About This Surgery

A single anastomosis gastric bypass (SAGB) has several names. It was developed in 1997 in the USA. Data suggests weight loss is faster than Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass or Duodenal Switch.

It is a weight loss operation that involves creating a small stomach pouch and rerouting the digestive system. This limits the amount of food a person can eat and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients from food. There are significant weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Key Facts

Expected Excess Weight Loss

60-80%

Primary or Revisional

Primary or Revisional

Average Recovery

2-3 weeks

Is robotic surgery an option

Yes

Advantages

  • 80% excess weight loss: This procedure typically results in significant and sustained weight reduction, helping patients achieve and maintain their weight loss goals.
  • Simplicity of Procedure: The surgical technique involves a single anastomosis, reducing the complexity, operative time, and associated risks compared to more complex bariatric surgeries.
  • Potentially reversible if performed as a primary operation: The anatomical changes made during the surgery can be undone, offering a safety net for patients who may experience severe complications or unsatisfactory results. 
weight loss surgery

Disadvantages

  • Dumping Syndrome: Rapid gastric emptying can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and dizziness after eating.
  • Protein malabsorption: Reduced nutrient absorption can lead to deficiencies in essential proteins, necessitating careful dietary management and supplementation.
  • Barrett’s oesophagus: The procedure may increase the risk of developing Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition that can potentially lead to oesophageal cancer due to chronic acid exposure.
  • Bile Reflux: Some patients may struggle with increased bile reflux after this procedure.

Is this right for me?

  • BMI: SAGB is mostly a revisional option for patients who have regained significant weight after a sleeve or band.
  • 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 SAGB and how does it differ from other types of gastric bypass surgeries?

SAGB is a type of weight loss surgery. It differs from other gastric bypass surgeries by incorporating a unique loop configuration in the digestive tract, allowing for both restriction of food intake and malabsorption of calories and nutrients.

What are the benefits of choosing SAGB over other weight loss procedures?

The benefit of choosing SAGB is that it’s technically simpler than Roux-en-Y or SADI-S/SIPS bypass. This makes it a lower operative risk operation.

How is the SAGB surgery performed, and what is the typical recovery process like?

SAGB surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, where small incisions are made in the abdomen to access the stomach and intestines. We create a small stomach pouch and reroute the digestive tract to bypass a portion of the stomach and small intestine. Recovery from SAGB surgery generally involves a hospital stay of 1-2 days and several weeks to months for full recovery.

What kind of results can patients expect in terms of weight loss and improvement in health conditions after undergoing SAGB?

Patients can expect significant weight loss and improvements in health conditions following SAGB surgery. On average, patients can experience around 60-80% excess weight loss within the first year after surgery, along with improvement or remission of conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.

Are there any potential risks or complications associated with SAGB surgery?

Potential risks and complications associated with SAGB surgery include infection, bleeding, blood clots, leaks at the surgical sites, nutritional deficiencies, and gastrointestinal issues. However, these risks are generally low.

How long does it take to see noticeable results in terms of weight loss and improvement in health after undergoing SAGB?

Noticeable results in terms of weight loss and improvement in health conditions can vary among individuals, but many patients begin to see significant changes within the first few months after SAGB.

What dietary and lifestyle changes are necessary after undergoing SAGB surgery to ensure long-term success?

After undergoing SAGB surgery, patients must adhere to specific dietary and lifestyle changes to ensure long-term success. This often includes consuming smaller, protein-dense meals, avoiding high-calorie and high-sugar foods, and incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines.

Can the SAGB procedure be reversed or revised if needed in the future?

While SAGB surgery is typically considered permanent, there may be circumstances where revision or reversal of the procedure is necessary. However, this decision should be made in consultation with a New Me Surgeon and may not be suitable for all patients.

Are there any specific criteria or prerequisites that patients must meet to be eligible for SAGB surgery?

Specific criteria for eligibility for SAGB surgery may vary depending on individual health factors and the guidelines of the treating New Me Surgeon. Generally, candidates should have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35-39.9 with obesity-related health conditions. Patients need to be non-smokers.

How does the cost of SAGB compare to other weight loss surgeries, and is it typically covered by insurance?

The cost of SAGB surgery may vary depending on factors such as previous surgery or health fund coverage.

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