Duodenal Switch (DS) surgery, also called “Biliopancreatic Diversion” or simply “Switch”, is a treatment for individuals with morbid obesity, that combines gastric sleeve and gastric bypass surgery. The procedure aims at decreasing the calories absorbed by intestines, by restricting the amount of intestine that comes into contact with food. In addition, it is designed to decrease the quantity of food the stomach can accommodate and the body can use. Generally, surgeons recommend DS as a secondary procedure after insufficient weight loss from a sleeve gastrectomy, or as a primary operation in patients with a BMI over 50 or severe diabetes. One of the most frequently performed laparoscopic weight loss procedures at Minimally Invasive Surgical Associates, the procedure has transformed the lives of countless people in Dallas and other places. Dr. Sachin Kukreja is one of the few surgeons in the country to perform the operation robotically and has actually written textbooks and published surgical videos to teach other surgeons how to perform the procedure.

How is Duodenal Switch Surgery Performed?

Duodenal Switch is performed under general anesthesia in two stages; in the first phase, around 80 percent of the stomach is removed using sleeve gastrectomy, leaving behind a small tube-like portion. The second step bypasses large parts of the intestine by connecting the end the intestine to the duodenum. A biliary pancreatic diversion limits how much food a person can consume, and reduces nutrient absorption. In patients with a previous sleeve gastrectomy, only the second portion is performed. Dr. Sachin Kukreja ensures that the patients get comprehensive postoperative care and assistance to ensure a safe, and duable long-term result.

Is Duodenal Switch Procedure Right for You?

Choosing the right course of action is critical to treating morbid obesity successfully. The bariatric surgeons at MISA follow a personalized approach to patient care, which includes detailed consultative sessions with our physicians on all possible surgical and non-surgical weight loss options. Typically, individuals with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 40 are considered good candidates for Duodenal Switch procedure. Generally, Duodenal Switch results in faster weight loss than Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, but at the expense of a slightly higher complication rate. Speak with one of our weight loss surgeons to determine if DS is right for you.

What to Expect Post Procedure

Patients are usually kept in the hospital for 1-2 days following surgery. Surgeons will schedule a follow-up visit 2 weeks after the surgery. The overall recovery period depends on various factors such as adherence to diet and vitamin regimen, medical checkups, and postoperative care instructions.

Advantages of Duodenal Switch Procedure

Greater long-term weight loss and less chance of regaining weight

More rapid weight loss compared with other procedures

Resolution of obesity-related illnesses (up to 98% diabetes remission rate).

Life After Duodenal Switch Procedure

On an average, patients report losing 70-90 percent of their excess body weight within 2 years of the procedure. Lifestyle changes, however, might be essential to achieve the desired results. In addition, Duodenal Switch is known to reduce the risk of comorbid conditions such as GERD, heart diseases, type-2 diabetes, and sleep apnea. Overall, the procedure greatly improves the quality of life of patients. Adherence to a good diet rich in protein and satisfactory vitamin replacement is imperative to ensure long-term success.

Looking to Shed Those Extra Pounds? Contact Us!

MISA, under the leadership of Dr. Sachin Kukreja, has been delivery exemplary services, particularly in the domain of weight loss. Our customized obesity treatment programs are tailored to each individual needs, and we never take the cookie-cutter approach. Whether you are looking for a duodenal switch expert in Fort Worth, Dallas or any nearby area, our team of experienced surgeons has got you covered. To schedule an appointment or learn more about duodenal switch surgery, simply call 469-620-0222 or fill out our contact form.