What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Question

Hi, I'm looking into getting the gastric sleeve in Thailand. Ive got some concerns though, I am a Jehovahs Witness and we don't accept blood transfusions. What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during or post op? And what alternative options are there if there was internal bleeding? Thanks

Reza Keshavarzi, MD, FACS, FASMBS · Answer

Thank you for reaching out to us with your question regarding blood transfusions in bariatric surgery, particularly in the context of a Jehovah's Witness patient. At our high-end concierge bariatric practice led by Dr. Keshavarzi, we hold the utmost respect for the principles and beliefs of our patients, including their refusal of blood transfusions.
Dr. Keshavarzi has a wealth of experience in treating Jehovah's Witness patients and is deeply committed to honoring their no blood transfusion stance. In fact, one of the hallmarks of his approach to bariatric surgery is minimizing blood loss during the procedure. This meticulous attention to surgical technique is one of the reasons why our patients consistently report little to no post-operative pain and experience remarkably swift recoveries.
We are proud to share that Dr. Keshavarzi has an exemplary track record in his bariatric surgery cases. Throughout his career, he has never encountered a situation necessitating a blood transfusion for his patients. While we acknowledge that rare and unforeseen complications can arise in any surgical setting, it is Dr. Keshavarzi's unwavering commitment to precision and patient well-being that minimizes the likelihood of such occurrences.
Rest assured, your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we take every precaution to ensure that your bariatric surgery experience is both successful and in alignment with your beliefs.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Your trust in our practice is deeply appreciated, and we are here to provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your journey.
Warm regards,Miami VIP Surgery Team

Jorge Maytorena, MD · Answer

Minimally invasive surgery is currently very safe, and it is unlikely that you will need a blood transfusion

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

While the risk of needing a blood transfusion during or after gastric sleeve surgery is low, no surgery is entirely without risk. Bleeding can occur during the procedure, but surgeons typically take great care to minimize this. In most cases, bleeding is controlled without the need for transfusion. However, it’s important to acknowledge that unforeseen complications, such as internal bleeding, can occasionally arise.
The good news is that there are alternative options to blood transfusion that can align with your beliefs. Many hospitals, including those in Thailand, are experienced in providing "bloodless surgery" techniques. These might involve the use of medications to boost red blood cell production before surgery, meticulous surgical techniques to minimize blood loss, and volume expanders to maintain blood pressure without using blood products. Additionally, surgeons can use tools like cell salvage, which collects and reinfuses the patient’s own blood during surgery if necessary.
I would recommend having an open and detailed discussion with the surgical team beforehand. It’s important to clearly communicate your stance on blood transfusions so that appropriate measures are in place. Many surgeons are familiar with accommodating the needs of Jehovah’s Witness patients and can work with you to create a plan that respects your beliefs while ensuring your safety.

Islam Abdelkhalek, MD · Answer

Actually the bleeding during or postoperative is very rare to occur. So in about 99.99% of cases don't need blood transfusion during or after the operation

Pablo Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, I hope you are well. Bariatric surgery, specially gastric sleeves, is considered a safe procedure. As in any surgical procedure, there is a risk of bleeding. In the case of bariatric surgery, this risk is up to 4%, and typically not as profuse as to require a blood transfusion. There are also certain measures taken by bariatric surgeons in order to minimize bleeding, such as suturing of the staple line, buttress materials, and use of anti-fibrynolitic drugs. Hope this answer was useful.

What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Answers (7)

Answer: Incidence of blood transfusion

Answer: Incidence of blood transfusion

Answer: What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Answer: What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Answers (7)

Answer: Incidence of blood transfusion

Answer: Incidence of blood transfusion

Answer: What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Answer: What are the chances of needing a blood transfusion during gastric sleeve surgery or post op?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.