The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery released a list of things to avoid when patients undergo bariatric surgery.
"These are evidence-based recommendations that will help improve patient care and outcomes and help avoid the routine use of procedures and treatments that may be unnecessary for most patients," said John M. Morton, MD, ASMBS president.
The list was devised as part of ABIM Foundation's Choosing Wisely initiative. Here are five things to avoid before bariatric surgery:
1. Avoid an open approach for primary bariatric surgical procedures.
2. Avoid routine postoperative antibiotics.
3. Don't routinely use the intensive care unit for postoperative monitoring.
4. Don't routinely remove the gallbladder unless clinically indicated.
5. Avoid routine use of intraoperative intensive monitoring.