Injuries and Complications Caused by Gastric Bypass Surgery
Across the U.S., bariatric weight loss surgery has become
extremely popular for overweight and obese people who want to lose weight. However, the surgeries used to promote weight loss and improve health are dangerous and the results are often disastrous. Many people have opted for gastric bypass or other weight loss surgery only to find that they are worse off than before the surgery.
There are several surgical procedures used for weight loss, including: gastric bypass surgery (Roux-en-Y gastric bypass), LAP-BAND adjustable gastric banding, and stomach stapling. They can all have serious complications, including blood clots, infection, excessive bleeding, leaking at the staple lines, incision hernias, and nausea, vomiting and diarrhea (dumping syndrome). When doctors operate on patients who are aren't good candidates for surgery, or when they fail monitor the patient's condition before, during and after surgery, patients can suffer injuries and even wrongful death.
Much like plastic surgery, bariatric weight loss surgery is an elective procedure and should be thoroughly investigated before a surgeon and bariatric program is selected. There is a steep learning curve when it comes to bariatric surgeries and a surgeon's background must be examined to determine if he or she is adequately qualified.
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For advice and guidance regarding gastric banding or gastric bypass surgery complications, turn to a member of our legal team at the law office of Barry D. Lang, M.D. & Associates in Boston, Massachusetts. With Doctor Barry Lang leading our firm, we are able to provide qualified medical opinions and legal advice regarding the injuries and complications you may have suffered after gastric bypass or other weight loss surgery.
Below are some of areas related to gastric bypass surgery and resulting injuries and complications:
- LAP-BAND Procedure / Gastric Banding: Though it is not as invasive and drastic as gastric bypass, gastric banding has its own set of complications that may leave a patient seriously injured. The band is adjustable and allows for complete reversal of the digestive restrictions if one chooses. However, the band may be misplaced, too tightly constricted, or residual bleeding may occur after the surgery. Often, these situations require follow-up from a surgeon when they could have been correctly conducted, placed or completed in the first place.
- Anastomosis Issues: Gastric bypass surgery is a much more drastic procedure that is irreversible. It is also a more invasive surgery that can have serious complications such as problems with the anastomosis. This is the part of the new stomach that is attached to the resected part of the intestines. If this connection is made too tightly, food is unable to pass through, leading to severe vomiting and malnutrition, among other side effects. Also, if the anastomosis is not connected tightly enough, stomach contents can leak out into the abdominal cavity, leading to a severe infection called peritonitis.
- Bleeding and Blood Clots: With any type of surgery, especially with gastric banding and gastric bypass, bleeding is always a possible complication. A patient must be closely monitored in order to ensure that bleeding does not get out of control and cause serious damage. Overweight patients must also be closely monitored for blood clots, and every available precaution must be taken to prevent blood clots.
Contact a Gastric Bypass Surgery Malpractice Attorney Today
For experienced representation from a lawyer who is also a doctor and uniquely qualified to assist you with your gastric bypass surgery complications or medical malpractice claim, please call 617-720-0176 in Boston or 800-LAWYERS toll-free. You may also contact us online. The consultation is free; the representation invaluable.
