Duodenal Switch Surgery

Duodenal Switch Surgery

1. What Is Duodenal Switch Surgery?
2. How Is Duodenal Switch Surgery Performed?

What Is Duodenal Switch Surgery?

Duodenal switch (DS) surgery is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of obesity. In this method, two stages are performed to reduce the size of the stomach and redirect the intestines.

In the first stage, the stomach is significantly reduced in size and reshaped into a tube-like structure. This reduces stomach capacity, leading to the consumption of smaller amounts of food.

In the second stage, a portion of the small intestine is cut and connected to the stomach tube. This allows for the absorption of nutrients in a shorter section of the intestine, reducing calorie absorption. Another portion of the intestine is connected to the lower part of the intestine to transport pancreatic secretions.

Duodenal switch surgery is a method that restricts food intake and reduces nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss. It is preferred, especially in cases of severe obesity or serious health problems related to obesity.

However, this surgical method can be more complex and risky. Complications such as vitamin and mineral deficiencies, intestinal issues, and difficulty in controlling bowel movements may arise. It is important to pay attention to the postoperative diet and take supplements.

Duodenal switch surgery should be evaluated by obesity surgery specialists and decided according to the patient's needs. Careful follow-up, dietary regimen, and supplements should be used to reduce the risk of complications in the preoperative and postoperative periods.

How Is Duodenal Switch Surgery Performed?

The basic steps of the procedure are as follows:

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to the patient so they do not feel pain and remain asleep during the procedure.
• Incisions: The surgeon makes a series of small incisions in the abdominal area. These incisions can be made using a minimally invasive technique called laparoscopic surgery. This approach reduces the recovery time and the risk of complications.
• Stomach Division: The surgeon makes a vertical incision to reduce the size of the stomach. This reduces food intake by decreasing stomach capacity. This incision is similar to a procedure called sleeve gastrectomy.
• Intestinal Division: The surgeon cuts a portion of the small intestine to alter the path of digestion. This reduces nutrient absorption and enhances weight loss. The cut section of the intestine is later reconnected to the end of the small intestine.
• Bypassing: The surgeon connects the duodenum, a portion where bile and pancreatic enzymes are dumped, to the bypassed part of the intestine. This allows some nutrients to be digested and absorbed without interacting with certain digestive enzymes.
• Closure of Incisions: The surgeon carefully closes and sutures the incisions. Stitches are often absorbable to promote the healing process and reduce the risk of infection.

Duodenal switch surgery is a complex procedure typically used in cases of morbid obesity and is recommended in specific situations. Patients may need to adhere to diet and lifestyle changes in both the preoperative and postoperative periods. Therefore, if you are considering this type of surgery, it is important to consult with an obesity specialist or surgeon to obtain more information about your individual situation.