Numerous weight loss procedures are available today. As a result, it can be a tedious task discovering one that is most suitable for you. It is common to have questions around what each of the surgeries involves in terms of the procedure, the time it takes, recovery, and what to expect afterward. If you are looking for bariatric surgery options, Duodenal Switch is one of the most effective procedures that can be performed laparoscopically. The procedure is around 20 years old and proven to be very effective in attaining weight loss and treating Type II Diabetes.
How is Duodenal Switch Surgery Performed?
Duodenal Switch is also known as biliopancreatic diversion with Duodenal Switch. To qualify for the surgery, you must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 or more with certain medical conditions like Diabetes, heart/ lung disease, or sleep apnea. The surgery helps patients lose weight in three ways:
- Firstly, a significant portion of the stomach gets removed. The stomach will have a reduced capacity to hold food and patients will not be unable to eat much. Additional, grehlin (hunger hormone) levels drop.
- Secondly, the surgery will aid digestion by rerouting food away from the upper part of the small intestine; hence cutting back on the absorbed calories.
- Thirdly, the procedure changes the way digestive juices work in order to further cut down calorie intake.
What to Expect After Surgery
On average, most of the patients that undergo Duodenal Switch shed 70 to 80 percent of their excess body fat within a time span of one to two years. Amongst these, most of them maintain the weight loss results for up to five years while others do so for a lifetime. As Duodenal Switch may help cure Type II Diabetes, high cholesterol, and many other health conditions, it significantly increases life expectancy and enhances the overall quality of life. Just like any other medical procedure, duodenal switch surgery comes with its own risks. Sometimes, close monitoring of patients becomes a necessity as the surgery may reduce the vitamin and mineral absorption capability resulting in deficiencies.
Discuss Duodenal Switch in Fort Worth and Dallas
If you are looking for a Duodenal Switch expert in Fort Worth or Dallas, Minimally Invasive Surgical Associates (DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery) has got you covered. Talk to us about whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure and discover how we can help. Fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment or call us at 469-620-0222.
