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Duodenal Switch Surgery
The primary advantage of duodenal switch (DS) surgery is that its combination of moderate intake restriction with substantial calorie malabsorption results in a very high percentage of excess weight loss for obese individuals, with a very low risk of significant weight regain.
About Duodenal Switch Surgery
The restrictive part of the duodenal switch procedure is achieved via partial gastrectomy (removal of part of the stomach), which reduces the size of the stomach. The distal or pouch-like portion of the stomach is removed. Some scientists think this helps reduce chemicals produced by the stomach that trigger hunger and eating.
Unlike the Roux-n-Y, the duodenal switch keeps the pyloric valve between stomach and small intestine intact, eliminating dumping syndrome, marginal ulcers, stoma closures, and blockages, all of which are possible side effects observed in patients who have had other gastric bypass procedures.
The malabsorptive component of the duodenal switch procedure is achieved by rearranging the small intestine so as to separate the flow of food from the flow of bile and pancreatic juices. Reducing the amount of bile and pancreatic juices the food comes in contact with reduces the amount of food that is digested and decreases absorption of some calories and nutrients.
Further down the digestive tract, the separated portions of the small intestine are rejoined; food and digestive juices begin to mix, and limited fat absorption, essential for good health, occurs.
Advantages of Duodenal Switch Surgery
The primary advantage of Duodenal Switch (DS) surgery is that its combination of moderate intake restriction with substantial calorie malabsorption results in a very high percentage of excess weight loss for obese individuals, with a very low risk of significant weight regain. Because the pyloric valve between the stomach and small intestine is preserved, people who have undergone duodenal switch do not experience the "dumping" syndrome common with people who've undergone the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RNY). Much of the production of the hunger hormone, ghrelin, is removed with the greater curvature of the stomach. Diet following the DS is more normal and better tolerated than with other surgeries. The malabsorptive component of the DS is fully reversible as no small intestine is actually removed, only re-routed.
Possible Risks and Complications of DS Surgery
All surgical procedures involve a degree of risk however this must be balanced against the significant risks associated with severe obesity. Some of the surgical risks or complications for this procedure are: perforation involving small bowel, duodenum, or stomach causing a leak, infection, abscess, deep vein thrombosis (blood clot), and pulmonary emboli (blood clot traveling to the lungs). Longer term risks include hernia and bowel obstruction. Malnutrition is an uncommon and preventable risk after Duodenal Switch.
Contact Dr. Wade Barker about Duodenal Switch
Duodenal switch from Dr. Wade Barker in Dallas/Ft. Worth is a safe, effective surgical weight loss option that allows obese individuals to achieve a healthier weight and live life more fully. If you are interested in learning about duodenal switch surgery, please contact Dr. Barker today to schedule a consultation.
