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Salsa Northern California - Weight Loss Surgery For Lower Weight Patients

Salsa Northern California - Weight Loss Surgery For Lower Weight Patients


Sacramento, CA. April 11, 2008 - Sacramento Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Associates (SALSA; www.salsa.md) announced today it is conducting a study to evaluate the medical and psychological effects of weight loss for mild and moderately obese individuals, or those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 to 35, which, depending on other factors such as height, age, bone structure, may be approximately 30 to 50 pounds over recommended body weight. Traditional guidelines have suggested that surgery be reserved for patients with a BMI of greater than 40, or possibly as low as 35 if associated with a health condition brought on by extra body weight.

"The medical and psychological impacts of obesity are well known, but the benefits of weight loss surgery have been somewhat restricted to the severely or morbidly obese. With the number of people with mild to moderate obesity continuing to increase, this study allows us to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this minimally invasive procedure," notes laparoscopic weight loss surgeon Donald J Waldrep, MD, FACS. It has been estimated that over 250,000 bands have been placed world-wide to reduce excess body weight in patients with a BMI above 40.

The study, "Effects of Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding Weight Loss Surgery on Patients with a Body Mass Index of 30-35 kg/m2", will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of gastric banding in patients over a five year period. Prior to surgery, patients complete a thorough evaluation and educational process. Candidates will also participate in a schedule of clinic visits after surgery to optimize weight loss, monitor overall health and satisfaction, and evaluate any concerns which may arise. Patients will be monitored for changes in body weight, use of prescription medication, and overall quality-of-life.

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a procedure that may be performed as an outpatient or "same day" surgery, using five small incisions millimeters in length. The band is essentially a circular inflatable device placed at the top of the stomach which allows patients to feel satisfied eating smaller portions of food. The device can be adjusted as needed based on factors such as weight loss and comfort.

Donald Waldrep, MD, FACS, founder of SALSA, has performed almost 1,700 weight loss surgeries. Dr. Waldrep has participated in multiple programs with the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), including Advanced and Masters courses. Dr. Waldrep serves as Medical Director for a Center of Excellence for bariatric surgery and has participated in the Bariatric Surgery Policy Workgroup, as well as the Obesity Provider Toolkit Expert Panel in California.

SALSA is located in Roseville, California and specializes in advanced minimally invasive surgery and laparoscopic weight loss surgery; including the Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass and Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding procedures. SALSA has established a surgical team dedicated to advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques and has extensive experience to provide optimal and efficient bariatric patient care. Dr. Waldrep's associate, Andrew Luckey, MD, completed his advanced surgical training at the University of Southern California. Dr. Luckey is certified in gastric banding and serves as the Study Coordinator.

For more information visit www.Band3035.com or call 1-877-3035-BMI (1-877-303-5264).

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