Mini Gastric Bypass

The mini gastric bypass procedure takes less time in the operating room than the more "traditional" Roux-en-Y surgery, but does that really mean it's safer?

The mini gastric bypass is a surgery done using a laparoscopic technique, which avoids large scars and cuts down on operating time. However, this is still a very drastic procedure, and many large insurance companies consider it to be "investigational or experimental" and will not cover it even if other forms of gastric bypass surgery are allowed.

I checked the medical policy of two large West Coast health insurance companies and they both cite unacceptable complications as the reasons for their refusal to cover this procedure.

The mini gastric bypass may be misnamed. It is "mini" only because the incisions are small. The surgical changes are quite extensive, as you can see from the illustration. The procedure resembles the Billroth II procedure, a surgical treatment for stomach cancer.

According to the insurance companies' policy manuals, the type of surgical connection used in the mini gastric bypass procedure can cause biliary reflux gastritis and other complications.

This mini gastric bypass procedure "works" in two ways to help patients lose weight. 1. The stomach is smaller, and 2. the upper intestine (and it's digestive juices) are bypassed. This allows fewer nutrients to be absorbed, and may cause vitamin deficiencies and other problems. Patients who undergo this type of surgery must stay in close contact with their nutritional counsellors and surgical clinic.

Read one insurance company's policy on gastric bypass surgery.

Jonni Good is the author of most of the original articles on this site. Jonni always looks for the easy way to solve common health problems, by working with human nature. Her books have helped hundreds of people lose weight, get fit, and regain their health - with less struggle. Please take a moment to visit her other sites:

Do You Gain Weight... Even when you eat less than your thinner friends? Learn why it happens, and how to use nutritious, satisfying food to break the metabolic pattern that causes some people to gain weight too easily.

Sugar Cravings and Addiction – Describes a simple program to help people break their addiction to sugar and fat. This book has been popular ever since it came out in 2003, and has helped hundreds of people lose their cravings for sugar and other simple carbs. Once the cravings are under control, it's easier to stick with your diet and regain your health.

Weight Lifting for Absolute Beginners – A guide to lifting weights for strong muscles and bones.

The Easy-Does-It Diet – A guide to creating your own delicious and healthy frozen diet meals. Eat healthy, low-fat meals without paying extra for store-bought frozen diet food.

Disclaimer: This site and the articles contained here are for information purposes only. The authors have made every effort to make sure the information is accurate, but no health decisions should ever be made based on this or any other website. Please contact your doctor before starting any diet or exercise program.

Mini Gastric Bypass

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