continuous pain but very likely, is it possible for it to heal on its own?
This description often indicates the existence of an anal fissure, and we call it an acute anal fissure. You can see a doctor to prescribe medication for you, and it may also heal on its own.
I have an incision whose symptoms are clear, I had it yesterday, but I did not understand what is the treatment of the incision with gel-like, so how can the wound be closed with gel-like?
The treatment of anal fissures with gel-like depends on treating the pathological mechanism that causes the fissure, which is the presence of spasm in the involuntary internal muscle, this muscle in this case prevents blood flow to the wound area and thus does not heal the wound, gel-like injection is done at a number of points in the internal muscle that spasms, which leads to its relaxation and thus allowing With blood flow.
I think I have an incision and will go to the doctor, but I wanted to know if laser treatment is available in the clinic that I am going to visit, and is it available to you?
Lasers are available, and all treatment techniques without surgery are available to us, but I advise that you leave the decision to the doctor to choose the treatment method according to the degree of the incision.
Anal abscess FAQ
Last week, I noticed that the excrement that I put out has a very bad smell, regardless of the types of food, can I have a perianal abscess?
The foul smell of the faeces does not mean the presence of an anal abscess, the anal abscess is accompanied by very severe pain that continues throughout the day and is accompanied by swelling around the anus or internal swelling.
An abscess is a pus under the skin, I could get it out myself by sterilizing a needle and using it, right?
When an abscess is present, it is better to open it by an experienced surgeon because 50% to 60% of cases form after the abscess a perianal fistula, so the experienced surgeon is best able to estimate the location and method of opening the abscess so that a complex fistula does not form, but the next stage of treatment is simple.
I have some symptoms related to anal abscess, should I see a general practitioner or go to a doctor who specializes in the rectum, anus and colon directly?
Of course, it is better to see a specialist, in my opinion, because he has the most experience in treating this type of problem.
Is anal abscess treatment usually covered by insurance companies, or not?
If the patient has insurance covered in our centers, he is treated at the expense of insurance, and it is usually approved by the insurance companies.
What Is Circumcision?
Circumcision is surgery to remove the skin at the very tip of the penis.
Baby boys are born with a loose flap of skin that covers and protects the rounded top part of the penis. This skin is called the foreskin. It contains nerves, blood vessels, and a tiny part of muscle.
When you are born, the foreskin is stuck to the penis. It separates as you grow up. This allows urine to better exit the body and lets the skin pull back when you have an erection.
How Is Circumcision Done?
Circumcision is a quick procedure. It only takes a few minutes. It may be done in the hospital or at home a few days or weeks after you are born. It is also sometimes done later in life.
The foreskin is removed, and petroleum jelly (such as Vaseline) is put on the wound before it's wrapped in gauze. Complications are rare but could include:
- Bleeding
- Blockage of the urethra, the opening where urine leaves the body
- Infection or poor healing
- Irritation of the tip of the penis
- Removal of too much or too little foreskin
Why Are Some Boys Circumcised and Others Not?
Parents decide whether or not to have a boy circumcised when they are born. Not all baby boys are circumcised.
Things that can affect your parents' decision include:
- Religious or cultural beliefs; circumcision is a Jewish and Islamic religious practice.
- Social beliefs; your parents may worry you will "look different" if you do not have this surgery done.
- Fear of possible risks related to surgery
- Medical reasons; circumcision may lower your risk of some cancers and infections.
Why Wasn't I Circumcised?
Some reasons you might not have been circumcised include:
- You may have been born with a bleeding disorder such as hemophilia.
- You might have been born with other problems with the penis or foreskin.
- Your parents may not have felt it was necessary for religious, social, or medical reasons.
Are There Benefits to Circumcision?
There are some medical benefits with circumcision. Here are some of them:
- Circumcision lowers the risk of cancer of the penis, which is very rare.
- Boys and men who are circumcised have less chance of getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). An STD is a disease you catch from sexual contact. An example is HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), the virus that causes AIDS.
- Males who are circumcised have a slightly lower risk of getting a urinary tract infection. That's an infection affecting the bladder, kidneys, or the tubes that urine goes through as it leaves the body.
- If you're circumcised, there's no worry that you'll get an infection of the foreskin.
- Circumcision means you'll never get phimosis -- a condition in which very tight foreskin gets stuck to the penis.
How Do I Care for an Uncircumcised Penis?
If you're not circumcised, you will need a couple extra steps to keep the penis clean:
- First, gently pull the foreskin backwards.
- Then, clean the skin underneath with soap and water.
You should do this every day.
Remember -- if your foreskin looks tight or is red or if there is pain in that area, see your doctor immediately.
Can I Get Circumcised as a Young Adult?
Circumcision may be done at any age. If you were not circumcised as a baby, you may choose to have it done later for personal or medical reasons. Your doctor may suggest circumcision later if:
- You have repeated infections of the foreskin that do not get better with treatment.
- You cannot pull the foreskin away from the tip of the penis.