a safe and healthy health alternative against type 2 diabetes

According to the Spanish Diabetes Society, One in ten adults worldwide now lives with diabetesBy 2030, the disease is expected to affect 643 million people worldwide. Considering these data, Dr. Jorge Solano, Head of the Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Unit at the Quironsalud Zaragoza Hospitalemphasizes the importance of early detection of the disease in order to avoid the development of subsequent complications caused by it, and explains a safe, effective, and permanent treatment option for those who have type 2 diabetes and do not control it well with diet, oral medications, or insulin.based on my experience as a surgeon in these procedures.

“Diabetes,” the specialist comments, “occurs when blood sugar levels are elevated because the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use it properly, and this situation persists over time. This can cause serious problems such as heart disease, kidney failure, and even long-term vision problems. In recent years, we have seen an increase in obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia (cholesterol) and type 2 diabetes, likely due to unhealthy lifestyle choices.. Thus, It is very important to undergo an annual examination to detect the disease. and prevent the development of these complications.

What is the intervention and its advantages over other methods?

Metabolic surgery has been a major advance in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. and it has become an alternative to assessment according to patient characteristics and appropriate medical judgment. The Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Team at Hospital Quironsalud Zaragoza has pioneered the use of this technique. In October 2000, Dr. Jorge Solano performed the first laparoscopic biliopancreatic bypass procedure. the use of advanced surgical techniques to treat the disease is an effective and safe alternative.

The intervention involves creating a bypass in the small intestine to reduce calorie absorption.. The doctor explains that “when food passes through certain parts of the intestines, hormones are released that increase blood sugar levels. In people with diabetes, this balance is disrupted, leading to elevated sugar levels. “Metabolic surgery can help restore this balance and reduce the need for medications.” Likewise, based on the experience of Dr. Solano and patients who have had surgery, “To date, 82% of people who have had this surgery no longer need medications, and 99% of those who needed insulin can stop using it.”.

An added benefit is that, thanks to recent advances, The surgery is completed in approximately 30 or 45 minutes and is minimally invasive., which means the abdomen does not need to be opened and allows for a quick recovery. Thus, the patient can return home in just 48 hours.

The doctor emphasizes that this change in life is radical. “Imagine taking a few diabetes pills, in addition to insulin injections several times a day and medications for cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure. After the operation, you will no longer need all this. Additionally, if you have complications such as vision or kidney problems due to diabetes, this condition will also improve significantly. Even We treated patients on the waiting list for kidney dialysis and have now fully restored kidney function“

Indications for metabolic surgery

A candidate for this surgery must be over 18 years of age and have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, which usually means about 15 kg overweight. Additionally, a comprehensive study of patient characteristics is performed to confirm the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and to ensure that the pancreas is still working well enough to produce insulin.