Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is considered by many doctors to be the current “gold standard” procedure for weight loss surgery. It is the most frequently performed weight loss procedure in the United States. In this procedure, stapling creates a small stomach pouch. The remainder of the stomach is not removed, but is completely stapled shut and divided from the lower stomach pouch. The outlet from this newly formed pouch empties directly into the lower portion of the intestine (the jejunum), thus bypassing the duodenum and reducing calorie absorption. The length of the “bypass” can be increased to produce lower or higher levels of malabsorbtion.

Advantages of Gastric Bypass:

• The average excess weight loss in the Roux-en-Y procedure is generally higher in a compliant patient than with purely restrictive procedures.
• One year after surgery, weight loss can average 77% of excess body weight.
• Studies show that after 10 to 14 years, 60% of excess body weight loss has been maintained by patients.
• Provides appetite suppression in a large percentage of patients.
• Requires less behavioral modification.
• Less tolerance for foods high in sugar and fat, which reduces the possibility of “cheating.”
• Does not require the permanent implantation of a foreign body.
• Time tested procedure with follow up data exceeding fifteen years.

Disadvantages of Gastric Bypass:

• Bypassing part of the small intestine can result in poor absorption of certain vitamins, including iron and calcium.
• The surgery is not reversible.
• “Dumping Syndrome” can occur, a condition that results in the rapid emptying of the stomach into the small intestine. This usually only happens when too much sugar or large amounts of food are ingested. The results of dumping syndrome include nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness, and/or diarrhea after eating.