Bariatrics – Obesity Treatment Procedures
Specialist Doctor: Dr. Michal Ben-Ami
Bariatric Dieticians: Noy Eli, Naria Lavern
Secretary: Inbal Shemesh
Senior Deputy for Medical Administrative Services: Orna Savo
Contact:
Phone: 03-5302692
Clinic hours:
Thursdays, in the morning
Location:
Edmond and Lily Safra Children's Hospital Building, Floor 1, Outpatient Clinics
Our clinic caters to teenagers aged 13-18, who undergo a comprehensive evaluation for their suitability for bariatric surgery. This evaluation is conducted by a multi-professional team that includes a pediatric endocrinologist, a sports doctor, a pediatric psychiatrist, a bariatric dietician, and a psychologist/social worker.
In recent decades, there has been a noticeable rise in the number of teenagers facing obesity. Around 27-30% of youth aged 10-14 are classified as overweight, with 10-13% suffering from obesity. Obesity in teenagers can increase the risk of comorbidities, including metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver. Moreover, obesity can have a negative impact on quality of life and result in psychosocial problems.
The recommended approach to combat obesity is a change in lifestyle, consisting of a suitable diet and daily physical activity. However, this alone is sometimes not enough to yield significant weight loss or ensure long-term weight maintenance. In some cases, bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery, may be a viable option for children.
The eligibility requirements for bariatric surgery in teenagers in Israel
To undergo the surgery, individuals must be at least 13 years old. Boys should have a bone age of over 15 years, while girls should have a bone age of over 13 years, indicating completion of 95% of height growth. If the patient is under 16, the Exceptions Committee's approval is required.
If the BMI is greater than 40 and accompanied by mild obesity complications, or if the BMI is greater than 35 and accompanied by severe obesity complications such as type 2 diabetes, OSA, PTC, or biopsy-proven fatty liver.
Participation in an organized weight loss program at the bariatric center for at least 6 months.
The evaluation is conducted by a multi-professional team, including a dietitian specializing in adolescent care, a child psychiatrist, a pediatrician with expertise in obesity, and a psychologist/social worker experienced in weight management. They will ensure that at least 8 meetings with the team members take place prior to the surgery. Each member of the team should assess the patient's readiness for surgery.
