What is it?

This is a relatively new procedure which combines many of the aspects of existing operations.  The procedure is performed by keyhole (laparoscopic techniques).  A long thin pouch is formed and a loop of bowel joined to it.

What does the surgery involve?

The procedure is performed laparoscopically under general anaesthetic and lasts between 1 to 2 hours.  The top part of the stomach is divided to form a long, thin pouch.  The rest of the stomach stays in place.  A loop of small bowel about 2 metre long is taken up and joined to the pouch.  Compared to the gastric bypass, the pouch is longer and the bowel is not divided to stop digestive juices irritating the pouch.

How well will I do?

This remains a relatively new procedure.  Currently this is performed under careful longterm observation.  The short and medium term outcomes are reasonable and it seems as safe as other operations but we just don’t know how well it will do in the longterm.  Early outcomes seem encouraging.

What is my recovery like?

Patients would be expected to remain in hospital for 1 or 2 nights.  There will be structured dietary advice and a liquid diet for the first weeks.  Most patients will usually return to desk jobs in about 4 weeks and more active work at 6 to 8 weeks.  Often patients take 2 or 3 weeks until they feel able to drive again, as guided by DVLC advice.