Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y

How does it work?

The gastric bypass is a complex operation and is usually performed by keyhole surgery. A small stomach pouch is created by stapling off the lower portion of the stomach. This restricts eating and allows a small amount of food to pass into the intestine, which is connected to the stomach pouch. The lower part of stomach, duodenum and upper segment of small intestine is bypassed. The Roux limb of small intestine is connected to the intestine further downstream.

Risks

• Complex surgery
• Leakage from where stomach is joined to stomach in 1-2% of patients
• Mortality rate 1%
• Non reversible
• Deficiencies in vitamin & mineral absorption requiring long term supplements
• Dumping syndrome leading to intolerance of sugars and some carbohydrates

Benefits

• Effective long term weight loss over 12-18 months