Gastric Bypass is a surgical procedure used to treat morbid obesity, which occurs due to the accumulation of excess weight in the body by transforming into adipose tissue and where excess weight causes other health problems. Gastric bypass surgery is the most common method among bariatric surgery procedures. This surgical procedure can more easily control diseases such as diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and bad high cholesterol, which can be seen with metabolic syndrome.

How Is Gastric Bypass Done?

This operation, which aims to reduce the volume of the stomach and restrict absorption, is two-stage. In the first stage of this operation, performed with the secure method, a small stomach tube with a volume of 30 ml is created at the stomach’s entrance, and the remaining large stomach is completely separated. This large stomach is removed from the abdomen and continues to produce its secretions. In the second stage, a connection is made between the small stomach tube with the small intestine. Through this connection, nutrients bypass the large stomach and work by passing into the small intestine. As a result of this process, it limits the amount of food consumed. Thus, it is possible to see weight loss as a result of less eating and less absorption.

There are two types of this method of restricting food intake. The process of connecting the small intestines to the stomach in a ring without separating is called mini gastric Bypass. In Roux en Y gastric bypass, the small intestine is divided, and one end is connected to the stomach and the other to the small intestine from a certain distance. Both of these processes contribute to weight loss with similar results. In short, after this procedure, the patient can consume less food and benefit less from the foods he consumes.

Gastric Bypass Or Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric Bypass can give more noticeable results when compared to sleeve gastrectomy. The feeling of hunger decreases, and the sense of satiety increases. As a result, the person’s blood sugar is also stable. Since it is a method that restricts food intake after the operation, 60 to 80% of the person’s excess weight can be lost. However, a gastric bypass procedure has a higher complication rate than a tube stomach, and long-term or life-long medication may be required after the procedure.

Why Is Gastric Bypass Done?

The operation allows the person to lose excess weight. Some health problems caused by excess weight can significantly threaten the person’s health, and these problems can be prevented by surgery. Some of the health problems that threaten health are:

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Gastro-esophageal reflux
  • high cholesterol
  • Infertility (Infertility)
  • Type II Diabetes Mellitus (Type 2 diabetes)
  • Cardiovascular diseases

As a result of the surgery, people are protected from these health problems and the risks they bring. Surgery is usually performed after weight loss with diet and exercise. After the operation, diet and exercise should be supported.

 

Who Is The Operation Performed For?

All gastric reduction surgery methods are applied to patients who meet certain conditions. Some of the conditions sought in the patient for the operation:

  • Having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 and above (high obesity)
  • A BMI value between 35 and 39.9, as well as the presence of some weight-related health problems accompanying the patient
  • Tried non-surgical weight loss methods in person
  • Gastric reduction operations can be applied to people who meet at least one of these conditions. Gastric Bypass is one of these operations. In exceptional cases, surgery can be performed on people with a BMI value of 30-34, but in such cases, the decision and approval of the doctor are required.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of The Operation?

Advantages of the Gastric Bypass

  • The patient gets rid of most of their excess weight in the long term (between 60-80%)
  • The amount of food absorbed is reduced.
  • A part of the appetite is under control by creating a feeling of fullness.
  • Most of the weight lost after gastric bypass surgery is permanent.
  • Weight regain rates are less than half of the sleeve gastrectomy.
  • In addition, the operation can prevent some health problems caused by excess weight. Thus, it is ensured that people lead healthier and higher quality life.

Disadvantages

  • Fewer options when revision surgery is required
  • Compared to other stomach reduction operations, the possibility of complications is higher since the process is also performed in the intestines.
  • As it reduces absorption, a deficiency in some vitamins and minerals may occur in the body, although it is rare.
  • It would help if you temporarily took a regular diet and vitamin and mineral supplements after the operation.

 

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