Commonly known as the gastric bypass, this is still considered as the “gold standard” procedure for weight loss in the United States. It consists of two components: a small pouch to restrict calorie intact and a malabsorptive component bypassing the majority of the stomach and the first portion of the small bowel, the duodenum. The pouch which is completely separated from the majority of the stomach is reconnected to your digestive tract with the “Y” configuration of the small intestine. This procedure consistently offers excellent weight loss.

Advantages:

• Weight loss averages 65% of excess body weight
• Weight loss occurs rapidly with greatest weight loss occurring within twelve to sixteen months
• Diabetes and other co-morbidities such as sleep apnea, hypertension, joint pain and infertility improve or resolve with surgery
• Tolerance of simple sugars is restricted by the dumping syndrome. Sugars makes you feel sick (dumping syndrome). Avoidance of these types of foods helps you to maintain your weight.
• Surgery is minimally invasive with early recovery and shorter hospital stays

Disadvantages:

• In experienced hands it is a safe procedure, however, complications can still occur. Early complications include leaks, pulmonary embolism and wound infections.
• Late risks include an increased incidence of bowel obstruction known as an internal hernia
• Restriction is created at the level of the anastamosis. If the pouch were to stretch late weight regain is possible
• To avoid possible absorption issues vitamins are necessary

Next: Banded roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass