Community Medical Centers - Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

The 'gold standard' of bariatric and metabolic surgery

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has stood the test of time and has been proven to be both safe and effective for most patients. Our surgical team has some of the best talent in the world, having performed this procedure for more than 20 years.

How the Roux-en-Y works

There are two components to the procedure. First, a small stomach pouch is created by dividing the top of the stomach from the rest of the stomach. Next, the first portion of the small intestine is divided and the bottom end of the divided small intestine is brought up and connected to the newly-created small stomach pouch.

The procedure is completed by connecting the top portion of the divided small intestine to the small intestine further down so that the stomach acids and digestive enzymes from the bypassed stomach and the first portion of small intestine will eventually mix with the food.

Advantages & disadvantages

Is the Roux-en-Y right for you?

Procedure Advantages

Patients who undergo the Roux-en-Y procedure typically experience the following advantages:

Favorable changes in gut hormones that reduce appetite, suppress hunger and improve feelings of fullness
Greater control on type 2 diabetes, compared to gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy
Lowered risk of certain cancers by up to 60%

Please note that each surgical case is different; advantages may vary based on the specific patient.

Procedure Disadvantages

The following disadvantages are associated with the Roux-en-Y procedure:

Potential long-term vitamin/mineral deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, calcium and folate
If patients need a revision or additional procedure at a later time, there may be additional operational or recovery difficulties
Gastric bypass is less tolerant of various NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or aspirin as opposed to the sleeve gastrectomy
Alcohol absorption is accelerated which may lead to easier intoxication or potential addiction

Please note that each surgical case is different. Some patients may not experience any of the disadvantages listed. Final surgical outcomes may vary based on the specific patient.

Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

The 'gold standard' of bariatric and metabolic surgery

How the Roux-en-Y works

Advantages & disadvantages

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