Frequently Asked Questions

Bariatric surgery is done in the hospital using general anesthesia. This means you're unconscious during the procedure. The specifics of your surgery depend on your situation, the type of weight-loss surgery you have. Today, bariatric surgery      is performed laparoscopically or Robotic without making the traditional large cuts. Laparoscopic / Robotic surgery can make recovery faster and shorter. Depending on your procedure, you may need to stay a few days in the hospital.  

As with any major procedure, bariatric surgery poses potential health risks, both in the short term and the long term such as: Excessive bleeding. Infection. Reactions to anesthesia. Blood clots. Lung or breathing problems. Leaks in your gastrointestinal system.

In general, bariatric surgery could be an option for you if: Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or more, called extreme obesity. Your BMI is 35 called obesity, and have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or severe sleep apnea. In some cases, you may qualify for certain types of weight-loss surgery if your BMI is 30 to 34 and you have serious weight-related health problems.  

Bariatric surgery is done to help you lose extra weight and reduce your risk of possibly life-threatening weight-related health problems, including: •    Certain cancers, including breast, endometrial and prostate cancer. •    Heart disease and stroke. •    Type 2 diabetes. High blood pressure. •    High cholesterol levels. •    Non Alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). •    Sleep apnea.  

A radiation oncologist is a doctor who specialises in using radiation therapy as a treatment for cancer. They work closely with other members of the healthcare team to develop and implement radiation treatment plans for cancer patients.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer and your treatment plan includes radiation therapy, it is essential to consider seeing a radiation oncologist. They specialise in utilising radiation to treat cancer and can provide valuable insights into the most effective treatment approach for your specific case. Radiation oncologists possess advanced knowledge and expertise in delivering radiation therapy. By consulting with a radiation oncologist, you can ensure that you receive the best possible care and benefit from their specialised skills in administering radiation treatment suited to your individual needs.

For how many weeks will I receive radiation? Will I be able to continue my normal activities? How often do I need to return for checkups? Do I need a special diet during or after my treatment? Will I experience side effects from radiation therapy? How do I prepare for radiation therapy?

Absolutely. One of the key roles of a radiation oncologist is to help manage and alleviate side effects that may occur during radiation therapy. They are highly skilled in understanding the potential side effects and employ various techniques to minimise their impact, such as prescribing medications,  providing skin care recommendations, or suggesting lifestyle adjustments. By consulting with a radiation oncologist, patients can receive support and guidance to mitigate any side effects and ensure the best possible experience during their radiation therapy.   

The frequency of appointments with a radiation oncologist during treatment can vary depending on the individual patient's needs and treatment plan. Typically, patients will have regular visits, which may range from once or twice a week to a few times a month. These appointments allow the radiation oncologist to monitor the progress of treatment, address any concerns or side effects, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan if needed.

On your first visit with a radiation oncologist, it is important to carry the following documents and information: Medical Records: Bring any relevant medical records, including diagnostic reports, imaging studies, pathology reports, and treatment histories related to your cancer diagnosis./p> List of Medications: Provide a comprehensive list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescription medications, оver-the-counter drugs, and any supplements or herbal remedies. Insurance Information: Bring your insurance card and any relevant information related to your health insurance coverage, as well as documentation of any prior authorizations that may be required for radiation therapy. Personal Identification: Carry a valid photo ID and any necessary personal identification to complete registration and confirm your identity. Contact Details: Provide updated contact information, including your address, phone number, and emergency contact details.