The surgery is conducted using laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques, with the patient under General Anaesthesia. It involves creating a long, thin pouch in the stomach and connecting it to a loop of bowel. Digestive juices only come into contact with food in the upper part of the stomach, while actual digestion occurs in the lower part of the small intestine.
This surgery is gaining popularity due to its lower risk of obstruction and acid reflux compared to sleeve gastrectomy. It offers more effective weight loss and control of diabetes. Like other bypass procedures, long-term multivitamin intake and periodic blood tests are necessary.
For non-smokers with a BMI over 45 or those with diabetes, this procedure is the preferred choice.