Gastric Bypass: Decision Makers Should Talk About the Future

Gastric bypass Overview 

Gastric bypass, or laparoscopic weight-loss surgery, is one of the most effective surgical treatments for obesity. It is most commonly considered for patients who have not managed to lose enough weight with just diet and exercise. This surgery leads to drastic and long-lasting weight loss by changing the way the body’s digestive system works. Furthermore, surgical gastric bypass procedures have become less invasive and safer with the development of endoscopic surgical techniques. 

What is a Gastric Bypass Surgery?

During a gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon is able to both decrease the size of the stomach and reposition a section of the small intestine. This causes food to bypass part of the digestive system, resulting in fewer calories and nutrients being absorbed. Patients will lose weight on a consistent basis, lose weight faster, and, more importantly for many, their stomach size will be decreased. After the surgery, many patients will see an increase in general well-being and energy. 

Generally, the surgery is performed less invasively (laparoscopic surgery or endoscopic surgery) with an endoscope (a thin, telescope-like instrument) and offered inport of small incisions and/or natural body openings. This minimally invasive approach results in less pain, a faster recovery time and less scarring.

Types of Gastric Bypass Surgery 

In Gastric bypass surgery, there are two different types: 

• Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB): The most frequently performed surgery. In this case, a small stomach pouch is made, which is then hooked up to the small intestine. This decreases the amount of food the stomach can contain and helps the body absorb fewer calories.   
• Vertical Gastrectomy with Duodenal Switch (VHD): The stomach pouch is modified, while the rest of the digestive system remains functional. This is used for patients who need to lose a lot of weight, as it is a more complex procedure.   

Results and Recovery 

Results can differ from patient to patient, but most lose 60-80% of excess weight in the 1st year and are considered the most weight loss. Patients may regain some weight, but their long-term weight loss will be considered successful if a healthy lifestyle is maintained. This is mainly due to the post-surgical diet that is prescribed, which must be strictly followed. Patients will be instructed to follow a certain diet until any complications that may occur are resolved. Most patients will be able to go home after a few days and will be able to start normal activities. Gastric bypass surgery requires minimally required, as it is done under general anesthesia and the patient will only need to stay in the hospital for a few days.

Understanding the Process 

Patients should discuss the perks, downsides, and lifestyle alterations with the healthcare team before deciding on the gastric bypass procedure. Understanding that the surgery can have amazing effects, it should be followed with an enduring commitment to healthy lifestyle choices. However, with the right support and care following the surgery, gastric bypass can result in a more active and healthy future.