Bariatric Surgery
Weight loss solutions are available at Main Line Health. Explore your bariatric surgery options today at locations throughout the Philadelphia area.
Duodenal Switch
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a lifelong process and different for each patient. You’re an individual with unique needs, which is why we offer a variety of treatment options to help those looking to lose weight, including the Duodenal Switch procedure.
What is duodenal switch?
A duodenal switch procedure reduces stomach capacity and alters calorie absorption to achieve weight loss. In this procedure about 2/3 of stomach is removed and only about half of the intestines are used for absorption of calories.
This causes a decrease in the amount of calories your body takes in, causing your body to use up energy it stores. This treatment is more effective and sustainable than all other weight loss medications and diet programs. Health recovery after surgery is more sustainable because the procedure rebalances gut hormones that reduce hunger, allowing you to maintain the feeling of fullness.
Who qualifies for this surgery?
The duodenal switch is a more involved procedure that is usually reserved for patients with a BMI greater than 50 or for those who have multiple health issues.
The procedure offers the greatest amount of weight loss and the highest rate of improvement of comorbidities (medical conditions related to obesity). It also has the greatest degree of weight loss maintenance. Patients are carefully selected for this procedure and are closely monitored long term.
Our team can help you determine if this procedure is right for you, starting with a free information session where you’ll meet bariatric surgeon Richard D. Ing, MD or Samantha Witte, MD.
It’s important to remember that every weight loss journey is different, and your provider will discuss all of your weight loss surgery options after taking into consideration your health history and other factors, including mental health. Having a healthy mindset is incredibly important to long-term weight success.
What to expect from duodenal switch
The duodenal switch procedure is performed using minimally invasive techniques through small incisions.
You typically go home from the hospital after an overnight stay and follow a graduated diet at home. Initially, you begin on liquids and then transition to regular food over the course of several weeks. After surgery, you’ll also tale protein and vitamin supplements for life.
The first two years after surgery will be your most dramatic weight-loss period. During this time, you’ll also have frequent check-ups with your provider and the rest of our team. They will monitor your progress and health status. Daily nutritional supplements and annual check-ups are recommended for the rest of your life to ensure you’re receiving proper nourishment.
Any weight loss surgery is not an easy fix. It requires you to change your diet after the procedure, which is why we work closely with you, offering emotional and psychological support throughout your weight loss journey as well as a monthly bariatric support group to participate in.
Benefits and risks
Duodenal switch surgery has a very high success rate for patients — 90% of people lose at least 50% of their excess weight, with many losing more than that. Many people with Type 2 diabetes are also able to stop taking medication after a duodenal switch.
Like any surgical procedure, however, there are also possible risks to be aware of, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Hernias
- Bowel obstruction
- Anastomotic leaks
Comprehensive Weight and Wellness
The weight loss doctors and specialists at Main Line Health in the western suburbs of Philadelphia want you to know that we can help—and we are experts in weight loss that actually works, for a lifetime. Find a weight loss doctor near me.