Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, a Consultant Bariatric and Laparoscopic Surgeon at MetaHeal - Laparoscopy and Bariatric Surgery Center and Saifee Hospital in Mumbai, recently performed a transformative Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery on a 30-year-old woman facing severe health challenges. Weighing 122 kg, this patient grappled with high blood pressure, fertility issues, a history of COVID-19, and steroid-induced avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip, necessitating hip replacement at just 28 years old.
Following the surgery, she has shed 21 kg in just 5 months, marking a significant milestone in her journey towards improved health and well-being.
Shruti (name changed) * and her husband Raj (name changed) *, a couple from Andheri, Mumbai, had been married for over five years, eagerly awaiting the joys of parenthood. After multiple IVF cycles, their dreams seemed to come true when they were blessed with twins. Tragically, this joy was short-lived as they lost one twin in the first month of pregnancy, and heartbreakingly, the second baby just days before the expected delivery.
During this period of emotional turmoil, Shruti's health deteriorated. She experienced significant weight gain, which exacerbated her existing health issues. The physical burden of obesity was compounded by depression and the weight of societal judgment and stigma. Her struggle intensified when she contracted a severe case of Covid-19, requiring hospitalization and prolonged steroid treatment. The pandemic-induced restrictions further isolated her, depriving her of opportunities for physical activity, leading to additional weight gain.
The prolonged steroid use during her Covid-19 treatment led to an unexpected diagnosis of avascular necrosis of the hip, culminating in hip replacement surgery at a remarkably young age.
Dr. Aparna Govil Bhasker, also associated with Saifee, Namaha, and Apollo Hospitals in Mumbai, emphasized the challenges faced by women in managing obesity: “The prevalence of obesity is higher in women than men in India. Conditions like PCOD and reproductive milestones such as pregnancies and menopause often contribute to weight gain. Women tend to prioritize others over themselves, leaving little time for self-care and exercise. Shruti's journey has been incredibly difficult. When she came to us, she was struggling with excess weight, which led to breathing difficulties, high blood pressure, and severe hip and leg pain. Her mobility and daily activities were severely restricted, and her weight was affecting her other hip as well.”
After a thorough evaluation and careful preparation, Dr. Bhasker performed a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on Shruti. This surgery reduces the stomach size and reroutes the small intestines to a small stomach pouch, changing the hormonal milieu of the body to decrease appetite and improve weight and blood glucose control. The two-hour procedure was conducted through keyhole incisions. Shruti began consuming liquids orally within 24 hours post-surgery and was discharged on the third day.
In just five months, Shruti has already lost 21 kg, bringing her weight down to 101 kg. She can now breathe better, experiences less pain in her left hip, and has normalized blood pressure without the need for medication. Dr. Bhasker anticipates further weight loss of 12 to 15 kg over the next 6 to 8 months. Once her hip issues are fully addressed, Shruti may consider planning a pregnancy again in about a year.
Reflecting on her journey, Shruti shared, "A range of health issues and losing my babies left me overwhelmed. Fortunately, my husband provided unwavering support despite the stigma and judgment I faced. I am thankful to my doctors for their timely intervention, significantly enhancing my quality of life."
This remarkable transformation highlights the profound impact of bariatric surgery, not only in addressing obesity but also in improving overall health and quality of life. Shruti's story is a testament to resilience and the importance of seeking timely medical intervention.
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