How Obesity and Visceral Fat Elevate Surgical Risks: Insights from a Fortis Surgeon

Understanding the Impact of Obesity on Surgery

Obesity is no longer just viewed as a lifestyle issue; it is recognized as a serious medical condition that can significantly complicate surgical procedures. Dr. Pankaj Sharma, a leading surgeon at Fortis Hospital, emphasizes that visceral fat—fat stored around vital organs—is particularly worrying. This type of fat can obstruct surgical visibility and elevate risks during operations.

Dr. Sharma highlights that visceral fat is not merely a cosmetic concern; its presence can lead to severe complications during surgeries, including higher chances of infection, poor wound healing, and increased risks related to anesthesia.

Why Visceral Fat Increases Surgical Risks

Dr. Sharma describes visceral fat as akin to “fog inside the abdomen.” This fat layer can hinder the surgeon’s ability to see vital organs clearly, increasing the likelihood of mistakes. Here are several key challenges posed by high levels of visceral fat:

• Difficult Anesthesia Administration: The excess fat can obstruct airways, making anesthesia riskier.
• Increased Bleeding Risk: Visceral fat has more fragile blood vessels, heightening the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.
• Compromised Wound Healing: The presence of visceral fat releases inflammatory chemicals that can delay recovery and increase infection risks.
• Heart Function Impairment: Excess visceral fat can strain the heart, leading to complications during surgical stress.
• Technical Difficulties: Visceral fat complicates the surgical procedure, making it harder for surgeons to navigate and increasing injury risks.

How Bariatric Surgery Can Help

Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity, particularly for those struggling with visceral fat. Dr. Sharma explains that this type of surgery does not just lead to weight loss; it has significant physiological benefits:

• Rapid Reduction in Visceral Fat: Unlike traditional dieting, bariatric surgery targets visceral fat effectively, leading to rapid health improvements.
• Improved Control of Chronic Conditions: The surgery can reverse conditions such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension, making subsequent surgeries safer.
• Lower Inflammation Levels: By reducing visceral fat, patients can lower the inflammatory markers in their bodies, aiding recovery.
• Enhanced Heart and Lung Function: Weight loss from surgery reduces pressure on these organs, improving overall health.

Dr. Sharma concludes by stating, “Reducing visceral fat not only makes surgery safer but also improves the quality of life for patients, offering them a healthier future.”