Gastric Bypass

Gastric Bypass at Bariatrik US: A Proven Path to Lasting Weight Loss

The Roux-En-Y gastric bypass has been a cornerstone of bariatric surgery since the 1960s, with laparoscopic techniques being utilized since the 1990s. Many still consider the gastric bypass the "gold standard" in weight loss surgery. At Bariatrik US, Dr. Katherine Romero expertly performs this procedure, which combines restriction and malabsorption to achieve significant and lasting weight loss. Although the gastric sleeve has become more popular in recent years, the gastric bypass remains a highly effective option for those seeking substantial weight loss.

What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass is a two-part procedure. First, Dr. Katherine Romero creates a small stomach pouch, about 1 ounce in volume, by dividing it from the top of the rest of the stomach. Next, the small intestine is divided, and the jejunum (the second part of the intestine) is brought up and connected to the newly created small stomach. The larger stomach and the duodenum (the first part of the intestine) are bypassed and no longer receive food or fluid directly. Although these structures are not used for food digestion, they continue to produce the gastric juices and enzymes necessary for digestion, which mix with food further down the intestine. This intestinal rerouting affects the absorption of calories, nutrients, and vitamins.

The small stomach size results in reduced food intake, fewer calories, and significant weight loss. Additionally, the rerouting of food and the reduction of the stomach leads to a decrease in the hunger hormone ghrelin, helping patients feel less hungry and more satisfied with smaller portions.

How is Gastric Bypass Performed?

At Bariatrik US, Dr. Katherine Romero typically performs gastric bypass surgery using laparoscopic or robotic techniques. This involves making small incisions in the patient’s abdomen to access the organs and perform the operation. The recovery after laparoscopic surgery is generally quick and well-tolerated, allowing patients to return to their daily lives with minimal disruption.

Advantages of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Significant Long-Term Weight Loss: Patients can expect to lose 60 to 80 percent of their excess weight.
Restricted Food Intake: The small stomach size greatly controls food consumption, leading to rapid and sustained weight loss.
Increased Energy Expenditure: The changes in the digestive system may enhance energy expenditure.
Hormonal Benefits: The procedure produces favorable changes in gut hormones, reducing appetite and enhancing satiety.
Long-Term Maintenance: Patients typically maintain more than 50% of their excess weight loss over time.
Reversibility: Unlike some procedures, gastric bypass can be reversed if necessary.

Disadvantages of Gastric Bypass

Complexity: Gastric bypass is a more technically complex operation than the gastric band or sleeve gastrectomy, which can lead to a higher potential for complications.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Patients may develop long-term vitamin and mineral deficiencies and must commit to lifelong supplementation.
Longer Hospital Stay: Generally, the recovery period in the hospital is longer compared to gastric band or sleeve procedures.
Dietary Commitment: Patients need to follow strict dietary recommendations and maintain lifelong vitamin and mineral supplementation.

Risks and Complications

As with all surgical procedures, there are risks associated with gastric bypass. Short-term complications may include bleeding, wound infections, and reactions to anesthesia. Long-term complications could involve hernias, small bowel obstruction, nutritional deficiencies, and anastomotic leaks.