Bariatric Surgery

Sharon Regional's Bariatric Surgery Program is directed by Ravi Alapati, M.D., a general surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive surgery and single incision laparoscopic surgery. The program offers a multi-disciplinary approach to surgical weight loss, helping to ensure the best possible outcomes.

The bariatric surgery team consists of surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, physical therapists, nurses, and a coordinator to provide a weight loss program that addresses all of the needs of the patients. The new program offers three surgical options for patients, including laparoscopic RY gastric bypass, the Lap-Band system, and the vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

According to Dr. Alapati the introduction of bariatric surgery at Sharon Regional follows a natural progression in advances the Health System has made in laparoscopic surgery and SILS (single incision laparoscopic surgery) over the past 24 months.

"I am very excited about the new bariatric surgery program," stated Dr. Alapati. "Through specializing in the gastric bypass, lap band, and vertical sleeve gastrectomy procedures, we can offer our patients a truly customized surgical approach to their weight loss plan and insure we utilize the techniques that best fit their individual requirements."

The laparoscopic RY gastric bypass is performed by introducing a laparoscope that is connected to a video camera through small abdominal incisions, which magnify the view of the internal organs on a television monitor. The entire operation is performed "inside" the abdomen after gas has been inserted to expand it. Special stapling instruments create a new, small stomach pouch.

The remainder of the stomach isn't removed, but is completely stapled shut and divided from the new small stomach pouch. The result is an early sense of fullness, combined with a sense of satisfaction that reduces the desire to eat.

The LAP-BAND® System is the first FDA-approved adjustable gastric band for use in weight reduction.  It was approved for use in for severely obese adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more or for adults with a BMI of at least 35 plus at least one severe obesity-related health condition, such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension and asthma.

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Unlike gastric bypass, the LAP-BAND® System does not involve stomach cutting, stapling or intestinal re-routing. In many cases, the LAP-BAND® System procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis and the patient can return home the same day.

By reducing stomach capacity, the LAP-BAND® System can help patients achieve long-term weight loss by creating an earlier feeling of fullness while maintaining a healthy diet. It is reversible and can be removed at any time.

The newest technique in weight loss surgery is the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy. Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is a new bariatric procedure that offers an excellent alternative to both the laparoscopic RY gastric bypass and adjustable gastric banding.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy is that it doesn't involve any bypass of the intestinal tract. Patients don't experience the complications of intestinal bypass that could include intestinal obstruction, osteoporosis, anemia, vitamin deficiency and protein deficiency.

Information at: [email protected]