Is Diabetes Surgery Right for Me?

Metabolic surgery — including procedures that use the MagDI™ magnetic device to create a duodeno-ileal anastomosis — is studied as part of comprehensive treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity-related metabolic disease. It is not a cure, not a guarantee of diabetes remission, and not appropriate for every patient.

What clinicians typically evaluate

Major bariatric and metabolic surgery societies (ASMBS, IFSO, AACE, ADA) describe candidacy in terms of multiple factors, not a single number. A physician evaluation usually reviews:

• Diagnosis — confirmed type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, or other metabolic disease.
• Duration of diabetes — shorter duration is associated with higher rates of remission in published literature.
• A1c and glycemic control — current A1c and the medications required to maintain it.
• Body mass index (BMI) — historically ≥35 kg/m² with comorbidities, with updated ASMBS/IFSO guidance considering ≥30 kg/m² with poorly controlled diabetes.
• Insulin use and beta-cell reserve — longer insulin use and lower C-peptide are associated with lower remission likelihood.
• Comorbidities — hypertension, dyslipidemia, fatty liver, sleep apnea.
• Surgical risk — cardiac, pulmonary, kidney, and anesthesia considerations.
• Mental health, support system, and readiness for long-term follow-up and lifestyle change.

Educational self-assessment

What metabolic surgery is — and is not

Metabolic surgery alters gastrointestinal anatomy in ways that change hormones involved in glucose regulation, appetite, and satiety (incretin response, ghrelin, GLP-1, PYY). It can support meaningful improvements in glycemic control and, in some patients, sustained remission. It does not erase the underlying tendency toward insulin resistance, and ongoing follow-up is required.

FDA authorization for MagDI™ relates to the creation of a duodeno-ileal anastomosis. It is not an FDA approval for diabetes remission or weight loss claims. Outcomes vary.

What happens next

1. Submit the evaluation request form below.
2. A coordinator collects health history (A1c, medications, height/weight, diabetes duration, comorbidities).
3. A physician reviews your file and contacts you about next steps.
4. If appropriate, you receive an individualized educational summary of potential pathways.

This page does not provide medical advice. It does not diagnose, prescribe, or determine candidacy. All treatment decisions must be made with a qualified physician after a comprehensive evaluation.