[Obesity surgery--useful knowledge in indication and follow up]

In the last years, obesity has become one of the main problems of health care systems in Western countries. Among morbid obese patients, four out of five will develop comorbidities doubling the mortality risk in women and increase the numbers in men at a threefold risk. According to evidence based guidelines, nowadays surgery is the best and most effective treatment resulting in excellent long-term weight loss, reduction of comorbidities while extending expectation of life. A sound indication is the most important step for successful surgery. In this paper we focus on Swiss regulations and some special indications which have to be taken into consideration. After bariatric surgery clinical follow up on a regular basis is also of great importance. Furthermore, we explain typical mechanical and nutritional complications after different types of surgery and give some recommendations.