At Southcoast Health, we are proud to offer one of the most successful and popular treatments for weight loss the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. At our Southcoast Health Weight Loss Center, our healthcare professionals will work with you to help you fully understand the procedure before you take this next step.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery promotes weight loss because it involves a modification of the stomach, which limits the amount of food that can be eaten in one sitting. The small pouch left at the top of the stomach reduces its volume to one ounce. Patients lose weight thanks to the restricted size of the small pouch and the fact that less food can be eaten comfortably. There is less nutrient absorption due to the accompanying intestinal bypass, which further limits caloric intake.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery accounts for 47% of the total number of weight loss surgeries in the United States. There are two parts to the procedure:
After the Roux-en-Y has been completed, food flows from the stomach to the jejunum, thus bypassing the duodenum. The process is called “malabsorptive,” because the digestion of food and calories is less efficient to encourage weight loss.
Both procedures are often done laparoscopically, where small tools are inserted via small incisions in the stomach area. When laparoscopy isn’t an option, surgeons may opt to perform a laparotomy via a large cut in the middle of the stomach.
The Southcoast Health surgical team uses this surgery as an option for weight loss because of the following benefits:
At Southcoast Health, our professionals will handle your care and make sure you’re prepared before, during, and after your Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. We will complete a preoperative evaluation that determines if you are a good candidate for the procedure, medically and psychologically. The purpose, risks, implications, and benefits are all explained, and you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions.
Next, you’ll undergo a medical screening conducted by the surgeon and be interviewed by a Behavioral Health Practitioner. In order to have the surgery, patients have to go to three preoperative workshop sessions about the implications of surgery.
Each patient also meets with a dietitian to discuss their current dietary habits and the changes that will need to be made post-surgery. Patients will be able to interact with their surgeon a few times during the preoperative phase to monitor progress and have detailed discussions about the procedure.
Your hospital stay usually lasts two or three days after a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, and you can return to normal activity within three weeks. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself at home after the procedure and what steps to take to promote a fast recovery.
About one in 10 people experience complications, which can include:
After your procedure, you may need to take supplements, such as iron and calcium, to prevent issues like anemia and osteoporosis. Taking nutritional supplements helps to further promote overall positive health.
At Southcoast Health, you will be in great hands for your Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Our professionals are experienced and dedicated to bringing you a positive outcome from your procedure, and we will work with you every step of the way. Visit the Southcoast Health Weight Loss Center to find out more about your bariatric surgery options, including Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. To learn more, please contact us today.