Posted On: January 28, 2011 by Missouri Personal Injury Attorney

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Bariatric Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the U.S. Bariatric surgery in general has become so common that many individuals aren’t aware that there are some serious risks and side effects involved.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some very serious risks involved with gastric bypass surgery, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some of the dangers of gastric bypass surgery include dehydration, gallstones, bleeding stomach ulcers, hernias, kidney stones, low blood sugar, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and not being able to tolerate certain foods any longer.

There are also some very rare, but serious side effects that are associated with the most common form of gastric bypass surgery. With gastric bypass surgery, as with any operation, there is always a risk of death. Another condition that can occur is blood clots in the legs, which can occur in overweight people. If those clots move to the lungs, death or damage to the lungs can result. Pneumonia can also result after the surgery.

A severe complication that could occur is leaking at one of the staple lines in the stomach, which could require emergency surgery. Gastric bypass surgery can also trigger an unpleasant syndrome called “dumping syndrome” which causes nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms.

Bariatric surgery can have some serious complications and poor success rates. If you believe you have been the victim of gastric bypass surgery medical malpractice, contact the Missouri personal injury attorneys at Page Law, LLC by calling 314-241-2273. We will advise you of your legal rights and the best course of action for your specific case.