What is the difference between gastric bypass and bariatric surgery?

Gastric bypass and bariatric surgery are both types of weight loss surgery, but they are not the same thing.

Gastric bypass is a type of bariatric surgery, but it is not the only type. Bariatric surgery is a general term that refers to any type of surgery that is performed to help a person lose weight. There are many different types of bariatric surgeries, and each one has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Gastric bypass is a surgical procedure that involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This bypasses the majority of the stomach, which means that food does not enter the stomach and is not absorbed by the body. This can lead to significant weight loss.

Bariatric surgery is a more general term that refers to any type of surgery that is performed to help a person lose weight. There are many different types of bariatric surgeries, including:

* Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB): This is the most common type of bariatric surgery. It involves creating a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine. This bypasses the majority of the stomach, which means that food does not enter the stomach and is not absorbed by the body.

* Sleeve gastrectomy (SG): This procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach, leaving behind a narrow sleeve. This reduces the amount of food that the stomach can hold, which can lead to weight loss.

* Adjustable gastric banding (AGB): This procedure involves placing an adjustable band around the upper part of the stomach. This band can be tightened or loosened to restrict the amount of food that the stomach can hold.

* Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS): This procedure involves removing a large portion of the stomach and bypassing the majority of the small intestine. This can lead to significant weight loss.

The type of bariatric surgery that is right for a particular person will depend on their individual needs and circumstances.