Combined surgeries employ malabsorptive and restrictive methods to encourage weight loss. The procedure restricts how much food the stomach can hold while reducing the amount of calories it can absorb. However, it does so to a smaller extent than procedures which are exclusively malabsorptive. The combination of these two types of procedures has proven to be a great formula for long term weight loss. Combined procedures make up approximately 90% of all gastric bypass surgeries in the United States.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Often abbreviated as RYGB, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is considered the gold standard for weight loss surgeries and is the most commonly performed procedure in the United States. It provides superior results with minimal side effects.
This procedure starts by reducing the size of the stomach using surgical staples or the vertical banding method. Then, a Y-shaped piece from the small intestine is attached to the stomach for food to bypass through. This allows the body to reduce the number of calories it absorbs, leading to weight loss.
Long Limb Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
The standard RYGB procedure will use less than 100 centimeters (cm) of the small intestine for the Y-shaped section that is attached to the smaller stomach pouch. In the long limb RYGB procedure, the section of small intestine is increased to at least 150 cm. This longer section results in greater weight loss for the patient. However, this type of bariatric surgery isn’t right for all patients. Your surgeon will discuss if you are a good candidate.
Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch
During a biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, about 80% of your stomach will be removed and your small intestine will be rerouted to bypass a small portion of it. The small intestine will be divided into the alimentary limb, which connects to the stomach pouch, and the biliopancreatic limb, which separates the digestive juices produced by the pancreases and gallbladder. The two sections will then meet at a common channel to continue the digestive process. This combined bariatric surgery reduces the amount of food you need to feel full, therefore minimizing the number of calories your body absorbs.
Ready for Bariatric Surgery Near Me?
Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery Institute has four locations across the Atlanta area to serve a variety of patients. We can be found in Alpharetta and Canton. Find the office nearest to you and contact us to schedule your bariatric surgery consultation. Our doctors will be able to assess your current health status as well as discuss your weight loss goals to find the right solution for you. Don’t waste any more time being unhappy or unhealthy. Contact us today to get started on your journey to a better version of you!