|
Because of multiple disadvantages, surgery for
morbid obesity (also called bariatric surgery) must be restricted to carefully
selected patients. It would be a strong mistake to allow
such procedures for a 20 kg-overweight patient. The eligible patient
should:
| - |
Have an age between 18 and 60
years. |
| - |
Have attempted for at least one year a diet,
with an evidence of failure. |
| - |
Weigh at least 45
kg above ideal body-weight, or the double of ideal body weight according
to the height. One can, also measure the Body Mass
Index or BMI: weight/ m2 height. BMI should be above 40, which
defines morbid obesity.
In Europe, this
concerns in Europe 0,4% of the total population, and 4% of all obese
people. Definition of morbid obesity includes also BMI between 35 and 40,
provided medical complications associated with obesity (comorbidities) are
existing. |
| - |
Have an evaluation from an endocrinologist
and a psychiatrist, who are able to asess former attempts at weight-loss,
and recommend alternative solutions. One should be aware that there is a
debate inside the medical community regarding surgery. For some, surgery
is indicated only if there are medical complications. For others, who
represent a majority nowadays, morbid obesity is enough to indicate
surgery, precisely before complications appear.
| |
