About This Surgery

A Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is a weight loss operation that helps people lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach and rerouting the digestive system.

A small pouch is created at the top of the stomach and connected directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and the initial segment of the small intestine. This results in significant weight loss and improved obesity-related health problems. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNYGB) is the predominant weight loss surgery, representing 33% of all revisional weight loss operations, with a 5.3% 90-day complication rate. Patients typically maintain a stable total body weight loss of 32-34% three years post-surgery. RNYGB is preferred for individuals experiencing severe reflux and weight regain following a primary operation.

Key Facts

Expected Excess Weight Loss

60-80% (32-34% Total Body Weight)

Primary or Revisional

Revisional

Average Recovery Time

2-3 weeks

Is robotic surgery an option

Yes

Advantages

  • Significant Weight Loss: Substantial and sustained weight loss
  • Improvement or Resolution of Health Problems: Remission in obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea.
  • Reduced Hunger: Altered hormonal signals causing decreased appetite and increased feelings of fullness after eating.
  • Long-Term Results: Durable weight loss and health improvements over time.
  • Potential Metabolic Benefits: Studies suggest metabolic effects beyond weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity and cholesterol.
  • Improvement of Reflux Symptoms: Reflux caused by other operations can be improved with RNYGB.

Disadvantages

  • Risk of Complications: Risks unique to RNYGB will be discussed.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Vitamins and mineral deficiencies: Vitamin B12, iron, calcium and folate, necessitating lifelong supplementation and monitoring.
  • Dumping Syndrome: Dumping syndrome with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, and sweating, after consuming certain foods high in sugar or fat.
  • Long-Term Complications: Rare but serious complications may occur years after surgery.
  • Irreversibility: Considered irreversible, meaning the anatomy of the gut is permanently altered.

Is this right for me?

  • BMI: RNYGB is a revisional option for patients who have regained significant weight after a sleeve or gastric band and have significant reflux.
  • Health conditions: Obesity-related conditions like DM Type 2, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea.
  • Previous weight loss attempts: Tried and failed to lose weight through diet, exercise, medications and previous surgery.
  • Commitment to Lifestyle changes. RNYGB is a tool, it requires a commitment to long-term lifestyle changes including dietary changes and regular physical activity.
  • Medical/Surgical History: You will be evaluated to determine if you're a suitable candidate.
  • Risks and Benefits: Risks and benefits and alternative treatment options will be discussed.

It’s crucial to have an open and honest discussion with your New Me Surgeon to determine if RNYGB is the right choice for you based on your circumstances, preferences and goals.

Surgery FAQs

What is Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the digestive tract. The surgeon divides the stomach to create a small pouch and attaches it directly to the small intestine, bypassing a portion of the stomach and upper intestine.

How does Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass work to help with weight loss?

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass works by restricting the amount of food that can be eaten and reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients. The smaller stomach pouch limits food intake, leading to early satiety, while bypassing a portion of the intestine reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients from food.

Am I a candidate for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery?

You may be a candidate for Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery if you have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or reflux. Candidates should also have attempted other weight loss methods without success and be committed to making lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes.

What are the potential risks and complications associated with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?

Potential risks and complications associated with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass include infection, bleeding, blood clots, leaks at the surgical sites, and nutritional deficiencies. Long-term complications may include dumping syndrome, gallstones, and vitamin deficiencies due to changes in digestion and nutrient absorption.

How long does it take to recover from Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery?

Recovery from Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery typically takes several weeks to months. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 2-3 days after surgery and can return to work and normal activities within 2-4 weeks, although full recovery may take longer.

What dietary changes will I need to make after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?

After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery, you will need to make dietary changes such as consuming small, frequent meals high in protein and low in carbohydrates and fats. Patients are advised to avoid sugary and high-calorie foods and beverages.

Will I need to take supplements or vitamins after the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?

Yes, patients may need to take supplements or vitamins after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass to prevent nutrient deficiencies. Common supplements include multivitamins, calcium, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B12.

What kind of lifestyle changes will I need to make post-surgery to ensure success?

Post-surgery, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, adopting healthy eating habits, and attending follow-up appointments with New Me Surgery are crucial for success. Patients should also adhere to dietary guidelines, monitor their weight, and address any issues promptly.

How much weight can I expect to lose with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?

Weight loss with Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass varies depending on individual factors. On average, patients can expect to lose around 60-80% of their excess body weight (32-34% total body weight) within the first year after surgery.

Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?

Long-term effects and considerations after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass include sustained weight loss, improvement or remission of obesity-related health conditions, and potential complications such as dumping syndrome, gallstones, and vitamin deficiencies. Patients should also be aware of the need for lifelong dietary and lifestyle changes to maintain weight loss and prevent complications. Regular monitoring and follow-up with New Me Surgeon are essential for managing long-term effects.

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