Definition of Bariatric

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By Cat Carson
eHow Contributing Writer

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Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure designed to help obese individuals lose weight.

The word bariatric is most commonly used in association with bariatric surgery, a medical procedure designed for obese individuals who would like to lose weight. Also called gastric bypass surgery, bariatric surgery is the most common type of weight loss surgery performed in the United States (US), according to the Mayo Clinic.

Definition

Bariatrics is the medical field that provides individuals with weight loss treatments, according to eMedicineHealth.com. The word bariatric is also used to refer to research on the causes and prevention of obesity.

Features

Bariatric surgery divides the stomach into two parts, usually by stapling the stomach across the top. This creates a small pouch that only holds approximately one ounce of food.

Effects

The small pouch created by bariatric surgery actually limits the amount of food an individual can consume and digest. This helps to reduce the calorie intake and allows the patient to lose weight.

Benefits

Many bariatric surgery patients lose weight very quickly. This weight loss helps to reduce the risk of obesity-related medical problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and high blood cholesterol.

Risks

Bariatric surgery is associated with several risks, including blood clots, hernias, bleeding stomach ulcers, pneumonia and infections.

Considerations

Bariatric surgery is intended for females who are at least 80 pounds overweight and males who are at least 100 pounds overweight. Individuals who are less overweight but have heart disease, sleep apnea or diabetes might also be candidates for this surgical procedure.