Ramona

Weight Loss Options

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:05:00 GMT

First, the surgeon creates a small stomach (permanently reduced to an egg-sized pouch) to restrict food intake. Next, a Y-shaped section of the small intestine is attached to the pouch to allow food to bypass the lower stomach, the duodenum (the first segment of the small intestine), and the first portion of the jejunum (the second segment of the small intestine). This reduces the amount of calories and nutrients the body absorbs.

Those who undergo gastric bypass typically lose between 50 and 70 percent of their excess weight. Since this procedure results in greater weight loss than other methods, it has also been more effective in improving the health problems associated with severed obesity such as hypertension, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis. Gastric bypass is currently the most effective option for long-term control of morbid obesity.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

During a sleeve gastrectomy, a sleeve-shaped tube is created from a small portion of the stomach and the majority of the stomach is removed without bypassing the intestines or causing any gastrointestinal malabsorption. It is purely a restrictive procedure. Food passes through the new stomach tube directly into the intestines. Nutrients and calories are absorbed from food normally, but the smaller stomach limits the amount of food you can eat by making you feel full after eating small amounts of food.

Sleeve gastrectomy is performed laparoscopically and can be a permanent surgical solution to manage weight.

Pathway to Surgery

How to Begin

Our experience, outcomes, dedicated staff, support group network, and professional-led aftercare contribute to our excellence in care. We have outlined the pathway to surgery below for your convenience:

Step One: Contact our center at 828/326-2082 to receive a patient information packet in the mail.

Step Two: Register and attend one of our free informational seminars. To view the schedule of our upcoming seminars and to register click here or call 828/326-2082 and speak to the program coordinator.

Step Three: If you plan to go through insurance, contact your insurance provider. You will only need to verify that this surgery is a covered benefit on your policy. Certification is a different process that will be completed prior to surgery by Hickory Surgical Clinic on your behalf.

Step Four: Complete the patient information and medical history forms. Obtain all insurance required medical record documentation. Complete a psychological evaluation from a board certified psychiatrist or psychologist. In addition to a referral letter from your primary care physician, you will need to have a comprehensive physical exam which includes a thyroid panel. You may also be required by your health insurance carrier to complete a medically supervised weight loss program for a minimum of six months within the past two years (including monthly documentation of weight, dietary, exercise and lifestyle modification at each visit).

Step Five: When step four is completed, a surgical consultation will be scheduled.

Step Six:   Insurance approval. Your application, medical records and a letter of medical necessity will be prepared and submitted to your insurance company for written approval. Authorization can take up to four or more weeks depending on your insurance.

Step Seven: Pre-operative visit will be scheduled approximately 10 days prior to your surgery.

These important steps will ensure that you will be well prepared for the surgery. We will be happy to assist you in any way as you prepare to take the next step toward a healthier lifestyle.

The Team at Catawba Valley Medical Center

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 19:55:00 GMT

Our Team

Libby Shaver, MSN, RN, CBN, Surgical Weight Management Coordinator

Libby Shaver is the Program Coordinator for Catawba Valley Medical Center’s Surgical Weight Management Program. She has been dedicated to the program since its inception in 2004. Her duties are centered on the extensive patient education and behavior modifications required with bariatric surgery. Libby is a Certified Bariatric Nurse and is a member of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Contact Libby.

Monty Cox, MD, FACS, Surgical Weight Management Medical Director

Dr. Cox joined the surgical clinic in 2003. Originally from South Carolina, he attended medical school and surgery residency at Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. His surgery practice includes a broad range of general surgical interests, including laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, cancer surgery, breast surgery, colon surgery, general surgery (gallbladder, hernia, anti-reflux surgery, etc), as well as surgical weight loss procedures. He has an interest in single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS), where appropriate. He serves as the Medical Director of the Surgical Weight Management Program at Catawba Valley Medical Center.

L. James Cook, MD, FACS

Dr. Cook joined the surgical clinic in 1984. He attended medical school and general surgery residency at the University of Kentucky. His practice covers a wide range of general surgery interests, including laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, cancer surgery, colon surgery, general surgery (gallbladder, hernia, anti-reflux surgery, etc), and surgical weight loss procedures. He established the surgical weight loss program at his practice in 2001, and his leadership has set the standard for excellence in bariatric surgery in our region.

Jonathan Hata, MD, FACS

Dr. Hata joined the surgical clinic in 2008. Originally from Oregon, he attended medical school and residency at Duke University. He then went on to complete an additional year of fellowship training at Duke, focusing on minimally invasive and advanced laparoscopic surgery. His practice includes a broad scope of general surgery, including laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, cancer surgery, colon surgery, general surgery (gallbladder, hernia, anti-reflux surgery, etc), as well as surgical weight loss procedures. He has an interest in single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS), where appropriate.

