A duodenal switch, or biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch (BPD-DS), is a surgical procedure for weight loss. It is used to treat severe obesity. It involves two main components. Sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal rearrangement. It is similar to a SADI-S but here the surgeon also creates a loop in the small intestine.

The procedure removes a large portion of the stomach. This creates a smaller, banana-shaped stomach pouch. In turn, this restricts the amount of food you can eat. And, absorption of nutrients changes because it bypasses part of the small intestine.

Here are five important points about Duodenal Switch surgery:

1. Dual Procedure: Duodenal Switch combines a sleeve gastrectomy (reducing stomach size) with an intestinal bypass, significantly limiting calorie absorption and food intake.
2. High Weight Loss: It is one of the most effective bariatric surgeries for achieving significant and sustained weight loss, especially in individuals with severe obesity.
3. Metabolic Benefits: The procedure is highly effective in improving or resolving metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Good candidates for a duodenal switch are people who

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher
• Have tried to lose weight with diet and exercise alone for at least six months without success
• Are committed to making permanent lifestyle changes. This means adopting a healthy diet. And engaging in regular physical activity.
• Are free from any medical conditions that would make surgery too risky.

Talk to your doctor. Together you will assess your situation. And help you choose your most appropriate surgical option.

Our Surgeons

Dr. Sergio Verboonen

Dr. Jeffry Romero

Benefits of a duodenal switch and who may be good candidates

The surgery produces significant and sustained weight loss. It combines reducing food intake with a change in absorption of nutrients. Together helps people lose a substantial amount of excess weight.

This surgery can lead to improvements. Or even resolution of obesity-related health conditions. Examples are type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. It can help with other conditions too like sleep apnea, and high cholesterol. The procedure can improve blood sugar control and reduce blood pressure. It can even improve lipid profile.

The duodenal switch maintains long-term weight loss for many patients. It restricts the amount of food consumed. It changes the absorption of nutrients. The result is that it helps people maintain weight loss over time.

The surgery reduces the risk of developing serious health problems. Heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers can be related to obesity. Other conditions are joint problems and infertility.