Category

Surgery:

Category

Introduction

The most special moment of life for a woman and the loved ones, is when a new life is brought into the world. Giving birth to a child is sacred and bringing a healthy child in the world holds utmost importance, ensuring safety to the mother’s health as well. Maternal health needs to be taken care of during pregnancy and pre and post childbirth. Despite medical advancements and progress, death of women during and following pregnancy and/or childbirth is at a strikingly high rate with approx. 28700 deaths reported in 2020. Healthcare professionals have an active and responsible role in ensuring a safe and healthy delivery experience for the mother and child.

The decision to deliver a child through vaginal delivery or caesarean section depends on various factors that a healthcare professional has to consider in the best interest of the mother and the offspring. Though, generally vaginal delivery is considered safe, advisable, and preferred option for delivery, many a times conditions might not warranty a safe delivery. In such an event, a caesarean section becomes necessary.

Continue reading this blog to know more about the factors that determine and contribute in deciding caesarean section as the best option for child delivery.

What Is a Caesarean Section (C-Section)?

C-Section is a surgical procedure for a delivery of a child through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. Unlike vaginal delivery, one can plan and schedule a surgery. The incision made could be either vertical (the incision is from the belly bottom to the pubic hairline) or horizontal (the incision is across the pubic hairline).

Factors Determining the Need for Surgical procedure

C-Section could be either a medical need to avoid any risks and complications to the mother and child, or elective and scheduled as a preferred choice. The healthcare professional may decide to have a C-Section in the following conditions.

  • Stalled labour- Delay in labour, also called prolonged labour, is when the mother is unable to progress with the delivery once gone into labour, either during the first phase or the second. The condition could be either the cervix (a canal connecting the uterus and the vagina) that starts to open but does not open fully or when the baby does not move down the canal, even after the cervix is opened.
  • Fetal distress- When the baby does not get enough oxygen, that may result in the heart rate slowing down below the healthy fetal heart rate.
  • Abnormal fetal positioning- Head-down or head-first toward the canal is the ideal condition for a normal delivery. However, at times the babies may have a breech (feet towards the canal) or transverse (shoulder or side first towards the canal) position.
  • Cord prolapses- When the umbilical cord slips through the cervix and into the vagina before the baby enters the birth canal. This creates pressure on the cord depriving the baby of blood flow, that may result into an emergency situation requiring a C-section to save the life of the baby.
  • Health issues- Health issues of the baby at the time of birth, like congenital heart diseases, or excess fluid in the brain require a caesarean to avoid risk to the baby. Similarly, any issue with maternal health as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases require a C-section surgery.
  • Multiple babies- The need for C-section arises in cases of multiple babies, there are more chances of prolonged labour, abnormal positioning of the fetal or one or more large babies.
  • Placenta issues- Placenta (a structure that develops in the uterus that enables the exchange of oxygen and nutrients between the mother and the fetus). At times the placenta may cover the part or whole of the birth canal (placenta previa) or it may prematurely get detached from the uterus before childbirth. In either case, caesarean delivery becomes necessary.
  • Previous C-Section- Previous caesarean is one of the reasons, the mother may not be able to have a normal delivery the second time. However, this does not necessarily mean that one has to go through C-section surgery. A normal delivery may be possible if the health of the mother shows low-delivery risks.

Conclusion

Before planning a C-section, one must consult the doctor and stay informed about the why and what to expect during the procedure. Any queries and concerns regarding the procedure must be asked to ensure that they are addressed satisfactorily. All the myths surrounding the need for C-section surgery be removed through awareness about pregnancy and related matters.

A surgical procedure might be a need in certain circumstances for a safe childbirth. However, like any surgical procedure its carries risks, that need to be taken into consideration, especially while opting for it as a preferred choice. Future pregnancies and maternal health often get affected due to C-Sections; hence the decision should be a well thought out decision. Stay informed and be aware of all the issues concerning a safe and healthy pregnancy and childbirth experience.

