Gastric Bypass

 

 

 

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is the most common bariatric procedure performed in the U.S. By restricting food intake and decreasing food absorption, RNY gastric bypass helps patients achieve rapid weight loss.

 

 

How Does Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Work?

At Surgical Weight Loss Solutions, we have enhanced the standard RNY gastric bypass procedure to achieve rapid, as well as long-term, weight loss. Our procedure involves three key steps:

  1. Small Gastric Pouch – Our surgeon creates a small, vertical and tubular- shaped pouch at the top of the stomach using a silastic band. The small size of the pouch limits the amount of food intake, leading to a sensation of feeling full, thus satisfying hunger. Using silastic materials and narrowing the pouch minimizes the potential for the pouch and intestine outlet to enlarge or expand over time, reducing the likelihood of regaining weight.

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  2. Outlet from Pouch to Intestine – Our surgeon attaches a Y-shaped section of the small intestine to the pouch, allowing food to bypass the lower stomach, first segment of the small intestine and upper intestine. The small size of this outlet helps prevent solid food from leaving the pouch too rapidly, thus retaining that satisfied hunger sensation hours after a meal.

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  3. Malabsorption by the Roux Limb – Our surgeon connects the Roux limb of the intestine to the rest of the intestine, giving the body an opportunity to absorb nutritional components of the ingested food. This portion of theDiagram of RNY procedure helps to moderate the amount of calories absorbed.

 

 

 

Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Endorsed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), RNY gastric bypass is considered the “gold standard procedure” and is the most common bariatric surgery performed in the U.S. RNY gastric bypass results in a high percentage of weight loss, with many patients experiencing a 70-80 percent reduction of excess weight loss in the first year following surgery. In addition, RNY has helped many people reduce the severity or eliminate co-morbidities (see below). Although all types of surgeries generally involve risks, RNY gastric bypass results in reasonably fewer complications and very low operative mortality rates (0.2 – 1 percent).

 

In general, weight loss surgery has proven to be the most effective and long-lasting treatment for morbid obesity. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), bariatric surgery is the only proven weight loss method for those suffering from morbid obesity (BMI of 40 or more). Plus, many obesity-related health conditions can improve and even be eliminated as a result. Here are just a few examples of the health benefits you can expect to achieve after undergoing weight loss surgery:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Lower cholesterol levels
  • Improved cardiovascular health
  • Improved blood glucose (blood sugar) levels, potentially preventing type 2 diabetes
  • Lessened or eliminated asthma attacks
  • Improved sleep, lessened potential for sleep apnea and snoring
  • Relief from Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and heartburn
  • Improved bladder control
  • Comfort and relief from lower back pain, inflammation and degenerative diseases
  • Improved metabolic health
  • For women, lessened menstrual dysfunction and improved fertility health
  • Relief from migraine headaches and depression
  • Enhanced quality of life and longevity
  • Resolved depression

 

Potential Risks with Gastric Bypass Surgery

Disadvantages of RNY gastric bypass procedure include the potential for distension of the excluded stomach and internal hernias. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is more challenging to perform, particularly when using the laparoscopic approach. Potential problems as a result of RNY gastric bypass can include:

  • Anemia
  • Bowel obstruction
  • Dumping syndrome
  • Leaks and strictures
  • Osteoporosis
  • Ulcers
  • Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
  • Vomiting

As is the case with all types of surgeries, weight loss surgery involves risks. Complications from bariatric surgery — such as wound infections, abdominal bleeding, staple/suture leakage, respiratory failure, pulmonary problems or other surgery-related issues — occur in less than five percent of the procedures performed. It is always beneficial to consult with your physician before committing to any type of surgery. Longer term negative effects of bariatric surgery can include such issues as temporary hair thinning and symptomatic gallstones. Depending on the type of procedure, additional negative effects can include abdominal cramping, faintness and headaches. However, many of these risks can be eliminated and/or minimized with a proper nutritional diet and regular physical exercise.

 

 

Bariatric Surgery Comparison Chart

Our Bariatric Surgery Comparison Chart is a side-by-side comparison of all of the bariatric surgical procedures performed at Surgical Weight Loss Solutions. We’ve outlined the type of surgery, average length of hospital stay required for each procedure, diet and lifestyle changes required following surgery, expected weight loss and more.

 

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