Staged Procedures

Means that the surgical procedure is divided into two procedures. First procedure is a less risky restrictive procedure to start the weight loss process. Once reasonable weight loss is achieved the second procedure is planned which is the malabsorption component of the procedure.

Rationale

Weight loss surgery has risks and complications. Some patients are at a very high risk. There are two main reasons for the high risk. First ??? the more the BMI more is the risk. Second ??? As the number of pre-existing medical conditions increase so does the risk. Therefore the riskiest patients are the super morbidly obese with a BMI over 55 and with many life-threatening pre-existing medical conditions. Many surgeons advocate the staged procedures to decrease the risks and improve the overall outcomes for the patients in the very high risk category.

What does it mean?

Staged procedure means that the surgical procedure is divided into two procedures. First procedure is a less risky restrictive procedure to start the weight loss process. Once reasonable weight loss is achieved the second procedure is planned which is the malabsorption component of the procedure.

Types

Options for the staged procedures as follows:

The Decision

The decision needs to be based on individual assessment after consideration of various factors including risk factors, choice of procedures and goals desired.