Stomach Stapling: Weighing the Benefits and Risks for Weight Loss

Stomach stapling is a method that some severely obese people may opt for to lose weight when other alternatives, such as diet and exercise, have failed. However, like any elective surgery, stomach stapling involves many risks that may undermine the benefits derived from the procedure.

Nutrition

• Stomach stapling does not interfere with the absorption of nutrients.

Cardiovascular Health

• Stomach stapling will drastically reduce weight in severely obese people, which may reduce the effects of high blood pressure, heart disease and high cholesterol.

Better Sleep

• Sleep apnea, linked with obesity, will be alleviated, which leads to better sleep not only for the patient, but also for spouses and family members.

No Guaranteed Weight Loss

• The amount of weight lost initially after the surgery may return if lifestyle changes are not enacted following surgery.

Complications

• The band put around the stomach during the surgery may slip and the staples put into the stomach may also come undone; both may render the surgery ineffective.