Obesity is much more than a cosmetic problem. This condition can threaten your health and increase your risk for heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea and even certain types of cancer. But knowing the risks of obesity doesn't make dieting any easier for many people who struggle with their weight. For these people, bariatric surgery may be the answer.

Now local residents can have this life-transforming surgery close to home at ARMC. The hospital, in collaboration with the Barigens Clinic, offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary surgical weight-loss program for patients who meet criteria for bariatric surgery.

Ongoing Success
"Obesity shortens people's lives," says Hanafy M. Hanafy, M.D., a bariatric and general surgeon at ARMC. "Fortunately, surgery is an effective and durable solution for some obese patients. With long-term follow-up, more than 90 percent of patients are able to lose weight and keep it off."

As part of the new program, Dr. Hanafy performs both open and minimally invasive weight-loss procedures, including:

• Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. During this procedure, a small stomach pouch is created to bypass a portion of the stomach and small intestine. Gastric bypass procedures reduce the amount of food patients can eat and absorb.
• Lap-Band^® adjustable gastric banding. A silicone band is wrapped around the upper portion of the patient's stomach. Saline is used to inflate and deflate the band. This procedure helps limit the amount of food patients can eat.
• Sleeve gastrectomy. A large part of the stomach is removed to create a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach. This procedure helps restrict the amount of food patients can eat.

Comprehensive Care
People who participate in the hospital's surgical weight-loss program undergo thorough evaluations before surgery and receive ongoing education, care and support after their procedures.

"Patients who have surgery typically find that their lives change in very positive ways," Dr. Hanafy says. "They're healthier. In fact, many people find that they can cut back on or eliminate medications they take for obesity-related conditions. Patients also say they feel better and are happier and more confident."

Hanafy M. Hanafy, M.D., is a member of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Before joining ARMC, he helped develop a successful bariatric program at Pioneer Valley Hospital in Utah.

Is Bariatric Surgery for You?
FDA-approved weight-loss procedures now are available at Auburn Regional Medical Center. To be eligible for surgery, you must have:

• A body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or above (or be at least 100 pounds overweight) or
• A BMI of 35 kg/m2 or higher with related illnesses, such as high blood pressure or diabetes and
• Failed attempts at other weight-loss methods, including caloric reduction and exercise

Tired of Fighting Obesity?
Find out if bariatric surgery is right for you. Please call Direct Doctors^SM Plus at 1-800-370-8640.

202 North Division St., Auburn, WA 98001 (253) 833-7711, FAX: (253) 939-2376