Gastric Bypass and Other Obesity Surgeries

The procedure produces greater and more sustained weight loss than banding procedures, but also it is more complicated and carries a higher risk for nutritional deficiencies. Laparoscopy techniques, which are less invasive, are showing promise for possibly reducing complications.

Biliopancreatic Diversion. This procedure is more complicated and removes portions of the stomach. The pouch that is created attaches directly to the lower part of the small intestine. It poses a higher risk for nutritional deficiencies than other procedures and is not used as often.

Click the icon to see an image of gastric bypass surgery.

Side Effects and Complications

General Side Effects and Complications. Side effects and complications of bariatric procedures are common, and up to 25% of patients require corrective or repeat procedures. After any of these procedures people must chew all their food carefully and cannot eat large amounts of food at one time or they will experience nausea, abdominal distress, or both.

Complications from any bariatric procedure includes the following:

• Vomiting is the most common, with banding procedures causing a greater risk.
• There is a strong risk for nutritional deficiencies, particularly with malabsorptive operations. This can lead to anemia and increase the risk for bone loss and osteoporosis. Sufficient mineral and vitamin supplements are important.
• There is a significant risk for deep-vein thrombosis (blood clots).
• Abdominal hernia is a common complication. (Newer, laparoscopic technique can avoid this problem, but not all individuals are candidates for this less invasive approach.)
• Rapid weight loss after surgery puts people at high risk for gallstones.
• Women who wish to be pregnant should wait until their weight has stabilized. Rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies can harm the fetus.

People at highest risk for complications are those with heart or lung problems, severe obesity, and a history of abdominal surgeries. Mortality rate from bariatric surgeries is 0.2%, which is lower than the morality rates from morbid obesity itself. Other variations and less invasive techniques using laparoscopy are being developed.