The duodenal switch (DS) is mainly a malabsorptive procedure. It causes weight loss not only by reducing the stomach size somewhat but mainly by bypass a long length of the small intestine. The surgery is best for patients with a BMI more than 50 kg/m2, since there is a risk of losing too much weight and malnutrition from excess weight loss and poor absorption.

The stomach is reduced in size to a long, tube-like vertical pouch, about 4-5 ounces in size with moderate restriction of food intake. The small intestine is divided to separate food from the digestive juices, causing significant malabsorption. This surgery is reserved for a select group of patients, considered to have more risks than all the other procedures with more bowel movements. Patients need to more closely monitor protein, vitamin and mineral levels in this procedure with more concern for malnutrition.

For more information about the Duodenal Switch, please contact us.