What Is Morbid Obesity?

Obesity has become a growing problem in the United States. Today, more than one-half of adults are classified as being overweight or obese. The rate of obesity is even higher in certain populations, especially in women of lower socioeconomic levels and members of some ethnic groups.

Obesity is not just a problem of overeating, but today is recognized as a chronic disease with complex causes. Morbid obesity is defined as being 100 pounds or more above your ideal body weight. Obesity is determined by calculating an individual’s body mass index (BMI). This is a ratio of height and weight. Divide the weight in kilograms by the height in meters squared. BMI = wt. In kg/ht. In m2. Candidates for surgery are people whose BMI = 40 or higher, and those whose BMI = 35 or higher who have serious diseases related to obesity.

It is important to understand that weight loss surgery is not a cure for morbid obesity, but is a way to control the disease. Surgeons at The Nebraska Medical Center perform several procedures for bariatric surgery including the Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass, BPD (Biliopancreatic Diversion) or Duodenal Switch, Gastric Banding,and Vertical Banded Gastroplasty. Many of these procedures are performed laparoscopically.