Mini Gastric Bypass

Gastric Bypass is a bariatric or weight loss surgery recommended for obese or overweight individuals who have not been successful losing weight through dieting, exercise and medication. Weight loss is caused by reducing the stomach size and bypassing a portion of the intestines. The mini gastric bypass is a modification of the regular bypass procedure that reduces operating time and the risk of complications.

The operating time for the procedure on average is about 50 minutes lesser than traditional gastric bypass. A laparoscopic stapler is used to divide the stomach such that only a small part of the stomach will actually receive food and the rest of the stomach is no longer connected to the oesophagus. This restricts the amount of food that can be placed into the stomach at one time. Next, about 2-7 feet of intestine is bypassed while connecting the new stomach to the intestines. This step restricts the amount of food that can be absorbed from the intestines.

In most instances, you will be allowed to return home 2 days following the procedure. You will be on a strict diet which is gradually advanced over a month’s time until you are back to normal food. A new diet is recommended to suit your smaller stomach size and ensure you are receiving adequate nutrition. This usually leaves no space for junk food.

The advantages of the mini gastric bypass over traditional gastric bypass surgery include:

• Reduced operating time
• Simplified technique
• Reduced risk of complications
• Less re-routing and anastomosis of the intestines
• Similar or increased weight loss

There may be an increased risk of acid reflux following this procedure, but other than that the risks are lesser when compared to traditional gastric bypass surgery. Overall, the benefits of the procedure far outweigh the risks.