"Metabolic Surgery"

Metabolic Surgery
(Transverse Bipartition Surgery)

Metabolic surgery has emerged in recent years as a promising method for treating Type 2 diabetes. Aimed at improving the quality of life for people with diabetes, this surgical approach offers an effective solution, particularly in reducing complications associated with the disease. So, what is metabolic surgery, and who is it intended for?

What Is Metabolic Surgery?

Metabolic surgery is a surgical procedure developed specifically for the treatment ofType 2 diabetes. This procedure involves modifications to the stomach and intestinal system to enable the insulin hormone to function more effectively.Diabetes surgery offers an effective solution for individuals living with both obesity and diabetes, helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

The primary goal of bariatric surgery is;

  • To reduce complications caused by diabetes,
  • To minimize the patient's dependence on medication,
  • The goal is to improve quality of life in the long term.

Who Is Eligible for Metabolic Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is performed on patients with Type 2 diabetes who meet certain criteria. These criteria are as follows:

  • Diabetes associated with obesity: Patients whose body mass index (BMI) is generally 30 or higher.
  • Individuals whose blood sugar levels cannot be controlled despite diabetes medication.
  • Patients at risk of serious organ damage (such as the kidneys or eyes) due to diabetes.
  • Patients with sufficient insulin reserves: Metabolic surgery is not performed on patients with type 1 diabetes.

A detailed medical evaluation is required to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for bariatric surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Weight Loss Surgery?

Metabolic surgery, commonly known as "diabetes surgery," plays a significant role in managing diabetes. However, this surgery is not suitable for everyone.Individuals who are suitable candidates for diabetes surgeryinclude:

  1. Patients aged 35 to 65.
  2. People who have insulin resistance along with obesity.
  3. Patients who have been on insulin therapy for a long time but have not responded to it.
  4. Individuals at risk of developing complications in organs such as the eyes, kidneys, or nervous system as a result of the progression of diabetes.

Before surgery, a specialist must carefully assess the patient’s overall health.

How Is Metabolic Surgery (Diabetes Surgery) Performed?

Metabolic surgery is typically performed using a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) approach. This allows for a faster post-operative recovery. Here are the main steps of the procedure:

  1. Gastric bypass surgery: A portion of the stomach is removed to limit food intake.
  2. Intestinal rerouting: By rearranging specific sections of the small intestine, the process of digestion and absorption of food is altered.
  3. Hormonal balance: These procedures help optimize the secretion of insulin and other hormones.

The surgery takes approximately 2 to 4 hours, and patients typically stay in the hospital for 3 to 5 days. Postoperative follow-up with the doctor and regular check-ups are of great importance.

What Are the Risks of Diabetes Surgery?

As with any surgical procedure, metabolic surgery also carries certain risks. However, these risks can be minimized when the procedure is performed by an experienced team.The potential risks associated with diabetes surgeryinclude:

  • Risk of bleeding or infection.
  • The possibility of a leak in the intestines.
  • Vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
  • Digestive problems (diarrhea, constipation, etc.).

Risks can be managed by following the doctor’s post-operative instructions and attending regular follow-up appointments.

What Is the Transit Bipartition Procedure?

Transit Bipartition, one of the metabolic surgery techniques, is an effective method developed specifically for patients with obesity and diabetes. In this procedure, a portion of the intestines is bypassed in conjunction with stomach reduction surgery. Food passes through both the newly created intestinal pathway and the normal digestive tract:

  • It helps control blood sugar levels more effectively,
  • Hormone secretion in the intestines is increased.

Transit Bipartition is effective in both supporting weight loss and reducing the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes.

What Are the Advantages of Transit Bipartition?

Transit Bipartition offers several advantages over other metabolic surgery techniques:

  • It promotes rapid weight loss.
  • Blood sugar levels stabilize shortly after surgery.
  • It reduces or completely eliminates the use of diabetes medications.
  • It supports the natural functioning of digestive system hormones.
  • It promotes a smoother recovery process by minimizing vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

This method offers an effective solution, particularly for patients with good insulin reserves.

Bariatric surgery has opened up a new frontier in the fight against Type 2 diabetes and obesity. This surgical method offers an effective solution, particularly for patients with insulin resistance who have not responded to traditional treatments, and significantly improves quality of life. However, a detailed evaluation with a specialist must be conducted before deciding to undergo surgery.

Remember, every patient is unique when it comes to diabetes treatment, and the appropriate treatment method varies from person to person.For more information on procedures such as metabolic surgery and Transit Bipartition, please consult Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mesut SİPAHİ.