Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
Roux-en-Y gastric bypass is a laparoscopic bariatric and metabolic procedure that combines restriction of stomach volume with rerouting of part of the small intestine. It is often considered for patients with type 2 diabetes or severe reflux.
Indications
Recommended for adults with a BMI ≥ 40, or ≥ 35 with significant obesity-related conditions (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, severe reflux), after a multidisciplinary evaluation.
Technique
A small (~30 mL) gastric pouch is separated from the rest of the stomach and connected to a Roux limb of the small intestine, while digestive secretions reach the food further down the bowel.
Recovery
Hospital stay is typically 3–4 nights. A staged liquid → puree → soft → solid diet is followed during the first 4–6 weeks. Long-term follow-up and supplementation are essential.
Risks
Possible risks include bleeding, anastomotic leak, infection, venous thromboembolism, dumping syndrome, internal hernia and long-term nutritional deficiencies. Risks are reviewed individually.
Frequently asked questions
How is Roux-en-Y gastric bypass different from sleeve gastrectomy?
Gastric bypass combines restriction with an intestinal rerouting, which often gives stronger metabolic effects on type 2 diabetes and reflux, but requires stricter lifelong nutritional follow-up.
Who is a candidate?
Adults with a BMI ≥ 40, or ≥ 35 with significant obesity-related conditions, after a multidisciplinary evaluation. Patients with severe reflux or established type 2 diabetes are often considered specifically for bypass.
What about long-term vitamins?
Lifelong supplementation (typically iron, B12, calcium, vitamin D, multivitamin) and periodic blood tests are required.
Last updated: 31.05.2026 · Medical content: Op.Dr.Gökhan ATEŞ