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Choose Weight Loss Surgery at a Center of Excellence

Joseph Regan, M.D., Bariatric Surgeon, Columbia St. Mary’s

Posted: Oct. 1, 2006

Deciding to undergo weight loss surgery is a life altering event. It is important to do research and learn about the different procedures and the lifestyle changes that occur after surgery.

Part of that research and education should involve investigating different bariatric centers and the surgeons that perform the procedures. It is critical to ensure that the surgeon has appropriate experience, and that the center has a program in place to provide for patient safety and follow-up. Ensuring that the surgeon participates before, during, and after surgery is important for long-term success with weight loss and improved health.

One way to find a program that meets these important criteria is to choose a bariatric Center of Excellence accredited by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery. Centers with this designation, such as the Bariatric Center at Columbia St. Mary’s, have met rigorous standards in the areas of patient volume and safety, and demonstrate the highest standard of patient care. Our center is also recognized as a Center of Expertise by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Wisconsin.

Over the last three years, people from throughout the Midwest have chosen our center for weight loss surgery. We have completed over 400 procedures with successful weight loss, and cure or improvement of obesity-related diseases in over 90 percent of our patients. Our goal is to provide support for each of our patients for five years following surgery — a critical component to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Two support groups and an exercise program designed specifically for our patients help to achieve long-term success.

When considering weight loss surgery, it is important to discuss the different surgical options. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and Lap-Band® are the two most commonly performed weight loss surgeries and both are offered at the Columbia St. Mary’s Bariatric Center.

In the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, a small stomach pouch is created, and then connected to a shorter length of the small intestine. This procedure helps people lose weight because they eat smaller amounts of food and fewer calories are absorbed.

The Lap-Band® procedure involves the placement of an inflatable ring around the upper stomach, which restricts the amount that can be eaten and controls hunger. The inflatable ring is connected to a port that is placed under the skin. The port is used to adjust the tightness of the ring around the stomach.

If you think weight loss surgery might be an option for you, it is important to talk with your physician and begin researching the procedures and associated lifestyle changes.

Please call us at (414) 326-1745 to request a free DVD about the Columbia St. Mary’s Bariatric Center.

Call (414) 962-2274 if you have any questions about weight loss surgery.

Joseph Regan, M.D.
Columbia St. Mary’s Bariatric Center

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