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Unlike the majority of weight loss surgeries currently available, the biliopancreatic diversion procedure is not reversible but at the same time it does not have the dreaded dumping syndrome as a possible risk. Whereas the standard weight loss surgeries include the creation of a small pouch to replace the stomach and features a “Y” shaped bypass of the stomach with the small intestines, the biliopancreatic diversion surgery removes more than 80% of the stomach while at the same time keeping it fully functional and then the intestines are re-routed in such a way as to keep the pancreatic juices and bile separate from the flow of food through the intestines.
In this procedure the surgeon will use a laparoscope to bisect the stomach with gastric staples before completely removing the bottom 85% of it. Being careful not to destroy the nerves and making sure that the pyloric valve stays operational, the stomach will be able to continue its job and functionality. Furthermore the fact that the pyloric valve has not been removed also means that the patient will not have to deal with the dumping syndrome. Unfortunately this portion of the procedure is not reversible as once that portion of the stomach has been cut off and removed it can no longer be reattached. The good news is that since the stomach remains fully functional you will soon be able to return to regular sized meals without the worry of gaining the weight back.
After the stomach has been bisected and the lower portion removed, the surgeon will then move on to perform the duodenal switch procedure in which the intestines will be cut and rerouted in such a way as to prevent the interaction of the flow of food with that of the pancreatic juices and bile which aid in the breakdown and absorption of the nutrients contained within the food. What this means for any patient is that the restrictive portion of the procedure is only temporary while the malabsorption potion of the biliopancreatic diversion surgery is permanent.
This surgery has also been credited as being the most successful weight loss procedure which also features the lowest possibility of any risks associated with it. This does not mean that there are no risks or complications but rather the chances are so slim that many people do not get any. To be more sure though it is important to discuss the possibility of risks and complications with your surgeon. |
