Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Roux-en-Y (pronounced “ROO-en-why”) gastric bypass surgery restricts food intake by creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach.
The pouch is then connected to a section of the small intestine, allowing food to bypass the lower stomach and the first two parts of the small intestine. Most gastric bypasses are performed using laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical technique performed through very small incisions in the abdomen.
- Fifty to 80 percent of excess body weight is lost within two years.
- Most obesity-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea, improve or disappear completely.
- With Roux-en-Y surgery, the stomach and intestines are cut and then reconnected using staples and stitches. If they tear or heal improperly, bleeding and peritonitis (inflammation of the inner abdominal wall) can occur, causing serious complications or even death.
- Scar tissue or intestinal twisting can cause intestinal blockage.
- After two years, you may regain 10 to 30 pounds and experience an increased appetite.
- Food bypasses the small intestine, which is responsible for absorbing protein, calcium and certain vitamins. As a result, iron absorption declines. You must take daily vitamin and mineral supplements forever. Frequent blood tests are necessary to check nutrients during the first year.