STAFF REPORT

Central Texas Medical Center for the first time is deploying its da Vinci surgery robot to assist in performing weight loss procedures on clinically and morbidly obese patients.

Anderson

Erik Anderson, a board-certified general surgeon, will use the robotic-assisted surgical system — the first of its kind put into practice between Austin and San Antonio — for less invasive gastric bypass, gastric sleeve and Lap-Band operations. The program is being rolled out under the banner of CTMC’s Weight Loss Center at Live Oak Health Partners, a physicians group owned by the medical center.

“Weight loss surgery helps patients prevent or reverse the serious diseases and conditions associated with obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, elevated cholesterol, gastro-esophageal reflux disease and sleep apnea,” Dr. Anderson said.

In addition to surgery, the weight loss regime includes pre- and post-operation treatment by primary care physicians, registered dietitians, clinical counselors and wellness coaches. Following surgery, most patients lose weight rapidly for 18 to 24 months. About 75 percent of these patients will lose and keep off 50 to 80 percent of excess weight, Anderson said.

For information, contact the Weight Loss Center at Live Oak Health Partners at 512-405-0077.