Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

In a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, only a small portion of the stomach remains functional. In an adjustable gastric band procedure, a smaller gastric pocket is created which controls the quantity of food the stomach is capable of holding. The ring or band limits the food flow from this smaller pocket to the rest of the stomach. After this surgery, the patient feels full with just a nominal amount of food and continues to feel so for several hours. This cuts down on the tendency to binge between meals as well.

After surgery, it has been observed that most patients recover with almost no complications. Post-operative care involves rest for at least three to four weeks, with hospital stay lasting for merely three to four days. Dietary restrictions need to be followed strictly and regular follow-up visits are scheduled during the first year following surgery. Diet-wise, dieticians recommend patients to stay on liquid diets. In many cases, patients require plastic surgery one to two years after the surgery in order to remove skin folds which occur after weight loss.

Advantages of Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery

• Quicker recovery
• Shorter stay in hospital
• Less time off from work
• Less pain
• Reduced risk infections and hernias
• Fewer scars, improved cosmesis
• Less overall complications

Disadvantages of Laparoscopic Weight Loss Surgery

Laparoscopic obesity surgery requires more operating time as compared to the general open surgery procedure. While the length of time taken has no effect, it can, however, increase the risk of the patient developing wound infections, or even blood clots. Patients suffering from sleep apnea or heart disease are at a further increased risk from the prolonged time required for laparoscopic operations.

While laparoscopic weight loss surgery is considered to be relatively safe with no complications, in some rare cases difficulties may occur. Statistically, the operative death rate for laparoscopic obesity procedures is low though the rate of complications such as wound infections, abscess, perforation of the bowel, marginal ulcers, blood clots, etc. are very high. In extremely rare cases, patients might require reversal of operation.

Therefore, before investing into the procedure, it is very important to find out whether you are an ideal candidate for laparoscopic obesity surgery and to find a well qualified and experienced surgeon.