A duodenal switch surgery is an alternative to gastric bypass surgery. It has been very successful in helping to reduce the side effects of gastric bypass surgery. Studies done in Europe have even proven it's effectiveness on curing type 2 diabetes. Although studies are still being done so far this looks like a less evasive surgery compared to gastric bypass surgery.

How Does Duodenal Switch Work

This surgery combines restrictive and malabsorption processes in order to meet the goal of weight loss. Duodenal Switch surgery involves removing 70% of your stomach around the curvature area this is the restrictive part of the surgery. The next step is the malabsorption part which involves rerouting a large section of your small intestines. This idea is to limit the amount of time your body has to absorb the fat and calories from the food in your intestines. Your body will only absorb about 20% of the fat it takes in, which in turn will help you lose weight.

Effects on Type 2 Diabetes

Since type 2 diabetes is significantly associated with obesity, having this operation will drastically reduce the body fat to allow the pancreas to work properly. With proper diet and exercise this is sometimes enough to help your body cure itself of type 2 diabetes. Know this process may not work in everyone because sometimes there are other factors for type 2 diabetes, but with a 98% effectiveness on many patients it is still a valid alternative.

Benefits for People With Type 2 Diabetes

Because the Duodenal Switch surgery works on both the restrictive and malabsorption theory the weight loss is very rapid, which is very beneficial to the patient. Your diet for the duodenal switch surgery can return to fairly normal after the surgery with just a small adjustment in your vitamin and mineral intake. Recovery time is also shorter for the duodenal switch compared to the gastric bypass surgery.

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of the duodenal switch surgery are very mild in comparison to other gastric bypass surgery. Many patients have experienced gallstones because of the rapid weight loss. Your doctor may decide to remove your gall bladder as a preliminary precaution. Some patients have experienced and increase in loose stool which is regulate with diet. The restrictive part of the surgery cannot be reversed although the stomach does stretch over time it will never go back to its full size.

If you are a patient who has type 2 diabetes and are morbidly obese this alternative to gastric bypass surgery could be what you are looking for. Discuss any ideas you have with your doctor to see if this type of procedure is right for you. Always research any type of surgery thoroughly to make sure there are no doubts in your head about anything you are looking at doing. It is highly recommended to use a doctor that has done this type of surgery before and uses a facility that is ready to handle any problems that may come up. Any type of surgery is risky and you should discuss all options with your doctor.