Northland's Only Bariatric Program

North Kansas City Hospital kicks off its bariatric surgery program on May 16 with the first of several bi-monthly informational seminars from 6-7 p.m. at the Hospital. North Kansas City Hospital’s program is unique in that all bariatric-related specialties are in one location. The patient enjoys a continuum of care not found in freestanding surgery centers. With the Northland currently underserved for weight loss surgery options, the program fills a need in the community.

The benefits of weight loss are substantial:

• 80 percent of diabetes is resolved
• 75 percent of hypertension is eliminated
• 70 percent of elevated cholesterol levels are normalized
• 89 percent reduction in five-year mortality rate with surgery
• 90 percent of weight loss is maintained beyond 10 years

North Kansas City Hospital will offer three types of laparoscopic bariatric surgery:

• Adjustable Gastric Band: One of the least invasive procedures, the surgeon places an adjustable silicone band around the stomach. This limits food intake making the patient feel full sooner and longer.
• Sleeve Gastrectomy: One of the newest procedures, the surgeon closes off a portion of the stomach, effectively reducing the size of the stomach. An overnight hospital stay is required.
• Gastric Bypass: The most widely performed surgical procedure for weight loss. The surgeon reconfigures the digestive system so food moves more quickly through the digestive system and fewer calories are absorbed. A two-day hospital stay is typical.

A comprehensive team has been assembled to treat and support patients and help ensure successful and on-going weight-loss. This team includes:

• Surgeon Keenan Berghoff, MD
• Psychiatrist Todd Hill, DO
• Registered Dietitian Jackie Loughead
• Program Manager Susan Benoit
• Program Coordinator Tricia May

According to surgeon Keenan Berghoff, minimally invasive bariatric surgery performed laparoscopically is as safe as routine surgeries like hysterectomies or gallbladder removal. Dr. Berghoff says, “Obesity itself is a health risk with high medical costs.” He adds, “Bariatric surgery is simply the first step in helping people lose weight. As patients lose weight, they are increasingly motivated and committed to adhering to their new diet and exercise plans. Surgery gets people started on their journey to a longer, healthier and happier life.”

About North Kansas City Hospital: For over 50 years, North Kansas City Hospital has been at the forefront of providing medical care in the Northland. The Hospital is an acute-care facility with 451-licensed beds and five centers of excellence including Northland Cardiac Center, Northland Cancer Center, Northland Women’s Center, Northland Orthopedic Center and Northland Emergency Center. The medical staff includes over 550 physicians representing 49 medical specialties. For more information, contact North Kansas City Hospital at 2800 Clay Edwards Dr., North Kansas City, Mo. 64116, on the web at nkch.org, at 816-691-2000 or follow the Hospital on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.