Similar to the gastric balloon, the stomach balloon is used for weight loss by physically limiting the stomach's capacity. It is available in the UK both privately and through the NHS in some cases. The balloon is typically left in place for six months, after which it is removed. During this time, patients follow a strict diet to maximize weight loss.

WLS stands for Weight Loss Surgery, and bariatric surgery is a broad term that includes procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and adjustable gastric banding. Bariatric surgery is performed to treat morbid obesity when lifestyle changes alone have failed to produce significant weight loss. It leads to long-term weight loss and improvement in health conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

A pre-surgery diet prepares the body for bariatric surgery, typically focusing on reducing liver size and overall fat to make the procedure safer. This high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet often lasts for 1-2 weeks before surgery. Patients must follow a strict plan of liquids and protein shakes to shrink the liver and facilitate surgery.

The cost of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery varies based on location, healthcare provider, and whether the patient has insurance coverage. In the U.S., the cost ranges from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the hospital and specific circumstances. In countries with public healthcare systems, such as the UK or Canada, the surgery may be covered, though waiting times could be long. Many insurance companies in the U.S. cover bariatric surgery if it’s deemed medically necessary, but patients must meet specific... +More

RNY reversal is the process of undoing the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Although rare, reversals are sometimes necessary due to complications such as malnutrition, severe dumping syndrome, or other medical issues.

Slimming injections like Wegovy or Saxenda are used to assist with weight loss by controlling appetite and hunger. These injections are prescribed for individuals who struggle with obesity or weight-related health issues and have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

The best weight loss clinics in the UK offer a combination of services, from medical weight-loss treatments like bariatric surgery and prescription medications to lifestyle programs involving diet, exercise, and behavioral therapy. These clinics often have multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including dietitians, doctors, and psychologists.

In the UK, gastric sleeve surgery is available through the National Health Service (NHS) for patients who meet specific criteria, such as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40 or over 35 with obesity-related health conditions. Private options are also available, and the cost typically ranges from £8,000 to £12,000.

Similar to a GI doctor, a "gastro dr" refers to a specialist in gastroenterology. Patients typically see these specialists for issues related to digestive health, such as ulcers, acid reflux, or liver disease. They perform diagnostic procedures like endoscopies or colonoscopies to identify and treat conditions. For bariatric surgery patients, gastroenterologists can help manage complications that arise from surgeries like the Roux-en-Y or gastric band.

Following gastric sleeve surgery, patients adhere to a post-op diet that gradually transitions from liquids to pureed foods, soft foods, and eventually solid meals. High-protein, low-carb meals are recommended to promote healing and support long-term weight loss while avoiding nutrient deficiencies.

Abdominal surgery covers a wide range of procedures, from bariatric surgeries to hernia repairs and cancer resections. Recovery time and hospital stay depend on the type of surgery performed, with some requiring only a few days in the hospital, while others may need extended stays for observation and healing.

The cost of a stomach band (also known as a gastric band) surgery varies depending on the country and clinic. In the UK, private clinics charge between £5,000 and £8,000 for the procedure. In the U.S., the cost can range from $9,000 to $15,000. Insurance may cover the surgery if it’s deemed medically necessary.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB) is a popular form of bariatric surgery that reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes the digestive system. This results in both restriction of food intake and malabsorption, leading to significant weight loss. The surgery is considered highly effective for morbidly obese individuals and also helps improve obesity-related health issues like diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. However, it requires lifelong dietary changes and nutritional supplements to avoid deficiencies.

Common drugs for gastritis include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole, which reduce stomach acid, and H2 blockers like ranitidine. Antibiotics are prescribed if the gastritis is caused by a bacterial infection, such as H. pylori.

The post-op sleeve diet is vital for healing and weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy. It begins with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually includes solid foods. Protein intake is prioritized, and patients must avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods to prevent complications like nausea or dumping syndrome.

The post-op sleeve diet is vital for healing and weight loss after sleeve gastrectomy. It begins with liquids, followed by pureed foods, and eventually includes solid foods. Protein intake is prioritized, and patients must avoid high-fat, high-sugar foods to prevent complications like nausea or dumping syndrome.

Similar to stomach stapling, gastric stapling is a weight-loss surgery where staples are used to partition the stomach. The procedure has largely been replaced by more advanced surgeries like the gastric sleeve and Roux-en-Y bypass, which offer better long-term results and fewer complications.

A tumor on the abdomen could be benign or malignant and may arise from various organs like the stomach, intestines, or pancreas. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and digestive issues. Diagnostic imaging and biopsies are used to determine the nature of the tumor, and treatment depends on the diagnosis.

A gastroenterologist is a specialist in diagnosing and treating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. Common conditions treated include IBS, Crohn's disease, and gastritis. They play a critical role in the care of patients post-bariatric surgery, helping manage complications and ensuring proper digestion.

The choice between gastric sleeve surgery and gastric bypass depends on individual factors. The sleeve is less invasive and focuses solely on restricting stomach size, while the bypass alters both stomach size and digestive processes. Bypass surgery often results in more weight loss but comes with higher risks of malabsorption and complications.

A gastro appointment is a consultation with a gastroenterologist. During this visit, the doctor assesses symptoms like stomach pain, acid reflux, or changes in bowel habits. The appointment might involve a physical exam, blood tests, or diagnostic procedures like an endoscopy or colonoscopy to identify the issue.

Gastritis erythema refers to redness or inflammation of the stomach lining, often seen during endoscopic examinations. It can indicate mild gastritis or early stages of stomach irritation. The cause may be related to infections, medication use, or diet, and treatment typically involves addressing the underlying issue.

Gastric band tablets are not a recognized treatment, but the term might refer to weight-loss medications that mimic the effects of a gastric band by suppressing appetite or blocking fat absorption. Medications like Orlistat or appetite suppressants are sometimes used in combination with bariatric procedures.

Gastritis can sometimes cause referred pain that radiates to the back, although this is not a common symptom. If a patient experiences back pain along with gastritis symptoms like nausea, bloating, or indigestion, it could indicate a more severe condition or complications such as ulcers.