About Our Program |
About the Procedure |
Are You a Candidate? |
FAQs |
Obesity-related Health Risks |
Our Physicians |
Patient Education |
Preparation |
Procedure |
Recovery |
Support Groups and Resources |
Understanding Obesity
Laparoscopic surgery uses small incisions and a tiny video camera to enable the surgeon to view and perform the procedure using a video monitor, while open gastric bypass surgery uses a single, larger incision. The objective of the surgery is the same for both approaches. A UT Southwestern Medical Center specialist will clearly explain why one approach is preferable, depending on the patient’s specific condition.
Gastric bypass procedures are often described as employing malabsorptive and restrictive techniques. By rerouting the small intestine to bypass the duodenum, the absorption of food calories is minimized. Or by creating a small stomach pouch, the procedure restricts the amount of food an individual can eat.
