What You Need to Know About Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery is the most commonly performed weight-loss procedure in the United States. In addition to inducing weight loss, the surgery is also effective in the elimination of many chronic illnesses.

Candidates

• Gastric bypass is performed on people that have been obese for five years or longer. They must also be between the ages of 18 and 65.

Procedure

• Gastric bypass surgery was implemented in the 1960s; it involves creating a new stomach pouch that is separate from the rest of the stomach. The new pouch is connected directly to the lower end of the small intestine.

Laparoscopic vs. Incision

• Laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery involves making small incisions to insert cameras and instruments to perform the surgery. During incision gastric bypass surgery, large incisions are made to the stomach to conduct the procedure.

Complications

• Scarring, excess skin, vitamin and mineral deficiency; blocked bowels, dumping, vomiting, decreased muscle and blood clot are a few side effects caused by gastric bypass surgery.

Health Benefits

• Gastric bypass has been shown to successfully reduce or eliminate type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, hypertension and heart disease.

Mortality

• There is an .08 percent mortality rate. Mortality rates are influenced by the patient's overall health, level of obesity, age and the type of surgery that is performed.