The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
In this procedure, the stomach is divided into two parts. A small, 1 to 2 ounce stomach pouch is created and produces a significant restriction on the amount of food you can eat at one time. This is the main cause of weight loss. The remaining stomach is completely stapled shut and separated from the small pouch, but not removed.
The small intestine is then divided with the lower portion brought up to connect directly into the newly formed small pouch. This provides an outlet to the pouch for which food can travel. The connection of intestine to pouch is made purposely small. This small outlet will hold the food in the pouch for longer periods of time thus reducing hunger. The pouch now will empty via its new outlet directly into the small intestine. This is where food will mix with digestive enzymes from the reconnected upper portion of small bowel and be absorbed into the body. The length of either segment of intestine can be increased to produce lower or higher levels of malabsorption. The more bowel that is bypassed, the increased chance of risk and side-effects. A condition known as "dumping syndrome " can occur as the result of the rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine. This is sometimes triggered when too much sugar or large amounts of food are consumed. |
While generally not considered to be a serious risk to your health, the results can be extremely unpleasant and can include nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness and, on occasion, diarrhea after eating. Some patients are unable to eat any form of sweets after surgery. This can be used to your advantage by helping you make healthy dietary choices and by helping to prevent overeating which can cause the stomach pouch to stretch and reduce the effectiveness of the procedure.
The overall result of the gastric bypass is an early sense of fullness, combined with a sense of satisfaction that reduces the desire to eat. However, for optimal results it is important to make necessary lifestyle changes. |
