Summary: The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is one of the most popular options for patients who undergo bariatric weight-loss surgery. But like any other surgical procedure, it comes with certain risks. In this article, we will examine the risks associated with the Roux-en-Y bypass procedure.

When considering a weight loss surgery procedure, you have quite a few options available to you. One of the first choices you (and your doctor) will have to make is whether you should have a restrictive or malabsorptive procedure, or a procedure that combines both of these concepts.

The Roux-en-Y for Weight Loss

The Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery is an example of a bariatric procedure that is both restrictive and malabsorptive in nature. The Roux-en-Y segments the stomach while also reshaping the intestines, thus it combines both concepts into one surgery.

Potential Risks of This Procedure

Now that you have a better understanding of what this procedure is and how it works, let’s talk about the risks associated with the Roux-en-Y bypass surgery:

  • Because the duodenum is bypassed, poor absorption of iron and calcium can result in the lowering of total body iron and a predisposition to iron deficiency anemia. This is a particular concern for patients who experience chronic blood loss during excessive menstrual flow or bleeding hemorrhoids. Women, already at risk for osteoporosis that can occur after menopause, should be aware of the potential for heightened bone calcium loss.
  • Bypassing the duodenum has caused metabolic bone disease in some patients, resulting in bone pain, loss of height, humped back and fractures of the ribs and hip bones. All of the deficiencies mentioned above, however, can be managed through proper diet and vitamin supplements.
  • A condition known as “dumping syndrome” can occur as the result of rapid emptying of stomach contents into the small intestine. This is sometimes triggered when too much sugar or large amounts of food are consumed. While generally not considered to be a serious risk to your health, the results can be extremely unpleasant and can include nausea, weakness, sweating, faintness and, on occasion, diarrhea after eating. Some patients are unable to eat any form of sweets after surgery.
  • A chronic anemia due to Vitamin B12 deficiency may occur. The problem can usually be managed with Vitamin B12 pills or injections.
  • The bypassed portion of the stomach, duodenum and segments of the small intestine cannot be easily visualized using X-ray or endoscopy if problems such as ulcers, bleeding or malignancy should occur.
  • In some cases, the effectiveness of the procedure may be reduced if the stomach pouch is stretched and/or if it is initially left larger than 15-30cc.

As a patient considering the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery you must weight the potential risks against the gains. Surely, there are advantages to this procedure when compared to other bariatric surgery options. For instance, patients experience an average weight loss of 77% of body weight one year after surgery. But as you can see from the list provided above, there are serious risks to consider as well.

Consider this article a jumping-off point for your further research. This article is by no means a comprehensive review of the subject. There is much more to learn about Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery if you are seriously considering it.