Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Commonly referred to as ‘Gastric Bypass’ surgery, this procedure involves several steps:
- First, the size of the stomach is reduced by dividing it with gastric staples, thus creating a small stomach or gastric pouch (called a “gastrojejunostomy”) at the upper part of the stomach.
- Next, the small intestine is divided into two segments – the Roux limb and the biliopancreatic limb.
- Next, the Roux limb is brought up and connected to the new pouch so the new pouch can empty food contents into the bowel.
The result of the altered digestive tract is that the lower stomach and a portion of the small intestine is bypassed.
“Roux-en-Y” is named for the surgeon that first described this digestive limb, Cesar Roux, and refers to the Y-shaped appearance of the altered small intestine after the bypass is performed.
Benefits of Gastric Bypass:
- Since this is a minimally invasive procedure at NWH, there is less post-surgery pain, less recovery time and time off work compared to an open procedure
- Often described as the “gold standard” for weight loss surgery in the United States and most frequently performed in this country
- At two years, average weight loss is 60-70% of excess weight
- Hypertension and diabetes are clinically reversed or improved in over 80% of patients
- A physical reaction, known as ‘dumping,’ can occur in which food is “dumped” from the stomach into the intestines too quickly, before it’s been properly digested. It occurs with foods high in fat and sugar. Although uncomfortable, this can serve to help modify eating behavior.
- Almost no risk of incisional hernias after the operation, whereas as much as 20% of open operations may result in this problem
Risks (Short-term)
- In 1-3% of cases leaks can occur from the gastrojejunostomy and from where the intestines are reconnected
- The risk of death from surgery varies with your medical condition and ranges from 1 in 500 for "A" patients, to 2% in "C" patients
Risks (Long-term)
- Vitamin and iron deficiencies can occur
- Without proper diet and exercise, 10 to 30% of the weight lost can be regained after 12 to 18 months
Please attend one of our Educational Seminars held at NWH, Mt. Kisco to learn more about this and other surgery options.
For questions about our Surgical Weight Loss Program, or
to register to attend a free seminar:
Surgical Weight Loss Program - 877.677.1077