Answering 5 FAQs about Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Published on June 2 , 2018 | 4 Minutes to Read

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Obesity is one of the major health issues troubling Australian adults. In 2014-15, around 63.4 percent of adults in Australia were obese. A majority of obese Australians take the surgical route to shed the extra kilos. As per the requirement of each case, the bariatric surgeon may recommend one of the following bariatric procedures, Gastric Sleeves, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, and SIPS surgery. Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass is the most common weight-loss surgery. It is performed as laparoscopic surgery in which a small incision is made in the abdomen. The procedure creates a new stomach pouch bypassing the rest of the stomach and directly connecting it to the middle portion of the small intestine. The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is traditionally the gold standard for bariatric surgery. To help you know the road ahead if you are contemplating surgery, the blog post answers five frequently asked questions about Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass.

1. Am I a candidate for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass?

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is performed to treat severe obesity, and advised for people with a BMI over 40. The bariatric surgeon may even recommend RYGB surgery if the individual has a BMI between 35 and 40 and is also troubled by an obesity-linked health condition, such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or heart disease. Even those with history of weight loss surgeries without long-term success are advised RYGB surgery.

2. How to get ready for RYGB surgery?

RYGB surgery is not advised to people with a history of medicines or alcohol abuse, and also to those who are not ready to change their diet and exercise habits. Before undergoing the surgery, the patient will have to enroll in a bariatric surgery education program where they will learn about the restrictions, receive nutritional counseling, and undergo psychological evaluation to prepare for the surgery. The surgeon may also conduct several physical exams and tests, including blood tests, imaging studies of stomach, and an upper endoscopy.

Related Blog: Answering 5 FAQs about Post Gastric Bypass Surgery Diet

3. What happens during the surgery?

Most surgeons perform laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, wherein they make several incisions in the abdomen and then insert a laparoscope to put small surgical tools in them. The surgeon then divides the stomach using a laparoscopic stapler to create a stomach pouch with the upper part of the stomach and connecting it with the small intestine.

4. What happens after the surgery?

Post surgery, the patient is generally kept in the hospital for a day or two to ensure they are feeling well before they are discharged. The Surgeon will prepare you, a routine for physical activities along with a strict diet. The initial weight loss may happen quickly, but it is crucial to maintain it, and that’s only possible through a healthy diet that contains necessary nutrition and vitamins.

5. Are there any risks involved in the surgery?

Similar to any other surgery, patients may experience bleeding, infection, or blood clots, after undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. They may also experience leaks from stomach pouch or the Roux limb. Patients who do not fulfil their daily requirement of supplements may have low levels of iron, calcium, protein, and vitamins. Some patients may experience dumping syndrome, internal hernia, and weight regain that may require a revision surgery.

Final Words

After undergoing laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, it is crucial for patients to make follow-up appointments with their surgeons and dietitians. The success of RYGB surgery depends on the patient’s commitment towards changing their lifestyle. If you or someone you know is struggling with morbid obesity and wants to undergo weight-loss surgery, Perth Surgicals and Bariatrics has got you covered. We are a leading bariatric clinic in Perth, Australia dedicated to assisting patients lose weight and improve their quality of life. To learn more about our bariatric surgery program or to get counseling for weight loss procedures, schedule an appointment with our experienced bariatric surgeons. You can also call us at 0865581901.