Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is one of the most effective surgeries for weight loss and metabolic improvement. It has a long track record of success, especially in patients with severe obesity or conditions like diabetes and reflux.

• Gastric bypass reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes a portion of the small intestine to limit calorie absorption and improve metabolism.
• The surgery causes hormonal changes that help control hunger, improve blood sugar, and increase feelings of fullness.
• Bypass is also performed laparoscopically and typically involves a 1 night hospital stay.
• Patients typically lose 60–80% of their excess weight in the first 12–18 months.

• Excess weight refers to the amount of weight above your ideal body weight. For example, if you’re carrying 100 pounds excess weight, you might lose 60-80 pounds with a gastric bypass.

• It’s especially effective for patients with type 2 diabetes, with many seeing remission after surgery.
• It’s also a good option for those with severe reflux or GERD, as it tends to significantly improve symptoms.
• A known risk of bypass is a marginal ulcer at the connection between the stomach and small intestine. This is more likely in patients who:
• Smoke or vape (nicotine or marijuana)
• Use NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen)
• Bypass requires lifelong commitment to vitamin and mineral supplementation, including iron, calcium, vitamin D, and B12.
• As with all bariatric surgeries, non-compliance with diet, exercise, or follow-up can lead to complications or weight regain.
• Long-term success depends on staying engaged with your bariatric team, maintaining healthy habits, and monitoring labs regularly.