Anaesthesia for bariatric surgery

Bariatric surgery is the only current treatment proven to achieve significant and sustained weight loss in the morbidly obese. Major weight loss can lead to partial/complete resolution of a range of conditions including, diabetes mellitus, ischaemic heart disease, and hypertension. The peroperative assessment is crucial in identifying potential risk factors that might lead to perioperative adverse events. One of the most important criteria for ensuring successful direct laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation is proper patient positioning. The risk of perioperative pulmonary aspiration during subsequent procedures is increased after bariatric surgery and dramatic weight loss.