NIBR Uses Innovative Techniques to Address Bariatric Complications

WOODLAND PARK, N.J. - Nov. 12, 2013 - PRLog -- Weight loss surgery has proven useful and safe for millions of patients, however, every procedure has its risks. Adverse events may occur at any time after surgery; some are acute, some chronic and yet others may go un-noticed. Complications can be treated with revisional surgery, however, this is generally avoided because of the risks of repeat surgery..  Unfortunately that leaves a significant patient population with limited options, but the National Institute for Bariatric Repair (NIBR) is able to offer hope. With a team headed by Dr. Sohail Shaikh, NIBR can treat bariatric complications using minimally invasive endoscopic techniques.

The term “endoscopic” refers to procedures that use specialized tubes equipped with purpose-specific devices that are passed through the mouth into the stomach to perform complex procedures.  Endoscopic procedures do not involve any external incisions, are associated with quicker recovery times and minimal discomfort when compared to traditional surgery. Typically patients who undergo endoscopic procedures go home the same day as the procedure.

Bariatric complications may become apparent immediately after surgery, such as leaks or fistulae, while others may occur months or years post-operatively, such as dumping and weight gain after gastric bypass.  Unfortunately, these late complications may often go unnoticed and untreated.  After bypass surgery, the gastric pouch can stretch out, or the outlet that connects the pouch to the intestine can expand (i.e. gastric pouch dilation and gastric outlet dilation).  When this happens, the volume of food a patient can eat is greatly increased, and the feeling of fullness after small portions is diminished. Over time, this can lead to weight regain.  While surgical repair is an option for these complications, most surgeons prefer not to re-operate because scar tissue and other factors make repeat surgical procedures more risky and difficult. NIBR uses advanced endoscopic techniques to repair and remodel the dilated gastric pouch or outlet internally (through the mouth). This greatly reduces the risks associated with laparoscopic or open surgery and may be the best option for patients suffering from these and other complications. Other bariatric complications NIBR can address endoscopically include gastro-gastric fistula and post-operative leaks.

About National Institute for Bariatric Repair

NIBR is an innovative treatment center specializing in endoscopic procedures for cases that are traditionally treated with major or laparoscopic surgery. These state-of-the-art procedures are carried out by Dr. Sohail Shaikh, one of the few surgeons in the world currently performing these advanced techniques.

For more information, please call NIBR at 973-638-1740 or visit them at BariatricRepair.com today!