Bariatric surgery (also known as weight loss surgery) is a procedure used to treat morbid obesity, which is generally defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more.

Bariatric surgery includes:

• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, which can be done with a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure or an open incision
• Lap banding

Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence

St. Cloud Hospital and Darren Glass, M.D., of Central Minnesota Surgeons, received Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence recognition. The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery bestows this designation on programs leading the nation in: volumes of bariatric surgeries each year staff and dedicated case manager specially trained in care of obese patients commitment to safely helping patients recover from obesity

Learn more about the Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence designation

How does bariatric surgery work?
Bariatric surgery works by making the stomach smaller, which makes a person feel full sooner after eating. This, in turn, helps to control a person's appetite, which can result in significant weight loss while maintaining adequate nutrition. Overall goals of bariatric surgery are to improve health, increase quality of life, build self-esteem and help patients lose weight.

Am I a candidate for bariatric surgery?
You will need to consult with your physician to determine whether you are a candidate for bariatric surgery. However, some general guidelines for bariatric surgery candidates include:

• a desire to make necessary changes in eating and healthy lifestyle activities
• a BMI of 40 (or more) or a BMI of 35 (or more) with serious health problems
• other weight-loss methods under professional supervision have not worked.
  

Does insurance cover bariatric surgery?
Many insurance plans do cover bariatric surgery; however, you should check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.

St. Cloud Hospital's bariatric surgery program is designated as follows:

• Blue Cross Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery
• Medica Center of Excellence Program for Bariatric Care
• Approved provider for HealthPartners
  

What are the risks of bariatric surgery?
Some people who have bariatric surgery develop gallstones and/or may become deficient in certain vitamins and minerals. Minor infections and lung congestion may occur as well. It is important that you discuss possible risks with your physician or surgeon.

Where can I get more information about bariatric surgery?
Each month Central Minnesota Surgeons provides a free Bariatric Surgery Information Seminar at St. Cloud Hospital. To register, please call (320) 251-5676. Learn more about the free seminar

Number of surgeries performed
Since 1998, more than 1,000 bariatric surgery procedures have been performed at St. Cloud Hospital.

Bariatric Surgeons
At St. Cloud Hospital, two surgeons perform bariatric surgery: Darren Glass, M.D., and Matthew Bettendorf, M.D., both of Central Minnesota Surgeons. Learn more about Dr. Glass and Dr. Bettendorf

For questions related to bariatric surgery, please call the St. Cloud Hospital Bariatric Case Manager at (320) 251-2700, ext. 53240, or e-mail online_bariatric_support@centracare.com.

Helpful Resources
Gastric Bypass (Bariatric) Surgery Overview, including What to Expect After Surgery, Why It Is Done, How Well It Works, Risks, What To Think About
Central Minnesota Surgeons Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery Program
ObesityHelp.com
American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery

Other Weight Management Options
A healthy diet will reduce your risk of disease and help you look better, feel better and live longer. Please visit our Classes & Events directory and select "Weight Management/Healthy Weight" or "Healthy Cooking" for more information.