A cure for diabetes - how weightloss surgery leads to a remission of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes is one of the fastest growing threats to health in modern times, with an estimated five million people in the UK suffering with diabetes, with around 90% of cases being type 2 diabetes. However, recent techniques and discoveries have found that by undergoing surgery, some patients are able to overcome diabetes, or at least having control over the condition improved. Leading consultant surgeon, Mr Ahmed R. Ahmed, who specialises in diabetes surgery, gives more details.

Can diabetes be cured by surgery?

Increasing evidence shows that there is a remission of type 2 diabetes after metabolic surgery, such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or sleeve gastrectomy procedures. The most recent scientific research provides high quality evidence that upto 80% of patients with diabetes have normal sugar levels after surgery, without needing tablets or injections. This is found to continue for at least one year after surgery.

How does diabetes surgery work?

By changing the rate at which food enters the intestine, scientists think this causes various changes in hormones, bile, and gut bacteria which in turn are responsible for the normalisation of sugar levels and diabetes remission that are seen after surgery.

Who is diabetes surgery recommended for?

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends diabetes surgery for patients who are type 2 diabetic and have a body mass index of 30 or above (for Asians the BMI should be 27 or above).

We also know that the earlier surgery is performed following a diagnosis of diabetes, the better the chance of full diabetes remission.

Is diabetes surgery safe?

Recent data from the National Bariatric Surgery Registry (NBSR) shows that this type of surgery is extremely safe with a mortality rate less than 1 in 1000, and a complication rate less than 4%.

What is the success rate for diabetes surgery?

We can expect 80% of patients with diabetes to undergo remission of diabetes after surgery. In the remaining 20% of patients, we expect the control of diabetes to be vastly improved.

If you would like to be considered for diabetes surgery, or would like a consultation with a specialist to see if this kind of procedure is suitable for you, make an appointment here.