Duodenal Switch Surgery

Duodenal switch surgery is a weight-loss procedure that combines the principles of restriction and malabsorption by making the stomach smaller and rerouting the intestines. This combination of treatments is a proven, effective way to lose weight and improve weight-related health issues.

Biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD-DS) surgery is a 2-part procedure in which approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed (similar to the gastric sleeve surgery). Then, a small, tubular stomach pouch is created. The outlet of the newly created stomach pouch is then connected to the last portion of the small intestine, called the duodenum.

BPD-DS is a type of bariatric weight-loss surgery for people who need to reduce their weight and improve obesity-related health problems.

You will receive an evaluation to determine if duodenal switch surgery is right for you. To be a candidate, you must be morbidly obese or superobese (have a BMI greater than 50) and be healthy enough to tolerate surgery. Those who have comorbid conditions, like diabetes, are good candidates as well. Your physician will talk to you about which type of bariatric surgery is right for you.

With this procedure, the food empties directly into the duodenum, bypassing about ¾ of the small intestine. This causes the body to absorb fewer calories and nutrients. Duodenal switch surgery affects hormones in the gut to reduce hunger, increase satiety and help control blood sugar to effectively treat diabetes.

Duodenal switch surgery is an inpatient procedure that requires general anesthesia. After the surgery, you will spend 2 nights in the hospital. Your diet will start with clear liquids, and you will then transition to soft foods until your body can adjust to solid foods again. Initially, you will feel full very quickly after eating a small amount of food. However, over time, you will be able to consume normal amounts of food again.

Duodenal switch surgery requires a very strict diet and vitamin supplementation after surgery to avoid malnutrition. It’s important that you follow your care team’s instructions to avoid complications.

Duodenal switch surgery is a highly complex procedure. In fact, it is the most complex type of bariatric surgery and carries the most risk of complications. For this reason, choosing a highly skilled surgeon is very important.

Our board-certified bariatric surgeons have had exclusive training in this procedure. With more than 15 years of experience, they specialize in performing weight-loss surgery using the most up-to-date, minimally invasive techniques to reduce pain and discomfort and speed recovery.