Duodenal Switch
What is a Duodenal Switch?
A duodenal switch is a complex but minimally invasive bariatric procedure that combines the techniques used in gastric sleeve and bypass surgeries. It’s also called biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch (BPD/DS). Since this incorporates performing a sleeve, you feel full FAST and have LESS hunger. This approach to weight loss is a malabsorptive procedure because it affects how your body absorbs nutrients, as well as reduces stomach size.
The Duodenal Switch Surgery
The duodenal switch is the most aggressive form of weight loss surgery offered. Dr. Carlton performs this procedure laparoscopically by making a few tiny incisions in your abdomen and using specialized surgical tools guided by a camera instead of one large incision. During duodenal switch, Dr. Carlton first removes three-quarters of your stomach, leaving a small portion approximately the size and shape of a banana. Then, bypasses a significant part of your small intestine, so you have less intestine where the food and digestive enzymes from your gallbladder and pancreas meet. You don’t need to have your gallbladder removed when you have duodenal switch surgery unless there are signs of disease.
Who is a good candidate for a Duodenal Switch?
Not everyone is a good candidate for bariatric surgeries like a duodenal switch. During your appointment, Dr. Carlton and his team will work closely with you to determine whether or not this approach is a good option.
Factors that might make you a good candidate for a duodenal switch include:
- History of unsuccessful weight loss with diet and exercise
- Weight-related health issues and a body mass index (BMI) of 35-39.9
- BMI of 40 or higher
To be a good candidate for a duodenal switch it’s also important to be completely committed to making the lifestyle changes necessary to ensure optimal results after your procedure.
This usually refers to a failed previous surgery. This can occur through either previous open or laparoscopic incisions. Also, this can occur at any site on the abdominal wall. These hernias are most commonly repaired laparoscopically with mesh. If the defect is too large or chronic, this may require an open operation.
What can I expect from a Duodenal Switch surgery?
A duodenal switch offers effective and long-term results, and you can expect to lose over 80% of your excess body weight after your procedure. More than 94% of people having duodenal switch surgery lose more than 70% of their excess weight within one year, and 70% maintain the results for 10 years and more. Patients experience the fastest and most significant weight loss and improvement or cure in their medical conditions. People can experience remarkable results.
- Cardiovascular diseases: hypertension, arterial disease, vascular disease, heart attack, stroke
- Respiratory diseases: asthma, obstructive sleep apnea, obesity hypoventilation syndrome
- Metabolic diseases: hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, and diabetes
- Gastrointestinal diseases: nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- Reproductive diseases: polycystic ovary syndrome, infertility
- Musculoskeletal pain: back strain, weight-bearing osteoarthritis
- Cancer: especially colorectal cancer and liver cancer
After having duodenal switch surgery, it’s important to follow Dr. Carlton’s strict dietary recommendations in addition to a supplementation regimen and continued follow-up appointments. To see if bariatric surgery and a duodenal switch are right for you, call LoneStar Bariatrics or schedule an appointment online today.