Weight loss surgery recommended for low-BMI patients

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (www.ahrq.gov) recently published a study comparing weight loss surgery (Lapband, gastric bypass, gastric sleeve) with medical and behavioral therapy for obese diabetic patients who currently do not meet criteria for surgery based on current standards used by most health care providers. A clear benefit from surgery was demonstrated for patients with a BMI of 30-35, with very few surgical complications. This suggests that overweight diabetic patients may attain the best control of their disease by seeking weight loss surgery prior to gaining the degree of weight (typically 70-100 pounds) that insurance companies require. Drs. Keith Wright, Gerardo Carcamo and Carlos Godinez with South Texas Surgeons in San Antonio have experience dealing with patients in this category, and would be happy to discuss these results.