Duodenal Switch

The duodenum, or first portion of the small intestine, is divided just past the outlet of the stomach. During a duodenal switch, a segment of the distal (last portion) small intestine is brought up and connected to the outlet of the newly created stomach. Now when the patient eats, food goes through a newly created tubular stomach pouch and empties directly into the last segment of the small intestine. Roughly three-fourths of the small intestine is bypassed by the food stream.

Duodenal Switch Weight Loss Surgery: The Procedure

This procedure is done to decrease the amount of acid produced by the remaining stomach. Gastrin, a hormone produced by G-cells in the antrum (cavity within a bone), is responsible for stimulating the upper stomach to produce acid. After entering the upper stomach, food passes through a newly created connection (anastomosis) into the small intestine (alimentary limb). The bile and pancreatic secretions pass through the bypassed biliopancreatic channel and connect with the alimentary channel (where food travels) approximately 20 to 40 inches (50 to 100 cm) from the colon. Some of these secretions are reabsorbed in this channel before meeting the alimentary tract. The part of the intestines where bile and pancreatic fluids (from the biliopancreatic channel) and food (from the alimentary channel) mix is called the common channel. Surgeons use various formulas to determine the appropriate length of the alimentary and common channels.

Advantages of Duodenal Switch Weight Loss Surgery

• Increased amount of food intake compared to the bypass and band
• Less food intolerance
• Possibly greater long-term weight loss
• More rapid weight loss compared with gastric banding procedures

We are available to help you make a personalized choice specifically designed to meet your goals and lifestyle.

What to Expect Before Duodenal Switch Surgery

The first step in choosing weight loss surgery at My New Beginning in Dallas is to come in for a free insurance verification. You will go over your weight loss surgery optionsand expectations so you can make an informed choice about your surgery. Two weeks before surgery, we suggest that all bariatric surgery patients focus on changing their diets. This will prepare your body for significant changes and make your surgery safer.

What to Expect During Duodenal Switch Surgery

First, you will receive general anesthesia before your weight loss surgery. Then, your surgeon will make tiny incisions on your abdomen to create your new stomach, which will be ¼ the size of your regular stomach.

What to Expect After Duodenal Switch Surgery

It will take some time to recover, so it’s important to rest, monitor your caloric intake and follow your doctor’s orders for diet and medicine. You won’t be able to exercise right away, but gradually it will be crucial to start an exercise program that you can follow.

As with any type of weight loss surgery, gastric band surgery has possible risks and side effects. That’s why it’s imperative to discuss all of your options with us.

We are available to help you make a personalized choice on weight loss surgery in Dallas that’s specifically designed to meet your goals and lifestyle.