Bariatrisiä

Bariatrisiä is a medical specialty focused on the prevention, evaluation, and management of obesity and its related health conditions. It encompasses medical, surgical, nutritional, and psychological approaches aimed at achieving sustainable weight loss and reducing obesity-related risks.

The field relies on a multidisciplinary team that may include endocrinologists, surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, and physical therapists. Treatment plans emphasize individualized assessment, long-term follow-up, and lifestyle changes as core components, rather than relying on a single intervention.

Non-surgical treatments include dietary modification, increased physical activity, behavior therapy, and, when appropriate, pharmacotherapy for weight loss and metabolic improvement. Bariatric surgery is a major option for eligible patients and can lead to substantial weight loss and significant improvement or resolution of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and dyslipidemia.

Surgical options are commonly categorized as restrictive, malabsorptive, or combined. Restrictive procedures reduce stomach capacity (for example, sleeve gastrectomy or adjustable gastric banding). Malabsorptive or mixed procedures alter nutrient absorption (for example, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch). Endoscopic and less invasive approaches, such as intragastric balloons, are used in some settings for selected patients.

Indications for intervention typically include a body mass index (BMI) threshold, often BMI ≥40, or BMI ≥35 with obesity-related comorbidities, with pharmacotherapy considered at BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 if comorbidities are present. Long-term follow-up addresses nutritional status, metabolic health, and psychosocial well-being.

History and development of bariatristry date to mid-20th century, with advances expanding from open surgery to minimally invasive techniques and comprehensive postoperative care. See also obesity, metabolic syndrome, and bariatric surgery.