Mini Gastric Bypass

The mini gastric bypass (MGB) or single anastomosis gastric bypass (SAGB) follows the same principles as a traditional gastric bypass in that it both surgically shrinks the size of the stomach and bypasses part of the small intestine. However, it is a shorter procedure that involves less suturing and intestinal rerouting. That said, the mini gastric bypass has the potential to offer even more significant weight loss potential than its older cousin. Because of its exceptional weight loss results and more straightforward approach versus the traditional gastric bypass, the mini gastric bypass has become a standard procedure in the UK and Europe. It was then approved in the United States in 2022.

This procedure suits patients with a relatively higher BMI – over 45. While patients with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes may enjoy exceptional results, those with chronic acid reflux or GERD may not be ideal candidates for the procedure.

How Is the Mini Gastric Bypass Performed?

Like the other bariatric surgeries we offer, the mini gastric bypass is minimally invasive or laparoscopic. Small, long-handled surgical tools are used to access the abdomen versus a single large incision of traditional open surgery. This approach reduces the risk of surgery and does not compromise its safety or integrity. It can also be performed with the assistance of a surgical robot.

First, the surgeon cuts away a sleeve-shaped portion of the stomach. The usable stomach is smaller than a sleeve gastrectomy, and unlike the sleeve, the pyloric valve is separated from the stomach. Instead, the end of the stomach is connected to a lower loop of the small intestine bypassing a section of the intestine to limit caloric absorption. Unlike the Roux-en-Y or traditional gastric bypass, only one anastomosis or surgical connection is made during the procedure. The result is a shorter surgery with fewer potential complications.

The Benefits of a Mini Gastric Bypass

• The procedure is performed using laparoscopic or keyhole surgery
• Weight loss and disease resolution may be as significant or even greater than a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
• Similar diabetes improvement potential or remission to a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
• Potentially lower complications and risks versus a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

Disadvantages of the Mini Gastric Bypass

• A higher potential for vitamin and mineral deficiency versus gastric sleeve
• Need for lifelong vitamin supplementation
• Limited use case when including the full breadth of surgeries available today
• All the inherent risks of a significant surgical procure will be discussed during the consultation

Much like a traditional gastric bypass, mini gastric bypass patients may experience dumping syndrome after their procedure if they eat high-fat or high-sugar foods. This can also occur if they drink liquids while eating. Dumping syndrome, or rapid gastric emptying, can cause uncomfortable sensations akin to low blood sugar, which is not life-threatening. Some patients consider this a disadvantage of gastric bypass procedures, while we consider it a self-limiting form of feedback that can guide the patient toward proper eating habits.

To learn more about the mini gastric bypass and whether it may be the best procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with your surgeon. During this consultation, you will learn more about the mini gastric bypass and other procedures that may be right for you.