How Long Does Duodenal Switch Surgery Take?
There are many types of surgical weight loss procedures. Duodenal switch surgery is beneficial for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 50. This procedure is less common compared to other weight loss options, but can be highly effective for the right patient. Our skilled surgical team performs this procedure at Tijuana Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico. Here, we will discuss how long duodenal switch surgery takes and explore the procedure in detail.
About Duodenal Switch Surgery
The primary factor that sets duodenal switch surgery apart from other procedures is that it requires two steps to complete. This does not mean that two surgeries are necessary — although that is occasionally the case. Most often, the procedure is completed in one visit. Generally, this procedure can be completed in about two to three hours.
Step One
The first phase of duodenal switch surgery involves a sleeve gastrectomy. This procedure removes approximately 80 percent of the stomach, leaving a tube-shaped portion about the size of a banana. A small portion of the lower intestine is also left intact, along with the pyloric valve, which releases food to the small intestine.
Step Two
During the second phase of surgery, the end portion of the intestine is connected to the duodenum near the stomach. This will allow food to bypass most of the intestine, reducing the number of calories and nutrients absorbed.
As mentioned above, the two steps may be completed separately in certain situations. In these cases, the sleeve gastrectomy is completed first, and the bypass is performed once initial weight loss has begun.
When Is Duodenal Switch Surgery Recommend?
The major advantage of duodenal switch surgery is that it both limits food intake and reduces the number of calories and nutrients absorbed. This combination is quite beneficial for those with higher BMIs. Patients who have made multiple attempts to lose weight without success can qualify for this bariatric procedure.
How Long Is Recovery after Duodenal Switch Surgery?
First and foremost, it should be noted that recovery time depends on the individual’s overall health. Healing time also depends on several other factors, including:
- Whether the surgery was open or performed laparoscopically
- Patient’s ability to follow post-operative guidelines
- The presence of infection or other post-surgical complications
Individuals who had laparoscopic surgery can expect recovery to last one to two weeks. Those who had open surgery generally require about four to six weeks of recovery time.
Results after Duodenal Switch Surgery
Duodenal switch surgery boasts impressive results. Most of our Tijuana, Mexico patients lose 70 to 80 percent of their excess body weight within two years after the procedure. It is important to note that individuals who undergo duodenal switch surgery carry a higher risk for nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, it is essential to talk to your doctor about vitamin and mineral supplements.
Learn More about Duodenal Switch Surgery
If you are overweight with a BMI greater than 50, duodenal switch surgery may be something to consider. To explore this procedure or learn more about our other bariatric treatment options, schedule a consultation at our Tijuana, Mexico practice. Contact us anytime.
