How the Duodenal Switch Works to Help You Reach Your Goals

Have you tried losing weight over and over with no significant results? You’re not alone. More than a third of Americans are obese, and another 32% are overweight. If you’re ready to commit to surgery to take the weight off, it’s time to consider a surgical procedure called the duodenal switch. 

At Turnquest Surgical Solutions, our board-certified general and bariatric surgeons, Dexter Turnquest, MD, and Victoria C. Chang, MD, provide compassionate care to help you reach your weight loss goals. 

We examine your medical history and consult with you to determine if duodenal switch surgery is the best approach considering your health and circumstances. 

Who is a candidate for duodenal switch surgery?

You may be a candidate for the duodenal switch if you’re obese with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more and/or are more than 100 pounds over a normal weight for your height and body type, and if your general health isn’t severely compromised. 

In addition, if your BMI is 35 or more and you already have health conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, heart disease or other health factors, you may be a candidate for this procedure. We make a determination on a case-by-case basis. 

What happens during duodenal switch surgery? 

During the first part of the surgery, we remove a significant portion (up to 80%) of your stomach and create a pouch that looks like a tube. We bypass up to two-thirds of your small intestine but leave in place a valve that releases food into it. 

In the next part of the surgery, we join what’s left of your small intestine to the duodenum (the first part of your small intestine) near your stomach. 

Why duodenal switch surgery helps you lose weight 

Duodenal switch surgery offers significant results. The average weight loss after two years is 80% of the excess weight. Here’s why.

First, your stomach is much, much smaller than it was originally. It’s now a thin tube instead of a large pouch. You eat smaller meals because your stomach simply can’t hold as much, and your body can’t absorb as much fat. 

Your small intestine is also much shorter. Food moves through your stomach to the small intestine, so because the small intestine is shorter, it can’t absorb the same amount of nutrition as it did when it was longer. You’re essentially forced to eat less food, and the good news is that you feel full. 

Finally, your food cravings are greatly reduced. Your stomach and small intestine produce hormones that carry a signal to your brain signaling hunger. You produce fewer of those hormones after the surgery. 

After the duodenal switch

In order to have bariatric surgery, you need to be committed to losing weight and ready for new eating habits. You won’t be able to eat as much. 

You also need to take nutritional supplements every day for the rest of your life. Since many people already take vitamin supplements, that shouldn’t be a barrier, but it’s something you should know before you have the surgery. 

We explain all the ins and outs of duodenal switch surgery as well as the risks before you commit to the procedure. For expert surgical weight loss options, call one of our two Houston, Texas, locations or book an appointment online today.