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Bariatric Surgery vs. New Obesity Drugs: PGI Weighs In
18 Apr
Summary
- PGI's bariatric surgery program saw three successful procedures in 2025.
- New GLP-1 therapies offer non-surgical alternatives for weight loss.
- Surgery provides a definitive metabolic reset, unlike drug therapies.
Chandigarh's Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) has revitalized its bariatric surgery program, performing three Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomies in 2025 after a zero-case year. The program, positioned as "metabolic rescue" under Dr. Kaman, offers significant cost savings compared to private facilities. Recent successes include a former kickboxer losing 80 kg and a patient resolving obstructive sleep apnea and gallstones simultaneously.
However, PGI's surgical resurgence faces the rising influence of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide. Many surgeons worry that these new drug therapies, requiring only weekly injections, could diminish the appeal of bariatric surgery. While GLP-1 drugs offer a non-invasive option, experts caution that they require lifelong commitment and can lead to dangerous hypoglycemia. Unlike surgery, drug-induced weight loss may reverse if medication ceases.
