Surgical Procedures & Innovations Duodenal Switch

Duodenal Switch

Duodenal switch is a procedure that induces weight loss by gastric restriction with decreased food absorption. With this procedure, the surgeon removes approximately 60 percent of the stomach so that the stomach takes the shape of a tube. The lower intestine is then divided much further downstream than with gastric bypass so that more intestine is bypassed.

Duodenal switch preserves the outlet muscle that controls emptying of the stomach. It also offers the ability to eat larger portions than after gastric bypass or adjustable gastric banding and has reliable and long-lasting weight loss. Since this operation induces a state of decreased absorption, you may experience more bowel movements, and need to be closely monitored for vitamin, mineral and protein levels.

Expected Weight Loss

Most patients can expect to lose 60 to 80 percent of their excess body weight over a 2-year period. Clinical trials have demonstrated durable weight loss beyond 10 years.