Bariatrics Program
Patient Selection There are no absolute
guidelines that determine which patients are accepted and which
patients are rejected for surgery. Each case is reviewed and evaluated
on an individual basis. Some of the factors considered in patient
selection are given support by the National Institute of Health and
include:
- 1.) Being approximately 100 pounds or more above
ideal body weight as described in the standard life insurance
weight/height tables. Generally, this corresponds with a BMI greater
than or equal to 40.
- 2.) Failure of previous attempts to produce
lasting weight loss.
- 3.) Evidence of physical problems or disease
associated with obesity. These include but are not limited to
diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated blood fats, heart problems,
breathing problems, chronic back pain, or degenerative arthritis. In
the face of such potentially life threatening problems, a patient
may be deemed a candidate for surgery at a BMI of 35 to 40.
- 4.) Smoking cessation of 4-6 weeks prior to surgery.
- 5.) Ability and willingness to cooperate in
follow-up after surgery, including clinic visits, blood work, diet
modifications, and exercising.
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