The Duodenal Switch

Results of the procedure:

• Better long term weight loss than any of the other available bariatric procedures
• 98.9% resolution of type 2 diabetes
• 99% resolution of hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)
• 92% resolution of sleep apnea
• 83% resolution of hypertension (high blood pressure)

Disadvantages of the procedure:

• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies and protein calorie malnutrition—easily avoided by taking supplements
• Foul-smelling stools and flatulence, occasional diarrhea—minimized by reducing fat intake
• Gall stones—can occur after any form of weight loss surgery

Other thoughts:

The Loop DS is an even safer form of the traditional DS, in that we bring up a loop of small intestine, rather than dividing and re-routing other sections of intestine. The Loop modification significantly reduces the risk of internal hernia (when intestine can get trapped between new connections of the small bowel), and reduces the risk of leak due to the decreased number of intestinal connections that are created. The loop DS does not carry the same risk as other loop-type procedures due to the preservation of the pylorus. The valve at the bottom of the stomach prevents the bile reflux associated with other types of loop bypasses.