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Russia approves surgery for severe childhood obesity under new guidelines

A bold shift in pediatric care: Russia now permits weight-loss surgery for kids. But stricter checks and expert teams must guide every step.

The image shows a group of surgeons wearing masks, caps, and gloves performing surgery on a baby...
The image shows a group of surgeons wearing masks, caps, and gloves performing surgery on a baby lying on a bed in an operating room. On the left side of the image, there are various pieces of medical equipment, and on the right side, there is a table with various objects on it. In the background, there appears to be a wall with a clock and a window, through which a building can be seen.

Russia approves surgery for severe childhood obesity under new guidelines

Russia has updated its medical guidelines for treating childhood obesity. The new standards now include surgical options for severe cases. Doctors will also follow stricter diagnostic and postoperative rules under the revised protocol. The Russian Health Ministry has added surgery to the official treatment plan for children with obesity. Procedures like sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and gastric banding may now be used in certain situations. These changes aim to provide more options for managing extreme cases.

Before any treatment, children must now undergo evaluations by an otolaryngologist. A mandatory consultation with a dietitian has also been introduced as part of the diagnostic process. This ensures a more thorough assessment before decisions are made. After surgery, the updated guidelines require daily check-ups by a surgeon. These postoperative examinations will monitor recovery and address any complications early.

The new regulations expand treatment possibilities for childhood obesity in Russia. Surgeons, dietitians, and ear, nose, and throat specialists will all play defined roles in patient care. The measures aim to improve both diagnosis and long-term outcomes for affected children.

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