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Last Updated: Oct 23, 2019
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Gastric Bypass Procedure - Precautions and Associated Risks!

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Dr. Premkumar BalachandranSurgical Gastroenterologist • 34 Years Exp.MBBS, MS - General Surgery, M.Mas, Diploma In Minimal Access Surgery, Fellowship In Minimal Access Surgery, Fellowship In Robotic Surgery, FICS, F.I.A.G.E.S, FAMASI
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The risk of developing heart problems has increased to a great extent and this is mainly due to obesity, which leads to other diseases. A gastric bypass surgery is a medical procedure, which is commonly known as Roux en-Y surgery. It aids in reducing the size of the stomach. The reduction in the size of the stomach makes an individual feel full even when they have eaten very little.

Gastric Bypass Procedure
The stomach bypass surgery is generally known as a bariatric surgery and it guarantees weight loss of about 30-40% within a year. For this procedure, the patient has to be in the hospital for 4-5 days and it takes about 2-3 hours for the medical procedure. It is through this procedure that the size of the stomach is reduced permanently and is performed laparoscopically.

Five small holes are made in the stomach under general anaesthesia. The procedure is conducted only after tests like ECG, blood and urine tests, chest X-Ray chest, abdominal scan and echocardiogram are carried out.

The patient can be discharged from the medical centre on the fourth day. However, it is necessary that calcium, vitamins and supplements are included in the diet plan, mainly to prevent malnourishment and tiredness. In the medical procedure, the surgeon divides the stomach into two sections using surgical staples. The sections are divided into a small upper pouch and a large remnant. The medical procedure makes use of surgical staples, which is why the procedure is sometimes referred to as stomach stapling.

The small intestine is re-arranged in a manner that the stomach pouches are connected to the intestine. The intake of food is reduced by the reduction in the functional capacity of the stomach and by the re-arrangement of the small intestine that causes food to go through the first portion of the small intestine. The procedure is mainly targeted for people with body mass index of 50 and above. It is important that the individual should not drink water for next 24 hours of surgery.

Benefits of Gastric Bypass Procedure
Results in reduced calorie absorption and helps in weight loss. It is generally advised for people who are unable to accomplish weight loss through diet and exercise.

Risks involved in gastric bypass procedure

  1. Inflammation of the stomach lining
  2. Nausea and vomiting
  3. Bleeding
  4. Nutritional deficiency
  5. Development of gallstones. This occurs mainly due to loss of significant weight within a short span of time.

The procedure is a little expensive, but it is a reliable medical procedure for weight loss. It is always better to know about the risks involved in this surgery before opting for a weight loss program. 

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!

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