Did bariatric surgery cause Lisa Marie Presley’s death?

Did bariatric surgery cause Lisa Marie Presley's death?

Bariatric Surgery and the Rare Complications: Understanding the Risks and Benefits

Gastric Bypass Surgery

Image source: WebMD

July 17, 2023 – Lisa Marie Presley, the renowned singer-songwriter, passed away at the age of 54 from a “strangulated” small bowel on Jan. 12, leaving her fans in shock. The Los Angeles medical examiner found that Presley’s small bowel obstruction was linked to bariatric surgery she had undergone years ago. Although the medical examiner pointed to scar tissue developed after the surgery, experts are divided over the direct implication of the procedure. Despite the tragic outcome, it is important to recognize that complications from bariatric surgery are rare and overall considered safe.

Bariatric surgery comprises various procedures, and it is believed that Presley most likely had a single anastomosis duodenal ileostomy (SADI) – a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach and limits food absorption by bypassing part of the small intestine. However, bowel obstructions can occur after different types of surgeries, not just bariatric procedures. Internal scarring resulting from gynecological, urinary system, or general abdominal surgeries can also cause such complications. Without timely medical intervention, bowel obstructions can restrict blood flow, leading to fatal consequences.

Dr. Stacy Brethauer, a bariatric surgeon and professor at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, reassures that laparoscopic bariatric surgeries, which have been widely used in the past two decades, significantly lower the risk of bowel obstructions. In fact, such obstructions occur in only 1-2% of patients in the long term. The incidence of complications after weight loss surgery, both short and long term, is generally low and outweighed by the benefits for the majority of patients. These benefits include a significant reduction in long-term mortality rates, cancer risk, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.

Physicians should inform patients that, like any surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries inherent risks. However, with the current mortality rate less than 0.1% and major complication rates ranging from 1% to 4%, it is important to emphasize the safety of bariatric surgery. The positive outcomes and lower risks associated with laparoscopic bariatric surgery should be highlighted to dispel any concerns.

When it comes to weight loss, the rise of anti-obesity medications such as Wegovy and off-label use of Ozempic might make some question the necessity of bariatric surgery. However, experts like Dr. Marina Kurian, president of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, are doubtful that these medications will replace surgery entirely. While these drugs have shown some effectiveness in weight loss, they have yet to match the significant results achieved through surgical interventions.

Dr. Kurian argues that bariatric surgery offers a more durable approach to treating severe obesity. The medications are a valuable addition to the treatment arsenal, but the lasting changes resulting from surgery make it a more sustainable solution. The decision between anti-obesity medication and bariatric surgery should be made in consultation with a physician, considering individual needs and the amount of weight that needs to be lost to improve overall health. Safety and effectiveness are attributes shared by both surgical and pharmacological treatments, with surgery providing long-term alterations compared to ongoing medication requirements.

The increasing popularity of medications like Wegovy and Ozempic also contributes to a positive shift in attitudes towards obesity. These drugs help to remove some of the stigma around weight struggles, reminding people that it is not merely a matter of willpower. Understanding the physiological and hormonal factors that impact weight loss can offer solace to individuals who have struggled with their weight for an extended period.

While Lisa Marie Presley’s passing serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with bariatric surgery, it is crucial to recognize that complications like bowel obstructions are rare. Patients considering bariatric surgery should be reassured by the overwhelmingly safe nature of the procedure, alongside its potential for life-changing benefits. Ultimately, the decision to pursue bariatric surgery or opt for anti-obesity medications should be personalized, taking into account individual circumstances, preferences, and long-term goals.

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