References

Cesarean Section | Johns Hopkins Medicine
https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/ask-the-doctors-what-determines-whether-a-woman-needs-a-cesarean-section
Maternal health (who.int)
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-38223502

Introduction

The unverified and unwarranted information about pregnancy preventive measures often becomes overwhelming for couples who are planning birth control. Such things mislead people into believing that contraception is harmful and dangerous to maternal health. The spread of misconception triggers anxiety, stress among the patients, and distrust in the clinical solutions of birth control and family planning. For a long time, the lack of awareness and ignorance about family planning had been the cause of reluctance and resistance among the masses in availing of the benefits of these contraceptive measures. Contraceptive methods have witnessed a profound transformation in sophistication, safety, and effectiveness. However, there are many myths still prevailing about birth control methods, and in particular, the Intrauterine devices that need to be dispelled for good.

What is an intrauterine device?

As a contraceptive method, an Intrauterine device (IUD) is one of the safest and effective methods of preventing pregnancy in women. It is a long-acting reversible contraceptive method for avoiding pregnancy. The device is small and T-shaped and is inserted in the woman’s uterus to prevent her pregnancy. Removed any time when the woman wants to become pregnant, IUD has a string at the bottom that extends to the vagina, enabling the health provider to remove the device when required.

IUD insertion is a safe and simple procedure of a few minutes in which the healthcare professional uses a speculum to widen and examine the patient’s vagina and insert the IUD. 

These devices could be Copper IUDs or Hormonal IUDs. Copper IUDs release copper ions into the uterus and act as a spermicide by killing the sperm in the uterus. Hormonal IUDs release a synthetic hormone, the progestin-like hormone Levonorgestrel (LNG), similar to the progesterone hormone secreted by the woman’s reproductive system, preventing ovulation.  

Myths and Facts About Intrauterine Devices

Myth –  IUDs cause abortion and, hence, end pregnancy.

Fact–  IUDs do not cause abortion. They are contraceptives and not abortifacients.
Abortion is the termination of pregnancy when the embryo or fetus is removed. 
IUDs are devices that prevent pregnancy. They either act as spermicides, killing the sperms, or thickening the cervical mucus and preventing the sperms from entering the uterus. So, it prevents the fertilization of the eggs.

Myth – IUDs are unsafe and harmful to maternal health, with side effects and chances of infection, cancer, and sexually transmitted diseases.

Fact –  IUDs are a safe and effective method of contraception. 
Gone are those days when IUDs did carry the chances of pelvic infection. New devices do not carry such risks of infection. Moreover, hygiene awareness and access to hygienic medical facilities and methods have contributed to reducing this infection risk. It may be noted that IUDs may not prevent infection but do not cause it. Proper device insertion helps avoid infection, perforation, and expulsion. 

IUDs do not cause cancer in healthy women, nor does it increase the risk of STDs. The chances of STDs are higher in sexually active women who do not use IUDs than those using them.

Myth– IUDs cause infertility or miscarriage post-removal.

Fact- IUDs are safe, reversible, long-acting contraceptive methods that women can at any time stop using, if they want to become pregnant. IUDs do not cause infertility or miscarriage in women after their removal. In the absence of proper hygiene care, a woman may develop pelvic inflammatory disease. If the condition is not treated timely, there are chances of infertility. However, such cases are rare.

Due to improper IUD insertion, if, in the rarest of cases, a woman becomes pregnant and the IUD is left in the uterus during pregnancy, there may be a chance of preterm delivery or miscarriage.

Myth–  It affects the sex life by causing inconvenience during intercourse.

Fact– IUDs provide relief from the stress and worries of getting pregnant and hence have a sex life stress-free and enjoyable. IUDs do not cause inconvenience in the sex life, discomfort, or pain during intercourse, nor do they get displaced due to intercourse.

Conclusion

IUDs are safe and effective when appropriately inserted. They are long-acting and reversible and can be removed when needed. The proper insertion of an IUD is the condition precedent to the successful and safe prevention of pregnancy. All the myths surrounding its use need to be dispelled and discouraged to ensure that more women use this method for safe and effective contraception. Maternal health and safe childbirth are paramount. To enable an informed decision, consult your doctor before planning birth control, who can address all your concerns and questions relating to contraception. 

