How is gastric byspass 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 (RGB) is the most commonly performed gastric bypass procedure in the United States because it is less complicated and least likely to result in nutritional difficulties. A small stomach pouch is created by stapling part of the stomach together and a Y-shaped section in the small intestine is then attached to the pouch. This limits food intake and reduces the ability to absorb calories and nutrients. This is known as stomach stapling.

RGB can be done in two ways: traditional and laparoscopic Traditional RGB is performed through open surgery with one long incision. Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y uses a laparoscope, a thin instrument that allows the surgeon to view the inside of the abdomen on a TV monitor. This procedure causes less scarring and lets the patient recover faster.

Biliopancreatic diversion bypass (extensive gastric bypass)

Biliopancreatic diversion bypass is a more extensive bypass operation.This complicated gastric bypass aims for a smaller stomach that holds less food. The procedure removes the lower portion of the stomach and a small pouch is left to connect to the final segment of the small intestine. This reduces the ability of the small intestine to absorb nutrients. Like traditional RGB, biliopancreatic diversion bypass is performed through open surgery and with one long incision leaving a permanent scar. This procedure is not as widely used as RGB because of the high risk for nutritional deficiencies.

Advantages 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. Patients must consume highly nutritious and protein-rich food to meet dietary requirements. Those who undergo the operation will most likely no longer able to tolerate sugars and carbohydrates which contribute to weight loss.

Gastric bypass also has positive effects on common weight-related health problems such as heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. Patients with Type 2 diabetes has been known to improve after the surgery.