Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is a combined restrictive & malabsorptive procedure. During Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, the stomach is made smaller by creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach (approximately 15 to 20cc). The smaller stomach is then connected to the middle part of the small intestine, (jejunum) and bypasses the rest of the stomach and the upper portion of the small intestine (duodenum). The remainder of the stomach isn’t removed, but is stapled completely shut and divided from the stomach pouch. The outlet from this newly formed pouch empties directly into the lower portion of the jejunum. This is done by dividing the small intestine just beyond the small intestine for the purpose of bringing it up and constructing a connection with the newly formed stomach pouch. The other end is connected into the side of the Roux limb of the intestine, creating the “Y” shape that gives the technique its name. The length of either segment of the intestine can be increased to produce more malabsorption.

One of the Most Frequently Performed Weight Loss Surgeries in the U.S.
According to the American Society for Bariatric Surgery and the National Institutes of Health, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is the current gold standard procedure for weight loss surgery. It’s one of the most frequently performed weight loss procedures in the United States.

Laparoscopic (Minimally Invasive) Surgery
For the last decade, laparoscopic procedures have been used in a variety of general surgeries. Many people mistakenly believe that these techniques are still “experimental.” In fact, laparoscopy has become the predominant technique in some areas of surgery and has been used for weight loss surgery for several years. mmpc® Michigan Weight Loss Specialists surgeons perform laparoscopic weight loss surgeries routinely, and recommend this less invasive surgical option whenever possible.

When a laparoscopic operation is performed, a small video camera and surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions made in the abdominal wall. The surgeon views the procedure on a separate video monitor. Most laparoscopic surgeons believe this camera gives them better visualization and access to key anatomical structures.

Laparoscopic procedures for weight loss surgery apply the same principles as their “open” counterparts and produce similar excess weight loss. Not all patients are candidates for this approach, just as all bariatric surgeons are not trained in the advanced techniques required to perform this less invasive method. The American Society for Bariatric Surgery recommends that laparoscopic weight loss surgery should only be performed by surgeons who are experienced in both laparoscopic and open bariatric procedures.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery is considered less invasive because it replaces the need for one long incision to open the abdomen. A recent study shows that patients who have had laparoscopic weight loss surgery experience less pain after surgery, resulting in easier breathing and lung function and higher overall oxygen levels. Other realized benefits with laparoscopy have been fewer wound complications such as infection or hernia, and patients returning more quickly to pre-surgical levels of activity.