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Duodenal switch surgery

Duodenal switch surgery changes the size of your stomach, as well as your ability to absorb calories.

This surgery is a combination of the sleeve gastrectomy surgery and gastric bypass surgery (Roux-en-Y). It changes the amount of food you can eat and your ability to absorb calories to help you succeed at long-term weight loss. Weight loss is rapid.

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What to expect from duodenal switch surgery

  • You can expect that it will take at least three to six months to prepare for surgery.
  • The care team will talk with you to help you determine the operation that is best to meet your goals.
  • You will get a lot of education and information before surgery to make sure you feel prepared and ready for surgery.
  • You will have several clinic visits before surgery.
  • During your hospital stay, you will receive care from specially trained staff members.
  • You will have a private hospital room during your hospital stay.
  • You will be encouraged to follow up with us at least once a year, every year after surgery.

What happens after surgery

After duodenal switch surgery, you will stay in the hospital for two to three nights. Before returning home, you will receive instructions from your care team to remind you about the education you received in the clinic before surgery. The doctor or medical provider will give you information for pain management and other medications you will take when you get home.

We will work with you and your insurance company to understand what services and care are covered.

Duodenal switch surgery is good for treating

Weight loss not only makes you feel better, move better and improve your energy, many other health problems get better:

  • type 2 diabetes
  • high blood pressure
  • sleep apnea
  • arthritis
  • heart disease
  • high cholesterol
  • polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
  • infertility
  • headaches
  • back and joint pain

Related links

Source: Deborah Vanderhall, RN, program manager, Allina Health Weight Management
Reviewed by: Charles Svendsen, MD, MBA, program medial director, Allina Health Weight Management

First published: 12/13/2017
Last reviewed: 12/11/2017