Ethical Dilemma? Controversial Surgeries

Overview  Gastric Bypass Surgery is a controversial surgery used to treat obesity.

Words to know  Bariatric - The branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention, and treatment of obesity.  Obese – Very overweight; adults with a BMI greater than 30 or anyone more than 100 pounds overweight are considered obese.  Laparscopic - A flexible instrument, passed through a small incision in the abdominal wall. It is used to examine the abdominal cavity or perform surgery.  Comorbidities – Medical conditions that can occur in obese people.

The Digestive System  This is what a stomach looks like.  The food travels from the esophagus into the stomach. This is the esophagus.

Gastric Bypass Procedure Part of the lower intestines is connected to the upper portion of the stomach. The stomach is reduced to a little pocket. This is a picture of a stomach AFTER a gastric bypass is performed.

Risks and Complications  Allergic Reactions  Anesthetic Complications  Bleeding  Blood Clots  Infection  Leaking  Narrowing  Indigestion, Reflux or Ulcers  Hair Loss  Dumping Syndrome Bowel Obstruction Laparoscopic Surgery Risks  Side Effects of Drugs Loss of Bodily Function Hernia  Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies  Inadequate Weight Loss  Excessive Weight Loss  Complications of Pregnancy  Death

Teen Undergoes Controversial Surgery, Loses 198 Pounds This report appeared on ABC News April 30, 2007

KeAira Willis Before Surgery Before surgery, KeAira Willis stood at 5 feet 1 inch and weighed 368 pounds. The surgery reduced her stomach to the size of a walnut.

Specialists at the Texas Children’s Hospital Dr. William Klish – head of the obesity clinic Dr. Michael Helmrath – a pediatric surgeon

KeAira Willis After Surgery  KeAira Willis has lost close to 200 pounds in 15 months.  She has to take special vitamins and attend group therapy.

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