A perioperative team approach to treating patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery

WHEN A PATIENT IS OBESE, simple dieting and exercise are rarely able to reverse significant comorbidities. Currently, surgery is the most effective treatment for obesity with respect to the amount and duration of weight loss. BARIATRIC SURGERY REQUIRES a team approach in a clinical setting capable of supporting all aspects of management and assessment. THE PATIENT IS THE CENTER of the team's focus, and all facets of the perioperative process are interconnected. The words coordinate, educate, accommodate, facilitate, and communicate describe the multidisciplinary process that is necessary to provide quality, safe patient care with positive outcomes.