References

https://theincidentaleconomist.com/wordpress/there-are-too-many-myths-about-iuds-lets-dispel-some/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9834505

Introduction

Experience of any sharp pain or numbness in your legs after an extended period of sitting, painful cramps or aching in your hips, thighs, or calf muscles common and frequent after any physical activity, or coldness in lower feet, are signs of blockages in the arteries of the lower extremities. The condition is known as peripheral artery disease. As per reports, it is common, with nearly 41 to 54 million[1] estimated cases in India and nearly 4.2.to 6.2 million[1] people are afflicted by critical limb ischemia. According to the American Heart Association statement, approx. two hundred million people suffer from arterial blockages of the extremities worldwide.

The alarming statistics and the rising cases of other complications associated with arterial blockages in diabetic patients and people with smoking and alcohol consumption and/or obesity raise more significant concern for its stringent preventive measures and prompt and effective address.

The blog discusses the condition of arterial blockages, its causes, symptoms, and the treatment options for its effective control and management.

Peripheral Artery Disease- Its Causes and Symptoms 

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) results from the narrowing of the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the peripheral arteries as well extremities, commonly the legs. The lack of oxygenated blood supply due to the narrowing of the arteries causes ischemic pain. The causes of arterial blockages are-

  • Atherosclerosis – Plaque (fatty deposits) buildup over time results in the narrowing of the arteries, interrupting the blood supply to the peripheral arteries.
  • Thrombosis– A clotting of the blood in the narrowed artery is one of the reasons for arterial blockages.
  • Embolism– A condition of blocked artery caused by a blood clot or an air bubble in which the smooth flow of blood to the artery is interrupted, leading to an insufficient supply of oxygen. This causes pain, cramps, and other related symptoms of PAD.

Symptoms of PAD

People with PAD may not experience any symptoms until they become severe, which could at times adversely affect the heart health of the patient, if left unaddressed. This is so because PAD shares many common risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and smoking with heart disease.

The main symptom of PAD is claudication, where the person experiences flared cramping and pain in the legs and thighs when walking and subsides when at rest. The other symptoms include coldness in feet, numbness, tingling, or slow healing or unhealing of wounds.

Treatment for PAD

Preventing diseases and related complications is the best way to live a healthy life and enrich your quality of life. People with PAD are at a high risk of cardiovascular diseases and chances of stroke, heart attack, and other heart-related issues. Treatment for PAD requires rigorous and stringent healthcare precautions and aggressive lifestyle modifications.

Self-care and medications

A healthy diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, management and control of comorbidities through medications, effective stress management, regular checkups, and monitoring through routine tests go a long way in preventing PAD and other related complications.

Surgical and non-surgical approaches

After the color doppler test, ankle-brachial index and vascular ultrasound test, the healthcare provider decides whether the patient needs surgical intervention to treat PAD. The severity of the condition is the primary and deciding factor for surgical intervention with other anatomical and health conditions of the patient.

Vascular Surgery

Known as open surgery or bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a new path around the blocked artery, using the healthy blood vessels from the other part of the patient’s body. This is known as grafting. The blood flows through the new path, bypassing the blocked artery.

During this bypass surgery, the patient is put on general anesthesia to keep them comfortable. The surgeon makes incisions to access the arteries and veins. The surgeon may use healthy veins like the saphenous veins (superficial veins in the legs), cephalic veins (veins from the arm), femoral veins (from thighs in case of more extensive artery grafting) from the patient’s body or use a synthetic material for grafting when natural healthy veins cannot be used. The surgeon sews the bypass in place and closes the incisions.

Endovascular Interventions

Atherectomy- It is a minimally invasive procedure to remove plaque from blocked arteries. During the procedure, the healthcare provider uses a sharp blade or laser attached to the tip of the catheter to cut or scrape out the hard plaque. The atherectomy could be Excisional (the blade cuts the plaque in one direction), Orbital (the plaque gets removed with a spinning tool), Rotational (the blade cuts the plaque in a rotating movement), or Laser ablation (the plaque is removed using laser) atherectomy.

