Gastric Bypass

 

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery uses a combination of restriction and malabsorption. During the procedure, the surgeon creates a smaller stomach pouch. The surgeon then attaches a Y-shaped section of the small intestine directly to the pouch. This allows food to bypass a large portion of the small intestine, which absorbs calories and nutrients. Having the smaller stomach pouch causes patients to feel fuller sooner and eat less food; bypassing a portion of the small intestine means the patient’s body absorbs fewer calories.

 

Advantages of Gastric Bypass Surgery

• Greatly controls food intake, leading to rapid weight loss
• Dumping syndrome dumping conditions to control intake of sweets
• Reversible in an emergency though this procedure should be thought of as a permanent

Risks of Gastric Bypass Surgery

• Staple line failure
• Ulcers
• Narrowing/blockage of the stomach
• Vomiting if food is not properly chewed or if food is eaten to quickly
• Weight re-gain is known to happen if dietary changes are not followed long term

Gastric Bypass Video