This decade has proven to be a very dynamic and exciting time for bariatric surgery. The number of weight loss procedures has grown at an exponential rate and so, too, has membership in bariatric surgical societies. This past June, the largest bariatric society, the American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS) convened in San Diego. In recognition of the profound metabolic effects of bariatric surgery, the ASBS members voted to change the name of their society to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). The outgoing president, Philip Schauer, MD, announced the name change and also at the meeting passed the presidential baton to Kelvin Higa, MD. Dr. Higa, a general surgeon from Fresno, California, has been a pioneer of minimally invasive bariatric surgery.
Medscape's Timothy Kuwada, MD, recently had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Higa about the ASMBS, the future of bariatric surgery, and the controversial issues surrounding "Center of Excellence" designations. (The interview has been edited for clarity and grammar.)
Medscape: You are half way through your term as president of the ASMBS. What has been accomplished and what would you like to see accomplished?
Kelvin Higa, MD: I cannot take credit for anything. It's kind of like walking into the cockpit of a 747 in mid air and taking credit for the flight, when really, it goes to all of the people who have come before you.