Lynn Delserone, RD, LDN

Lynn Delserone is the Bariatric Outreach Dietitian at Catawba Valley Medical Center. She has worked with surgical weight loss patients for more than twenty years and has been dedicated to this program since its inception in 2004. Her role is education and providing support to patients through all phases of the Surgical Weight Management process. Lynn is a member of the American Dietetic Association and the North Carolina Dietetic Association.

The Program

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:48:00 GMT

Our Program

Begin your journey of transformation today.
Put your TRUST in the Surgical Weight Management Program at Catawba Valley Medical Center

About the Surgical Weight Management Program

Since the development of the Surgical Weight Management Program, numerous lives have been transformed. This program offers comprehensive care for the “morbidly obese” patient before and after weight loss surgery. Under the leadership of medical director, Montgomery Cox, MD, and board-certified bariatric surgeons, Dr. James Cook and Dr. Jon Hata from the Hickory Surgical Clinic, the staff consists of a team of professionals who are experts in their respective field. The team works together to provide patients with the best medical services in an environment of compassionate intervention and goal-oriented care. This excellence in patient care is provided from consultation through treatment.

Changing Lives through Compassionate Care, Guidance, and Education

Don’t Battle Your Weight Problem Alone. Our weight loss surgery team partner with you to achieve sustained weight loss, improve serious medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and to enhance your quality of life. We use the latest surgical technique and equipment to ensure safe and successful weight-loss surgery. We also provide the comprehensive support and education you need before, during and after surgery to ensure your success in reaching your health and lifestyle goals. Live the Life of Your Dreams.

Taking the First Step and Attending a FREE Information Seminar

If you are not sure bariatric surgery is right for you, attend a free information seminar to learn more about the Catawba Valley Medical Center Surgical Weight Management Program. During this two-hour presentation, you will have a chance to meet members of the bariatric program team as they walk you through the details of the weight loss surgery and the lifestyle changes necessary for success. The surgeon will present information on bariatric procedures including the Adjustable Gastric Banding, Gastric Bypass, and Sleeve Gastrectomy. You will learn more about the dietary and lifestyle changes required both before and after surgery. Most importantly, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and hear honest answers from the experts. To view the schedule of our upcoming seminars and to register click here or call 828-326-2082 and speak to the program coordinator.

Seminar Location:

Health First Center?
Valley Hills Mall
1960 Highway 70 SE
Hickory NC 28602

Supporting You along the Journey

Losing weight takes a strong commitment on your part, and undergoing Bariatric Surgery as a significant part of a weight-loss program, is a major undertaking. While it’s something you can do alone, there is absolutely no reason you have to. We’ve found that to be truly successful both in the short- and long-term, it’s best to have plenty of support along the way. And just not from your family and friends.

The Surgical Weight Management Program offers you the opportunity to participate in monthly support group meetings before and after surgery to help contribute to your successful outcome. Support group provides a friendly forum for people who are considering surgery or have already had weight loss surgery. Friends and family are welcome, too. You will hear about successes, frustrations, plateaus, and special moments, and have a chance to share your own experiences. Various speakers, including our registered dietitian, exercise specialists, psychologists, and physicians will share their knowledge and experiences on a variety of topics of interest to bariatric support group participants. Successful patients attend support group regularly.

Support groups are held the first Monday of each month at the Health First Center at Valley Hills Mall at 6:30pm.

FAQ

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:44:00 GMT

FAQ

The following are some of the most common questions about weight-loss surgery. Catawba Valley Medical Center Surgical Weight Management Center hosts informative bimonthly seminars to answer your questions and introduce you to people who have undergone weight-loss surgery. Click here to view our upcoming information seminars and to register.

What health issues can weight loss surgery help to resolve?

Health issues that often improve following weight loss include diabetes, heart disease, gastro esophageal reflux disease, sleep apnea, respiratory insufficiency, high cholesterol and weight-induced arthritis.

Will insurance cover surgery?

Coverage depends on your individual insurance plan. You can learn more about working with your insurance company at our information session. If you do not have insurance coverage, you can learn more about your options as a self-pay patient.

How soon will I start to lose weight?

