The duodenal switch procedure can lead to immediate weight loss. The stomach is surgically reduced in size, and some food is rerouted and not absorbed by the body. Like other bariatric surgeries, the duodenal switch is an option for obese individuals looking to improve their quality of life.
Overview of the Duodenal Switch
The duodenal switch is a surgical method that can provide immediate and sustained weight loss for obese individuals. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders, the duodenal switch procedure is threefold: part of the stomach is removed to limit the amount of food that can be consumed at once, part of the small intestine is redirected to reduce food absorption and digestive fluids are also redirected. The end result is a smaller stomach and shorter digestion cycle that leads to rapid weight loss.
Qualifying for Bariatric Surgery
Not all obese individuals qualify for bariatric surgery, and not all candidates should get the duodenal switch. In general, surgery can be considered for an individual with a BMI greater or equal to 40, but it is occasionally an option for those with a BMI greater than 35. This is generally at least 100 lbs. overweight for a male, and 80 lbs. overweight for a female. A physician first needs to determine whether nonsurgical options, such as diet and exercise, have been unsuccessful in the past. Additionally, the patient must recognize the risks of the procedure and understand how diet and health can be affected by the procedure.
Duodenal Switch's Effects on Food Consumption
According to bariatric surgeon Dr. Douglas Hess, the duodenal switch works well because you are forced to eat less, and you will inevitably lose weight because of food malabsorption. After a duodenal switch, the stomach is smaller -- a 4- to 5-oz. capacity vs. the average 30-oz. human stomach capacity. As a result, less food can be consumed, and not all of it will be absorbed by the body. To combat nutrient deficiencies, which can be serious among bariatric surgery recipients, a physician will prescribe essential vitamins to be taken daily.
Comparing Duodenal Switch With Other Bariatric Surgeries
According to research led by Picard Marceau, who followed 1,423 duodenal switch patients over 15 years, more than 90 percent were able to achieve a BMI of less than 35, and only 1.3 percent did not lose at least 25 percent of their excess weight. Weight loss achieved by the procedure also assisted them in reducing or eliminating chronic conditions, such as diabetes and asthma. The study was published in 2007 in "Obesity Surgery." Other studies show that all bariatric procedures can aid in weight loss and alleviate chronic diseases; a study in the January 2009 issue of "Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases" found that the duodenal switch can lower a patient's BMI and fat percentage most effectively.
The duodenal switch is a serious medical procedure that can have serious side effects, including blood clots, malnutrition, hernias or infections. It is important to discuss bariatric surgery options, as well as diet and exercise modification, with your health care provider.
References
- Weight-Control Information Network: Bariatric Surgery for Severe Obesity
- "Annals of Surgery"; Duodenal Switch Provides Superior Weight Loss in the Super-Obese (BMI ≥50kg/m2) Compared With Gastric Bypass; Vivek N. Prachand, et al.; 2006
- Duodenal Switch Information Zone: Duodenal Switch; NIH Patient Selection Guidelines
- Duodenal Switch Information Zone: Dr. Hess' Patient Brochure
- "Obesity Surgery"; Duodenal Switch: Long-Term Results; Picard Marceau, et al.; November 2007
- "Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases"; Comparison of Weight Loss and Body Composition Changes with Four Surgical Procedures; Gladys Strain, et al.; September 2009
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