Mini Gastric Bypass: Is it better than Standard Gastric Bypass Surgery?

What is the Mini Gastric Bypass?

The mini gastric bypass (MGB) is considered a new and promising option for patients to lose weight. It effectively combines the gastric sleeve and the gastric bypass surgery principles with less cutting and less risk.

This means that it is quicker and safer without being less effective.

The stomach is divided using a staple device, so you end up with a bigger stomach (below the staple line) and a small stomach pouch shaped like a tube, with a capacity of 50 ml.

Then, the smaller stomach is sutured to a loop of the intestine. This is called an anastomosis or joint between a part of the stomach and the small bowel, bypassing approx. 200 cm of intestine.

On the other hand, the bigger stomach, which no longer is available to receive food, still produces gastric juices and enzymes that travel through the small bowel.

Written by Dr Osama Bahsas Zaky (Bariatric surgery specialist).
Updated on June 28, 2021

How Does the Procedure Work?

Differences Between the Mini Gastric Bypass and the Standard.

How is the Operation Performed?

Is the Procedure Adequate for Me?

How Much Weight Can You Lose?

Benefits and Disadvantages.

Possible complications.

Final Word.

How does Mini Gastric Bypass work?

The mini gastric bypass uses the restrictive and malabsorptive method to lose weight.

With the restrictive method, the reduction in the gastric capacity induces satiation. In other words, by creating a smaller stomach, you will feel fuller in a shorter time. This will make you eat smaller portions. Hence, you lose weight!

By contrast, the malabsorptive method means that with the rerouting of food or bypassing the first part of the small intestine (200 cm) and reducing the amount of calories you absorb. Also, there is an alteration of the gut hormones involved in appetite control, so you feel satiated with less food.

Mini gastric bypass

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE MINI BYPASS AND THE STANDARD.

The biggest difference is in the number of anastomosis or cut/joints.

The standard gastric bypass surgery (GBS), also known as Roux–en-Y anastomosis, involves two anastomoses with the intestines. This means more time and chance for complications.

Conversely, the mini gastric bypass has the huge advantage that involves only one anastomosis. That’s why this procedure is also known as the one-anastomosis gastric bypass or Omega Loop GB.

How is the Mini Gastric Bypass Done?

The mini gastric bypass operation can be done approximately in 30-40 minutes (60 minutes less in comparison to standard procedure) under general anesthetic, using laparoscopic (keyhole)  technique than involve making small incisions in your abdomen.

Through those keyholes, various instruments are introduced in your abdomen, avoiding the need for open surgery.

This non-invasive approach allows for a fast recovery, short hospital stay (1,5 days) with fewer complications.

Is the mini gastric bypass adequate for Me?

Patients who qualify for these types of bypass procedures have a BMI over 40, or a BMI >35 with associated obesity health conditions like type 2 diabetes or hypertension.

So, in case you are considering a weight loss surgery like the standard GB or the gastric sleeve, you could opt for a mini bypass, but your bariatric surgeon should have the final word.

HOW MUCH WEIGHT CAN YOU LOSE ?

It is well known that the weight loss with the gastric band is lower in comparison with the gastric sleeve or the Roux-En-Y gastric bypass.

However, it´s been determined that the weight loss with the mini bypass is equal, if not better, than with the standard GBS.

You could have a total weight loss of near 70-80% over two years after the procedure, with good long-term results.

What are The Benefits?

It’s a shorter procedure, which translates into less time in an operating room. Also, technically it’s an easier procedure to be performed by surgeons.

In experienced hands, this entails less room for errors and complications. Less cutting means less bleeding and complications!

What are The Disadvantages?

A disadvantage of this type of procedure is the risk of developing severe acid reflux or reflux of the bile. Patients who have a previous history of acid reflux shouldn’t opt for this type of surgery.

Besides, you could develop malabsorption of vitamins and minerals, with the need for taking supplements for a long time.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

They are low but still possible, with a rate of 5,3%. Patient has a small chance of develop an internal hernia, where the intestines twist on themselves. However, this risk is greater with standard GBS, reporting an incidence of 2:100. Vs. 1:500 cases.

Like any abdominal surgical procedure, there is a chance of developing adhesions or scar tissue, bleeding, clots, and infections, that may or may not require a new intervention.

Final Word

In recent years, the mini gastric bypass surgery has been proven to be simple, effective, and safe.

However, its superiority over the standard procedure is still under question and more studies need to be conducted.

For that reason, you have to put yourself in professional hands to help you make the best decision!

Other articles that may interest you – External links – Bibliography

Gastric Bypass Surgery: The Gold Standard Surgery for Losing Weight

Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Endoscopic gastroplasty. Risks, results, cost

Gastric balloon.

Non-surgical gastric band procedures

Blog: Weight loss surgery prices

ASGE – American society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

EFAD – European Federation of the Associations of Dietitians

Dr. Eduard Targarona Specialist in Bariatric Surgery

Doctor Eduard Mª Targarona Soler

Specialist in Bariatric Surgery and Obesity Surgery.

Current President of the Spanish Association of Surgeons (AEC).

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