Lap-Band surgery can resolve metabolic syndrome

A recent study out of NYU presented at the American College of Cardiology conference discussed the health benefits of Lap-Band surgery. The majority of patients experienced resolution of the metabolic syndrome in addition to weight reduction. The metabolic syndrome consists of a group of risk factors such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The use of diabetes and blood pressure medications were decreased after surgery as well. This study included patients with a BMI as low as 30, a group that is not commonly offered weight loss surgery. Given the safety and efficacy of the Lap-Band, the FDA has approved its use in patients with medical problems in this weight class.

This is exciting information for overweight patients who have been told in the past that they do not qualify for weight loss surgery. Drs. Keith Wright and Gerardo Carcamo with South Texas Surgeons in San Antonio have a broad experience in treating patients in various weight categories. They will be happy to discuss these new findings and how they may relate to you during a private consultation.