How do I prepare for gastric bypass?
You are an important member of your own healthcare team. The steps you take before surgery can improve your comfort and outcome.
You can prepare for a gastric bypass by:
Answering all questions about your medical history and medications. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, herbal treatments, and vitamins. It is a good idea to carry a current list of your medical conditions, medications, and allergies at all times.
Getting preoperative testing as directed. Testing will vary depending on your age, health, and specific procedure. Preoperative testing may include a chest X-ray, electrocardiography (ECG), blood tests, and other tests as needed.
Losing some weight as directed by your surgeon. Even losing a small amount of weight can help reduce serious risks of gastric bypass surgery.
Not eating or drinking before surgery as directed. Your surgery may be cancelled if you eat or drink too close to the start of surgery because you can choke on stomach contents during anesthesia.
Stopping smoking as soon as possible. Even quitting for just a few days can be beneficial and help the healing process.
Taking or stopping medications exactly as directed. This may include not taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and blood thinners. Your doctor will give you instructions for taking your specific medications and supplements.
Questions to ask your doctor
Facing surgery can be stressful. It is common for patients to forget some of their questions during a doctor’s office visit. You may also think of other questions after your appointment. Contact your doctor with concerns and questions before gastric bypass and between appointments.
It is also a good idea to bring a list of questions to your appointments. Questions can include:
Why do I need gastric bypass? Are there any other options for treating my condition?
How long will the procedure take? When can I go home?
What restrictions will I have after the surgery? When can I return to work and other activities?
What kind of assistance will I need at home?
How should I take my medications?
How will you treat my pain?
When should I follow up with you?
How should I contact you if problems arise? Ask for numbers to call during and after regular hours.
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Medical References
- Bariatric Surgery. The Journal of the American Medical Association. http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/303/6/576.full.pdf.
- Bariatric Surgery - Following Doctor's Orders Results In 35% More Weight Loss. Medical News Today. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/111681.php.
- Bariatric Surgery for Severe Obesity. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney diseases (NIDDK). http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/gastric.htm.
- Benefits of Bariatric Surgery. American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery. http://www.asmbs.org/Newsite07/patients/benefits.htm.
- Pile, JC. Evaluating postoperative fever: A focused approach. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. 2006;73 (Suppl 1):S62. http://ccjm.org/content/73/Suppl_1/S62.full.pdf.
- Poirier P, et al. Bariatric Surgery and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2011; 123: 1683-1701. Weight Loss Surgery. DukeHealth.org. http://www.dukehealth.org/services/weight_loss_surgery/care_guides/bariatric_surgery_diet_manual/the....
