What is Metabolic Surgery?

The term Metabolic  or sometimes Diabetes Surgery is used to describe the usage of surgical procedures to treat metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In contrast to bariatric surgery, metabolic surgery goal is to specifically address metabolic diseases (like T2DM) rather than obesity per se. Whereas bariatric surgery is generally performed in patients with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40kg/m2, metabolic surgery could be performed in patients with type 2 diabetes with BMIs as low as 27 kg/m2 . Given the important and distinct implications for patient care, using standard, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass to treat type 2 diabetes in patients with BMI above 30 kg/m2 should be considered “metabolic/diabetes surgery” not “bariatric surgery”.

What evidence supports metabolic surgery?

In 1995, Dr. Walter Pories published a paper titled “Who would have thought it? An operation proves to be the most effective therapy for adult-onset diabetes mellitus” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7677463)”. Since then, several studies have shown the positive outcomes of patients who suffer from Metabolic Diseases.

In 2009 the American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS) changed its name to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) to promote information on the beneficial effects of surgeries for weight loss in treating metabolic diseases, especially Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

What types of Metabolic Surgery Are Currently Available?

The best-known metabolic surgery is the Gastric Bypass. Other established procedures are  Biliopancreatic Diversion with or without Duodenal Switch.

Other procedures that have been under study include the Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy, Ilial Interposition and Duodenojejunal Bypass.

Am I a Candidate for Metabolic Surgery?

To find out if you are a candidate or to learn more about Metabolic Surgery, Schedule a free Virtual Consultation or call 1 (833) 463-9263