Following a period of disruption to surgical services, the Polyclinique du Sidobre in Castres, France, has announced the resumption of bariatric surgery. The clinic will host a public information evening on Wednesday, March 4th, to mark the relaunch of the program.
Earlier this year, the Polyclinique du Sidobre experienced internal challenges that led to a halt in digestive surgery. A collective letter from staff raised concerns about psychosocial risks, and several digestive surgeons departed the clinic. As of January 1, 2025, digestive surgery was suspended, impacting nearly 30% of the clinic’s overall surgical activity. At the time, clinic leadership cited a lack of available practitioners and assured patients that they would be redirected to neighboring facilities.
Now, the clinic is looking ahead with the arrival of Dr. Marc Murat Çağ, a digestive and visceral surgeon specializing in bariatric and metabolic surgery. The resumption of this service strengthens care options for individuals struggling with obesity in the Tarn region. “Obesity is a treatable disease. We want to give patients hope,” said Dr. Çağ, who brings more than 25 years of experience from hospitals and universities in France and abroad.
Also read: “Total disorganization” and deep malaise: staff at the Sidobre clinic raise the alarm
The clinic’s approach to bariatric surgery aligns with recommendations from the French National Authority for Health (Haute Autorité de Santé). It emphasizes comprehensive care, including nutritional assessments, psychological evaluations, respiratory monitoring, dietary preparation, and physical therapy, both before and after the procedure. Surgical techniques offered include sleeve gastrectomy, gastric bypass, and biliopancreatic diversion, with some procedures available using robotic surgery.
Long-term follow-up care is a key component of the program. The goal is to support sustainable weight loss and reduce associated health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. Dr. Çağ also plans to establish a support network for patients who have undergone surgery and those considering it, fostering a space for sharing and mutual support. This type of peer support can be crucial for long-term success following bariatric procedures.
“A Very Good News for Our Patients”
Jean Fabre, director of the Polyclinique du Sidobre, stated that “the arrival of Dr. Marc Murat Çağ is very good news for our patients.” This announcement aims to reassure the community following a period marked by a four-day strike in the fall of 2024 and ongoing internal tensions.
On Wednesday, March 4th, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, the clinic will open its doors to the public for a conference titled “Obesity, a Disease to Fight Together.” Patients will share their experiences, followed by a question-and-answer session with the medical team. Participation is free, but registration is required.
Aiming to Combat Obesity
In France, nearly 17% of adults – more than eight million people – are affected by obesity. Recognized as a chronic disease, obesity increases the risk of numerous complications and certain cancers. “It’s not a matter of willpower or laziness,” the surgeon emphasized.
For the Polyclinique du Sidobre, the resumption of bariatric surgery represents a fresh start after a challenging period. The clinic now focuses on rebuilding trust with both patients and healthcare professionals.