You will start losing weight immediately after surgery but you may not notice any loss until the 2nd week. Weight loss after the band is more gradual and constant, approximately 1-2 lbs per week. The weight loss after gastric bypass and the sleeve gastrectomy is initially rapid, with a slowing about 9 months after surgery. At the 6 week follow-up visit, we typically see around a 20 pound weight loss. This depends on how much the starting weight was. The heavier the starting weight, the more weight that is lost.

How much weight can I expect to lose?

Results depend on your motivation and cooperation with the program, but generally, most patients will lose 50 to 70 percent of their excess body weight; some patients can lose more.

Can I regain weight?

The gastric band provides a constant restriction, however you have more control of your weight loss. If you resort to taking in soft sweets such as chocolate, ice cream or drinks with high calorie liquids, you will regain the weight.

With the gastric bypass and the sleeve gastrectomy, weight-loss continues up to 18 months and then plateaus. Depending on the size of the stomach pouch and the type of food eaten, some patients can experience a 20 to 30 pound weight regain after 2 years. That is why it is very important that you use the stomach pouch as a tool, and follow the instructions given to you by the dietitian on how and what to eat.

Is it possible for me to get to thin?

It is unusual for a person to become too thin after bariatric surgery. These operations still allow you to ingest and absorb a sufficient amount of calories (about 1000-1500) so that you do not become too thin. With time, you will be able to eat more than you were able to immediately after surgery.

With the band, once you reach your target weight you will not need further adjustments.

How long will I be in the hospital?

Although each individual is different, most gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy patients remain in the hospital for 1 to 2 days after surgery. Gastric banding patients may go home the same day or the following day.

When can I drive?

You may resume driving in one week following surgery as long as your have been off your narcotic pain medication for 24 hours. The first week or so after surgery, you may still feel pretty sore across the abdomen and that may impede your ability to brake quickly or suddenly.

How long before I can return to work?

The answer to this question is, it depends. It depends on the procedure you have and the type of work that you do. If you have a relatively sedentary job and do not do a lot of heavy lifting (greater than thirty pounds), you are usually able to return to work within one to two weeks of surgery. If you have a more physical job, then you may need to be off as long as 4-6 weeks.

Will I require vitamin supplements after weight loss surgery?

Patients undergoing bariatric surgery will require a daily vitamin supplement for the rest of their lives.

What is “dumping syndrome?”

Eating simple sugars (such as sugar, honey, and corn syrup) or high-fat foods can cause dumping syndrome in patients who have had gastric bypass surgery. This occurs when these products are “dumped” from the stomach into the intestine at a rapid rate. Water is pulled into the intestine from the blood stream to dilute the sugar load. This flush of water causes symptoms that can include diarrhea, rapid heart rate, hot flashes or sweating and clammy skin, and dizziness.

Can I get pregnant after bariatric surgery?

Most doctors recommend that women wait at least 18 months after the surgery before a pregnancy. Approximately 18 months post-operation, your body should be fairly stable (from a weight and nutrition standpoint), and you should be able to carry a normally nourished fetus. Consult your surgeon as you plan for pregnancy.

If you have the gastric band, all that needs to be done is have some or all of the fluid removed to allow you to take in enough nutrition during your pregnancy. After delivery, the band can be tightened accordingly.

Will I need plastic surgery after my weight loss surgery?

After a large amount of weight loss, you may find yourself with excess skin in various places. Some people find the excess skin a nuisance or cosmetically unappealing, others do not. ?Weight loss after surgery continues for about 18-24 months. After that time, plastic surgery may be an option. This is typically performed by a plastic surgeon experienced in this field. The plastic surgeon will evaluate you and decide with you what areas need “tightening” up. Unfortunately, this is cosmetic surgery and not covered by insurance, however, there are many plastic surgeons that are flexible and may offer a discount or work out a payment schedule with you.

Understanding Obesity

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:43:00 GMT

Understanding Obesity

What is Obesity?

Obesity is a life-threatening condition that affects one-fourth of the American population, and its prevalence is on the rise. In the past decade, obesity has increased 60%, and is currently contributing to 300,000 deaths each year. This dangerous condition is considered more damaging to your health than smoking and alcohol abuse. Obesity is most often caused by factors that are difficult, if not impossible to control. Common contributors to obesity include energy imbalance, heredity, metabolic disorders, social habits, environmental factors, and psychological disorders.

Are You Morbidly Obese?

Excess weight affects your life and your health. A useful tool for determining if your weight has reached a problematic level is the Body Mass Index (BMI). Use our BMI calculator to determine your BMI. The classification of morbid obesity is given when an individual’s excess weight puts their life at risk.
You are considered morbidly obese if you:

Are more than 100 pounds over your ideal weight
Have a BMI of 40 or greater