During a Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGP) procedure, the stomach and the small intestine are divided into smaller sections and reconnected. The rest of the stomach and the other portions of the small intestine are no longer used for digestion. Eventually the stomach acids and digestive enzymes of the stomach and the small intestine mix with food that is eaten.
What are the advantages of a RYGP procedure?
- Reliable and long-lasting weight loss
- Effective for remission of obesity-associated conditions
- Excellent treatment for patients with GERD
- Reversible
What are the risks of a RYGP procedure?
- Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
- Small bowel complications and/or obstruction
- Development of ulcers, especially with NSAID or tobacco use
- “Dumping syndrome”