Angioplasty – To treat any blood vessel damage, the interventional healthcare professional accesses them through minimal invasiveness. In endovascular intervention, the healthcare professional usually makes a tiny incision in the groin to gain access to the damaged arteries. Using the X-ray real-time images, the catheter, with a balloon attached, is guided to the damaged artery. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, pushing the plaque to the sides of the arterial walls, and paving the way for the uninterrupted flow of the blood.

In the case of angioplasty, the healthcare professional implants a stent, clearing the passage for the blood to flow in the affected artery. A stent, a small mesh tube, keeps the artery open for blood flow. Once the stent is placed, the balloon is deflated, the catheter is removed, and the incision is closed.

Apart from treating peripheral arteries, these stents are widely used to treat various artery blockages, like the coronary, renal, and carotid arteries.

Angioplasty has been gaining acceptance as a standard of care for treating blocked arteries due to its minimal invasiveness, resulting in less pain and tissue scarring, faster healing and recovery, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to normalcy.

Conclusion

There are many risk factors common between PAD and heart disease; hence, effective control and management of one help to prevent the incidence of the other. PAD with other conditions of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obesity puts the patient at a higher risk of heart disease. Rigorous, consistent, and aggressive lifestyle changes are a must for its prevention. However, in severe cases, where self-care, medications, lifestyle changes, and other alternate treatment modalities do not offer the desired results, surgical and non-surgical treatment options should be resorted to for timely and effective treatment.

The choice of the medical treatment option depends on the healthcare professional’s decision, arrived at after considering the severity of the condition, the age, anatomy, and overall health of the patient. Surgical and non-surgical treatment help repair the damage to the artery by removing the blockages. However, one must own responsibility toward one’s health and adhere to the doctor-recommended diet plan, exercise regime, and recovery plans, and quit smoking and tobacco consumption post-treatment for healthy living.

References

https://journals.lww.com/cmii/fulltext/2020/18030/endovascular_therapy_in_vascular_surgery___how.2.aspx#:~:text=41%E2%80%9354%20million%2C%20with%20an%20estimated%204.2%E2%80%936.2%20million%20patients%20of%20critical%20limb%20ischemia
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2023/06/15/routine-tests-may-reduce-disparities-in-peripheral-artery-disease-and-amputation-risk
https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/what-is-peripheral-arterial-disease-pad/#:~:text=According%20to%20an%20International%20organization,built%20up%20in%20the

Among the many nuances of Weight Management, Bariatric surgery stands out as a transformative intervention for individuals struggling with obesity. Bariatric surgery, which includes procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding, is a tool that aids patients in achieving substantial weight loss and addressing obesity-related comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea.

While the surgical procedure itself marks a significant milestone in a patient’s journey toward better health, the importance of follow-up care cannot be underrated. Post-bariatric follow-up plays a pivotal role in ensuring the long-term success, safety, and well-being of patients.

However, the surgery is just the beginning of a comprehensive treatment plan. Follow-up care is essential for several reasons:

