As health increasingly becomes a critical aspect of our lives, getting an intimate understanding of complex medical terminology equips individuals with the knowledge essential for making informed decisions. Among these terminologies is ‘bariatric.’ Bariatric refers to a branch of medicine dealing with the study, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Bariatric surgery, therefore, is an assortment of medical procedures aimed at weight loss primarily through the reduction of the size of the stomach.
Obesity has rapidly become a leading cause of preventable, life-threatening conditions worldwide, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. With the rising prevalence of obesity, bariatric surgery has gained recognition as an effective solution for those struggling with severe obesity and the associated health complications it brings along.
Bariatric surgery procedures can be grouped into three main categories: restrictive, malabsorptive, and mixed procedures. Restrictive procedures limit the intake of food by shrinking the size of the stomach. Malabsorptive procedures, on the other hand, inhibit the absorption of calories and nutrients in the digestive tract by bypassing parts of it. Mixed procedures, just as the name suggests, incorporate elements of both restrictive and malabsorptive procedures.
Examples of these procedures include gastric banding, gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. Each of these procedures employs a distinct method to promote weight loss. Gastric banding involves placing a band around the upper portion of the stomach to create a small pouch, thus limiting food intake. Gastric bypass shortens the digestive tract, reducing calorie absorption. Sleeve gastrectomy involves removing a part of the stomach, limiting the amount of food intake, while biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch bypasses a large section of the small intestine, significantly hindering calorie absorption.
For the purpose of this article, the focus will be on gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy. Gastric sleeve surgery is a restrictive bariatric surgery that permanently reduces the size of the stomach by about 15%, facilitating weight loss. It is performed laparoscopically, meaning it’s minimally invasive, results in fewer complications, and recuperation time is significantly reduced.
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Los Angeles can vary widely depending on various factors, including the surgeon’s level of experience, the complexity of the patient’s case, the facility where the procedure is undertaken, and the type of insurance coverage. Overall, the cost can range anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. It’s important to keep in mind that this cost often encompasses pre-operative tests, anesthesia, surgeon’s fees, and hospital stay. However, it’s recommended to do comprehensive research and consult with multiple bariatric professionals before making an informed decision. Note that it might also be possible to get some coverage from insurance if the procedure is deemed medically necessary.
In conclusion, bariatrics is a critical subsection of medicine tackling obesity and its complications. The various bariatric procedures, including the gastric sleeve surgery, have proven effective in promoting weight loss and subsequently improving health and quality of life for many. However, like any other medical procedures, these surgeries come with risks and potential complications. Thus, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the benefits, implications, as well as financial responsibilities before committing to the process.