Duodenal switch weight loss surgery is a combination of both sleeve gastrectomy and an intestinal bypass. Generally speaking, a duodenal switch is an ideal option for those who have a BMI of 40 or higher. To qualify for this procedure, patients have to be healthy enough to tolerate surgery.

So what exactly does a duodenal switch surgery entail? What is the process, and what should patients know when it comes to pre-op and post-op care? Here’s everything you need to know about duodenal switch weight loss surgery.

Duodenal Switch: What It Entails

The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine that connects to the stomach. It serves the important function of digesting foods coming from the stomach. It absorbs necessary vitamins, minerals, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and water. This way, these nutrients can be used by the body.

The procedure itself begins with a sleeve gastrectomy, where the stomach is separated and a portion is removed from the body. The smaller section of the stomach is then formed into a tube-like shape, therefore reducing the hunger of the patient. However, in a duodenal switch, the surgeon leaves both the valve that releases food into the small intestine and the duodenum. The surgeon will close off the middle section of the intestine and attach it to the duodenum. This is why the procedure is known as a duodenal switch.

What differentiates between a duodenal switch and a gastric sleeve, is that the separated section of the intestine isn’t removed. Instead, the surgeon takes this section of the intestine and attaches it to the end of the intestine. This allows bile and digestive juices to flow into the separated section. Essentially, the path your food takes to get to your stomach is now significantly shorter. This is what’s known as a biliopancreatic diversion.

This procedure results in changes in the way food is processed and digestion. Food now bypasses a majority of the small intestine, which limits the absorption of calories and nutrients. Due to the smaller size of the stomach and a reconfigured intestinal tract, this procedure results in major weight loss.

Why Get Duodenal Switch Surgery?

Duodenal switch is for patients who are in class III obesity, meaning patients who are at risk of experiencing obesity-related illnesses. This includes metabolic dysfunctions like:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• High blood sugar

These syndromes can lead to health problems, such as:

• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Both Type 1 and 2 diabetes

Some patients may already be experiencing any number of obesity-related illnesses. In most cases, patients with a BMI of 40 or higher are eligible for a duodenal switch. If patients are displaying signs of obesity-related illnesses with a BMI of 35 or higher, a duodenal switch may be a viable option. It’s up to your doctor to assess your eligibility for duodenal switch surgery.

Because of the extreme nature of duodenal switch surgery, it is less commonly performed than other weight loss procedures. However, it provides patients with the most life-altering and dramatic results.

Results of Procedure

In most cases, patients can lose up to 65% percent of their body weight within the first year after surgery. Most patients report losing over half of their body weight after a duodenal switch. With a 90% success rate, the duodenal switch poses the most benefits for those looking to lose weight immediately.

Thinking About Duodenal Switch Surgery? Choose BASS

We know what it takes to decide on weight loss surgery. At BASS Bariatric Surgery Center, we perform several weight loss surgeries and change the lives of our patients. If you’re interested in learning more about a duodenal switch or other procedures, schedule an initial consultation. Our expert team of doctors is here to help.

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