What are the risks of gastric bypass?
As with any surgery, there are operative and long-term complications and risks associated with gastric bypass, including: • Bleeding (haemorrhage) • Complications due to anaesthesia and medications • Deep vein thrombosis • Dehiscence (wound breakdown) • Infections • Leaks from staple line breakdown • Marginal ulcers • Pulmonary emboli (blood clots on the lung) • Injury to the spleen However, in experienced hands the risks of the procedure nowadays are very small. Most published reports show that the overall mortality rate for gastric bypass surgery is less than 1%. Its also important to note that not only does bypass result in reduced absorption of calories, it may also reduce absorption of important vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin B-12 and calcium. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to many problems. Iron deficiency causes anemia and weakness and deficiencies in calcium can cause osteoporosis. Lack of daily B-12 can lead to neurological problems. This is why patients
