Laboratory product news revealed by American College of Surgeons

The American College of Surgeons has revealed laboratory product news that could allow medics to accurately ascertain risk levels prior to bariatric operations.

This risk calculator is designed to help both patients and surgeons understand each individual's risks when it comes to this type of surgery.

Explaining that past strokes, heart attacks and the use of blood thinners can all contribute to making such procedures more risky, the American College of Surgeons adds that there are many other factors in this kind of analysis.

During the study, data from more than 11,000 patients, all of whom suffered from morbid obesity, was looked at.

"Using this tool correctly should help patients feel more at ease with the process and potential outcomes knowing that their physician is being open with them," comments co-author of the study and bariatric surgeon at Creighton University Medical Center Dr R Armour Forse.

Founded in 1913, the American College of Surgeons is dedicated to improving the quality of surgical patient care and is an educational, as well as scientific, institution.