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What is morbid obesity?

Morbid obesity is a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, which is roughly equal to 100 pounds or more over ideal body weight. The disease of morbid obesity interferes with basic physical functions such as breathing or walking. Long-term effects of the disease include shorter life expectancy, serious health consequences in the form of weight-related health problems (co-morbid conditions) such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and a lower quality of life with fewer economic and social opportunities.
 

What causes morbid obesity?

The causes of morbid obesity are multiple and complex. Despite conventional wisdom, it is not simply a result of overeating. Research has shown that, in many cases, significant, underlying causes of morbid obesity are genetic, environmental, and social. Studies have demonstrated that, once the problem is established, efforts such as dieting and exercise programs have a limited ability to provide effective long-term relief.
 
 

What is a co-morbid condition?

There are two definitions for a co-morbid condition: the presence of one or more disorder or disease in addition to a primary disorder or disease; or, the presence of a disorder or disease that is caused by or otherwise related to another condition in the same patient. The primary disease of morbid obesity can lead to several co-morbid conditions. 
 
There are two definitions for a co-morbid condition: the presence of one or more disorder or disease in addition to a primary disorder or disease; or, the presence of a disorder or disease that is caused by or otherwise related to another condition in the same patient.

Obesity Treatment Options and Effectiveness

Treatment Weight  Loss (% of patiens)
 Diet and Exercise*

 28% to 5%
 Medication**  0%
 Bariatric Surgery***  50% to 70%

 

* Success measured as a loss of 10% of initial body weight.
** Weight loss is not maintained once treatment ends.
*** Success measured as a loss of 50% of excess body weight (equivalent to loss of approximately 20% to 25% of initial body weight). 

 

 

How successful is bariatric surgery?

Improvement in or complete resolution of conditions including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea

Results of Five-Year Follow-up

Studies show that bariatric surgery can effectively improve and resolve many co-morbid conditions. A review of more that 22,000 bariatric surgery patients showed: is a combination restrictive and malabsorptive procedure that reduces the size of the stomach by 70%. The pouch is still a bit larger than with other procedures that use restriction. By connecting the pouch to the lower part of the small intestine, absorption of calories and nutrients is greatly reduced. 

 

Qualifying for Bariatric Surgery

 
Other tests that may be requested include:
 
What impact do my medical conditions have on the decision for bariatric surgery, and how can my medical problems affect risk?
 
 

What can I do to prepare for surgery?

 
  • Understand the surgical process and what to expect afterward.
  • Keep in mind that you’ll never be able to eat the way you did before, and that you’ll have to watch what and how you eat for the rest of your life.
  • Talk to people who have had bariatric surgery.
  • Write down your reasons for having bariatric surgery and outline your plans to maintain your weight loss after surgery.
  • Practice the post-op diet, including the transition from an all-liquid diet, to pureed food, to a normal diet of smaller portions with 4 ounces of protein.
  • Start a journal. Record how you feel now, the challenges you face, and the things you hope to be able to do after bariatric surgery.
  • Ask your family and friends for their support. Talk to them about why you want to have bariatric surgery. It helps to have people behind you, waiting to help.

What is type 2 diabetes and how is it affected by bariatric surgery?

 
83.8% of patients who had gastric bypass surgery experienced complete resolution of type 2 diabetes.
 

What is high blood pressure (hypertension) and how is it affected by bariatric surgery?

 
 
75.4% of patients who had gastric bypass surgery experienced complete resolution of high blood pressure.
 
Excess body weight is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, elevated cholesterol, and high blood pressure. These conditions can lead to heart attacks, strokes, and heart and kidney damage. Bariatric surgery reduces excess body weight over time, which decreases strain on the heart. [LINK TO 1.4.2 HEART DISEASE AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE]
 
Bariatric surgery is like other major abdominal surgery. You can best prepare by knowing the benefits and Medical problems, such as serious heart or lung problems, can increase the 
Certain basic tests typically are performed:The qualification process includes a series of tests with your bariatric surgeon. You also will meet with a nutritionist, psychologist, and other support staff members in sessions leading up to surgery. Each healthcare professional will help you prepare for the changes and challenges that lie ahead.Because every insurance policy is unique, it's important that you thoroughly understand your Certificate of Coverage to know exactly what is and isn't covered through your plan.