Gastric Bypass Surgery

• The treating doctor will advise the patient to undergo extensive testing and screening, to ensure that the patient is healthy.
• The surgeon shall also study the patient`s medical history.
• Restrictions will be imposed on the patient`s food intake.
• The inclusion of physical activity and exercise
• Intake of nicotine should be completely stopped before the surgery.
• The treating doctor will also monitor intake of medication

A Gastric Bypass is done under general anaesthesia and can be performed in the following ways:

• Biliopancreatic Diversion (BPD) with Duodenal Switch- is done for patients with a BMI higher than 50. This procedure involves removing 80% of the stomach to restrict the food intake and absorption of nutrients. Only the pyloric valve and some part of the small intestine that connects to the duodenum are retained during the procedure.
• Roux en Y Gastric Bypass- includes the division of the stomach into two portions, to ensure that the food reaches only the upper portion of the stomach, hence causing the person to feel full sooner. Also, the upper portion of the stomach is directly linked to the small intestine, causing lower absorption of calories in a person`s body.

• The patient is not allowed to eat anything for 1-2 days.
• Patient has to follow a strict diet for 10-12 weeks.
• The patient may also experience cold; dry skin, hair falling, tiredness, mood swings and body aches.
• Regular consultation with the doctor.

Specialized healthcare provisions and experienced doctors, minimize the risks and complications associated with the procedure. However, a patient should be aware of all plausible risks and complications, before undergoing the procedure-

• Adverse reaction to anaesthesia during the procedure.
• Post procedure infections in the link between the stomach and intestines.
• Fluid collection or blood clotting, which may affect the lungs.
• Hernia and body distortion
• Irregular bowels, vomiting and nausea may be experienced.
• Body parameters like blood sugar may get affected adversely.
• Gallstones, damage to the stomach and ulcers can be the long-term side effects.