Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery is a type of bariatric surgery that changes intestinal functions by restricting food intake, thereby limiting nutrient absorption. Also known as Roux-En-Y. In gastric bypass operation, the intestine and stomach are intervened and their structures are changed. It is among the morbid obesity treatments. In addition, it can be applied in the treatment of type-2 diabetes, hypertension, and other diseases.

Gastric Bypass: Types and Processes

There are 3 types of gastric bypass. The proximal method is known as the most preferred method, as it has the least problems in food intake. The small intestine is well protected for absorption in this way. Patients undergoing this treatment usually feel fulness in a short time when they eat. In the distal method, changes are seen in the small intestine structure. Some minerals and vitamins are also poorly absorbed during the procedure, along with fats and starches. It has nutritional side effects. The last method is mini gastric bypass surgery. Due to the progress of laparoscopic surgery, it is not a frequently used method now. Gastric bypass surgery is performed in two stages. First of all, the stomach is divided into two parts and the nutrients are collected in the small section. With the reduction of stomach volume, the patient feels full despite eating less food. The second one is the bypass stage. The small intestinal tract is shortened and its structure is changed. The small intestine is connected to the small section of the stomach which is formed after. With gastric bypass surgery, a big amount of the stomach and small intestine is removed from the digestive system. As a result of the operation, the patient eats less and absorbs fewer nutrients.

Gastric Bypass: Surgical Approaches

In consultation before the operation, the surgical method is decided according to the expectations and wishes of the patient. This choice is made between sleeve gastrectomy, robotic surgery, or open surgery. Sleeve gastrectomy is used in the treatment of obesity, robotic surgery is less invasive and the healing process is relatively easy. In open surgery, the surgeon has the advantage of clearly seeing the tissues while laparoscopic surgery provides 2D imaging with a special device.