Duodenal Switch

The duodenal switch (DS), also known as the biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch (BPD/DS), is a predominantly malabsorptive operation. It entails the removal of a portion of the stomach and the rerouting of the majority of the intestinal tract. The combination of reduced caloric intake and the significant malabsorption that ensues leads to a high rate of sustained weight loss. However, the incidence of nutritional deficiencies, metabolic derangements, and other side effects related to the extensive intestinal rerouting, is higher than with other operations. As a result, it is the least performed bariatric procedure (2-3%), often reserved for patients with extreme metabolic disease who have met rigorous selection guidelines to minimize such complications. In the US, the Roux en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) has mostly replaced the DS, although the latter is the procedure of choice for RYGB “failures.”

At University Bariatrics, one of our primary goals is to educate patients about all of the available options. The ultimate decision, however, rests with you. Should you choose to pursue a procedure not offered directly by us, we can refer you to the most appropriate center(s) that can best meet your goals.