Advanced Laparoscopic Specialists Offer Hope

By Marci Nielsen


These are the medical doctors of New York city who are trained in endoscopy (a minimally invasive diagnostic and surgical technique) with a focus on helping the morbidly obese lose weight. Advanced Laparoscopic Specialists are skilled in gastric by-pass surgery, which reduces the size of the stomach. The operation itself is only a first step in the weight-control program

In spite of what many think, this is not a frivolous field of medicine. Those who are one hundred pounds or more above their ideal weight are prey to severe health complications. Among these are hypertension and other heart conditions, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea. Any of these conditions can be life-threatening. All of them, as well as the excess weight, lower the quality of life for millions of people.

Exercise, a key part of any weight-control or health-building program, is hard for the obese. Since muscles burn calories most efficiency, lack of muscle tone exacerbates weight gain. A sedentary life leads to digestive problems, more rapid weight gain, and an increase of body fat. Circulation of lymph and blood is compromised, which lowers immunity. It is not uncommon for obesity to lead to chronic illness.

Excess weight places undue stress on feet and joints, making it hard or impossible for severely overweight people to walk freely, much less engage in more vigorous activities. Not being able to exercise makes gaining weight easier than ever. Weight gain is further accelerated if there are hormonal issues. Poor food choices and eating habits also contribute to overweight. In the US, obesity is second only to smoking as a leading cause of death from bad habits. In fact, being sedentary is called 'the new smoking' by health professionals.

Gastric by-pass is done with endoscopes (metal rods that allow lights, cameras, and implements to be inserted through tiny incisions). It is one of many operations under the laparoscopic surgery umbrella. Endoscopy is safer than open surgery, since there is less chance of infection because of smaller incisions. There is also less pain, less scarring, and a much shorter recovery time.

Special cameras and lights allow the surgeon to 'see' what he's doing. Advances like these make surgery feasible for many whose health might not allow conventional surgical procedures. Gastric by-pass used to be major surgery with inherent risks. These have been greatly reduced with the less invasive procedures.

The clinics that offer this service also provide comprehensive support. Dietitians and nutritionists hold classes on proper eating habits and good lifestyle choices. Support groups help both before and after surgery and recovery, giving people the encouragement they need for success. Behavioral counselors help people understand the emotional aspects of obesity and the ways that people can cause themselves to fail.

This pre-op and post-op program involves both surgeons and trained professionals, as well as patients themselves. The personalized approach has proved very important in the success of this weight-loss measure. Without lifestyle and dietary changes, people who have the surgery often gain the weight back. With them, a whole new life is possible with everything needed for happiness and health.




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