How is gastric bypass surgery performed? There are currently two techniques for gastric bypass: (1) Roux-en-Y-gastric bypass or RGB and (2)biliopancreatic diversion bypass

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or RGB

Roux-en Y gastric bypass or RGB is the most commonly employed procedure in the United States. It is less complicated and is least likely to result in nutritional difficulties.In the procedure, a small stomach pouch is created by stapling part of the stomach together to limit food intake. A Y-shaped section in the small intestine is then attached to the pouch to reduce calorie and nutrient absorption. The pouch is commonly referred to as stomach stapling.

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass can be done traditionally or by laparoscopy. Traditional RGB is performed through open surgery with one long incision. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass uses a thin instrument called laparoscope so that the surgeon can view the inside of the abdomen on a TV monitor. Laparoscopic RGB produces less scarring and lets the patient recover faster.

Biliopancreatic diversion bypass

Biliopancreatic diversion bypass is more extensive than Roux-en-Y. The aim of this complicated gastric bypass is a smaller stomach.Unlike RGB, the procedure removes the lower portion of the stomach and a small pouch is left to connect directly to the final segment of the small intestine. This bypasses both the duodenum and jejunum to cause malabsorption of nutrients. Similar to RGB, biliopancreatic diversion bypass is employed through open surgery and with one long incision. It leaves a permanent scar. This procedure is not as widely used as RGB because of the high risk for nutritional deficiencies.

Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Those who undergo bariatric surgery or weight loss surgery can achieve significant weight loss in two years since a large section of the stomach is bypassed that severely restricts the amount of food that the person can consume. The food that is consumed must be rich in protein and highly nutritious so that dietary requirements are met. The person will most likely be unable to tolerate sugars and carbohydrates which contribute to weight loss.

Gastric bypass surgery also has positive effects on weight-related health concerns such as heart diseases and high blood pressure. Type 2 diabetes can also be eradicated by gastric bypass surgery.