We caught up with
Maria Spassova Altieri, MD, MS for Penn Medicine's Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Program, on topics ranging from what inspired her to become a dietitian to lessons she has learned to help her patients set attainable dietary goals.
What inspires you in your work at the Penn Medicine Bariatric Program?
I get inspired by my patient successes and listening to their stories. I love when a patient comes back for a follow up visit and they have lost significant weight, they no longer require medications for some of the obesity-related co-morbidities and they tell me how surgery has changed and improved their quality of life. They feel like a totally different person, have more energy, feel happier, and can do things that they couldn't do before or felt self- conscious about doing, such as being on an airplane or on a ride at a fair with their child, and other small "non-scale" victories. I love being part of their story and their success.
What have you learned from the bariatric patients you have worked with throughout your career?
I have learned that surgery is not the easy way out, despite common misperceptions. It is still hard, but rewarding work, that includes following a diet and being involved in an exercise program and changing your lifestyle. That is not easy and I have so much respect for the patients that can do it. They all have a motivator and it is great to see what motivates people, such as their children or grandchildren, etc.
Why did you decide to become a bariatric surgeon?
During my second year of residency, I had the opportunity to be on the minimally invasive and bariatric surgery team. I loved the complexity of the surgeries. And more importantly, I got the continuity of care in clinic and I was able to witness the successes of patients and realized how life-changing these surgeries can be. That made me decide on this career path.
What has been most exciting or motivating aspect of your current research projects?
One of the most motivating aspects of my current research is the disparity around weight loss surgery. While obesity and morbid obesity affects so many in the United States, less than 1 percent of those who are eligible undergo the surgery. Bariatric surgery is deemed as an elective surgery; however, it shouldn't be. It can be due to perceived patient and physician bias towards the surgery, societal bias, or access to care. Delving deeper into these issues is necessary.
What words of wisdom would you give to people who are supporting friends and family struggling with weight loss?
That it is a tough journey and there is no easy way out. A person that is struggling with being overweight or obese needs to get all the help they can at home through a supportive environment.
How does your work with patients and research inform your vision for the bariatric program at Pennsylvania Hospital?
I feel that Pennsylvania Hospital is such a great hospital and has all the right elements for a successful bariatric practice. The care provided here is superb, from the staff during the pre-operative visits, the dietician, our coordinators, the perioperative and postoperative periods.
How do robotic surgery techniques benefit bariatric patients?
The robot is a platform that can provide better visualization due to the 3D high-definition images, in addition to increased dexterity, especially in cases of patients with higher BMIs. It also limits torque on the ports caused by the abdominal wall which may decrease pain post-operatively.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing my patients succeed. It is great to have them follow up and share their success stories with me and how bariatric surgery has changed their lives.
Can you share a go-to bariatric-friendly recipe and or snack?
"Ratatouille" is one of my favorite bariatric friendly recipes. It is a French Provincial dish of stewed vegetables. Some people do a beef version of it as well to make it more protein friendly. I also love protein bars and different kinds of cheeses as a snack.
Is there anything else you would like patients to know about you?
I think family is such an important thing and that I feel like part of the patient's family when they are under my care. I often think of what I would do if I had to treat my mother, sibling, etc.