Weight Loss Surgery Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Weight Loss Surgery facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What is the minimum BMI typically required for bariatric surgery in the US when no obesity-related comorbidities are present? → 40
2. How long should bariatric surgery patients typically avoid NSAID medications (like ibuprofen) post-operatively? → Indefinitely or as long as possible
3. What is the main clinical purpose of requiring H. pylori testing and treatment before bariatric surgery? → To reduce risk of marginal ulcers and anastomotic complications
4. What does 'dumping syndrome' refer to after bariatric surgery? → Rapid gastric emptying causing nausea, sweating, and diarrhea
5. Which type of weight loss surgery is performed entirely endoscopically with no external incisions? → Intragastric balloon placement
6. What is dumping syndrome, and when does it typically occur after bariatric surgery? → Rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine, causing nausea and diarrhea
7. Which comorbidity is LEAST likely to show improvement after bariatric surgery? → Established chronic kidney disease (CKD stage 4–5)
8. A patient two years post-sleeve gastrectomy develops severe gastroesophageal reflux. What is the most likely recommended surgical conversion? → Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
9. What is the recommended minimum daily fluid intake for bariatric surgery patients? → 64 oz (1.9 liters)
10. Which of the following patients would most likely be considered a high surgical risk for bariatric surgery? → A patient with severe pulmonary hypertension and NYHA Class IV heart failure
11. Protein calorie malnutrition after bariatric surgery most commonly presents with which clinical findings? → Muscle wasting, hair loss (telogen effluvium), fatigue, and low serum albumin
12. Why are carbonated beverages discouraged after bariatric surgery? → They may stretch the gastric pouch and cause discomfort
13. Why are bariatric patients instructed to AVOID drinking liquids during and immediately after meals? → Liquids flush solid food through the pouch faster, reducing restriction and satiety
14. Which surgical approach is used in most modern bariatric procedures in the US? → Laparoscopic (minimally invasive)
15. What term describes the surgical revision performed when the gastric band is removed and converted to another procedure like sleeve or bypass? → Revisional bariatric surgery
16. What is the recommended minimum duration of pre-operative medically supervised diet before most insurance companies approve bariatric surgery? → 6 months
17. What pre-operative diet is commonly required before bariatric surgery and what is its primary purpose? → High-protein low-calorie diet to shrink the liver and reduce surgical risk
18. What is 'marginal ulcer' in bariatric surgery patients? → An ulcer at the gastrojejunal anastomosis in gastric bypass patients
19. Which lab value is most important to monitor for bone health in long-term bariatric surgery follow-up? → Calcium and vitamin D levels
20. Depression rates in bariatric surgery candidates are significantly higher than in the general population, estimated at: → 30–50%
21. Which non-surgical bariatric procedure involves placing a fluid-filled silicone balloon into the stomach to reduce its capacity? → Intragastric balloon
22. What is the typical expected excess weight loss (EWL) for gastric sleeve surgery at two years post-operation? → 50–70% of excess body weight
23. Which statement best describes the concept of 'informed consent' before bariatric surgery? → The patient understands the risks, benefits, alternatives, and agrees to proceed
24. What is 'weight regain' after bariatric surgery typically defined as? → Gaining back ≥ 50% of excess weight lost
25. Which cardiovascular risk factor shows the most consistent improvement after bariatric surgery? → Elevated triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol
26. What is the minimum BMI threshold for bariatric surgery eligibility according to standard NIH guidelines? → BMI ≥ 40
27. Late dumping syndrome symptoms typically occur how long after eating? → 1–3 hours after eating
28. What is the recommended minimum daily protein intake for bariatric surgery patients in the long-term maintenance phase? → 60–80 grams
29. Which pre-operative requirement helps reduce liver size and lower surgical risk before bariatric procedures? → A low-calorie or high-protein pre-op diet for 2–4 weeks
30. What is the minimum Body Mass Index (BMI) to qualify for weight loss surgery? → All of the above