Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (Stomach Stapling)

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (also known as Stomach Stapling) is a bariatric surgery procedure considered the prime choice by many. However, it has a restrictive and malabsortive side to it:

• Surgical stapling limits gastric intake. Weight loss results from reduced consumption.

• Intake of nutrients is limited due to surgical change in the biliar and pancreatic secretions and their union with food.

All patients who undergo bariatric surgery must be aware of all pre and post surgery procedures.

Benefits
Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Bariatric surgery is designed for patients who have a body mass index of 40 kg/m2 and higher or those having a BMI of 35+ who suffer from obese related morbidity. The recommended age range is between 14 to 65. Nevertheless, there can be exceptions to this rule.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass has the following advantages:
a. Requires periodical control, not adjustments
b. The most common bariatric surgery; very successful weight loss results (80% of excess weight)

Disadvantages are:
a. Possibility of surgical complications
b. Occasional vomiting
c. The possible need for further surgical procedures
d. Irreversible alteration of gastrointestinal anatomy
e. Need for vitamins after surgery

Possible complications are:
• Trans and post surgery bleeding
• "Anastomotic" leakage
• Internal hernia
• Intestinal obstruction
• Pulmonary embolus
• Obesity-related respiratory distress syndrome
• Death

Procedure
Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass reduces the size of the stomach through surgical stapling. This type of weight loss surgery shrinks the stomach leaving a reservoir of approximately 30ml. The small intestine is divided to form a “y” and affixed to the gastric reservoir so food follows an altered course.

Weight loss surgery of this nature involves gastrointestinal cuts and unions that could eventually cause “leaks”. There is risk involved in this type of surgery.

After surgery, the patient must follow a special diet and vitamin intake to reduce weight properly.

Hospitalization
Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass requires 4 nights hospitalization.

Time
Between an hour and a half and four hours.