Weight Loss Surgery
Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Center
For those who have been unsuccessful in all attempts to lose weight and are seeking a surgical option, St. Mary's Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Center offers several laparoscopic, or minimally invasive, surgical procedures:
- Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
- Gastric banding, including the LAP-BAND System® and REALIZE® Band
- Sleeve gastrectomy, with or without Duodenal Switch
Is weight loss surgery right for you?
Attend a free program to find out. Follow this link to Classes, and click on the Weight Loss Surgery Options at St. Mary's Hospital for the date of your choice. Or go to the Health Education tab, select Classes, then select Weight Loss Surgery Options at St. Mary's Hospital from the Event Title drop down menu. Or call 970-298-6400 for more information.
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
The Roux-En-Y gastric bypass procedure helps patients lose weight two ways - by reducing the size of the stomach and by limiting the nutrients the intestines can absorb. The surgeon divides the stomach, creating a pouch about the size of a small egg that feels full after eating a small amount of food. The larger portion of the stomach and a portion of the small intestine are bypassed and reconnected in a Y-shaped configuration. The shortened length of intestine absorbs fewer calories and nutrients.
Gastric banding (LAP-BAND System® and REALIZE® Band)
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding restricts or reduces the size of the stomach without cutting it. The surgeon places a silicone band around the top part of the stomach, dividing it in two. The smaller part holds the food eaten and feels full quickly. The rest of the stomach still secretes the fluids that aid digestion. Later the doctor can loosen or tighten the silicone band according to weight loss progress and the sensation of fullness.
Sleeve gastrectomy (with or without duodenal switch)
Sleeve gastrectomy is a restrictive bariatric procedure that permanently reduces the size of the stomach by about 85 percent. The larger, rounded part of the stomach is removed, leaving a small sleeved-shaped portion about the size and shape of a banana. Though the stomach is smaller, digestion and absorption of nutrients go on as normal. Some patients may also have duodenal switch surgery which reduces absorption of calories and nutrients by shortening the length of intestine that food passes through.
Who is a candidate for weight loss surgery?
Patients are selected based on National Institute of Health criteria for the performance of weight loss surgery:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher (approximately 100 pounds overweight for men and 80 pounds for women); or a BMI of 35 and a serious obesity-related health problem such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or severe sleep apnea
- Ability and commitment to participate in treatment and long-term follow-up
- Unsuccessful with other medically managed weight loss programs
A system of care, not just surgery
St. Mary's is the only facility between Denver and Salt Lake City to offer all options of bariatric surgical procedures. Our comprehensive program allows each patient and their doctor to determine which procedure is right for them. Patients can have their surgery close to home with direct access to St. Mary's complete program of pre- and post-operative care, including 24-7 emergency coverage.
Surgery is only part of St. Mary's surgical weight loss program. Experience has shown that patients who are prepared, have realistic expectations and receive post-surgical follow up and support are more successful in losing weight, maintaining a healthy weight, and achieving overall improved health.
Before surgery
St. Mary's surgery preparation includes:
- Patient and family education
- Evaluation with a registered nurse and surgeon
- Imaging and laboratory studies
- Nutrition evaluation
- Psychological evaluation
- Medication and allergy review
- Discussion of the patient's expectations
After surgery
Participation in the following post-operative services is a requirement of bariatric surgical treatment at St. Mary's Hospital.
- Dietary consultation and nutritional support for one year
- Fitness consultation and customized exercise plan designed by an exercise physiologist
- Three months of personal and group training at St. Mary's Life Center
- Weight loss surgery support group
St. Mary's Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery Team
James J. Hanosh, MD
Surgeon and Medical Director
Teyen Shiao, MD
Surgeon
Eric Hanly, MD
Surgeon
Chris Hornsby, MD
Internal Medicine and Bariatric Medicine Physician
Karen Milbank, RN, MPH
Bariatric Surgery Program Coordinator
Annegret Howe, RD, CDE
Dietitian
Colleen Nye
Exercise Physiologist
Maria Polen
Weight Loss Surgery Support Group Leader
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