For some people, a healthy diet and rigorous exercise isn’t enough for dramatic weight loss. The Duke Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery at Durham Regional Hospital may be the answer with two different surgical methods to help those at risk for serious weight-related health issues. Combining advanced surgical techniques with comprehensive counseling, we can help to welcome newfound freedom and long-term success.

Duke Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery is an American Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS) Center of Excellence. The ASBS Center of Excellence designation recognizes surgical programs with a demonstrated track record of favorable outcomes in bariatric surgery.

Roux-en-Y

Our surgeons perform one type of gastric bypass surgery known as Roux-en-Y. It is the most common surgical procedure performed for weight loss. It results in weight loss partly by bypassing some of the small intestines so the patient absorbs less fatty foods.

The Duke Center for Metabolic and Weight Loss Surgery uses laparoscopic techniques to avoid large incisions into the abdomen; however, a conversion to open surgery can be done if deemed necessary. During surgery, a small pouch is created in the stomach with a stapler device. The small intestines are then divided and one end is brought up and connected to the small stomach pouch using the stapler. The intestines are then reconnected.

In more than 15 years of follow up, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass has resulted in consistent 120 to 140 pound weight loss and maintenance of weight loss in properly selected patients.

LapBand

A new alternative to Roux-en-Y is the LapBand procedure, which places an inflatable band around the top part of the stomach to create a small gastric pouch. The band has a plastic ring lining the inside that can be filled with water to narrow the stomach opening, thus limiting the amount of food that can pass through over time. The amount of water in the plastic ring is adjusted by placing a needle into the plastic access port and adding or withdrawing fluid.

Compared to the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, the LapBand procedure is less invasive with fewer chances for complications. On the other hand, the LapBand procedure is often not covered by insurance companies and results in slower weight loss (most patients will lose slightly less than half of their excess body weight), requires more frequent office visits for adjustments, and being a newer surgical techniques, does not have long-term follow-up.

For more information, visit http://dukehealth.org/weightlosssurgery

Da Vinci Surgical System:

Durham Regional has welcomed a new surgical assistant to its Operating Rooms. Click here to learn more about how the da Vinci Surgical System is being used for Weight Loss Surgery.