Bariatric

Bariatric Surgery Options
Roux EN Y (Gastric Bypass)

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery uses a combination of restriction and malabsorption. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a stapling device to create a small upper stomach pouch that restricts the amount of food you will be able to consume. At the same time the intestines are rerouted so that food bypasses a large part of the stomach and most of the intestine. This shortening of the digestive route delays the mixing of food and digestive juices and reduces caloric intake. In most cases, patients report an early sense of fullness, combined with a sense of satisfaction that reduces the desire to eat.

Gastric bypass patients typically lose 60 percent of excess weight in the first year following surgery. Many health problems, such as back pain, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and depression, improve or are resolved following surgery.

Life After Gastric Bypass

Excess Weight Loss

Gastric bypass patients typically lost 61.6 percent of their excess weight.

Health Benefits

Studies found that gastric bypass:

• Resolved type 2 diabetes in 83.8% of patients and often resolved the disease within days of surgery
• Resolved high blood pressure in 75.4% of patients
• Improved high cholesterol in 95% of patients

Quality of Life

One meta-analysis stated that for bariatric surgery patients who experienced significant weight loss:

• Overall quality of life improved greatly.
• They experienced improved physical functioning and appearance.
• They experienced improved social and economic opportunities.

Recovery

One study found that gastric bypass patients were able to:

• Leave the hospital after two days
• Return to work after 21 days

Potential Concerns of Gastric Bypass

• A condition known as dumping syndrome can occur from eating high-fat, high-sugar foods. While it isn’t considered a health risk, the results can be very unpleasant and may include vomiting, nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness, and diarrhea.
• Patients must supplement their diet with a daily multivitamin and calcium. Some patients must take vitamin B12 and/or iron.
• The stomach, duodenum, and parts of the small intestine cannot be seen easily using X-ray or endoscopy if there are problems after surgery such as ulcers, bleeding, or malignancy.