Gastric Bypass
Gastric bypass uses both restrictive and malabsorptive components for weight loss. Stapling creates a small pouch that is cut from the larger portion of the stomach. An outlet is created in the newly formed gastric pouch that is connected to a portion of the small intestines brought up from the lower abdomen, bypassing the remainder of the stomach and upper small intestine. The upper part of the small intestine is connected to a surgically created opening in the lower small intestine in order to allow gastric juices to continue contributing to digestion.
Gastric bypass can reduce the risk of weight-related health problems like:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Severe sleep apnea
- Type 2 diabetes
Typically, gastric bypass surgery will last for about an hour and a half—after which you will be expected to stay in the hospital for two to three days. You should be able to return to normal activities within two to three weeks, as long as there are no major complications.
