Bariatric Surgery: Weight Loss, Disease Reduction

Dr. Phool Wangvisavavit, a specialist in laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery at the Surgery Center of Hua Chiew Hospital, stated “Obesity” is considered a growing health problem among the Thai population, with an increasing number of patients. It is a condition in which the body accumulates excessive fat beyond normal levels, leading to various chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

 

Attempts to lose weight through diet control and exercise alone may not be effective, as many individuals find it difficult to tolerate hunger and maintain long-term discipline. Bariatric surgery for the treatment of obesity and diabetes can make dietary control easier by altering the function of the stomach. This helps patients better control their food intake and reduces hunger, leading to greater and more sustainable weight loss compared to other methods. The resulting weight loss also improves associated conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, and obesity-related infertility.

 

Hua Chiew Hospital provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services in both general and specialized surgery, delivered by experienced surgical specialists. The hospital is equipped with advanced medical technology, including laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve). This minimally invasive procedure uses a small video laparoscope, allowing surgeons to reduce the size of the stomach with precision using stapling devices inserted through small abdominal incisions. Approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving a reduced gastric capacity of about 150-200 cc.

 

Benefits of Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)

 - Reduced hunger due to removal of the portion of the stomach that produces the appetite-regulating hormone “ghrelin,” making dietary control easier

 - Increased satiety due to the smaller stomach size

 - Noticeable weight loss within 3-6 months

 - Improvement in chronic conditions, better body shape, easier clothing choices, and increased confidence in social situations

 

Eligibility Criteria for Bariatric Surgery

Patients aged 18-65 years with the following Body Mass Index (BMI) criteria:

 - BMI > 37.5 kg/m² without comorbidities

 - BMI > 32.5 kg/m² with obesity-related comorbidities that are not well controlled despite treatment

 

Postoperative Care

1.Strict adherence to a diet plan prescribed by a dietitian

2.Frequent intake of water in small sips to prevent dehydration

3.Proper wound care during the first week after surgery

4.Light exercise can begin from the second week post-surgery; avoid heavy lifting for at least one month

5.Attend all follow-up appointments for monitoring and nutritional supplementation (vitamins and minerals)

6.Maintain long-term dietary discipline and gradually increase exercise intensity as weight decreases

 

source : Hua Chiew Hospital

Hua Chiew Hospital

**Translated and compiled by ArokaGO Content Team