Operative Procedures

Roux en Y Gastric Bypass provides gastric restriction combined with some malabsorption. The first part of the procedure involves constructing a small pouch. This is done using a special stapling device. Next, the small intestines are divided, and one end (called the roux limb) is brought up to the new stomach pouch. The limb of intestine is then connected to the pouch. This connection is called a stoma (or anastomosis). Finally, the other end of the intestines is then reconnected to the roux limb, completing a “Y” shape.

Click the image below to view the Roux en Y Gastric Bypass procedure.

Advantages

1. Longest track record of all bariatric surgical procedures

2. Superior weight loss over laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB)

3. Requires no implanted medical device

4. Long term complication rate requiring operative intervention lower than with LAGB

Disadvantages

1. Higher early postoperative complication rate

2. Initial weight loss can be too rapid

3. Higher chance for nutritional deficiencies or malnutrition than with LAGB

4. Dumping syndrome