Bariatric Surgery for Weight Loss

Severely obese patients who have lost substantial amounts of weight following bariatric surgeries have experienced significant remission of obesity-related conditions, but the procedures are not entirely without risk. The purpose of this course is to educate healthcare professionals about the role of bariatric surgery in the treatment of obesity, with particular attention to outcomes for obesity-related diseases. In addition, members of the public may use this course to enhance their personal knowledge of the subject matter presented.


Upon completion of this course, you should be able to:


1. Outline the epidemiology of obesity and bariatric surgery in the United States.

2. Describe the different types of bariatric surgery and the criteria for patients who may be candidates for weight-loss surgeries.

3. Discuss possible perioperative complications of bariatric surgery.

4. Review the care of patients after bariatric surgery, including expected weight loss.

5. State the effects that bariatric surgery may have on obesity-related diseases, with particular attention to cardiovascular risk factors.

6. Describe potential long-term complications of bariatric surgery, including nutritional deficiencies and medication absorption issues.

7. Identify options for non-surgical treatments for obesity, including lifestyle change and weight-loss medication.


This 5-hour continuing education course is available for download for professional development; if continuing education credit is desired, please see instructions included in eBook.