Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure used in the treatment of obesity, which is based on the principle of both reducing the stomach volume and reorganizing the digestive system through surgical intervention. During the surgery, a large part of the stomach is bypassed and a small stomach pouch is created. This pouch provides a limited area where food can be stored, which causes the patient to feel full with less food. Then, a part of the small intestine is bypassed, allowing food to reach the further part of the intestines more quickly, which reduces calorie and nutrient absorption.

Gastric bypass surgery both accelerates weight loss and can improve obesity-related health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. After the surgery, patients can only eat small portions, and these portions are quickly digested and absorbed by the body in a limited way. This makes it easier for the patient to lose weight. However, it is important to pay attention to regular nutrition and supplements after surgery, because the absorption of some vitamins and minerals may decrease.

Although gastric bypass provides effective weight loss, the patient must adopt a healthy lifestyle in the post-operative period. Otherwise, weight regain is possible over time. Surgery is not only a physical intervention, but also requires radical changes in eating habits and lifestyle.

Gastric bypass surgery is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia and is usually performed with the laparoscopic (closed) method. In this method, surgery is performed using a camera and surgical instruments through small incisions opened in the abdominal area. In the first stage of the surgery, a large part of the stomach is bypassed and a small stomach pouch is created in the upper part of the stomach. This pouch significantly reduces the stomach capacity and allows the person to feel full with less food.

In the second stage of the surgery, a section of the small intestine is connected to the stomach pouch. In this procedure, the first section of the small intestine is bypassed and the path that food follows in the digestive system is changed. In this way, food passes directly to the forward part of the small intestine, which reduces the absorption of nutrients and calories. Digestive fluids and enzymes continue to travel to the intestines normally, and food is digested by meeting these fluids in the lower part of the intestines.

After the surgery is completed, patients feel full with smaller portions and begin to lose weight because some of the calories taken are excreted without being absorbed. This operation is a powerful method for effective weight loss and control of metabolic diseases. After the surgery, patients go through a certain recovery process and have to follow their eating habits regularly.

Gastric bypass surgery, although an effective method in the treatment of obesity and metabolic diseases, carries some risks and complications, as with any surgical procedure. Here are the main risks of gastric bypass surgery:

Surgical Complications:

Bleeding, infection or anesthesia-related complications may develop during or immediately after surgery. In addition, leakage may occur in the intestines. This is a serious complication and may require emergency intervention.

Dumping Syndrome:

Nausea, diarrhea, dizziness and abdominal cramps may be observed due to the rapid passage of food, especially sugary and fatty foods, from the stomach to the small intestine. Dumping syndrome is a common complication in patients who have gastric bypass surgery.

Lack of Nutrient Absorption:

The absorption of nutrients may decrease after gastric bypass surgery. This can lead to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, vitamin B12, and folic acid. Therefore, vitamin and mineral supplements may be required for life.

Intestinal Obstruction:

There is a risk of intestinal obstruction after surgery. This condition can rarely be seen as a result of the anatomical structure of the gastric bypass being changed.

Gallstones:

Rapid weight loss can cause gallstones to form. This may require removal of the gallbladder.

Weight Regain:

Although surgery provides effective weight loss, patients may experience weight regain over time if lifestyle changes are not followed.

Anastomosis Narrowing (Stricture):

Narrowing may occur at the connection points (anastomosis) and this may cause difficulty in eating and drinking. This condition can be treated with an endoscopic intervention.

To minimize these risks after gastric bypass surgery, it is necessary to follow the doctor's follow-up before and after the surgery, regular nutrition, vitamin supplements and lifestyle changes.