Advantages of the Duodenal Switch
As with most commonly performed bariatric surgery procedures, the duodenal switch has many benefits, not the least of which are exceptional excess weight loss results and very good obesity-related disease improvement or resolution rates.1 The duodenal switch was created specifically to offer many of the advantages of gastric bypass, while minimizing many of the risks associated with it. The result is a procedure that, while not as commonly performed as the gastric bypass, offers many similar advantages.
These advantages include:
- Exceptional excess weight loss, often over 70%1
- Exceptional obesity-related disease improvement and resolution1
- No dumping syndrome – common in gastric bypass patients
- Uncommon protein and vitamin deficiencies are managed easily
- The ability to consume regular meals, but in less quantity
- A revisional option for failed Gastric Bypass and adjustable Gastric Banding
Choosing to undergo the duodenal switch, as with any other bariatric procedure, is a very important decision, and it should not be taken lightly. The duodenal switch operation is a major surgery and comes with risks which are partially outlined on our risks of duodenal switch page. To understand these risks fully, you should consult a qualified medical professional.
The advantages of the duodenal switch can be maximized by employing a surgeon who is specialized in this particular procedure and who demonstrates exceptional outcomes. Doing so may allow for greater success over the long-term and, on average, fewer complications.
Patients should attend weight loss surgery information seminars to learn more about the different surgical procedures and make an informed decision about their choice of surgery.
References:
1Buchwald H, Avidor Y, Braunwald E, Jensen MD, Pories W, Fahrbach K, Schoelles K. Bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis, JAMA. 2004 Oct 13;292(14):1724-37
