Duodenal Switch Surgery: Should You Get it Done?

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Are you thinking if duodenal switch surgery is the best option for you? If so, then this article will talk about how it works and how it can help people with morbid obesity gain their health back.

Weight loss is a difficult journey. It requires lots of time, patience, and dedication to succeed. It can be frustrating because it often feels like your body is fighting against you every step of the way.

Losing weight is important for a variety of reasons, mainly to live a healthier and longer life. However, some people may struggle with losing weight and may already be at risk for other health problems, so surgery may be the better option.

What is duodenal switch surgery?

A duodenal switch is a weight loss surgery in which the digestive system is completely remodelled, resulting in decreased hunger and an increase in fullness after meals.

The duodenal switch procedure reduces the size of the stomach to help you feel fuller and faster. This leads to less food absorption and a lower caloric intake, which can lead to significant weight loss if doctor recommendations are followed.

It’s been proven effective in helping patients lose significant amounts of weight, improve their blood sugar levels, reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and decrease risk factors for heart disease.

How does the duodenal switch work?

It is a bariatric procedure that can be done either laparoscopically or robotically. Both of these will perform sleeve gastrectomy or removal of a part of the stomach. A part of the small intestine will also be removed.

This type of bariatric surgery consists of two main phases: 

1. Removal of most of the stomach, approximately 70%.

2. Rerouting of a part of the small intestine to the duodenum.

The goal is to change the way food moves through your digestive system so you are able to eat more and digest it better.

Who can get duodenal switch surgery?

The duodenal switch surgery is a type of weight loss surgery that’s used to help obese people with life-threatening health problems lose weight and keep it off. If you’re considering this type of bariatric surgery, there are many aspects to consider when deciding whether or not duodenal switch surgery is right for you.

Your current weight, age, and medical history are the top considerations. The cost of this bariatric surgery is also a big factor. 

If you’re obese and don’t think you’ll be able to reach a healthy body mass index in a year’s time without having this procedure done, then it may be worth looking into getting duodenal switch surgery sooner rather than later.

If you are at a high risk of developing diabetes or heart disease and have done other procedures such as bariatric surgery or gastric sleeve, it may be best to ask your bariatric doctor if duodenal switch surgery is best for you.

It has been found to be effective in reducing the risk for obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea. If you’re thinking of getting one, it’s best to consult a bariatric doctor near you so you can be presented with the best option for your body.

Risks of duodenal switch surgery

It may be effective in terms of long-term weight loss, but it does carry some risks that you need to be aware of, such as:

  • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Vitamin malabsorption
  • Infections during recovery time
  • Bowel obstruction and hernias

Benefits of duodenal switch surgery

While there are risks associated with most surgeries, the duodenal switch also offers long-term benefits.

  • Reduces the risks of developing both diabetes and high blood pressure
  • Allows for individuals to have more control over their weight 
  • Improve the quality of life. Patients who have undergone this surgery report dramatic improvements in the way they feel and live their day-to-day lives 

Recovery process

While the duodenal switch is said to be the most effective bariatric surgery, it’s also the most complex.

The recovery process from this surgery generally takes six weeks before patients return to work but they’re back on their feet again within three months. Make sure to follow the after-care instructions of your bariatric doctor and do follow-ups whenever necessary.

Duodenal switch vs Gastric sleeve

As a general rule, the duodenal switch (DS) is for people who are still obese after gastric bypass surgery (GB). The DS has some of the same benefits as gastric bypass, including weight loss and improved blood sugar levels, but it takes much less time to recover from this procedure than a GB.

Does Colorado Bariatric offer duodenal switch?

Yes, CBSI can do a duodenal switch. However, this surgery is quite a drastic option so it’s best to make an appointment if a duodenal switch is really necessary and is the best option for you.

In conclusion, is the duodenal switch right for you?

Duodenal switch surgery patients have reported feeling more satisfied with their food intake, sleeping better at night, having increased energy levels, and being able to exercise without difficulty following the procedure.

However, each person has different body types and medical backgrounds. As always, it is necessary to consult with your doctor and discuss your weight loss surgery options.

If you think this may be your best bet, talk with Dr. Good about the risks and benefits of the procedure so that you can make an informed decision on whether it’s right for you!

Contact us here to get a free insurance evaluation.

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