  1. Monitoring Weight Loss Progress: After bariatric surgery, patients typically experience rapid weight loss followed by a gradual stabilization of their weight. Regular follow-up appointments will identify any deviations from the expected trajectory of weight loss, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. This helps patients to reach the expected weight loss goals.
  2. Management of Nutritional Needs: Following bariatric surgery food intake is decreased to an extent over the first few months. Patients need guidance on adopting healthy eating habits, ensuring high protein food in the diet, protein powder supplements, vitamin and mineral supplements, and maintaining adequate hydration post-surgery. This can be achieved only with regular follow-up visits, during which tell-tale signs of any deficiency can be picked up instantly and addressed immediately to avoid long-term problems.
  3. Detection and Prevention of Complications: While bariatric surgery is generally considered to be safe in experienced hands, complications can arise during the post-operative period or later in the patient’s journey. These may include surgical complications such as leaks or strictures, as well as long-term issues like nutritional deficiencies, gallstones, or psychological challenges. When a patient follows up regularly, an untoward event can be identified quickly, minimizing their impact on the patient’s health and quality of life, and speeding up the recovery.
  4.  Lifestyle Changes: Successful weight management involves more than just physical changes; it requires a shift in mindset and lifestyle habits. Follow-up appointments offer opportunities for patients to discuss challenges, receive behavioural counselling, and access support resources such as nutritionists, psychologists, or support groups. Ongoing guidance and encouragement empower patients to make sustainable lifestyle changes and navigate the ups and downs of their weight loss journey.
  5. Long-Term Weight Management: Weight regain or incomplete weight loss is the challenge that each Bariatric surgeon faces at some time or the other during his/her bariatric practice. It could range from patient becoming a little callous/casual during their weight loss journey, to the associated knee pain or Osteoarthritis associated with obesity that prevents daily physical activity demanded after Bariatric surgery. If there is a regular follow-up, things could be noticed in time and necessary measures taken, and the patients can be motivated ensuring good results after bariatric surgery.
  6. Building Trust and Commitment: By prioritizing regular follow-up appointments, patients commitment is developed to a healthy weight maintenance, along with robust doctor and patient trust to supporting patients throughout their weight loss journey, which can enhance patient satisfaction, trust, and adherence to treatment recommendations.
  7. Support Group Meetings: Support group meetings play a vital role in the holistic care and long-term success of bariatric patients. These gatherings provide a platform for individuals who have undergone weight loss surgery to connect, share experiences, seek advice, and receive emotional support from peers facing similar challenges. The importance of support group meetings in the bariatric community cannot be overstated, as they offer numerous benefits that contribute to the overall well-being and success of patients:

A] Emotional Support: Support group meetings create a safe and non-judgmental space where patients can express their feelings openly, knowing that they are among individuals who understand and empathize with their struggles. Sharing personal stories and challenges helps foster a sense of belonging and validation, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by bariatric patients.

B] Peer Learning and Exchange of Information: From dietary modifications and exercise routines to coping mechanisms for managing cravings and emotional eating, patients can learn from each other’s experiences and gain valuable insights into what works best for them. Peer-to-peer learning fosters empowerment and self-efficacy, empowering patients to take ownership of their health and make informed decisions about their care.

C] Accountability and Motivation: Attending support group meetings provides patients with a sense of accountability and motivation to stay committed to their weight loss goals and adhere to the recommended lifestyle changes. Knowing that they will be sharing their progress and challenges with their peers encourages patients to stay on track and remain focused on their journey toward improved health and well-being.

D] Education and Empowerment: Support group meetings offer educational opportunities for patients to learn from guest speakers, and fellow attendees about various aspects of bariatric surgery, meal planning, portion control, mindful eating, body image, stress management, and coping strategies for handling setbacks and plateaus. By equipping patients with knowledge and skills, support groups empower them to make informed choices, adopt healthier habits, and take proactive steps toward achieving long-term weight management success.

E] Social Connection and Community Building: Bariatric support groups foster social connection and community building among patients who share common experiences and goals. Building relationships with individuals who understand the challenges and triumphs of the weight loss journey creates a sense of friendship, and mutual support that extends beyond the confines of the support group meetings. Patients often form lasting bonds with their peers, providing ongoing encouragement, inspiration, and accountability throughout their weight loss and maintenance efforts.

F] Prevention of Weight regain and Psychological Support: Research suggests that participation in support group meetings is associated with better weight loss outcomes and a reduced risk of weight recidivism following bariatric surgery. In addition to providing practical and emotional support, support groups address the psychological and behavioural aspects of obesity and weight management, helping patients develop healthy coping mechanisms, build resilience, and cultivate a positive mindset conducive to long-term success.

To summarize, regular follow ups and support group meetings are vital in the life of both, the Bariatric surgeon as well as the patient undergoing the Bariatric surgery.

The blog has been authored by Dr. Tulip Chamany, Bariatric and Metabolic surgeon. The content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice. 

World Obesity Day is a powerful reminder of one of the most pressing public health problems that the world is facing. As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, reaching epidemic levels in many regions, the need for coordinated efforts and the urgency to address obesity through innovative approaches has never been more concerning than it is today. The annual obesity program is a medium to raise awareness, encourage public participation, and support efforts to fight obesity and associated problems.

In the 21st century, due to evolving sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diet patterns, and other environmental influences, obesity has become a significant threat to human well-being.

