For several decades, RNY has been regarded as the gold standard for treating obesity; yet, Dr. Robert Rutledge was determined to rectify some of its known drawbacks as he developed the mini gastric bypass in 1977. Consequently, he aimed to refine the procedure and improve its efficacy.
We will examine the advantages and drawbacks of mini gastric bypass surgery by comparing it to a traditional gastric bypass. To begin, let’s provide a comprehensive overview of the differences between the two surgeries.
What Is Better: Gastric Bypass or Mini Gastric Bypass?
| Gastric Bypass | Mini-Bypass | |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | ||
| The stomach stays in place, but a smaller stomach pouch is created by separating it into two unequal parts using surgical staples. The surgery reroutes the intestine so the entire duodenum is bypassed, one side stays attached to the excess stomach, and the other is attached to the new, smaller portion of the stomach and used for digestion. Through gastric bypass surgery, surgeons reduce the stomach pouch to hold only two ounces of food, significantly less than the 40-ounce capacity that typically exists. Additionally, they reroute two sections of the intestine, further aiding in weight-loss. Supplemental vitamins must be taken for life by gastric bypass patients in order to guarantee they acquire the necessary nutrients. | A new. A smaller stomach shaped like a tube is created using surgical staples. The surgery reroutes the intestine, skipping about 20% of the small intestine (the entire duodenum section), and then loops up to attach to the smaller stomach pouch. The mini bypass reduces the stomach’s capacity to hold four to six ounces of food instead of 40 ounces as before. The mini bypass only moves one connection to the intestines. Mini-bypass patients need to take supplemental vitamins for the rest of their lives to make sure they get their daily vitamins and minerals. | |
| Average Excess Weight Loss | ||
| 6 months – 55% 12 months – 72% 18 months – 78% | 6 months – 57% 12 months – 71% 18 months – 76% | |
| Number of connections to the small intestine | ||
| 2 | 1 | |
| Surgery Time | ||
| 3 hours | 1.5 hours | |
| Recovery Time | ||
| About 6 weeks | 5-6 weeks | |
Difference between the two methods
Certainly, if you’re thinking about having bariatric surgery, you’ve heard of gastric bypass surgery and mini-gastric bypass surgery.
Today, the mini gastric bypass seeks to accelerate the gastric bypass procedure by attaining similar results in a shorter period of time, yet with fewer complications. However, both procedures continue to be employed because of their notable benefits and drawbacks. Consequently, doctors must weigh the pros and cons before deciding which treatment to use.
We’ll examine the pros and cons of mini gastric bypass surgery to compare it to gastric bypass.
Pros And Cons Of Mini Gastric Bypass
When looking at the pros and cons of the mini gastric bypass, we will be comparing it to its “big brother,” the gastric bypass. Both of these bariatric surgeries are usually performed laparoscopically.
The Pros Of The Mini Bypass
- Less invasive: Because there is less internal manipulation necessary with a mini gastric bypass, typically there are fewer incisions. There is a lower risk of infection with fewer incisions;
- Surgery Time Is Shorter: A typical gastric bypass procedure normally takes between 2 and 3 hours, but a mini gastric bypass is usually completed in about 1.5 hours;
- Less Internal Reorganization: During a gastric bypass, surgeons sever the small intestine, attaching one end to the new stomach pouch and reconnecting the other end to the upper intestine. Furthermore, in a mini-gastric bypass, they loop the intestine up and attach it to the side of a smaller stomach pouch;
- Offers A Shorter Recovery: A mini gastric bypass necessitates fewer abdominal incisions, only relocating one portion of the intestine, so recovery is quicker than a gastric bypass; thus, the patient can regain full mobility in a more expeditious manner;
- Lower risk and fewer complications: The traditional gastric sleeve surgery has a 7.5% complication rate, while the mini gastric sleeve’s rate is 2.9%. With fewer areas to become infected, mini gastric bypass only reroutes one section of the intestine instead of two.
The Cons Of The Mini Bypass
- Possible Infection: Patients should be aware that any surgery carries a small risk of infection, including gastric bypass;
- Risk of dumping syndrome: When the patient eats fatty or sweet foods, they can move too fast through the stomach and into the intestines. This causes abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, etc. These symptoms can last for hours;
- Elevated Risk of Experiencing Gastro-Esophageal Reflux: This can occur when stomach acids back up into the esophagus. This is not ideal for patients who already suffer from reflux disease (heartburn that requires medication);
- Long-term complications of hernias and ulcers Hernias at the surgical site and possible ulcers can occur. Typical risks that are associated with both the mini gastric bypass and the traditional bypass are pulmonary embolisms and strictures;
- Self-Pay: Many insurance plans do not yet cover mini-gastric bypass surgery;
- Leaks: The mini gastric bypass significantly reduces the risk of a staple line leak compared to a gastric bypass.
What Procedure Is Better For You?
Nevertheless, on the contrary, mini gastric bypass also involves potential risks and post-surgery side effects. Moreover, potential complications may arise due to the technique used, such as stenosis, bleeding, or ulcers.
However, mini gastric bypass surgery offers distinct advantages over conventional gastric bypass surgery. Specifically, it takes less time to perform, is technically easier, and carries a lower risk of complications. Additionally, due to its faster patient recovery time, it allows for shorter hospital stays and considerably lower costs.
Contact us today to take advantage of our team of professionals and comprehensive support system! Certainly, with our help, you can identify past issues that may be inhibiting progress. Consequently, by committing to hard work and utilizing our weight loss tools, you can achieve your weight loss goals.
