Bariatric Surgery Can Give Joint Replacements a Boost

Long-term obesity can result in a number of related conditions that range from diabetes to heart disease. For many people who carry around extra pounds, a toll is also taken on the body’s joints. When degradation reaches a point that replacement surgery is required, new studies are indicating that bariatric surgery in advance of joint replacements can improve overall outcome.

The results of two new studies conducted by the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City were recently released. The research shows that up to 50 percent of hip replacements performed in the United States happen to involve patients who are obese.

The studies focused on the cost-effectiveness of two different treatment protocols for patients who were considered morbidly obese and needed joint replacement. One set of patients underwent joint replacement immediately, without losing weight first. The other had bariatric surgery first, dropped weight, and then returned two years later for a hip or knee replacement. Researchers found that patients who lost weight first had better overall outcomes following replacement surgery.

Obesity in and of itself is a surgical risk, researchers noted. It is associated with longer hospital stays, higher failure rates, revision surgery and much higher overall costs. By first addressing the weight concerns – when applicable – researchers found post-surgical issues were less common.

While bariatric surgery isn’t always covered by insurance, researchers are hoping at least for obese patients who require joint replacements, it will soon become so. Their findings show the benefits can add up to financial savings while also sparing patients some of the potential consequences of post-surgical complications.

Obesity affects an estimated 1 in 3 American adults. People who are obese are urged to work with their physicians to address weight loss in the best recommended manner. Diet and exercise that is physician supervised may provide relief for some with bariatric surgery delivering a viable option for those who cannot shed pounds on their own.

About Author:-

One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson

• along with a full staff of surgeons, nurses and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with LAP-BAND, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy and Revisions.