Let us consider the challenges and opportunities provided by world organisations on this World Obesity Day and reiterate our dedication to improving health equity, creating healthy environments, and helping people gain and maintain a healthy weight.

Together, we can create a healthier and more resilient world for our future generations.

What is obesity, and how does it affect you?

Obesity is the condition of having too much fat in the body. Body mass index (BMI) is the simple calculation of an individual’s height and weight used to define obesity.

  • BMI > 25 is considered overweight
  • BMI > 30 is considered obese

Obesity is not just a cosmetic problem; it is a medical condition that increases the risk of many other health problems, which include cardiac diseases, type-2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, liver disorders, certain types of cancers, etc.

Obesity is caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, an unhealthy diet, less physical activity, and other environmental factors. Gaining weight is easy, but it is hard to lose weight, and the reasons why people find it hard to lose weight are many.

However, losing a small quantity of weight can improve many obesity-related health problems. Traditional weight loss options like following a diet plan, regular physical activity, and other lifestyle changes can help you lose weight. When nothing works, bariatric surgery is the surgical option for treating obesity.

How can we tackle obesity with lifestyle changes?

Making necessary lifestyle changes is a healthy way to lose weight. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the priority changes one needs to make, to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Moreover, it also helps to manage or reverse some obesity-related health conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes.

Doctors say that making lifestyle changes is not always easy. They recommend a customized weight loss plan based on your current diet, activity level, medications, and overall health.

Some people may achieve good weight loss just with relentless lifestyle changes alone, while others may need medication or bariatric surgery to help them lose weight more effectively.

Below are the top changes to be made in your life to achieve maximum weight loss.

  • Healthy Eating Habits (a balanced diet)
  • Regular physical activity (exercise)
  • Stay Hydrated (drink plenty of water)
  • Get adequate sleep
  • Manage stress
  • Seek social support
  • Set goals and practice self-care

Be patient and persistent, because weight loss can’t be achieved overnight; it takes some time. Do your part by staying committed to your goals.

Various treatment options are available to treat Obesity

Several treatment options are available to help obese people lose and maintain weight. Diet and lifestyle changes come first during the weight loss journey, where medications and surgery are other options.

Obesity treatment is often based on multiple factors, and there is no single treatment that works. One should strictly change their lifestyle even after weight loss surgery to achieve sustainable weight loss. In any weight loss journey, consistent positive change is key to progress.

What are the various surgical aspects of treating obesity?

Any weight loss journey starts with the traditional non-surgical options, and when they are not able to provide the required weight loss, experts suggest undergoing bariatric surgery. The majority of surgeries typically entail the reduction of size of the stomach and modifying the anatomy of the digestive system. These surgeries aim to change the way we absorb nutrients from the food we consume, which eventually promotes weight loss and also improves many obesity-related health conditions.

Here are some of the most common bariatric surgeries performed for weight loss:

  • Sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve
  • Adjustable gastric banding
  • Gastric bypass surgery
  • One anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB)
  • Duodenal switch
  • Revisional bariatric surgery

Advancements in the medical industry have led to the discovery of endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty or intragastric balloons for weight loss. These minimally invasive procedures use endoscopic tools to reduce the volume of the stomach without any surgical incisions.

Every surgical procedure has its benefits, risks, and eligibility criteria. However. the choice of surgery depends on many factors, which include BMI, medical conditions associated with obesity, patient choices, and specific recommendations from surgeons.

How will life be after bariatric surgery?

Life after bariatric surgery certainly opens the door to a new path for many individuals, which is healthier, longer, and more fulfilling than ever before. Though the journey of weight loss has many challenges, the benefits can be truly life-changing and outweigh the challenges, which help patients lead more confident lives than ever.

By adopting special guidelines suggested by the surgeon and remaining committed to their goals, patients can look forward to a brighter and more promising future. Remember, the key to successful weight loss relies on determination, patience, and self-care. We appreciate your journey to become a better and happier version of yourself!

The blog has been authored by Dr Venu Gopal Pareek, Consultant Laparoscopic & Robotic Bariatric Surgeon. The content is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as professional medical advice.