Is Gastric Bypass Surgery Worth the Risk?

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https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6a/US_Navy_110511-N-CW427-002_Cmdr._Gordon_Wisbach_prepares_to_insert_an_endoscope_through_a_patient's_belly_button_before_performing_a_natural_orific.jpgGastric bypass procedures are done on a daily basis around the country. For many people, the surgery is a last effort in the long battle to lose weight. Medical mistakes can occur during any surgery, but the risk of mistake rises with the level of complication surrounding the procedure. Because gastric bypass surgery can be incredibly risky, it is important to understand potential complications before you make the decision to go under the knife.

The Risks

The risks of gastric bypass surgery often depend on the type of surgery you elect to have. For generality’s sake, we will provide you with a list of potential complications with the typical gastric bypass surgery. Your doctor can provide you with more specifics with your unique situation in mind.

  • Gallstones
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Incisional hernia
  • Kidney stones
  • Leaks
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Organ injury
  • Stricture
  • Marginal ulcer
  • Infection
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Hemorrhage

Reducing Your Risk

You may be able to reduce your specific risk of complications with advice from your surgeon. There are things that everyone can do, however, to minimize your chance of complications during and after your surgery.

  • Speak to your doctor and select the surgery that is the best for you and your situation. Each surgery has its own set of risks for patients. Your body and lifestyle may be better suited to one surgery than another.
  • Know all of the complications and your potential for experiencing them. Ask your doctor if there are any changes you can make before your surgery to minimize your risks.
  • Choose a surgeon that you are comfortable with. Look on the state medical board’s website to be sure the surgeon you are considering has not been disciplined or sued for medical malpractice.

Undergoing gastric bypass surgery is not something to be taken lightly. Speak to your doctor about all of the risks you are exposing yourself to and how you can work together to minimize those risks.

If you believe that you or a loved one has been injured by a doctor or other medical professional in New York, call our team. We will review the details of your injury and advise you of your next possible steps. Call now for assistance.

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