Mini Gastric Bypass

A mini gastric bypass is also known as a single anastomosis gastric bypass, a one anastomosis gastric bypass, omega loop bypass or a single loop gastric bypass. It combines elements of the traditional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass with some features of a sleeve gastrectomy to deliver another option for weight loss surgery.

Mini gastric bypass Sydney Dr Roy Hopkins

What is a mini gastric bypass?

A mini gastric bypass is another approach to weight loss surgery. It combines some of the features of a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (dividing the stomach to reduce its size and decrease the amount of food you can eat) and a traditional gastric bypass (bypassing a portion of the intestines to reduce the number of calories you can absorb).

The name comes from the medical term anastomosis, where a surgeon joins two tube-like structures or passageways in the body. 

In traditional gastric bypass surgery, there are two anastomoses: one between the new smaller stomach pouch and the intestines; and the bypassed stomach and the intestine. In a single anastomosis gastric bypass, only one new connection is needed. This reduces the risk of certain complications following surgery.  

Benefits of mini gastric bypass

Like traditional gastric bypass surgery, the mini gastric bypass is performed as part of a holistic weight loss treatment plan. The decision about which type of surgery to perform depends on many factors. Dr Hopkins will discuss these with you at your consultation before making a clinical recommendation based on your medical history and other risk factors.

Some specific benefits of the mini gastric bypass include:

  • The operation is technically easier to perform than a traditional bypass, resulting in a shorter operation time and reduced risk of complications during surgery.

  • Bypass surgery (both types) offer better diabetic control than sleeve gastrectomy if this is a consideration for you.

  • The remaining portion of your stomach stays in place and keeps producing enzymes to aid digestion and hormones to regulate appetite and manage type 2 diabetes.

  • A mini bypass has a slightly increased risk of experiencing reflux post surgery because of the new connection between the stomach pouch and the intestines.

Step by step: mini gastric bypass

  • A mini gastric bypass is performed using minimally invasive keyhole surgery under general anaesthetic. 

  • Several small incisions are made in the abdomen for surgical instruments including a laparoscope (tiny camera).

  • Your stomach will be divided vertically using a stapling device to create a small pouch.

  • The new stomach pouch is connected (anastomosed) beyond the first part of your small intestine. 

  • A mini gastric bypass takes 1-3 hours to complete.

After surgery: what to expect

Recovery after mini bypass surgery is similar to the surgical recovery following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. Read more about what to expect here. 

However, it is important to remember that the gastric bypass means you will need to follow your healthy eating plan carefully. Eating foods high in sugar and/or fat, particularly on an empty stomach, can make you feel sick because of something called ‘dumping syndrome’. You will also need to take multivitamins to supplement your diet.

Dr Hopkins will discuss your diet plan and make sure you have time to ask questions before and after your procedure.