The Role of Primary Care in Bariatric Surgery

Updates in Medical and Surgical Weight Loss

“…Individuals planning bariatric surgery are managed by an interprofessional team including a registered dietician, psychologist, bariatric medical specialist, anesthesiology team, and bariatric surgeon 47,60 . They undergo a comprehensive physical and mental health assessment and meet with the dietician to make a long‐term plan to facilitate successful weight loss 47 .…”

“…They undergo a comprehensive physical and mental health assessment and meet with the dietician to make a long‐term plan to facilitate successful weight loss 47 . Although the surgery will lead to reduced appetite, it will not change behaviors such as emotional, comfort, and stress eating or the desire for high‐calorie foods, so individuals electing surgery need to commit to permanent lifestyle changes to include a well‐balanced, structured diet 60 . A diet and activity regimen may also be recommended for 2 to 12 weeks prior to surgery with the intent to reduce body fat and liver size 47 …”

“…Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are also affected, with improvement or resolution occurring within one year of surgery 60 . Other benefits of bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss include reduction in blood pressure, improved lipid profile, improvements in polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility, and improvements in skin conditions, arthritis, and overall quality of life 60 …”

“…Side effects of gastric banding can include nausea and vomiting as well as heartburn, both of which can be worse in the initial weeks to months after the band is placed and being adjusted. The gastric band is not recommended for individuals who overeat for emotional reasons 60 …”

“…Bariatric surgery has a profound effect on type 2 diabetes, with 78.1% of individuals experiencing complete resolution of the disease and 86.6% experiencing disease improvement or resolution that persists beyond 2 years postoperatively 59 . Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea are also affected, with improvement or resolution occurring within one year of surgery 60 . Other benefits of bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss include reduction in blood pressure, improved lipid profile, improvements in polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility, and improvements in skin conditions, arthritis, and overall quality of life 60 …”