Gastric Bypass Roux-en-Y more commonly known as gastric bypass is one of the most common forms of bariatric surgery and is considered by many to be the first weight loss surgery that produced safe and positive results for patients. It is designed to reduce the size of the stomach and to bypass part of the small intestine.
During the procedure, our team of bariatric surgeons will divide the stomach to create a small pouch that restricts food intake to about one ounce. This new stomach pouch is then attached to the small intestine, bypassing the lower stomach and a portion of the small bowel. The surgery affects weight loss in two ways:
- It restricts food intake
- The food that is consumed is absorbed to a lesser extent
Gastric Bypass Surgery is performed laparoscopically. Small incisions are made, in the abdomen, and surgeons use specialized instruments and a tiny camera to perform the surgery.
Main Advantages to Gastric Bypass Surgery in Houston:
Rapid weight loss. Patients lose an average of 70 percent of excess body weight within 12 to 18 months after surgery. Proven long-term track record. Studies show that 10 to 14 years after surgery, patients have maintained an average loss of 60 percent of their excess weight.
Reduced co-morbidities. The procedure significantly reduces, and sometimes, even eliminates conditions related to obesity, including high blood pressure, Type II diabetes and sleep apnea.
Reduced desire to eat. Patients report that they feel fuller faster and achieve satiety – the feeling of being satisfied – with less food; therefore, overeating is less likely to occur.
Complications can include leaks at the connection sites of the pouch and small bowel; infection; small bowel obstruction; internal hernia; pulmonary embolism and even death. Patients can avoid vitamin and mineral deficiencies with proper supplementation, and our staff is there to ensure that nutritional levels are regularly monitored.
