Bariatric Surgery Can Reduce Medical Costs in the Long Run

As the medical benefits of weight loss surgery for those who are severely obese become evident, researchers have been looking into the actual dollars and cents behind the savings. A recent study, in fact, took a deep look at the medical costs associated with patients who had undergone gastric bypass and banding procedures to determine if these operations can help lower associated medical costs over the long run. The findings show that both procedures can greatly reduce patient medical expenses in the years following surgery, but there are some differences between the two procedures.

Gastric banding involves the semi-permanent placement of a band that restricts stomach capacity. Considered less invasive and less intense than bypass surgery, this reversible and adjustable procedure is a popular one for those interested in losing weight while gaining the potential health benefits that can go along with it. Bypass is the surgical alteration of the stomach to lower food holding capacity. It also involves a reworking of the digestive system to reduce ability to absorb calories and nutrients.

To determine the financial benefits of both procedures, doctors examined commercial insurance claims from nearly 10,000 band and bypass patients in the United States. They found an almost immediate drop in prescription drug costs for bypass patients, but an initial increase in emergency room visits. When annual medical costs between band and bypass patients were compared, researchers found no major differences in the first two years post-surgery. At the 3-year mark, total medical costs for bypass patients was about 16 percent lower than for band.

The bottom line, researchers say, is that both procedures have benefits in regard to improving health status and reducing the need for medical care. Patients, however, should carefully weigh their options and discuss the pros and cons of different weight loss surgeries directly with a qualified physician.

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.