Duodenal Switch

Hospitalization

Yes

Length of stay

1 to 3 Days

Anesthesia

General

Length of procedure

3 to 4 Hours

What is duodenal switch surgery?

Nowadays the rate of obesity and its problems and illnesses is increasing, so the issue of weight loss has become more and more important. Although the best way to lose weight is to have a proper diet and exercise, sometimes the obesity problem is very serious, which is not easily resolvable, and other methods, such as surgery can be considered. The duodenal switch (DS) is a popular surgery because patients are able to eat a near normal meal (in much smaller quantities) while still experiencing significant long term weight loss. With this operation, the majority of the most stretchable portion of the stomach is permanently removed, but basic stomach structure remains the same.

• Patients with BMI 40 or more, this surgery may be considered, but it is usually performed for patients with BMI more than 50 • Patients older than 18 years old • Patients with morbid obesity and life threating complications such as heart diseases, diabetes, sleep apnea, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and infertility

Before the procedure

It is necessary for patient to feel free to ask all kinds of questions about the surgery process and the results. They should tell the doctor their medical history and allergies, also medicines and supplements intake. The surgeon may ask to stop some medicines such as blood thinning and painkillers like ibuprofen some weeks prior to the surgery. They should do some lab tests and physical exams. In addition if patient have diabetes they should manage their insulin and other medicines. The success rate of the surgery is highly depends on dietary and lifestyle change, they should start this change before the surgery. If patient is a smoker, it is essential to stop it six to eight weeks prior to the surgery and it is recommended to start a diet to reduce 5-10% of excess weight before surgery, because it reduces the duration of hospital stay and also helps to lose weight faster after surgery.

During the procedure

After the procedure