This image represents the results of this patient, each case is different and results will vary.

For individuals struggling with morbid obesity – a body mass index equal to or greater than 40, or equal to or greater than 35 with serious co morbidities – the Sierra Providence Bariatric Center offers treatment in long-term weight management – Bariatric Surgery. The goal of Bariatric surgery is to limit food in-take and the absorption of calories and fat while providing adequate nutrition and achieving a healthy weight.

As one of the first facilities in El Paso of its kind, Sierra Providence Bariatric Center is staffed by a team of medical professionals trained in the surgical intervention of obesity, as well as lifestyle modification, nutritional, and exercise programs.

We offer two different Bariatric surgery procedures: Gastric Bypass Surgery and Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery
The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgical procedure is designed to decrease the size of the stomach, creating a “short cut” between the small stomach and the intestine. As a result, patients cannot eat as much and absorb fewer nutrients and calories.

Advantages:

• Rapid initial weight loss
• Minimally invasive approach is possible 
• Extensive experience in the U.S. 
• Higher total average weight loss reported than the Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band

Disadvantages:

• Cutting and stapling of stomach and bowel is required
• More operative complications than with Laparoscopic Adjustable Band 
• Reduced absorption of essential nutrients 
• Medical complications due to nutritional deficiencies 
• “Dumping syndrome” can occur 
• Considered non-reversible due to high risk complications 
• Higher mortality rate than Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band

Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Band
This procedure restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold by placing an inflatable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach creating a small upper stomach pouch that limits the amount of food that can be consumed at one time. As a result, there is a reduction in food intake.

Advantages:

• Lowest mortality rate of all Bariatric procedures 
• Least invasive surgical approach 
• No stomach stapling, or intestinal re-routing 
• Procedure is adjustable and reversible 
• Lowest operative complication rate 
• Low malnutrition risk

Disadvantages

• Slower initial weight loss than Gastric Bypass 
• Regular follow-up is critical for optimal results 
• Requires an implanted medical device 
• In some cases, effectiveness can be reduced due to band slippage 
• In some cases, the access port may leak and require minor revisional surgery

Done successfully, these procedures are designed to reduce food intake, and promote long-term weight loss. As a result, after surgery, your food program will:

• Limit food choices and amounts 
• Limit calories while providing nutrition to preserve muscle mass and prevent nutrition deficiencies 
• The diet helps promote healthy food choices, long-term weight loss, and optimal health 
• A registered dietician and the Bariatric nurse will meet with you to explain your diet

Choosing a surgical option for the treatment of morbid obesity is a life-long commitment. Your dietary intake, exercise, and medications often require permanent modification. As each case is different and must be independently evaluated and managed, actual weight loss will vary.

Is Bariatric Surgery Considered Cosmetic Surgery?
No, Bariatric Surgery is not considered cosmetic surgery. It is recognized as a sub-interest in the field of general surgery and is recognized by the National Institutes of Health Consensus Conference of 1992.

Will My Insurance Cover the Costs?
Your health insurance may cover the expenses of Bariatric Surgery if certain criteria are met. If reimbursement with your insurance company is denied, we are available to discuss other options.

How Do I Start?
Patients are welcomed to attend a free educational seminar. Patients may be referred to the Sierra Providence Bariatric Center by their physicians, but walk-ins are also welcome. Call (915) 577-7930 to schedule an appointment, or to find out more about Bariatric Surgical Intervention for Obesity.  For additional information, please contact Michele Collins, RN Clinical Coordinator at andream.collins@tenethealth.com.

To attend a free education seminar call 1-800-374-3772.