By See Foon Chan Koppen
Metabolic surgery has emerged as a game changer for reversing Type 2 diabetes, a major component of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by hypertension, high triglycerides, and abdominal obesity, with Type 2 diabetes being the most challenging to manage. Traditional treatments include medications and injectables, but metabolic surgery offers a potential cure.
What is Metabolic Surgery?
Metabolic surgery includes procedures like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, mini gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and sleeve-plus procedures. Initially designed for weight loss, these surgeries have shown remarkable effects on metabolic health, particularly in controlling diabetes.
Success and Benefits
Globally, metabolic surgeries boast an 85% success rate in reversing Type 2 diabetes. At Fatimah Hospital, Dr. Mark Satkunan has achieved a 90% success rate among 30 patients since 2021. The results are striking:
- Weight Loss: Patients typically lose 28–35 kg.
- Improved Health: Reductions in blood sugar levels, lipid profiles, blood pressure, and sleep apnea.
- Medication Independence: Many patients stop diabetes medications within two weeks.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients report better mobility, reduced joint pain, improved confidence, and self-esteem.
Surgery Details
Metabolic surgeries are performed for patients with a BMI of 32 or higher. These procedures alter digestive processes, promoting hormonal changes that improve insulin sensitivity and glucose control. Success rates for specific procedures like Roux-en-Y gastric bypass are particularly high.
Risks and Side Effects
While effective, some patients experience temporary side effects, such as abdominal fullness, reflux, regurgitation, hair loss, and loose motions. These effects typically resolve with time.
Beyond Weight Loss
A standout case involved a patient with kidney disease showing significant improvement post-surgery. Additionally, these procedures address early diabetes effectively, with stapling and by-pass offering similar remission rates of up to 80%.
Metabolic surgery is more than weight loss—it’s a pathway to curing diabetes and trans-forming lives.
Dr Mark Surgical Clinic
Wolfgang 09 Suite, 1st Floor, Hospital Fatimah, Ipoh.
Tel: 05-549 6757
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