Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

Laparoscopic gastric bypass is a highly effective weight-loss surgery designed for individuals struggling with obesity, particularly those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or greater, or a BMI of 35 or greater with obesity-related health conditions. This procedure alters the digestive system to limit food intake and reduce nutrient absorption, promoting significant and sustainable weight loss. At Keshath Institute for Maternity and Surgical Sciences, our experienced surgical team employs advanced laparoscopic techniques to provide safe and effective solutions for patients seeking to improve their health and quality of life.

Understanding Gastric Bypass Surgery

Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This effectively bypasses a significant portion of the stomach and the upper small intestine, which results in:

• Reduced Stomach Size: The new stomach pouch holds much less food than a normal stomach, leading to decreased food intake.
• Nutrient Malabsorption: By bypassing part of the small intestine, the body absorbs fewer calories and nutrients.

Indications for Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

This procedure may be recommended for patients who:

• Struggle with severe obesity and have not achieved significant weight loss through diet, exercise, or medication.
• Suffer from obesity-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, or joint pain.
• Are committed to making lifelong changes to their eating and exercise habits.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Gastric Bypass

Choosing laparoscopic gastric bypass over traditional open surgery offers several benefits, including:

• Minimally Invasive Approach: Smaller incisions lead to less trauma, reduced postoperative pain, and quicker recovery.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Most patients can expect to return home within a few days after the procedure.
• Faster Recovery: Patients typically resume normal activities within a couple of weeks compared to longer recovery times associated with open surgery.
• Significant Weight Loss: Many patients experience substantial and sustained weight loss, often losing 60% to 80% of their excess weight within 1 to 2 years post-surgery.

The Surgical Procedure

During laparoscopic gastric bypass, the surgeon performs the following steps:

• Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia for the procedure.
• Small Incisions: Several small incisions are made in the abdomen to allow access for the laparoscope and surgical instruments.
• Creating the Pouch: The surgeon uses surgical staples to create a small pouch from the upper portion of the stomach.
• Bypassing the Small Intestine: A section of the small intestine is then cut and connected to the new stomach pouch, allowing food to bypass the majority of the stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
• Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape, and the patient is taken to the recovery area.