The duodenal switch, or "switch," is a weight loss operation that combines qualities of both the sleeve gastrectomy and the gastric bypass surgery. The duodenal switch operation is performed in two steps. First, we perform a sleeve gastrectomy to remove around 70-80% of the stomach, which converts the stomach into a slender tube.
We then divide the small bowel that normally connects to the stomach (called the duodenum) to create the bypass portion of the surgery. After food enters the "sleeved" stomach, it goes into the initial part of the small intestine, but then it is re-routed, or "switched," to the lower part of the small intestine (the ileum).
Expected weight loss
Of the four weight loss operations that we offer, the duodenal switch is the most drastic. As a result, it creates the most weight loss. With the "switch," patients can expect to lose between 90-100% of their excess body weight.
Risks
Potential duodenal switch surgery risks include:
- Protein calorie malnutrition
- Mineral and vitamin deficiencies
- Internal hernias (<2%)
- Gallstones
- Temporary hair loss
- Sangría
- Developing incisonal hernia
- As with any surgery or procedure there are risks, albeit small, for severe complications like allergic reactions, infections, heart attacks, pneumonia and rarely death