Roux-en Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB)

First, similar to most weight loss surgery procedures, the newly created stomach pouch is considerably smaller and facilitates significantly reduced meals which translates into less calories consumed.

Additionally, because there is less digestion of food by the smaller stomach pouch, and there is a segment of small intestine that would normally absorb calories as well as nutrients that no longer has food passing through it therefore there is a reduction in absorption of calories and nutrients.

Most importantly, the rerouting of the digestive tract produces changes in gut hormones that promote satiety, suppress hunger, and has the potential to reverse one of the primary mechanisms by which obesity induces type 2 diabetes.

RYGB

First, a small stomach pouch, approximately one ounce or 30-50ml in volume, is created by dividing the top of the stomach from the main body of the stomach.

Next, the first portion of the small intestine is divided, and the bottom end of the divided small intestine is brought up and connected to the newly created small stomach pouch.

The procedure is completed by connecting the top portion of the divided small intestine to the small intestine further down the small bowel so that the stomach acids and digestive enzymes from the bypassed stomach and first portion of small intestine will eventually mix with food.

Restricts the amount of food the stomach can hold and allows for reduced portion sizes.

Induces rapid and significant weight loss. You can expect to lose between 65% and 85% of your excess weight in the first 12–24 months following surgery.

Causes favourable changes in gut hormones that suppress hunger, reduce appetite and improve satiety.

Often causes an intolerance to sweets and high-density carbohydrates (fatty foods). Rapid absorption of these foods by the small bowel can lead to unpleasant symptoms called ‘dumping’. This encourages patients to steer clear of foods that may cause these symptoms.

The most effective weight loss procedure at controlling or preventing reflux oesophagitis. RYGB is preferred if converting from a previous weight loss procedure because of this.

Is a theoretically reversible procedure.

Has a potential for long-term vitamin and mineral deficiencies thus requiring lifelong supplementation in addition to adopting a healthy balanced diet to maintain good health and prevent future complications.

Requires re-routing of the intestinal tract to facilitate reduced absorption

Complications such as gastric staple line leak can be potentially difficult to manage.

May experience unpleasant symptoms of ‘dumping syndrome’ associated with consumption of high fat and high sugar containing foods and liquids.

Potential to develop internal hernias and bowel obstructions.

Gall stones due to rapid weight loss.