The Duodenal Switch surgery combines both restrictive and malabsorptive elements and has been proven very effective for the exceptionally obese since it has the best reported percentage of weight loss. In this procedure, the restrictive element is the removal of approximately seventy-five percent of the stomach. The malabsorptive element consists of rearranging the small intestine in order that food is only absorbed in the last 29-39 inches which significantly reduces the amount of fat and calories absorbed. With very little absorption after this surgery, those who have it must maintain a high-protein diet and vitamin and mineral supplementation for the rest of their lives. Although those with the Duodenal Switch don’t need to worry about “Dumping Syndrome” after their surgery, they do run a greater risk of suffering from chronic diarrhea.
Vertical Banded Gastroplasty
Vertical Banded Gastroplasty variations are known as Vertically Banded Gastric Partition, Gastric Stapling and the Fobi Pouch. This particular procedure has a particularly high reoperation rate, is less effective than other procedures and is rarely used today. This procedure is mainly restrictive in that a propylene collar is used to create a small pouch in the upper stomach. Overeating can cause the pouch to stretch and weight gain to reoccur. Roughly twenty percent of the people who have this particular procedure do not lose weight.