Bariatric surgery: an overview

The rise of obesity in the UK has led to greater numbers of patients requiring bariatric surgery. This article provides an overview of the two main types of surgery available: laparoscopic adjustable gastric band and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. The nurse's role in pre-operative assessment and post-operative care are discussed. Strategies to maintain weight loss are suggested to ensure optimum outcomes of surgery and to improve patients' quality of life.