Revisional bariatric surgery is a surgical procedure that is performed on patients who have previously undergone weight loss surgery but have either experienced complications or unsatisfactory weight loss outcomes. It is also sometimes called bariatric surgery revision or weight loss surgery revision.

What is Revisional Bariatric Surgery?

Revisional bariatric surgery, also known as bariatric revision surgery, is a type of weight loss surgery that is performed to revise or modify a previous weight loss surgery that has not provided satisfactory results or has developed complications. The goal of revisional bariatric surgery is to improve weight loss outcomes and resolve any complications related to the original procedure.

Revisional bariatric surgery is more complex and risky than the original weight loss procedure and is usually only considered for patients who have regained weight or have developed complications after their initial weight loss surgery. The type of revisional surgery performed depends on the specific circumstances of the patient and the results of their original weight loss procedure.

Common reasons for revisional bariatric surgery include insufficient weight loss, weight regains, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), malnutrition, and complications such as bowel obstruction, staple-line leaks, or hernias.

Who Can Be A Candidate For Revisional Bariatric?

Revisional bariatric surgery is typically recommended for individuals who have undergone a previous weight loss procedure and have not achieved satisfactory results. Common reasons for revisional bariatric surgery include:

• Inadequate Weight Loss: If the patient has not lost a significant amount of weight or has regained weight after the initial weight loss surgery, revisional surgery may be an option.
• Weight Regain: If the patient initially lost weight but regained weight over time, revisional surgery may be performed to help the patient continue to lose weight.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): If the patient develops GERD after initial weight loss surgery, revisional surgery may be performed to correct the problem.
• Malnutrition: If the patient experiences malnutrition or nutrient deficiency due to the initial weight loss surgery, revisional surgery may be performed to correct the problem.
• Complications: If the patient develops complications such as intestinal obstruction, staple line leaks, or hernias after the initial weight loss surgery, revisional surgery can be performed to correct the problem.

It is important to remember that revisional bariatric surgery is not suitable for everyone and is only recommended for patients who have tried other methods to achieve their weight loss goals. Patients should discuss the potential benefits, risks, and alternatives with their bariatric surgeon to determine if revisional surgery is the right choice for them.

How is Revisional Bariatric Surgery Performed?

Revisional bariatric surgery is performed to revise or replace previous weight loss surgery. The specific surgical technique used during revisional bariatric surgery depends on the patient's individual circumstances and the results of the original weight loss procedure. Some common revisional bariatric surgery procedures include:

• Gastric Bypass Revision: If the patient's original weight loss procedure was a gastric bypass, revision surgery involves redirecting the small intestine to a new location or making changes to the size of the stomach pouch.
• Sleeve Gastrectomy Revision: If the patient's original weight loss procedure was sleeve gastrectomy, revision surgery may involve removing additional tissue from the stomach or converting the sleeve gastrectomy to a gastric bypass.
• Adjustable Gastric Band Revision: If the patient's original weight loss procedure was an adjustable gastric band, revision surgery involves the removal of the band and conversion of the procedure to gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.
• Duodenal Switch Revision with a Biliopancreatic Diversion: If the patient's original weight loss procedure was a biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch, revisional surgery involves changing the length of the bypassed small intestine or changing the location of the bypass.

What Should Be Considered After Revisional Bariatric?

After revisional bariatric surgery, the patient needs to follow their bariatric surgeon's instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful recovery. Some things to consider after revisional bariatric surgery include:

Diet: After revisional bariatric surgery, the patient's dietary needs may change. The patient needs to follow their bariatric surgeon's instructions regarding what foods they can eat and when they can eat them.

• Exercise: Regular physical activity is important for maintaining weight loss and overall health after revisional bariatric surgery. The patient's bariatric surgeon may provide specific exercise recommendations based on the patient's individual circumstances.
• Monitoring Weight: The patient should monitor their weight regularly to ensure that they are losing weight at a safe and healthy rate.
• Taking Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: After revisional bariatric surgery, the patient may need to take vitamin and mineral supplements to ensure that they are getting enough nutrients.
• Managing Complications: If the patient experiences any complications after revisional bariatric surgery, they need to seek medical attention immediately.
• Attending Follow-up Appointments: The patient should attend all of their follow-up appointments with their bariatric surgeon to monitor their progress and address any concerns.

It's important for the patient to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, to ensure that they continue to lose weight and maintain their weight loss results after revisional bariatric surgery. The patient's bariatric surgeon will provide specific instructions and guidance based on the patient's individual circumstances.