Getting Started
If you are considering weight loss surgery, you've probably already tried losing weight by other methods. At University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, we offer a comprehensive approach that includes education, a team of exemplary board-certified surgeons, nutrition and dietary experts, insurance coordinators and ongoing support before and after surgery.
We want to see you accomplish your weight loss goals and know it's important to give you the tools to succeed. We also know the process can sometimes be overwhelming so we offer an online seminar and monthly support groups to help you. Visit our step-by-step guide that walks you through frequently asked questions, doctor referral forms, insurance requirements and outlines what you can expect after surgery. Additionally, we offer the opportunity to participate in clinical trials at the University of Minnesota.
You've taken the first step to changing your life. Let us help you on your journey.
Consumer Education
University of Minnnesota Medical Center, Fairview, offers an online seminar to help you learn more about weight loss surgery. We include information on who qualifies for surgery, the different types of surgical procedures, risks, outcomes and program components, including nutrition and psychology. This is a requirement prior to surgery.
Insurance Information
We are a PreferredOne Center of Excellence and an American Society for Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence. In addition, we are a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota-designated National Center for Bariatric Care.
Patient Support Group - New U Support Group for Weight Loss
Every month former weight-loss surgery patients, as well as patients who are considering weight-loss surgery, along with their friends and families, are invited to join us. Hear personal success stories and get support as you embark on your own personal journey. No registration is necessary. Free parking.
First Wednesday of Every Month, 6:30 p.m.
University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview
East Building - Brennan Center
2450 Riverside Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55454
Call 612-625-8413 or email oienx003@umn.edu for directions and information.
Clinical Trials
The ReCharge Clinical Research Study
This clinical research study is being conducted to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of VBLOC Therapy. If selected to participate in the study, patients will receive implantation of an investigational device and participate in a weight management program. This program will provide education and advice on diet, exercise, and behavior modification to assist patients in meeting their weight loss goals.
As with all clinical research studies, participation in the ReCharge research study requires that patients meet criteria determined by the study protocol. These criteria include:
*Participants with a BMI of less than 40 must have at least one co-morbid condition, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity-related heart failure or sleep apnea syndrome.
These are not the only criteria for acceptance into the ReCharge clinical research study. Only a clinical research staff member can make that determination.
Find out more by visiting www.ReChargeStudy.com or by calling the nurse-staffed information line at 1-888-256-0083 between Monday and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST.
ReCharge events are held at University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, Phillips-Wangensteen Building - 11th Floor, Rm 11-157. Please call 612-626-6666 to register for the next trial.
If you are considering weight loss surgery, you've probably already tried losing weight by other methods. At University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, we offer a comprehensive approach that includes education, a team of exemplary board-certified surgeons, nutrition and dietary experts, insurance coordinators and ongoing support before and after surgery.
We want to see you accomplish your weight loss goals and know it's important to give you the tools to succeed. We also know the process can sometimes be overwhelming so we offer an online seminar and monthly support groups to help you. Visit our step-by-step guide that walks you through frequently asked questions, doctor referral forms, insurance requirements and outlines what you can expect after surgery. Additionally, we offer the opportunity to participate in clinical trials at the University of Minnesota.
You've taken the first step to changing your life. Let us help you on your journey.
Consumer Education
University of Minnnesota Medical Center, Fairview, offers an online seminar to help you learn more about weight loss surgery. We include information on who qualifies for surgery, the different types of surgical procedures, risks, outcomes and program components, including nutrition and psychology. This is a requirement prior to surgery.
Insurance Information
We are a PreferredOne Center of Excellence and an American Society for Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence. In addition, we are a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota-designated National Center for Bariatric Care.
Patient Support Group - New U Support Group for Weight Loss
Every month former weight-loss surgery patients, as well as patients who are considering weight-loss surgery, along with their friends and families, are invited to join us. Hear personal success stories and get support as you embark on your own personal journey. No registration is necessary. Free parking.
First Wednesday of Every Month, 6:30 p.m.
University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview
East Building - Brennan Center
2450 Riverside Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55454
Call 612-625-8413 or email oienx003@umn.edu for directions and information.
Clinical Trials
The ReCharge Clinical Research Study
This clinical research study is being conducted to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of VBLOC Therapy. If selected to participate in the study, patients will receive implantation of an investigational device and participate in a weight management program. This program will provide education and advice on diet, exercise, and behavior modification to assist patients in meeting their weight loss goals.
As with all clinical research studies, participation in the ReCharge research study requires that patients meet criteria determined by the study protocol. These criteria include:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 65
- Have a MI (Body Mass Index) between 35 and 45*
- Willing to sign an informed consent
*Participants with a BMI of less than 40 must have at least one co-morbid condition, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity-related heart failure or sleep apnea syndrome.
These are not the only criteria for acceptance into the ReCharge clinical research study. Only a clinical research staff member can make that determination.
Find out more by visiting www.ReChargeStudy.com or by calling the nurse-staffed information line at 1-888-256-0083 between Monday and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. CST.
ReCharge events are held at University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, Phillips-Wangensteen Building - 11th Floor, Rm 11-157. Please call 612-626-6666 to register for the next trial.