International Bariatric guidelines recommend an integrated team approach in caring for the bariatric surgical patient. The dietitian has a significant role within the team in making a decision for progression to surgery.
Based on current evidence, bariatric surgery is the most effective intervention for severe obesity, producing substantial and durable weight loss and optimal health outcomes. The exclusion criteria for surgery are to serve to protect patients from exposure to risks that outweigh the potential benefits.
A consequence of bariatric surgery is the structural alterations to the gastrointestinal system resulting in changes in nutrient ingestion, digestion and absorption. Potential candidates need to understand the dietary changes necessary to prevent complications. Dietitians are in a unique position to identify patients’ current lifestyle, diet adequacy, accessibility to appropriate food sources and practical aspects of meal preparation as well as their social and support networks. They can also identify the barriers for optimal outcome.
Decision-making algorithm for bariatric surgery should be one to optimise their outcome and prevent any complications. In this contribution the practical aspects from dietitian’s perspective and reasons for denying or delaying bariatric surgery for patients will be covered.