UP Woman’s Tragic Death Sparks Concerns Over Weight Loss Surgery
What should have been a hopeful journey toward better health turned fatal for Rajni Gupta, a 55-year-old woman from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. Weighing around 123 kg, she was reportedly told by the hospital that she could shed 30 kg in just 24 hours after undergoing bariatric surgery — an unrealistic and unsafe claim by any medical standard. Following the procedure, she suffered an abdominal leak that eventually led to a severe infection, causing her death.
This unfortunate case raises vital questions about the real risks of bariatric surgery, proper consultation, and the urgent need for accurate patient education.
What Is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight loss surgery, includes medical procedures aimed at helping individuals lose weight by altering their digestive system — either by reducing the size of the stomach or rerouting the intestines.
It’s often recommended for people who:
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Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 40
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Are severely obese with complications like diabetes, high blood pressure
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Have been unsuccessful with diet and exercise
Risks of Bariatric Surgery: What Can Go Wrong?
While bariatric surgery has transformed lives and improved longevity for many patients, it carries significant short-term and long-term risks. In Rajni Gupta’s case, an abdominal leak (a known surgical complication) led to fatal sepsis, highlighting how post-surgical care and monitoring are just as critical.
🔹 Common Short-Term Complications
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Acid reflux
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Post-anesthesia complications
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Chronic nausea or vomiting
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Infections at the surgical site
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Gastrointestinal blockages
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Inability to digest certain foods
🔹 Long-Term Complications
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Dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying)
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Malnutrition due to reduced absorption
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Low blood sugar
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Recurring ulcers
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Bowel obstructions
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Hernias
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Unintended weight gain or insufficient weight loss
Bariatric surgery must always be done by trained professionals, and realistic expectations must be set in advance, including the risks.
How to Reduce the Risks of Bariatric Surgery
🔸 Pre-Surgery Precautions
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Lower Body Mass Index (BMI) through supervised diet and exercise
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Stop smoking at least 2–4 weeks prior to surgery (as per NIH guidelines)
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Undergo psychological and nutritional counseling
🔸 Post-Surgery Guidance
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Attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and complications
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Stick to the prescribed meal plan and supplement regimen
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Watch for signs of infections, fever, or digestive issues
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Join a bariatric support group for motivation and education
Development and Benefits of Bariatric Surgery Over the Years
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH):
“Obesity in adults and adolescents is a growing epidemic, and after repeated non-surgical treatment failures, bariatric procedures have presented a reliable option for long-term weight control.”
Benefits:
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Long-term weight reduction
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Reversal or improvement of Type 2 diabetes
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Reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases
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Improved mobility and quality of life
That said, the success of bariatric surgery depends heavily on careful patient selection, proper surgical technique, comprehensive pre- and post-operative care, and patient commitment.
Final Word: Informed Decision-Making Is Vital
Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix or an overnight miracle. It’s a medically advanced procedure that must be supported by correct information, professional oversight, and a lifestyle change.
The tragic loss of Rajni Gupta is a sobering reminder that patients must avoid exaggerated promises and consult only certified bariatric surgeons. Unrealistic claims like losing 30 kg in 24 hours are not just deceptive — they’re dangerous.