One of the most critical aspects of the SBMC Bariatric Surgery program is the three-hour seminar that every prospective patient is required to attend.

The seminar is free of charge, and is divided into two sections.

First, Dr. Oria conducts a slide presentation which includes a discussion of morbid obesity; a review of the history of surgical management of morbid obesity, and surgical options available in the United States. At this time, stomach banding (the Gastric Segmentation technique) is explained in detail. Length of the operation and hospital stay, risks, complications, mortality and weight loss results of the surgery are thoroughly discussed. The increased risk of gallbladder disease associated with morbid obesity and weight loss is explained. Perioperative care, including pain medication, is reviewed at length by Dr. Oria. Finally, there is an opportunity for your questions, and a break occurs thereafter.

The second part of the seminar is conducted by one of Dr. Oria's nurses. She discusses the behavorial changes necessary to comply with the requirements imposed after the stomach banding procedure. After another round of questions, you will be asked to complete a True/False quiz to determine your understanding of the information presented.

The seminar is an excellent way for attendees to meet former patients, who often stop by, or to visit and share experiences with individuals coping with obesity.

NOTE: All of the preoperative assessment, admission process and testing is done on an outpatient basis. Out of town patients are encouraged to bring tests ordered by their physicians. It is possible to use studies done within a reasonable period of time to reduce costs. These patients are usually scheduled to have preoperative testing performed the morning of the seminar, and the surgery is performed the following day.

To learn of future dates, please call Melanie Williams at 713-722-3891.