What is Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass?
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The laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RNY) is commonly referred to as “gastric bypass.” This procedure involves the creation of a small gastric pouch (roughly the size of a golf ball) from the top part of the patient’s existing stomach. The patient’s small intestine is divided and connected to the gastric pouch (the “Roux” limb). The beginning of the small intestine (the “biliopancreatic limb”) is then connected further down the small intestine.
It is highly recommended that patients DO NOT take NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) after RNY, as this can lead to stomach ulcers. A complete list of prohibited NSAIDS medications is available at the OWLS office.
What is the Recovery Time?
The hospital stay for the gastric bypass procedure is typically 2 days. Recovery period for the bypass is slightly more than with the adjustable gastric banding procedure as it is more invasive. Many patients who have sedentary jobs often return to work within 2-4 weeks. Patients with jobs that require more physical effort may be out of work for 4-6 weeks.
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Gastric Bypass
There are also risks associated with weight loss surgery. The following charts demonstrate the risks of known complications in bariatric procedures in Oregon Weight Loss Surgery patients compared to nationally reported results. |
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| Complication |
National Results |
OWLS Results |
| Death |
1% |
0.1% |
| Anastomotic Leak |
1% |
0.9% |
| Wound Infection |
2% |
0.9% |
| Blood Clots: Legs or Lung |
1% |
0.8% |
| Bleeding |
3% |
2% |
| Anastomotic Stricture/Ulcer |
N/A |
11% |
| Internal Hernia |
N/A |
12% |
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