2. Performing Exams

Just as a building requires detailed ground assessments to ensure safety, the body also needs to undergo careful study before undergoing a weight reduction procedure. Pre-operative tests for bariatrics are essential to ensure that the patient is fit for the procedure. Here are the main tests that may be requested:

Pre-surgical cardiology tests for weight loss surgery

To ensure heart health, the surgeon will order heart tests such as:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): assesses heart rhythm.
• Echocardiogram: checks the functioning of the heart.
• Exercise test: tests the heart under stress to ensure safe anesthesia.
• Pressure map: assesses the possibility of hypertension, to be treated before surgery

These tests ensure that the heart is healthy and prepared to withstand the procedure.

Upper digestive endoscopy

A upper digestive endoscopy is an essential examination to assess the health of the upper digestive tract before any gastroplasty. It allows the doctor to visualize the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, identifying conditions that could interfere with the surgery. Among the most common problems that can be detected are hiatus hernia, gastritis, the presence of H. pylori bacteria and ulcers.

If these conditions are found, they need to be treated before or during surgery to ensure a safe procedure and minimize complications in the post-operative period. Endoscopy not only helps choose the best type of surgery, but also ensures that the patient is in full digestive health to undergo bariatric surgery

Phmetry and esophageal manometry (optional)

These tests, although not obligatory, can be requested to assess the presence of gastroesophageal reflux and the motility of the esophagus, which helps the surgeon to define the best approach, i.e. the choice of surgical technique.

Abdominal and thyroid ultrasound

Abdominal ultrasound for weight loss surgery is essential to assess the condition of the abdominal organs, such as the liver and gallbladder. During this examination, the doctor checks for the presence of hepatic steatosis (accumulation of fat in the liver), a common condition in people with obesity, which can influence the surgical plan. In addition, the ultrasound also investigates the presence of gallstones, which can be a complication that needs attention before the procedure.

Thyroid ultrasound can be requested to identify possible disorders in the gland, such as nodules, and in specific situations it helps to understand if there is any need for pre-surgical treatment.

Polysomnography for sleep apnea in bariatric surgery

A polysomnography is an essential test that investigates the presence of sleep apnea, a very common condition in people with obesity. Sleep apnea is characterized by brief, repetitive interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can cause a range of complications, even sudden death.

Spirometry and lung tests

Spirometry is a crucial test to assess lung function, ensuring safety during anesthesia and surgery. This test measures the ability of the lungs to inhale and exhale air, and is especially important in patients who have a history of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, or are smokers.

In patients with these conditions, lung function may be compromised, and spirometry helps to identify any breathing difficulties that could increase the risks during the weight reduction procedure.

Main Laboratory Tests Required for Bariatrics

Laboratory tests are essential in preoperative examinations for bariatrics, helping to ensure patient safety. Below are the main tests:

• Complete blood count: assesses anemia or infections that could impact surgery.
• Fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin: important for identifying diabetes or pre-diabetes.
• Lipid profile: measures cholesterol and triglycerides, assessing cardiovascular risk.
• Kidney and liver function: checks the functioning of the kidneys and liver, which are essential for the recovery process.
• Hormone tests: such as TSH and free T4, to detect hormonal dysfunctions that could interfere with metabolism.
• Evaluation of vitamins and minerals: dosage of vitamin D, B12, calcium and iron, essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies after surgery.
• Coagulogram: assesses the blood’s ability to clot, which is important for minimizing the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.

These tests are indispensable for ensuring that the patient is fit for surgery and for drawing up medical reports for surgery. With these results, specialists in weight control surgery can plan the procedure safely, knowing what is needed for bariatric surgery and avoiding possible complications.

Why are these tests important?

These examinations are like the solid foundation of a building, ensuring that the main “structure”, which is your body, will be stable and ready to withstand the weight loss procedure. They provide crucial information for the bariatric surgeon and other weight management surgery specialists, helping to plan the surgical approach safely.

3. Consultations and Reports with Other Professionals

During the process of preparing for the weight reduction procedure, it is essential to undergo a consultation with the bariatric surgeon and other specialists to ensure that all areas of your health are carefully assessed. Each medical report is part of the steps to perform bariatric surgery, ensuring that the patient is in a safe condition for the procedure. Below are the most important reports and how each contributes to the success of the surgery.

Endocrinologist’s report

The endocrinologist plays a crucial role in controlling metabolic and hormonal aspects, helping to identify and treat possible disorders such as diabetes or thyroid problems. The endocrinologist’s role in weight control surgery is essential to ensure that the metabolism is adequate before the procedure. Among the medical reports for bariatrics, that of the endocrinologist is one of the most important, as it ensures that the patient is metabolically prepared for the surgery.

Nutritionist’s report

The nutritionist is responsible for drawing up a diet plan that will be followed before and after surgery. Proper nutrition is essential for the patient to achieve the best results from the weight reduction procedure. The nutritional report is one of the mandatory reports, as it guarantees that the patient will be properly nourished to face the surgical process and recovery.

Psychologist’s report

Psychological assessment for stomach reduction surgery is an essential step. The psychologist helps prepare the patient emotionally for the significant lifestyle changes that will occur. The psychological report is indispensable among the preoperative tests for bariatric surgery, as a prepared mind contributes to the success of the surgery and long-term recovery.

Cardiologist’s report

The cardiology specialist is responsible for assessing the patient’s cardiovascular health. To do this, pre-surgical cardiology tests are requested for weight loss surgery, such as an electrocardiogram and echocardiogram. The cardiology report is essential to ensure that the heart is healthy enough to undergo the anesthetic procedure without risk.

Other Medical Reports: Vascular Surgeon and Pulmonologist

Other specialists may be needed, such as a vascular surgeon, who assesses circulation and possible vascular problems, and a pulmonologist, who analyzes respiratory functions, especially in patients with a history of lung problems. Tests such as polysomnography for sleep apnea in bariatric surgery may also be requested to ensure that there are no respiratory complications.

The reports required for metabolic surgery at the Instituto Medicina em Foco are assessed by a multidisciplinary team of specialists in weight control surgery. If you are wondering what tests are needed for weight loss surgery or how to schedule an appointment with a bariatric surgeon in São Paulo, at Instituto Medicina em Foco you will find complete support to ensure a safe and efficient process.

Now that you know what you need to get bariatric, it’s time to act. Schedule your appointment with a São Paulo bariatric surgeon and start your path to a healthier life with the security of a specialized team!