Gastric Bypass Surgery (Roux-en-Y)

Understanding Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass, or Roux-en-Y surgery, is a procedure designed for individuals dealing with obesity and related health conditions. By altering the digestive system, it changes the way a patient’s body responds to food and maintains its weight and energy stores. This results in patients feeling less hunger, less often, making different food choices, and ultimately limiting their food intake and absorbing fewer calories, supporting sustained weight loss. This procedure involves creating a small pouch from the stomach and connecting it directly to the small intestine, bypassing most of the stomach and a portion of the small intestine.

Introduction to Gastric Bypass

Gastric bypass surgery is one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries worldwide, recognised for its efficacy in long-term weight loss and reduction of obesity-related health risks. The procedure is especially recommended for individuals with a BMI of 35 or above, or a BMI of 30 or above with obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or hypertension. These numbers are lower for people of Southeast Asian descent. For many patients, gastric bypass offers not just weight loss but a renewed lease on life, with improvements in overall health, mobility, and well-being.

In Australia, obesity remains a significant health challenge, with approximately 31% of adults classified as obese. This condition is closely linked to lifestyle diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Gastric bypass surgery offers a transformative path for those unable to achieve substantial weight loss through lifestyle changes alone, giving them an opportunity to improve their quality of life and reduce the risk of severe health complications.

Symptoms of Obesity

Difficulty controlling hunger, snacking, and/or meal sizes
Distracting and troublesome thoughts about food (also called food noise)
Fatigue and difficulty with physical activity
Shortness of breath and sleep-related issues like sleep apnea
Metabolic issues such as pre-diabetes or diabetes
Problems with blood pressure and/or cholesterol
Polycysitic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Infertility
Metabolic Associated Liver Disease (also called fatty liver disease)
Back and joint pain
Increased body fat (as can be shown by high waist circumference or body mass index – BMI)

Causes

Obesity can stem from a variety of factors, mainly related to genetics and the effect of the modern environment. Underlying medical conditions and medications can also play an important role as can a sedentary lifestyle, high-calorie diet, and metabolic issues. Examples include:

Genetics: Family history can influence body weight and metabolism.
Lifestyle: Sedentary lifestyle and high-calorie diets contribute significantly to weight gain.
Medical Conditions: Conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can predispose individuals to obesity.
Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and corticosteroids, may lead to weight gain.
Psychological Factors: Emotional eating, stress, and mental health conditions like depression can drive weight gain.

Diagnostic Tests

Waist Circumference and BMI Calculation: Simple tools to assess obesity, but insufficient by themselves to assess risk and guide treatment.
Blood Tests: To check for obesity-related conditions, such as diabetes and high cholesterol.
Liver Function Tests: Often performed to detect liver damage, commonly linked to obesity.
Cardiac Screening: To evaluate cardiovascular risks related to excess weight.
Sleep Study: For assessing conditions like sleep apnea that are frequently associated with obesity.
Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging like an abdominal ultrasound may be recommended to assess fat distribution and organ health.

Complications of Obesity

If untreated, obesity can lead to severe health complications, including:

Type 2 Diabetes: Due to increased insulin resistance.
Heart Disease: Elevated risk of hypertension, heart attacks, and stroke.
Joint Disorders: Such as osteoarthritis due to excess pressure on the joints.
Sleep Apnoea: Higher likelihood of airway obstruction during sleep.
Certain Cancers: Higher risk for cancers of the breast, colon, pancreas, and uterus.
Psychological Disorders: Such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation.
Organ failure: Including Heart and Kidney failure

Complications of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric Bypass Complications: While effective, gastric bypass surgery carries potential risks such as:

Nutrient deficiencies (iron, calcium, vitamin B12)
Dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying causing nausea, dizziness)
Surgical complications (bleeding, infections, leaks)
Gallstones (often due to rapid weight loss)

Complementary Treatments

Gastric bypass surgery is often performed after non-surgical treatments for obesity have been explored, or in conjunction with:

Dietary and lifestyle changes: Professional guidance for balanced nutrition and increased activity.
Medications: Obesity managey medications may assist with weight loss for some patients.
Behavioural therapy: Addressing emotional or psychological contributors to obesity.

Gastric bypass is typically performed laparoscopically, minimising recovery time and reducing scarring. This surgery leads to significant weight loss and is effective in resolving or reducing the severity of obesity-related health conditions.

For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Craven, please call us on (03) 9852 3777 or email us at info@dralexcraven.com.au.

Dr Alex Craven Provides Specialised Care In

Surgery for Obesity

Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery

General Surgery

Endoscopy

Weight and Obesity Control

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight will I lose after gastric bypass?

Weight loss varies, but most patients lose between 20 and 40% of their weight within 18-24 months post-surgery.

Will I need supplements after surgery?

Yes, patients will need to take vitamins and minerals for life, including calcium, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B12, to prevent deficiencies.

Is gastric bypass reversible?

The procedure is technically reversible, but reversals are rare and only considered in specific circumstances due to potential risks.

How long will recovery take?

Most patients return to light activities within two weeks, with full recovery and adaptation taking several months.

Does Medicare cover gastric bypass in Australia?

Medicare covers some bariatric surgeries for eligible patients, although out-of-pocket costs may vary based on insurance and specific clinic fees.

Related Services

Call Us Now

Email Address

Address