Duodenal Switch Surgery in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. we offer the most advanced bariatric solutions to help patients achieve their weight loss and health goals. Our expert team, led by the best bariatric surgeons in Dubai, is equipped with the latest technologies and surgical techniques. One of the most effective weight loss surgeries we offer is the Duodenal Switch procedure, also known as Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD-DS). This procedure combines restrictive and malabsorptive elements, making it an ideal choice for individuals with severe obesity or those who need to lose a significant amount of weight.
Understanding Duodenal Switch
The Duodenal Switch is a comprehensive bariatric procedure designed to help patients achieve significant and sustained weight loss. It combines two surgical techniques:
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: This is the restrictive part of the surgery, where a large portion of the stomach is removed. The remaining stomach is shaped like a tube or sleeve, significantly reducing its capacity. This helps patients feel full faster and reduces the amount of food they can consume.
- Intestinal Bypass: This is the malabsorptive part of the surgery, which involves rerouting a significant portion of the small intestine. By bypassing a large section of the intestine, the body absorbs fewer calories and nutrients from food.
The Duodenal Switch is often recommended for patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 50 or higher, or those with severe obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. It is one of the most effective bariatric surgeries for long-term weight loss, especially for patients struggling with morbid obesity.
This procedure is highly effective because it not only reduces the size of the stomach but also limits the absorption of calories and nutrients, resulting in substantial weight loss and improvements in obesity-related health conditions. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our highly skilled bariatric surgeons and multidisciplinary team provide personalized care throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to post-operative support.
Procedure
The Duodenal Switch surgery is typically performed laparoscopically, using minimally invasive techniques. This approach involves smaller incisions, resulting in reduced scarring, less pain, and quicker recovery times. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the procedure:
- Anesthesia and Preparation: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The patient is carefully positioned, and the surgical area is prepped.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: The surgeon begins by removing about 70-80% of the stomach, leaving a narrow sleeve-shaped stomach. This reduces the stomach’s capacity, limiting food intake.
- Intestinal Bypass: Next, the small intestine is divided into two sections. The surgeon reroutes the lower part of the small intestine (ileum) to connect it directly to the duodenum, just below the stomach. This bypasses a significant portion of the small intestine, reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients.
- Reconnection of Digestive Tract: The remaining section of the intestine, which carries bile and pancreatic enzymes, is reconnected lower in the digestive tract. This helps with the breakdown of food, although fewer calories are absorbed overall.
- Closure and Monitoring: After the reconnections are made, the incisions are closed. The patient is monitored in a recovery room before being transferred to a hospital room for further observation.
The entire procedure typically takes about 3-4 hours. Patients usually stay in the hospital for 2-3 days, during which they receive comprehensive care and support from our medical team.
Benefits of Duodenal Switch
The Duodenal Switch offers several significant benefits, making it one of the most effective bariatric surgeries available:
- Substantial Weight Loss: Patients can expect to lose 70-80% of their excess weight within the first 18-24 months after surgery. This level of weight loss is higher compared to other bariatric procedures.
- Long-Term Results: The combination of restrictive and malabsorptive components ensures durable weight loss and helps prevent weight regain. Many patients maintain their weight loss for years after the procedure.
- Improvement of Obesity-Related Conditions: The surgery has a profound impact on obesity-related health issues. It often leads to complete resolution or significant improvement in type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and sleep apnea.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients experience an overall improvement in their quality of life, with increased mobility, reduced joint pain, and better mental health.
- Minimal Risk of Dumping Syndrome: Unlike other bariatric procedures, the Duodenal Switch carries a lower risk of dumping syndrome, a condition where food moves too quickly from the stomach to the intestine, causing discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
The procedure is ideal for individuals with a BMI of 50 or higher or those with severe obesity-related health issues. It’s best suited for patients who need significant, long-term weight loss.
The surgery usually takes about 3-4 hours. It is performed laparoscopically, which means smaller incisions and a shorter recovery time.
Most patients stay in the hospital for 2-3 days and can return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks, depending on their overall health and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
Patients typically lose 70-80% of their excess weight within 18-24 months after the surgery. The exact amount of weight loss varies based on individual factors and adherence to lifestyle changes.
As with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, and nutrient deficiencies. However, with the expertise of our top bariatric surgeons and comprehensive follow-up care, these risks are minimized.
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