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Bariatric Surgery: Roux-en-Y Procedure

Gastric bypass limits food intake by dividing the stomach to form a small gastric pouch. It then induces malabsorption by bypassing some of the intestine that causes reduced calorie and nutrient absorption. The average human stomach can hold about 3 pints and is about the size of a football. The surgery reduces the stomach to a small "pouch" which hold 15 - 30 cc, about the size of a chicken egg. The small intestine is divided 15 - 40 cm down from where the jejunum begins. The "Roux" limb is the segment that is attached to the "pouch".

The surgery is successful because it reduces food intake and limits calorie absorption. It also prohibits some nutrients and vitamins from being absorbed. As a result, gastric bypass patients must observe strict physician follow-up to monitor vitamin and mineral levels. Often, life-long vitamin and mineral supplementation will be necessary. Many patients consistently lose weight and continue to do so until 18 - 24 months after the procedure. Much of the weight loss is sustained, although some patients regain a portion of their weight after 24 months. However, weight can be regained if life style changes are not followed. Gastric Bypass surgery is considered a "tool" to be used along with exercise and behavior modification.