Gastric Bypass Surgery is a combination of restrictive and malabsorbtive procedures. Roux en y gastric bypass is the most performed weight loss surgery done in the U.S. today. Over 200,000 such procedures are performed annually.
Gastric Bypass Surgery, particularly roux en y gastric bypass surgery, has withstood the test of time, providing long term reliable weight loss with minimal long term risk of complications. It is considered the Gold Standard in Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery. Recent research indicates roux en y gastric bypass surgery is more effective then other weight loss procedures. During roux en y gastric bypass surgery the surgeon divides the stomach into two separate portions.
The upper portion known as the pouch is cut and stapled shut dividing it from the remainder of the stomach known as the remnant. This tiny pouch is usually about the size of a walnut only holding an ounce or so of food. This is the restrictive part of the surgery. The remaining stomach , the bypassed portion, still continues to produce acid and digestive juices used in the digestion process.
Next the surgeon cuts the small intestine and attaches it to the new small stomach pouch . He bypasses the first part of the small intestine known as the duodenum as well as the first portion of the jejunum. This redirection of food bypasses most of your stomach(the lower remnant portion) and a substantial portion of your small intestines therefore limiting your ability to absorb calories. Even though food never enters your lower remnant stomach it still remains healthy and continues to produce and secrete digestive juices that aid in your digestion process.
Roux en y gastric bypass surgery, a combination procedure works effectively by first drastically reducing the amount of food one can consume and secondly by limiting the amount of calories your body can absorb.
Gastric bypass surgeries can and are often times performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic roux en y gastric bypass surgery is done by using a tiny camera known as a laparoscope and specialized surgical instruments inserted into the abdomen through several small incisions. This is generally considered a safer operation with a quicker recovery time when performed by a qualified experienced bariatric surgeon.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Average excess weight loss 60%-80% | Life long risk of nutritional deficiencies |
| Considered gold standard of bariatric surgeries | Dumping Syndrome |
| Most co-morbidities improved or resolved | Increased risk of gallbladder disease |
| Maybe a cure for diabetes | Life long vitamin supplementation |
Bariatric Weight Loss Surgeries, including gastric bypass surgery, like any surgery involves a certain degree of risk either during or after surgery. You should research any surgery you may be interested in and then consult with an experienced, qualified, bariatric surgeon before making up your mind. The surgeon you choose is as important as the surgery you decide on. You will literally be putting your life in his or her hands.
There are many things to think about when deciding which surgery is best for you. Some procedures are much more complicated than others and therefore involve more risk. Each one offers a varying percentage of excess weight loss which is another factor to consider when making a decision. They also require a dramatic lifestyle change that must be adhered to in order to have successful weight loss and a high quality of life and good health.
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Good Luck with your decision. Please read about My Decision and the Choice I made.