What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery is a form of bariatric surgery, which treats morbid obesity by decreasing the size of the stomach and bypassing part of the small intestine. This method reduces the amount of food the stomach can hold and the calories that can be absorbed by the body.
About the Procedure
Wise Health System specifically offers the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery. In this procedure the stomach is reduced to about the size of an egg, and the small intestine is reconnected to the new smaller stomach. Further down, the remaining portion of the stomach, which is still producing important digestive juices, is reconnected to the small intestines. The two portions of intestine form a “Y” shape. The lack of digestive juices in the first portion of intestines results in the body absorbing fewer nutrients, and thus, less calories, aiding in weight loss.
Benefits and Risks
The two-layer approach of gastric bypass surgery makes it highly effective in achieving weight loss. Since gastric bypass reduces the calories absorbed, it is generally considered more effective than the other bariatric procedures that only restrict the amount of food a patient can consume.
The average weight loss five years after gastric bypass surgery typically is between 48 and 74 percent of the patient’s initial weight, according to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.
Studies also have shown that patients who undergo gastric bypass are able to maintain weight loss over time. Significant weight loss significantly decreases the risk of obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, sleep apnea and hypertension.
As with any surgical procedure, gastric bypass can result in complications. Gastric bypass patients also have a risk of nutritional deficiencies following surgery. Potential risks and aftercare plans should be discussed in depth with your surgeon.