Why is a laparoscopic duodenal switch good?
• Excellent weight loss
• Able to eat relatively normally, although a high protein diet is essential
• Do not experience ‘dumping’ which is sometimes seen with the gastric bypass
• Can resolve type 2 diabetes in up to 100% of cases
Why might a laparoscopic duodenal switch not be good?
• Major operation that alters the anatomy of the stomach
• Can only ever be partially reversed
• Malabsorption may cause diarrhoea (up to 6 bowel movements a day)
• Essential to have a high protein, low fat, low carbohydrate diet
• Life-long follow-up is essential
• Regular blood tests and vitamin supplements are crucial
What are the risks of a laparoscopic duodenal switch?
• Bleeding (1-5%)
• Join or suture leak (join or staple line) (1-5%)
• Narrowing at the surgical joins
• Hair thinning
• Protein malnutrition if supplements not taken or diet modified
• Vitamin deficiency and osteoporosis if supplements not maintained
What results can I expect from a laparoscopic duodenal switch?
• Average excess weight loss of 70-80%
What do I need to do?
• Be committed to losing weight and follow dietary advice.
• Have regular blood tests and bone scans
• Take your vitamin supplements
• Attend your follow-up appointments
• Long term commitment
If you have any other questions about obesity surgery e-mail
