Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure has been performed more than any other weight loss surgery and is commonly known simply as “gastric bypass.” The name of this surgery, Roux-en-Y, is derived from the surgeon who first described it (Cesar Roux) and the fact that the Roux-en-Y surgery creates a shape that looks like the letter Y within the intestines.

Roux-en-y gastric bypass has a successful track record with a minimal number of complications.

Roux-en-Y Surgery – How It Works

In the Roux-en-Y surgery, the top portion of your stomach is separated and stapled off from the larger, lower portion of the stomach, creating a restrictive one-ounce pouch. The pouch is then connected to a channel of intestine that carries only food, causing food to bypass the rest of the stomach and a section of the small intestine. The intestine is divided into two distinct channels to prevent food and digestive juices from mixing, resulting in intentional malabsorption of calories from food. This surgery can be done laparoscopically or through an abdominal incision, based on your needs.

Ideal Candidate for Roux-en-Y Surgery

• Has BMI between 35-55 kg/m2.
• May have other severe and prolonged medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol).

Benefits of Roux-en-Y Surgery

• Average weight loss is 70%-90% of excess weight.
• One-hour procedure with overnight hospital stay.
• Recovery time ranges from a few days to a few weeks.
• High success rate of addressing diabetes and other weight-related metabolic conditions.
• Often covered by insurance plans.

Considerations/Risks of Roux-en-Y Surgery

• Although major complications are rare, future complications may occur for some people
• Late complications include ulcers, intestinal obstructions and vitamin deficiency.
• Lifelong changes in eating habits and exercise are required.
• People should not smoke, consume alcohol or take NSAID medications (Ibuprofen, Advil®, Aleve®, Aspirin®) for the rest of their lives.
• People may experience “dumping syndrome” when eating concentrated sugars and high fat foods, and must avoid these foods after surgery.
• People must take vitamins and other supplements, as prescribed by their doctor, for the rest of their lives.