Long-Term Risks of Bariatric Surgery With a Duodenal Switch

A duodenal switch is a weight-loss surgery that reduces the size of the stomach and bypasses a large portion of the small intestine. Since many nutrients are absorbed through the removed section, the majority of long-term risks are related to malabsorption. Patients need to follow strict nutritional guidelines to reduce the risk of complications.

Osteoporosis

• A duodenal switch could cause osteoporosis due to malabsorption of Vitamin D and calcium. Supplements are required to help avoid or minimize this condition.

Night Blindness

• The malabsorption of Vitamin A can lead to poor night vision or night blindness. Taking a daily Vitamin A supplement can reduce this risk.

Malnutrition

• In some cases, malabsorption of protein can become so severe that malnutrition occurs. This may require a second surgery to reverse part of the first surgery.

Chronic Diarrhea

• Chronic diarrhea may occur due to the shortened bowel. Food doesn't get fully digested because it has no contact with digestive juices until the end of the tract. Avoiding fatty foods may help.

Lack of Weight Loss

• Because carbohydrates are one of the few nutrients that are still well absorbed, patients who eat a high carb diet could fail to lose a significant amount of weight.