Gastric bypass

Gastric bypass is a restrictive gastric surgery that involves creating a small stomach pouch separate from the rest of the stomach. This pouch is then connected directly to the lower part of the small intestine, bypassing the duodenum, which is the initial section of the intestine that typically receives food from the stomach.

By bypassing the lower stomach and the upper small intestine, the food pathway is shortened, which helps reduce appetite and speeds up the feeling of fullness.

Why Undergo Gastric Bypass?

Gastric bypass is the second most common bariatric surgery worldwide, after sleeve gastrectomy. It can result in a weight loss of about 60% of excess weight in the first few years following the procedure.

When is Gastric Bypass Recommended?

As a surgical procedure, gastric bypass is recommended in the following cases:

• When all non-surgical treatments (diet, behavioral therapy, medications) have failed to achieve significant weight loss.
• For patients with severe medical conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and joint pain.
• As a revision surgery for those who have previously had a gastric banding procedure.

How to Prepare for Gastric Bypass

An endoscopic examination is recommended before the surgery to rule out any existing gastric or duodenal conditions.

Gastric bypass is not advised for patients with such conditions or a family history of stomach cancer, as a portion of the stomach becomes inaccessible for endoscopic diagnosis post-surgery.

What to Expect After Gastric Bypass

Regular follow-up visits are crucial to optimize weight loss and manage potential complications such as dumping syndrome, as well as to monitor for deficiencies in iron, vitamins, or calcium.