Welcome to the Official SAMPA Blog
Traveling on A Bariatric Diet
One of the hardest parts of post bariatric surgery life is sticking to your diet and exercise regimen while traveling. Many post-op professionals and avid vacationers must develop habits of eating well when tempted by new and exciting restaurants and exercising even though it is much easier to end the day by jumping into bed and watching some TV.
Body Image Considerations after Bariatric Surgery
Many post-bariatric surgery patients suffer from a distorted view of their body, which can, in turn, cause serious psychological difficulties after surgery. Body image issues cannot be corrected immediately, to be sure. After all, obesity didn’t occur overnight, and the effects of obesity will not disappear quickly either. However, it is important patients begin to address their body image and expectations immediately after surgery – ideally even before surgery.
Bariatric Surgery for Those Suffering from Type-2 Diabetes or GERD
Bariatric surgery is primarily a disease improvement and resolution procedure. In other words, weight loss is simply a secondary benefit. So, it is very important the decision to undergo bariatric surgery be predicated upon a patient’s unique medical circumstance, including the obesity related diseases from which they suffer. This is particularly important for those experiencing significant symptoms or advanced forms of certain diseases.
When Laparoscopic Surgery Isn’t the Best Option
Modern surgery has benefited from the advent and refinement of the laparoscopic or minimally invasive approach. Minimally invasive procedures offer several benefits including less pain, less blood loss, smaller scars, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker recovery. As a result, most of the bariatric and general surgery procedures we perform are minimally invasive and/or robotically assisted. There are times, however, when open surgery is more appropriate for a patient’s circumstance. These reasons can include:
GERD Q&A with Dr. Jeff Hannon
Today, we sit down with Dr. Jeffrey Hannon to discuss some frequently asked questions about Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD, also known as chronic acid reflux and heartburn.
Q: Why Does GERD Occur?
Dr. Hannon: Typically, chronic acid reflux or GERD is caused by a weakened Lower Esophageal Sphincter or LES, the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach and prevents stomach acid from flowing back.
There are several reasons why these muscles could be weak and anything that puts strain on the abdomen, such as obesity or pregnancy, can exacerbate acid reflux.
Some patients may have a hiatal or paraesophageal hernia that contributes to acid reflux.
Lastly, acid reflux may be caused by certain procedures. A Heller Myotomy for the treatment of achalasia, the gastric band and the gastric sleeve may all cause or worsen GERD in some patients.
