Diabetes Surgery

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Diabetes Surgery

A Guide to Understanding and Managing Diabetes

Diabetes can be difficult to manage, and in some cases, medication and lifestyle changes may not be enough to control blood sugar levels. However, there is a new option for people with type 2 diabetes who are struggling to manage their condition: diabetes surgery.

At Aktif International Hospital, we understand how challenging it can be to live with diabetes, and we are committed to providing our patients with the latest and most effective treatment options. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of diabetes surgery, what to expect before and after the procedure, and answer some of the most common questions about diabetes surgery.

What is Diabetes Surgery?

Diabetes surgery, also known as metabolic surgery or bariatric surgery, is a type of surgery that can help improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. The surgery involves making changes to the digestive system that can affect how the body absorbs and processes food, resulting in improved blood sugar control.

How Does Diabetes Surgery Work?

Diabetes surgery works by making changes to the digestive system that can affect how the body absorbs and processes food. For example, gastric bypass surgery involves rerouting the small intestine so that food bypasses the first part of the small intestine, where most of the calories and nutrients are absorbed. This can result in improved blood sugar control by reducing the amount of glucose that enters the bloodstream.

Who is a Candidate for Diabetes Surgery?

Diabetes surgery is typically reserved for people with type 2 diabetes who are unable to control their blood sugar levels with medication and lifestyle changes. Candidates for diabetes surgery usually have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher and other health conditions, such as high blood pressure or sleep apnea.

How Should I Prepare for Diabetes Surgery?

Preparing for diabetes surgery typically involves a thorough evaluation by your doctor, including blood tests and imaging studies. You may also be asked to make lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking, to improve your overall health before the procedure.

What Should I Expect After Diabetes Surgery?

After diabetes surgery, you will need to follow a strict diet and exercise plan to ensure proper healing and to maximize the benefits of the surgery. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on what to eat and how to exercise.

What is the Recovery Time for Diabetes Surgery?

Recovery time for diabetes surgery can vary depending on the type of surgery and individual factors, such as age and overall health. However, most patients can return to work and normal activities within 2-4 weeks after surgery.

Will I Still Need to Take Diabetes Medication After Surgery?

In some cases, diabetes surgery can result in significant improvements in blood sugar control, reducing or eliminating the need for medication. However, it is important to work closely with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

What are the benefits of diabetes surgery?

Diabetes surgery can have a number of significant benefits for people with type 2 diabetes, including:

  • Improved blood sugar control: Diabetes surgery can help to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the need for diabetes medications.
  • Weight loss: Diabetes surgery can lead to significant weight loss, which can improve overall health and reduce the risk of other health problems.
  • Improved heart health: Diabetes surgery has been shown to improve cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
  • Reduced medication use: Diabetes surgery can lead to a reduced need for diabetes medications and other medications used to treat related health problems.

Is diabetes surgery right for me?

If you are considering diabetes surgery, your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. This may involve a variety of tests and assessments to evaluate your overall health, as well as your ability to make the necessary lifestyle changes after the surgery.

What are the risks of diabetes surgery?

Like any surgery, diabetes surgery carries some risks. These can include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Respiratory problems
  • Digestive problems
  • Nutritional deficiencies

However, these risks are generally low, and most people who undergo diabetes surgery do not experience any serious complications.

What are the types of diabetes surgery?

Research has shown that bariatric surgery can be a powerful tool in managing type 2 diabetes. This is because weight loss surgery not only helps patients lose weight, but it also changes how their bodies respond to insulin, which is the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in diabetes surgery, which is a term used to describe bariatric surgeries that are specifically designed to help manage type 2 diabetes. These surgeries are becoming more and more common as doctors and researchers recognize the potential benefits of weight loss surgery for diabetes patients.

At Aktif International Hospital, we offer a range of diabetes surgery options, including:

Gastric Bypass Surgery for Diabetes

Gastric bypass surgery is one of the most common types of bariatric surgery, and it has been shown to be effective in helping patients with type 2 diabetes. Gastric bypass surgery has been shown to help patients lose weight and improve their blood sugar levels. In fact, many patients are able to stop taking diabetes medications after this surgery.

Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery for Diabetes

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery has been shown to help patients lose weight and improve their blood sugar levels. In fact, many patients are able to stop taking diabetes medications after this surgery.

Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) Surgery for Diabetes

BPD/DS surgery is a less common type of bariatric surgery, but it can be very effective in managing type 2 diabetes. This surgery involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller stomach pouch, as well as rerouting the small intestine to reduce the amount of food that is absorbed by the body.

BPD/DS surgery has been shown to be particularly effective in improving blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. In fact, many patients are able to achieve normal blood sugar levels after this surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for diabetes surgery?

The best way to determine if you are a candidate for diabetes surgery is to schedule a consultation with a bariatric surgeon. Generally, diabetes surgery is recommended for patients with a BMI of 35 or higher who have been unable to manage their diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication.

How long does diabetes surgery take?

The length of diabetes surgery depends on the type of surgery being performed, but most surgeries take between one and four hours.

How long is the recovery period after diabetes surgery?

Recovery time after diabetes surgery varies, but most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within two to four weeks.

Will I need to take diabetes medication after surgery?

Many patients are able to stop taking diabetes medication after surgery, but this varies depending on the type of surgery and the individual patient.

What are the risks of diabetes surgery?

Like all surgeries, diabetes surgery carries some risks, including bleeding, infection, and blood clots. However, the risks of diabetes surgery are generally low.

The bottom line is that diabetes surgery can be a life-changing solution for those with type 2 diabetes who are struggling to manage their condition through traditional means. If you or a loved one are struggling with diabetes, we encourage you to speak with a qualified medical professional about the possibility of diabetes surgery.

Thank you for considering Aktif International Hospital as your partner in health. We are committed to providing the highest quality care to all of our patients, and we look forward to helping you achieve your health and wellness goals.

 

Author: Yusuf Hançerli

Yusuf Hançerli