Duodenal Switch
Duodenal Switch is a hybrid surgical procedure that has two aspects that reduce weight.
- The smaller stomach size limits the amount of food that can be taken in to about 120-150cc (1/2-3/4 Cup).
- The small bowel is re attached in such a fashion as to keep the biliopancreatic juices away from the food until the last portion of the small bowel, enabling limited absorption of the food that is eaten. The stomach is decreased in size by doing a sleeve Gastrectomy that takes proportional amounts of areas of the stomach that make important enzymes and chemicals. The hallmark of Duodenal Switch operation is the preservation of the pyloric valve. The pyloric valve is at the last portion of the stomach and acts as a gateway to the small bowel. The food product needs to be of the right chemical and mechanical consistency before the pyloric valve will allow the food product to progress into the small bowel. The appendix and the gallbladder are also removed.
Image Courtesy of ETHICON