The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Procedure

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RGB) is an innovative procedure that offers patients who are afflicted with morbid obesity the chance at leading a healthier, happier life. The most popular form of gastric bypass surgery in the United States, Roux-en-Y helps patients to lose weight by reconfiguring the digestive system, restricting the stomach, and reducing the amount of calories that can be absorbed by the small intestine. For many individuals, the benefits of Roux-en-Y far outweigh the risks.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y

Roux-en-Y can be performed either laparoscopically or through an open incision. Because the laparoscopic method is less invasive than the open surgery technique, it typically involves minimal scarring, reduced discomfort, and a shorter recovery period. During laparoscopic Roux-en-Y, a special instrument called a laparoscope is inserted through a small incision made in the abdomen. The laparoscope allows the bariatric surgeon to view the stomach and small intestines on a video monitor as he or she performs the surgery.

During Roux-en-Y Surgery

The Roux-en-Y surgical procedure involves several steps, and the entire procedure takes approximately one hour. First, the surgeon creates a small pouch by sectioning off the upper stomach from the lower stomach. The pouch is designed to restrict the amount of food the patient may consume.

Next, the small intestine is divided into two portions. Since the upper portion of the intestine, known as the duodenum, is where the majority of calories are absorbed, the surgeon connects the lower portion to the stomach pouch in order to bypass the duodenum. The "Y" in Roux-en-Y refers to the shape of the connection made to facilitate the flow of digestive juices between the duodenum and the lower intestine.

After Roux-en-Y surgery, patients should take care to follow their physicians' instructions.

Learn More about Roux-en-Y

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