How the Surgery Works
The single-anastomosis (loop) duodenal switch, also called stomach intestinal pylorus sparing surgery (SIPS). With this operation, the surgeon permanently removes the stretchy outer and upper 85 percent of the stomach, leaving a small, tube-shaped stomach. Stomach capacity is reduced from about a quart (1,000 ml) to roughly 3 - 4 ounces. Depending on the size of the tube that is created, patients generally report feeling full after eating 3 - 4 ounces of solid food.
The important functional elements of the stomach are preserved, including the antrum (the pump that pushes food through the valve at the bottom of the stomach), the pylorus, and the nerves that control stomach function. The result is a much smaller stomach that functions very similar to a normal stomach.
In addition, roughly half of the upper small intestine is bypassed, so that weight loss is achieved both through restriction of food consumption and malabsorption.
With the single anastomosis (loop) duodenal switch, patients can enjoy a relatively normal diet and feel satisfied with my smaller portions without experiencing "dumping syndrome" like traditional gastric bypass. This procedure also has less risk of protein malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies and less risk of a leak at the surgical reconnection site.
Risks and Complications
Risks and complications of weight loss surgery include, but are not limited to, the usual risks of any surgery using general anesthesia, including potential problems with:
- Pneumonia
- Blood clots, including pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung)
- Bleeding
- Hernias at the site of the incision
- Infection
- Death
Potential complications of Single Anastomosis (Loop) Duodenal Switch surgery include:
- Leaks
- Bowel obstruction
- Stricture
Your surgeon will discuss how the benefits may outweigh the risks and complications of surgery as well as any nutrition requirements you will need to follow long term.